CV formats are often the cause of anxiety for my clients, as they are not sure which one to use.
It is quite simple to decide on the correct basic format for your CV but you will often have to tweak it a bit to make sure the right information is seen up front.
There is also some confusion when we speak about format or layout and style.
The format or layout is simple the order in which the information is presented on the document, whereas the style is primarily how you choose to demonstrate your individuality with the use of language, formatting etc.
We are often very tempted to try and make ourselves stand out by being a bit different, ie using beautifully descriptive and unusual phrasing or images. This can backfire if we are not careful because of the automation of key word searching and document scanning – see https://truecolourscoaching.com/5-common-cv-mistakes/
There are two basic CV formats; the Chronological CV (also sometimes referred to as Reverse Chronological or Historic CV) and the Functional CV (also occasionally termed a Skills Based CV)
Beyond these two basics are any number of combinations of the two and the variety is continuing to expand. The thing to remember is that readers are more comfortable accessing information when it can be found in the expected places.
Also see Use Psychology to Improve Your CV
This means that if you have a role that demands you demonstrate your skills by producing a slightly unique style of CV, you must be certain the people reading it are going to expect unique rather than feel relieved by ‘standard’.
An example of this would be someone in Graphic Design might expect you to have a great looking CV as well as relevant information. Alternatively an accountant would need to make sure the content was adequately detailed and would not worry so much about style.
For a comprehensive Step by Step workbook you can find a downloadable version here or purchase a hard copy book here
Chronological CV
This is the most common layout for a CV and is the one that you should use if you can.
It starts with your most recent role and works backwards, giving most importance to what you have been doing most recently.
The headings are usually:
- Name
- Contact Details
- Profile (which may also include a skills matrix)
- Career History
- Qualifications (which may also expand to include Training, Knowledge and Skills)
- Other Information
The heading are fairly generic, but not set in stone e.g. you could use Work History instead of Career History etc. The thing is to make sure you are not trying to be clever and end up just being obscure.
Functional CV
This is a CV that showcases what you can do/have done rather then where you have worked. It is especially useful if you are wanting to work as a Contractor, Interim Manager or Consultant. It is also the type of CV you would usually use if you are wanting to change careers or revert to previous role.
The headings for this type are:
- Name
- Contact Details
- Profile
- Areas of Expertise/Competencies and Experience or something similar
- Career History
- Qualifications (with the same additions as above)
- Other information
The main visual difference with this CV is that the 4th heading (Areas of Expertise etc) contains the most information and would probably take up all of the first page.
Therefore on this CV you are showcasing what functions you have performed (giving examples of specific achievements etc), followed on the next page with who you have worked for.
Other Formats
These are basically a combination of the above.
Combination Format
For example if you have a role with very specific functions like an HR Generalist with expertise in: Employee Law, Recruitment and Change Management; would use these as functional titles with a couple of examples. However, the first page would also have some recent Career History on it.
This might be similar for, say, a Facilities Manager who could have dual responsibility for the Buildings and also the Fleet.
Infographic CV
This format would used more commonly for creative roles.
They are extremely visual, more like scaled down posters, and can be very problematic if recruiters are using a database which doesn’t read the formatting see – How to Beat the Applicant Tracking System
In summary
If your background and goals mean the reader is going to be most interested in what you have been doing recently, then you are probably best using the traditional Chronological format.
If you are changing roles, aiming for consultancy, contracting, interim management or have a very project heavy background – consider using a Functional format.
If you are in the creative arena, check the sites you will be using to showcase and make sure that your creativity will be recognised by the system.