The Chronological Resume: The Timeline Approach

Employers generally look for two things from your resume: that you possess the education and skills a particular position requires and that you have a reasonably stable work history.

Previously, a "stable work history" meant putting in a certain period of time at each job; workers who changed jobs frequently were given the unflattering label of "job hopper." However, increased layoffs and job mobility in general have altered these standards. A history of job changes can be offset by demonstrating a history of increased responsibility with each new job.

Job seekers with an established background in their chosen field can highlight their experience with a Chronological Resume. As the name implies, a Chronological Resume lists employment history in reverse chronological order, starting with the seeker's current job.

Those with extensive experience in their field should omit any jobs they may have held outside the field, except as needed to cover a large gap in employment. Likewise, jobs held over 15 years ago should be omitted, excepting particularly high-profile positions.

Surveys by the Massachusetts Division of Career Services and the Association of Job Search Trainers suggest that most employers prefer the Chronological Resume format.

Click here to view a sample Chronological Resume.