Your Career Optimiser

Write a CV that gets you more interviews

Reading Time: 5 minutes

What is a CV or Resume? A CV (curriculum vitae) and a resume are documents that are used by job seekers to help them get noticed by potential employers. A CV is usually a more comprehensive document than a resume, and it is normally used when applying for academic, scientific, or medicalrelated positions, while a resume is usually used to apply for positions in the private sector. Both documents should include information about the job seeker‘s education, work experience, skills, and other relevant qualifications.

When it comes to writing your resume and CV, there are a few different types to choose from. The three main types are chronological, functional, and combination. Each type of resume has its own unique purpose and should be used in different situations.

Table of Contents

Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is a type of resume that is organized in reverse chronological order, with the most recent job and experience listed first. It is the most common type of resume and is often used when applying for jobs in traditional industries, such as finance, education, and healthcare. A chronological resume should include information about the job seeker‘s education, work history, and any relevant accomplishments.

For example:

John Smith is a recent graduate from the University of Chicago. He has a degree in finance and is looking for a job in the banking industry. On his chronological resume, John includes his educational background, the jobs hes held in the past, and his skills and qualifications. He also includes any relevant accomplishments, such as winning awards or completing relevant projects.

 

Curriculum vitae and Résumé writing

Functional Resume

A functional resume is a type of resume that focuses on the job seekers skills and qualifications, rather than their work history. It is often used by job seekers who dont have a lot of work experience or who are trying to transition into a new career. A functional resume should include information about the job seekers education, skills, and relevant accomplishments.

For example:

Suzy Jones is a recent graduate from the University of California. She has a degree in marketing and is looking for a job in the advertising industry. On her functional resume, Suzy includes her educational background and the skills shes acquired through internships and volunteer work. She also includes any relevant accomplishments, such as awards or projects shes completed.

Combination Resume

A combination resume is a type of resume that combines elements of both a chronological and functional resume. It is often used by job seekers who have a lot of work experience and want to highlight both their skills and their work history. A combination resume should include information about the job seekers education, work history, skills, and relevant accomplishments.

For example:

Sam Smith is a recent graduate from the University of Texas. He has a degree in engineering and is looking for a job in the technology industry. On his combination resume, Sam includes his educational background, the jobs hes held in the past, and the skills hes acquired through internships and volunteer work. He also includes any relevant accomplishments, such as awards or projects hes completed.

CLAIM YOUR FREE COPY
MODERN CV TRENDS YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO IGNORE

Best Practices for Writing Effective Resumes and CVs

 When it comes to writing an effective resume or CV, there are a few best practices to keep in mind. First, its important to use keywords that are relevant to the job youre applying for. Include words that will help employers find your application, such as job titles, skills, and experience. Additionally, make sure to format your resume or CV in an easytoread format, such as a bulleted list or table. This will help employers quickly scan and find the information theyre looking for.

Its important to choose the right type for the job youre applying for. The three main types are chronological, functional, and combination. A chronological resume should include information about the job seekers education, work history, and any relevant accomplishments. A functional resume should include information about the job seekers education, skills, and relevant accomplishments. A combination resume should include information about the job seekers education, work history, skills, and relevant accomplishments. Additionally, when writing a resume or CV, its important to use keywords that are relevant to the job and to format it in an easytoread format.

What is job search strategy - brainstorming

Where do I start with finding a new job? A stagnant career can feel frustrating and discouraging, but it doesn’t have to …

Do You Need Help With Writing Your Resume?

Dave Crumby

 have spent the last 10 years supporting companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies to find and the best talent around the world.  

During this time, I have:

✔️ Scanned and reviewed more than 26000 CVs.

For the past 4 years I have been producing professionally written CVs for job seekers who have secured new roles across 3 continents. 

Are you interested in working with me?

Email me today.

Best of luck,

Dave Crumby

Your Career Optimiser | Certified CV Writer

Winner of Most Supportive Career Branding Service 2022

MORE INSIGHTS TO OPTIMISE YOUR CAREER

A data-led guide to why LinkedIn visibility matters in a slower job market, with insights from the latest Huntr report...

READ MORE
A recruiter calling a candidate

A data-led guide to improving your CV using insights from Huntr’s Q2 2025 report. Learn the small changes that help...

READ MORE
Searching online for the price of a CV

Discover how much a professional CV costs in 2025 across the UK and Europe, what affects the price, and how...

READ MORE

Discover why career progression in Switzerland’s life science sector has slowed and how to position your contribution for the next...

READ MORE