The Resume Format Battle: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Posted by Palmerston North Resume on 22 Dec 2025

What is the best resume format? There are many options to choose from and it depends on the job you are in and your previous experience when deciding on the best option. The most common to choose from are: Reverse-Chronological, Functional, Combination.

Your resume is an important tool in job hunting, and you must ensure that it’s well-formatted and easy to read. Here at Palmerston North Resume, we specialize in offering resume writing services to help you stand out from the rest of the applicants. In this article, we’ll explain the different types of resume formats as well as some strategies to pick the best one for you.

  1. Reverse-Chronological: This format is the most common and is the best for those with a solid work history. It lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent job at the top.
  2. Functional Format: This is the best for people who have diverse or non-linear work experiences. It is focused on your talents and accomplishments, not your work history.
  3. Combination: This format combines elements of the reverse-chronological and functional formats. It highlights your skills and accomplishments, while also listing your work history in reverse-chronological order.
  4. Make it specific to the job Make sure you tailor your resume to match the job you’re applying to. Choose a format that highlights the skills and experience which are relevant to the job.
  5. Find help from an expert: If you’re having trouble choosing the right format, or require assistance in adjusting it to the task seek out professional assistance by contacting Palmerston North Resume.

Each of these formats has its own advantages and disadvantages. The reverse-chronological format is best for those with a solid work history, the functional format is best for those with diverse or non-linear work experience, and the combination format is a good balance of both. Make sure your resume is tailored to the particular job you’re applying to and take professional advice if you require it. Palmerston North Resume can also assist you in creating a professional resume that highlights your expertise and skills.

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The Key to a Winning Resume: Choosing the Right Format for Your Career

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We provide expert resume writing services and our very experienced resume writers will make sure that your resume stands out from the crowd.

We are a team of highly qualified and experienced HR professionals, recruiters, and consultants that are committed to delivering an exceptional, well-written resume or cover letter.

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