Are you a job seeker looking for the best CV template to use to stand out among other candidates? Continue reading this article to learn about the Different Types Of CV Format and how to use them. Also, we have provided you with different CV templates that you can use as a guide to write that irresistible CV! As we go on in this post you will find all the bonuses we have in store for you, keep reading!
Note: If you need any form of assistance with your CV/Resume, you can contact us today. An expert will review or revamp your resume and help you improve it to better capture the key things that will help you stand out.
What Is A CV?
A curriculum vitae (CV) is a document that holds information about an individual’s course of life, especially things like; education, skills, and work experience. The primary goal of a CV is to project a person’s qualifications. It is sometimes used interchangeably with the word resume.
What To Include In A Standard CV/Resume
Your standard CV should contain, but not be limited to the following sections. Without much delay, here are the things you need to include in your resume.
1. Contact Information
Including your contact information on your resume gives the employer a chance to reach you in case of further inquiries. Also, note that not all personal information is necessary to add to your resume, especially marital status, religion, age, height, etc. Here are the most important contact information every employer is concerned about in any CV
- Full Name: Your name as it appears on all your credentials should be written boldly on your resume. Moreover, using the same name on your professional social media platforms will do you good because nowadays, employers or recruiters verify prospective employees’ social persona before hiring them. So, having a good social media presence can enhance your chances of getting hired.
- Phone Number: Use an active phone number.
- Professional Email Address: Ensure your full names appear on your email address and not pet names. Use a working email address.
- Official URL: Add the link to any official website of your own or from any professional platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, GitHub, etc.
2. Profile Summary
A profile summary is an overview of the entire resume; it gives a good summary of all the sections contained in the resume. Moreso, it is important to write a compelling profile summary or personal statement so that it catches your employer’s attention faster and makes him convinced to hire you immediately or read further into your resume. There is a guide on how to write a befitting profile summary as you read further.
3. Professional Skills
Skills are important for an entry-level resume. It is the basis of your assessment. Here’s is an expert tip on how to make the most out of this skills section; instead of listing just soft skills or putting both soft and hard skills together, you can do your research on the most relevant skills required for the job and add it in separate sections instead of just one.
4. Work Experience
Include your work experience because this demonstrates that you have been proactive and consistently involved with the industry and its practices. As we go on, you will see how to write the work experience section.
5. Education
The employer is also interested to know your academic background; what you have spent time doing in school and all that. Now if you have acquired a Bachelor’s degree, and nothing else after that, just leave out all others before the B.Sc. That is the standard practice.
6. Certificates/Awards
Add certificates, awards, and any other memberships you are part of. This goes on to demonstrate to the recruiter that you have passion or enthusiasm for the job role.
7. Internships & Training
Don’t forget to mention the internship or training programs you have taken because this will add more spice to your resume.
8. Hobbies & Interests
Write the hobbies you have that are in line with the current industry practice. No matter how tempted you are don’t add irrelevant hobbies as that can reduce your chance of getting hired.
9. Referees (If Requested By Your Employer Or Admission Committee):
This section is also important if you are applying for an academic scholarship or admission, or if your employer requests for it. The referee section can serve as your testimonial, that you can be trusted to be of good behavior.
Note: Your referees don't necessarily have to be your relatives.Examples Of People You Can Use As Referees
- Prominent Persons In The Society, etc.
- Past or Current Employer
- Cleric
- Landlord
- Lectures/Teachers
Finally, for this section on things to include in a CV, remember to add only sections that will enhance your resume and avoid the ones that will deter your chances. Also, with good research on the company and job role you applied for, you will get acquainted with what the employer is most interested in and know how to include them in writing.
Different Types Of CV Format
In this section, we are going to look at the Different Types Of CV Format for jobs or other applications and you will be able to choose which one will work best for you. So, without much delay, let’s get started on the Different Types Of CV Format.
When it comes to crafting your curriculum vitae (CV), there are several distinct formats to choose from. The three most common types of CVs are:
- Chronological CV
- Functional CV
- Combination CV
Let’s take a closer look at each of these CV types, exploring their key features and when you might want to use them.
1. Chronological CV: Different Types Of CV Format
The chronological CV is perhaps the most traditional and widely-used format. This style of CV emphasizes your work history, listing your jobs in reverse chronological order (with your most recent position first).
Key Features:
- Focuses on employment history and career progression
- Lists jobs in reverse chronological order
- Provides details on job titles, employers, dates of employment, and key responsibilities/achievements
When To Use:
- If you have a consistent, linear work history with clear career progression
- When applying for jobs where relevant experience is highly valued
- If you want to showcase your career growth and increasing levels of responsibility
Sample Chronological CV Format:
2. Functional CV: Different Types Of CV Format
In contrast to the chronological approach, the functional CV puts the spotlight on your skills and qualifications rather than your work history. This format is organized around your core competencies and the value you can bring to the employer.
Key Features:
- Emphasizes your relevant skills and capabilities
- Deemphasizes employment history and dates
- Organizes content around skill-based sections
When to Use:
- If you have gaps in your employment history
- When changing careers or industries
- If you want to highlight transferable skills over specific work experience
Sample Functional CV Format:
3. Combination CV: Different Types Of CV Format
A combination CV, also known as a hybrid CV, is a type of resume that combines elements of both a chronological resume and a functional resume. This format allows you to highlight your relevant skills and experience while also providing a chronological overview of your work history.
Key Features
- Skills Sections: The combination resume begins with a skills section that allows you to showcase your key competencies and qualifications upfront. This section can be organized by skill category or area of expertise.
- Work History Section: Following the skills section, the combination resume includes a chronological work history section that details your previous job titles, employers, and dates of employment.
- Emphasis on Relevant Experience: The combination format allows you to emphasize your most relevant skills and experiences, even if they are not in chronological order.
- Flexible Structure: The combination resume is flexible, and you can adjust the emphasis on skills versus work history depending on your specific background and the requirements of the job you are applying for.
When To Use A Combination/Hybrid CV
- When you have a diverse work history or have held multiple roles within the same industry
- When you want to highlight your transferable skills and qualifications upfront
- When you are changing careers or industries and need to demonstrate how your skills are relevant
- When you have gaps in your employment history and want to draw attention away from them
Sample Combination/Hybrid CV Format:
Free Sample CV Download
Similarities Between CV Types
While the main CV formats we discussed differ in their approach and emphasis, some key similarities are common across most CV types. Understanding these commonalities can help you ensure your CV is well-structured and effectively communicates your qualifications, no matter which format you choose.
1. Common Sections
Regardless of the CV style, most will include the following standard sections:
- Contact Information: Your name, address, phone number, and email address
- Education: Details on your degrees, diplomas, or certifications
- Work Experience: Descriptions of your previous jobs, responsibilities, and achievements
- Skills: A list of your relevant hard and soft skills
- Additional Sections: Optional sections like volunteer work, awards, publications, etc.
2. Highlighting Relevant Qualifications
While the layout and organization may differ, the goal of any CV is to showcase the skills, experiences, and credentials that make you the ideal candidate for the role. Across all CV types, you’ll want to carefully select and emphasize the most relevant and impressive aspects of your background.
3. Tailoring To The Job
No matter which CV format you choose, you must tailor your content to the specific job you’re applying for. This means carefully reviewing the job description, identifying the key requirements, and aligning your CV to demonstrate how you meet or exceed those qualifications.
4. Professional Formatting
Finally, all effective CVs share a common trait – they are well-organized, easy to scan, and visually appealing. Consistent formatting, clear section headings, and strategic use of white space can help make your CV polished and reader-friendly.
Understanding these core similarities can provide a helpful foundation as you decide which CV type is the best fit for your background and career goals.
Key Differences Between CV Types
The four main CV formats – chronological, functional, and combination – vary in several important ways. Understanding these key distinctions can help you decide which type of CV will be most effective for your specific situation.
1. Emphasis On Work History vs. Skills
One of the biggest differences between CV types is the emphasis placed on work history versus skills and qualifications.
Chronological CV:
- Heavily emphasizes your employment history and career progression
- Provides detailed information about your previous job titles, employers, and dates
Functional CV:
- Puts the spotlight on your skills, abilities, and key accomplishments
- Minimizes the focus on specific work history and dates
2. Chronological vs. Non-Chronological Layout
Another key distinction is the organization and flow of the CV content.
Chronological CV:
- Lists your work history in reverse chronological order
- Follows a straightforward, linear structure
Functional CV:
- Group your experience and skills into thematic sections
- Does not necessarily follow a chronological sequence
3. Level Of Customization Required
The amount of customization and personalization needed also varies between CV types.
Chronological CV:
- Can be used as a standard template with relatively minor tweaks
- Requires moderate customization to align with each job application
Functional CV:
- Typically requires more substantial customization and restructuring
- Allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and qualifications
Understanding these key differences can help guide you in selecting the CV format that will be most impactful for your unique career situation and the roles you’re pursuing.
Free CV Templates For Different Jobs
We have compiled several CVs/resumes for all levels and types so feel free to use these samples as a guide to writing yours and avoid copying it word-for-word. So, click here to download different CV templates for either your job or academic or scholarship applications.
Conclusion: Different Types Of CV Format
To summarize:
Chronological CV: Best suited for candidates with a clear, linear work history and progression. Emphasizes employment details and timeline.
Functional CV: Advantageous for career changers, those with employment gaps, or applicants whose experience is not directly relevant. Focuses on transferable skills and capabilities.
Importance of Choosing the Right CV Format: Selecting the appropriate CV type is crucial, as it can significantly impact how effectively you present your qualifications and experience to hiring managers. The format you choose should align with your unique background, career goals, and the specific job you’re pursuing.
After reading this post, if you still need professional assistance, check how we can help you below.
How We Can Help You With Your Resume
We are a career brand that renders career services such as CV/Resume writing, personal statement/statement of purpose writing, LinkedIn Optimisation, Interview Guide, and Career coaching. We want to ensure we help you to navigate the tides of the academics, and corporate world. Contact us today to get an outstanding resume!
Cheers!.
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