PART IV: Different CV types

Universally there are three recognized formats you can choose from:

1.      Chronological format

2.      Functional format

3.      Targeted format

The chronological CV

This is the most frequently used format. It is used when your career progression is stable and your professional growth is consistent.

Used when you are;

-          Staying in the same field of work

-          You have worked for well reputed companies

It follows your career progression backwards starting with the most current job which should include more information about your responsibilities, skills and achievements than previous jobs.

Point to note; Avoid it if

-          You have experienced performance problems

-          You have not grown professionally

-          You have made frequent job changes because all these problems will show glaring fashion.

The Functional CV

The main highlights in this format are your key skills and strengths and do not emphasize who you worked for and job titles.

It is useful when;

-          You have been unemployed for long periods or have jumped jobs too frequently

-          Have been stagnant to jump start your career

-          Your current responsibilities do not relate to the job you want

-          You are entering the job market after a break

-          Your career to date consists of a number of jobs, most of which are unrelated

-          You are fresh from college and want to emphasize skills and strengths not necessarily acquired through paid employment

-          You have worked on internship or temporary jobs

It is written with the most relevant experience to the job you are seeking placed first and de-emphasizes jobs, employment dates and job titles by placing them at the end.

Allows you to promote specific job skills without emphasizing where or when you developed these skills.

The style is best when sending your CV on speculative basis.

The Targeted CV

Use this format when targeting a specific type of job. The job may be an advertisement showing specific requirements. In this case you can tailor your CV to highlight your skills and strengths to match specific job requirements.

The content of the CV is usually the same as used in the previous styles. Therefore it combines both  the chronological and functional CV.

Adopting this format means you can have several versions of your CV.

CV length

Most people agree that a 2 to 3 page CV is enough. The bottom line is what you want to sell to the reader is what will determine the length of your CV.

CV Layout

These tips will make your CV easier to read and/or scan into an employer’s database.

-          Use white or off white paper

-          Use 8-1/2 x 11 inch paper

-          Print on one side of the paper

-          Use non-decorative, large and clear typefaces

-          Choose one typeface and stick to it

-          Avoid italics, script and underlined words

-          Do not use horizontal or vertical lines, graphics, borders or shadings

-          Do not fold or staple your resume

-          If you must main your CV, put it in a large envelope

Next I’ll give you samples of the three formats of CV.