The job market is constantly changing to adapt to the world at large. Depending on what kind of job you are looking for, given the nuance from one position to another even within the same industry, it has now become sensible to go beyond the traditional chronological resume that has seen us through the last 60 years or so to have prepared several styles of resume to offer relevant information in the way most suitable for each position applied for.
The following is a list of three types of resumes it is smart to keep on hand when hunting for a job.
One Page Overview Resume
This is the resume that everyone should have at the ready, regardless of where you are in the job search process. This resume should include your current position and contact information, the two jobs most relevant and impressive to the job sought, and only skills and education that are pertinent to that position. This type of resume is designed to present you at-a-glance, so adjust font, margins, and general layout to be easily read briefly on one page, with nothing extraneous to distract the eye.
Targeted Resume
Often when we are working for a company that specializes in one thing, we are exposed to different jobs that we know we can do or have training for, and we would like to apply for these positions. Sometimes it is necessary to provide a resume to even move within the company you work currently for. This means that you need a “targeted resume” to highlight the features that will make you stand out for the job you want, and not the job you have. For example, if you work for a public relations firm as a project manager, but are really interested in Human Resources, you will highlight whatever skills, experience, and training you have had in human resources, but downplay your previous PR experience. This may even include education, charity, or special interests you have that showcase your aptitude in human resources.
Comprehensive Resume
This is a resume that highlights your functions, skills, and experiences chronologically. If you are looking to change your career, a Comprehensive Resume is like a cross between a traditional chronological Resume and a Targeted Resume (also called a Functional Resume) and includes everything from your personal information, education, skills, and achievements to any awards or accolades you may have gotten during previous jobs or through outside interests. This will give prospective employers am overview of your worth as an individual. So, if you are looking for a job as a copy writer, but have never had another in that field, you may want to mention that you have a successful blog or volunteer to write letters for seniors on the weekend.
