chronological resume templates free

Chronological Resume - Writing Guide With 5 Free Templates

The chronological resume - also known as the “reverse chronological resume” - is the most popular resume format out there.

Particularly advisable for those with rich work history, the chronological resume prioritizes and lists your work experience and achievements from most to least recent.

This article is here to teach you all there is to know about creating a chronological resume.

• What is a Chronological Resume? 

Chronological Resume Structure 

• When to Use a Chronological Resume Format? 
• 4 Free Chronological Resume Templates
• How to Create a Chronological Resume - Step by Step
• 9+ Chronological Resume Examples for All Industries

What is a Chronological Resume?

A chronological resume lists your work experiences and achievements starting from the current or most recent one, and following up with previous jobs below.

For this exact reason, the chronological resume is the perfect choice for job-seekers who have plenty of experience and achievements to list on their resume .  

What’s most important, studies point to the chronological resume being a favorite among recruiters, too.

Why? Well, because you are applying for a job, so work experience in your resume will be the first thing a recruiter looks out for.

But worry not, you can structure your resume in a chronological format even as a recent graduate too. Or, you can opt for other popular formats fitter to your profile.

But first, let’s go through the basics. 

The chronological resume follows a straightforward structure. The only thing to keep in mind is that your current or most recent experience - be it professional or educational - comes first.

The second most recent will follow, and so on.

Here are the main and most popular sections for the chronological resume structure:

• Contact information
• Professional title and resume summary/objective
• Work experience and achievements
• Education section
• Your top soft/hard skills
• Include optional sections (languages, certificates, volunteer experience, etc)

If you’re a recent college graduate and want to build your resume in the chronological structure format, you still can.

All you have to do is rearrange the order of your resume sections so that the education resume section comes first.

Here, too, make sure that your education entries are listed from the most to least recent, and you’re good to go!

If reading this is already looking too complicated and time-consuming, try out the Novorésumé online resume builder . Novorésumé provides 8+ free resume templates that follow the chronological resume structure. 

When to Use a Chronological Resume Format

The three main types of resume formats are the chronological, functional/skills-based one, and a combination resume format of the two. What you choose to use will depend on the type of job you are applying for and your experience level.

In the majority of cases, the obvious choice is the chronological resume. It is common, it highlights just the right sections, and job recruiters prefer it over the other formats.

Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean you should just cross the other options off your list, especially if your work experience doesn’t amount to much.

Consider these other two formats, taking into account their advantages and disadvantages as well: 

Functional Resume

• Perfect for students or recent graduates, as it highlights your skills. 
• Offers creative space for a varied portfolio 
• Difficult to pass through the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) that most companies use to scan through countless resumes they receive daily. 
• It conceals your experiences, however minor they might be. 

Combination Resume

• A great choice for job-seekers with a diverse skill-set, because it highlights both skills and experiences. 
• It can mask gaps in your employment history since you can also list your skills, so it’s the second-best option for those who lack work experience. 
• It is a really good fit only for highly specialized professionals who have a very diverse skill-set. Say, for example, that you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in 3-4 different fields, and you want to show all that in your resume - then, the combination resume really is the one for you.
• It is hard to organize. As a professional with a diverse skill-set, it might be a challenge to decide which part of your expertise to prioritize in the combination resume format.

4 Chronological Resume Templates 

Below, you will find 5 chronological resume templates out of many free resume templates. Dig right in to find the best match for you. 

#1. Creative Chronological Resume Template 

#2: Modern Chronological Resume Template 

#3: Professional Chronological Resume Template

#4: Functional Chronological Resume Template

How to Create a Chronological Resume

Now that we mentioned the traditional structure, let’s go through each section one by one to create the perfect chronological resume. 

#1: Start With a Contact Information Section 

Depending on the template you have chosen for your chronological resume, there is a possibility that your name will be directly followed by your professional title right at the top.

How do you fill up your professional title in chronological resume format? Easy. If you’re not looking to change career paths your professional title should be your current title. However, if you’re changing career paths, then choosing the combination resume mentioned above might be a better option for you.

Regarding the rest of the contact information section on your chronological resume, it should be current and lacking any typos. The mandatory elements of the information section include: 

• First and last name
• Phone number
• Email address
• LinkedIn URL (optional)

#2: Add a Resume Summary or Resume Objective

  Second in the chronological resume comes your ‘profile’ as a candidate, which is expressed through a resume summary or a resume objective .

Wondering what the difference is?

Well, the summary is a short (2-3 sentences) overview of your career so far and it is used in 90% of resumes - especially by those with two or more years of work experience. A summary is a perfect fit for the chronological resume.

On the contrary, a resume objective represents your aspirational career goal and highlights your skills, making it perfect for entry-level professionals with little work experience, or job-seekers looking to completely switch career paths. 

#3: Fill in Your Work Experience 

This is, without a doubt, the section that weighs the most when it comes to the chronological resume, so it’s vital that you get it right.

Your work experience section is there to show the recruiter what you can bring to the table through your past accomplishments and responsibilities and what the company would be gaining were they to hire you.   

Feeling pressured? Don’t. There are many practices to help your work experience section stand out in the eyes of the recruiter.

If you are looking for more tips and tricks to help you take your resume to the next level, head over to our beginner’s guide on how to write a resume . 

Here are the key points you should keep in mind when it comes to the work section:

• This is the most important so we’ll be repeating it as many times as it takes: your current or latest job position should be placed on top. Then come the previous ones, all the way to your earliest job position. 
• For each entry, list your job title and position, the company and its location, as well as the dates when you were employed. 
• List your achievements and responsibilities, with a higher focus on quantifiable achievements, whenever you can. 
• Use bullet points instead of just text to express what you have achieved and what you were responsible for in every job entry. 
• Tailor the resume to the position you are applying for. For example, if you’ve had too many jobs in the past and some of them don’t relate to the field you are now applying for, then they are just taking space. Feel free to omit them.

Here’s a close-up of a work experience section in the chronological resume:   

#4: Add an Education Section

Generally, the education section comes right after work experience. 

If, however, you have just graduated college and want to create a chronological resume to start applying for jobs, the education section can replace the experience section that you’d be lacking. 

Either way, the education section should be brief but jam-packed with information that can communicate your values and skills to the recruiter.

Here’s what the education section consists of: 

• Program Name: E.g. “MA in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies” 
• University Name: E.g. “University of Greenwich”
• Period Attended: E.g. “08/1214 - 05/2018”
• (Optional) GPA: E.g. “3.9 GPA”
• (Optional) Honors: E.g. “ Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude”
• (Optional) Academic Achievements: E.g. Papers you might have published, or awards received.  
• (Optional) Minor: E.g. “Minor in Political Science”  

#5: Spice Up Your Chronological Resume With Your Skills

Needless to say, the reverse-chronological order doesn’t really apply in the skills section. 

What you can do, however, is begin by listing your hard skills and then your soft skills. 

Unsure of what this means? 

• Hard skills are measurable abilities. These can range from programming in Python language to knowing how to use Photoshop and InDesign.
• Soft skills are personal skills. They vary from attitude to flexibility, motivation and teamwork. 

Listing your skills has its own peculiarities, so don’t pay this section less attention than the ones above it, especially if you’re a recent college student. Pay attention to skills specifically required at the job ad and if you have them, make sure to include them. 

Here’s an example of how your skills section can look like:  

#6: Include Any of These Optional Sections

Last but not least, come these optional sections.  

Having them in your resume can earn you extra points and even separate you from the competitors, but only if they don’t make your resume longer than it should be (1-2 pages maximum) and if they are relevant to the job position.

Some of those sections include (but are not limited to):

• Languages : If you speak two or more languages, don’t fail to put that in your resume. To list them, simply categorize your proficiency level into native, fluent, proficient, intermediate, or basic . 
• Hobbies & Interests : They can help humanize you and show a part of your personality that work and education can’t. If
• Volunteering Experience : Studies show that volunteering experience actually raises your chances of getting hired . 
• Certification & Awards : If you have awards that make you stand out in your field or certifications from experts that are relevant to the position you are applying for, don’t hesitate to show them off!

Not sure how adding volunteering experience works? Check our article on how to list volunteer experience on your resume .  

10 Chronological Resume Examples for All Industries

Now let us walk you through a few practical examples of what the chronological resume looks like depending on the industry. 

#1. Business Chronological Resume

In the world of business, accomplishments matter. This is why in this business chronological resume , the work experience section is jam-packed with measurable information on what the employee achieved in his previous professional experiences. 

#2. Computer Science Chronological Resume

Computer science jobs are heavily based on hard skills - in addition to your previous work experiences, that is. So, make sure to include your hard skills on your computer science resume to impress recruiters. 

#3. Architect Chronological Resume 

As you can see from the example above, the sections that follow your work experience and education can be placed according to your profile. If, for example, you’ve worked on some side projects that you feel do your resume more justice than your skills, feel free to prioritize those projects.

In this article, you can find what’s expected from an architect’s resume in more detail.

#4. Nurse Chronological Resume  

Action verbs can really make an active professional like that of a nurse shine. So when you list your achievements under your experience, use strong verbs that can paint a picture of who you are and what you can do.

#5. Pharmacist Chronological Resume 

With plenty of attributes up their sleeve, the chronological format is the perfect choice for a pharmacist’s resume . 

#6. Project Manager Chronological Resume 

Project manager resumes have good chances to show industry expertise - given they hold the manager title - and highlight successful projects. Feel free to do both in your chronological resume, as shown above. 

#7. Web Developer Chronological Resume

As you can see in the example, the candidate has chosen to place his courses and training above his education. When you have followed courses or have been trained in the exact field of work where you’re applying, it makes sense to rank the field-specific courses and training higher than your university education. 

This article has more information on how to perfect your Web Developer Resume .

#8. Teacher Chronological Resume 

This is another “special” example of a chronological resume. Right after the experience section, the candidate has listed their volunteering experience. Not normally the case, it makes sense here because the volunteering experience has been as a tutor - which is pretty much the same thing as a teacher in the teacher resume . 

In cases when your volunteering experience is directly connected to the job you are applying for, feel free to list it under professional experience as well. 

#9. Bar Manager Chronological Resume 

For more info on how to update your own bar manager chronological resume for 2024, this is the article for you. 

#10. Human Resources Chronological Resume

The example says it all: the chronological resume does wonders showing the peak of your work experience first, and then going back to your professional history and skills. This article on the HR chronological resume has more tips on how to perfect it.

Discover More Resume Templates

• Combination Resume Templates
• Creative Resume Templates
• Functional Resume Templates
• Minimalistic Resume Templates
• High School Resume Templates
• One Page Resume Templates
• 2 Page Resume Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• Word Resume Templates

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! 

Let’s do a quick recap of the main points covered in this article: 

• The chronological resume - or reverse chronological - is a top choice among candidates with years of professional experience and a favorite among recruiters.
• The chronological resume focuses on your work experience, starting your current or most recent one, and following up with the rest - from most to least recent.
• Recent college graduates that want to use this format can - simply replace the work section with the education section, following the same reverse-chronological order.
• Save time and energy building the reverse chronological resume from scratch by using online resume builders , such as the one Novorésumé offers.   

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Chronological Resume Templates

Classic chronological templates are popular for a reason - they do their job. Use one of the tried-and-tested resume formats below to secure your interview.

Double Column

Chronological resume template. Education position is reversed to focus more on the experience.

Single Column

Reverse chronological resume template. Classic one-column style for chronological resumes.

Chronological timeline template. Additional line between job titles makes up for a clean and presentable resume.

Professional resume template. A sleek and straightforward design that conveys a sense of professionalism and competence.

Modern resume template. A stylish two-column design with a pop of color to stand out from the crowd.

Creative resume template. Showcase your unique personality with a custom design that speaks to your creativity.

What is a chronological resume template?

Who should use a chronological resume, tips for building the best chronological resume template, chronological resume templates pros and cons.

Chronological resume template is the most commonly used format in resumes, and recruiters prefer them to others. A reverse chronological order resume template lists your jobs, starting with the current or most recent one at the top. It provides comprehension opportunities for hiring managers to see your experience.

Have it in mind that chronological and reverse chronological resume templates are essentially the same thing. Because they list your experience chronologically, but in a reverse way, starting with your most recent job. You can use Enhancv builder to build your chronological resume in the best way possible.

People who can get all the advantages that chronological resume templates offer are jobseekers at any professional level with a consistent work history without gaps between roles.

However, reverse chronological order can work for just about anyone looking for a job. This resume formatting is simple and professional, and you can effortlessly apply it to any resume design.

Resumes in chronological order are very convenient for students because this formatting is the easiest way to organize their limited experience.

Choosing this format is easily understood by recruiters because chronological resume templates are the most popular layout hiring managers see.

A chronological resume is arranged in a way to emphasize your professional experience - your education and certifications, skills, other relevant activities, or volunteer experiences. A summary statement is optional in chronological resume formatting. Excluding the cases in which you are higher-level management or changing your current professional field.

If you think a chronological resume template is not a good fit for your case, you can try a functional or combination resume template. A functional resume is focused on your skills and abilities and lists your roles and education at the bottom.

A combination resume blends a functional resume and a chronological resume and emphasizes both your skills and experience in equal measure.

Let’s create your perfect chronological resume by following the best practices.

The reverse-chronological format resume template can be applied to any design – modern or traditional. It only depends on your professional field and the type of company you are applying to. Modern design is appropriate when you are in more creative and innovative industries and want to make your resume pop up from the rest of the applicants. Use the traditional design without icons, graphics, and flashy colors for applying for positions in more traditional companies.

The best font to use for resumes is a classic, easy-to-read font, like Times New Roman or Calibri. You can use modern fonts, which are also appropriate, like Helvetica, Verdana, Ariel, or Lato. Keep in mind that ATS systems don't mind the font as long as it's readible serif or sans-serif. The regular font size for resumes is 12 points. Larger fonts are acceptable for headings, your name, or titles of sections. If you're having trouble fitting your content on one page, you might try making your font 10.5 points, but don't go lower.

Your resume should be easy for the hiring manager to digest all your best work. Using the right font in combination with colors can help that. Use white as the background, black for the text, and the remaining color as an accent. It is advisable to use for the third color some shades of blue, green, or dark red. Avoid too flashy colors.

Select the best layout

Your resume should always begin with your full, searchable name. Your name should be the biggest thing on the page. Recruiters are spending a few seconds on your resume, they should know whose it is. Show your location, there is no need to put your full home address, but recruiters expect to see your city and state. Add your contact information like your phone number and professional and easy-to-read e-mail address.

As we mentioned before, for the Chronological resume template, you can skip the summary statement section . It can be a plus to add one or two sentences about who you are as a professional and what is your experience.

Your work experience section on the Chronological resume template is the most important one. You should include responsibilities and accomplishments for each job you’ve held. If you want your resume to stand out more, you can organize your experience in two separate sections. The first one, under the header “Relevant work experience” to a specific job you are applying for, and the second section is Work Experience.

Right after your work experience section, you should list your education in reverse chronological order first on the list you should add your academic degrees, following your training and certifications . Do not list your high school diploma once you have attended college unless relevant to your professional field.

You can list your achievements on a chronological resume template in your work experience section. If you can additionally emphasize your achievements, you can lay them out in a separate section. People who don’t have much work experience can use achievements in education, volunteering, or project sections. When you list achievements, make sure they include the time frame, scale, and results.

You can design your Chronological resume template in two columns to fit all information on one page. Recurred prefer one-page resumes because they are easy to scan for the key points they are looking for in a candidate.

• The chronological format is the most commonly used, and most recruiters prefer them. This resume format draws attention to your work experience and career advancements.
• A chronological resume template is the easiest format to read for ATSs because emphasizes your work experience by putting it on top of the page.
• This resume layout works for anyone looking for any kind of job, and it is student-friendly.
• Chronological format is not recommended for people with gaps in their work history.
• This format is not a good choice if you are applying for a position in a field in which you don’t have previews experience.
• If you are just starting your career, chronological resume formatting will emphasize your lack of experience.

Frequently asked questions about chronological resume templates

Is the chronological resume best, what is the difference between a chronological and functional resume, why do most employers prefer chronological resumes to functional resumes, how far back should a resume go.

• Resume Examples

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• Resume Help

Reverse Chronological Resume Templates [Ideal Format]

Our customers have been hired by:

Here’s the thing—

Even though there exist several different resume formats, the chronological resume is arguably the best choice most of the time.

Want to know why?

This article will show you:

• A good definition of a chronological resume.
• Who the reverse-chronological resume format is best for.
• A chronological resume template and sample resumes.
• Expert tips on writing an effective chronological resume.
• Examples of chronological resumes for over 30 professions.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes?  Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click.  See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

Sample resume made with our builder— See more resume examples here .

If you just want to jump right to the section you’re most interested in, use the table of contents:

• What Is a Chronological Resume?
• Who Is the Chronological Resume Format Good For?
• Chronological Resume Template and Writing Tips
• Examples of Reverse-Chronological Resumes and Why They Work
• Chronological Resume Examples for 30+ Professions

Chronological Resume Example

Michele J. Carden

Sales Representative

614-383-8924

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/michelejcarden

Resume Summary

Experienced Sales Representative with 5+ years in sales, marketing, and customer service. Motivated to support Visionix in driving growth and maintaining a high client satisfaction level. Skilled in relationship building, identifying customer needs, and delivering superior solutions. Successfully oversaw the launch of 3 new products for a multinational consumer goods company, resulting in estimated additional revenue exceeding $1 million annually.

Work Experience

Looksy, Inc., New York City 

April 2020–Present

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

• Developed and implemented successful customer loyalty programs that increased customer engagement by 25%.
• Exceeded sales quotas on average by 10%, resulting in an estimated $1 million in additional revenue over 2 years.
• Consistently identified customer needs and delivered custom solutions to exceed their expectations.
• Proven success in building relationships and negotiating contracts to drive growth. 
• Resolved customer inquiries promptly and effectively while maintaining high client satisfaction levels, as evidenced by reviews.

Key Achievement:

• Led the launch of 3 new products for a multinational consumer goods company, resulting in estimated additional annual revenue exceeding $1 million.

Vivid, Inc., New York City

August 2017–March 2020

• Partnered with the marketing team to develop promotional materials for key accounts, increasing awareness among the target audience.
• Handled more than 60 inquiries each week via telephone and email communication channels.
• Trained and motivated 4 new employees in the sales department, resulting in improved team performance outcomes..
• Analyzed customer data to identify sales trends, opportunities, and areas of improvement
• Played a crucial role in developing successful marketing campaigns that increased awareness of the product line, leading to a 20% growth in revenue across all market segments within 6 months.

Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing

New York University, New York, NY 

August 2012–June 2017

• Relationship Building
• Negotiation
• Customer Service 
• Communication Skills 
• Market Analysis and Trends Identification 
• Account Management & CRM Software Proficiency 
• Problem-Solving/Conflict Resolution  
• Closing Deals & Meeting Sales Targets 
• Self-Motivation & Initiative Taking       
• Product Knowledge & Presentation Skills

Certifications

• Certified Sales Professional (CSP) – International Association of Professional Salespeople (IAPSP)
• Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP) – The Customer Experience Professionals Association (CXPA)  

Language Skills

• Spanish–Communicative

You can use this example as a wireframe. Read on, and learn how to write your own chronological resume. 

1. What Is a Chronological Resume?

A  chronological resume  lists your jobs starting with the current or most recent one at the top, followed by previous ones below. This type of resume focuses on your work history and professional achievements.

Chronological resume is the best choice for candidates with a consistent work history.

Plus—

The chronological resume format is arguably the recruiters' favorite.

A study from Jobvite  reveals that 92% of recruiters regard previous job experience as the number one hiring factor.

When you come to think of it—

Experience and job titles are exactly what a chronological resume brings to the reader's attention.

So, if you choose to format your resume in chronological order, you can rest assured the recruiter will find what they're looking for.

But remember:

Even the best-written resume will get you nowhere unless it reaches a human reader.

You need to realize that over 98% of Fortune 500 companies use Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATSs, in their recruitment processes.

The ATS’s task is to initially scan and score the deluge of resumes a typical corporate opening attracts. This way, recruiters can focus on reading the resumes that meet the most important criteria defined in the job offer.

Chronological resumes are easiest to scan for the ATS. That’s what gives this format an additional edge in today’s hiring.

Want to make 100% sure your resume passes the ATS scan? Read: ATS Resume: Template & 10+ Tips on How to Pass the Resume Test

2. Who Is the Chronological Resume Good For?

The reverse-chronological resume is most advantageous when:

• You have several years of professional experience.
• Your career progression has been steady, and preferably in one industry.
• You don’t have gaps in employment on a resume .

That said—

You don’t have to have many years of experience to use the chronological resume format.

How’s that possible?

A chronological resume order is very versatile.

If you’re making a recent college grad resume , for example, you only need to rearrange the order of your resume sections , and put the education resume section first. Just make sure the entries in each section follow the reverse-chronological order.

And you’re pretty much done.

If you think none of the advantages of the chronological resume format would work in your case, consider opting for one of the other common resume structures :

• Functional resume works fine if you want to focus on your skills and hide gaps in employment
• Combination resume is good if you wish to draw the recruiter’s attention to both your skills and experience

Here’s a brief comparison of a functional vs chronological vs combination resume’s pros and cons:

Not sure if the chronological resume is the best format for your needs? Head straight to our detailed guide: Resume Format: Samples and Templates for all Types of Resumes (10+)

3. Chronological Resume Template and Writing Tips

Here’s what sections a typical chronological resume template consists of:

Name and Job Title

Contact information.

• Resume Summary or Objective

Professional Experience

• Additional Sections (e.g. Certifications, Interests)  

Let’s take a closer look at how you can make the most of each of these sections on your reverse-chronological resume:

Even though this section of a chronological resume seems like a no-brainer, it may get tricky when you start thinking about what job title you should put.

Your current one? Or the title of the position you’re applying for?

Obviously, the dilemma is non-existent when both of them are the same.

If you’re pursuing a consistent career path (and this is what a chronological resume is best for) including your current job title makes perfect sense.

But what if you’re applying for a job of a marketer and only have teaching experience?

Well, if you’re making a career change resume consider using a combination resume format.

You can also modify the job title section slightly, and write something along the lines of seeking the position of [job title].

Don’t add any job title at all not to confuse the recruiter about your experience.

Looking for more information on what job title to put on a resume? Read our guide: 450 Job Titles that Work on a Resume & Job Hunt [Current & Desired!]

The rule of thumb is for your contact information on a resume to be current.

Most of the time, listing your mobile phone number, LinkedIn profile on resume , and, obviously, email address will do.

Just make sure your email looks professional.

If you need more information on how to make the most of the top section of your chronological resume head straight to our article: Professional Resume Header Examples & Why They Work [20+ Tips]

Resume Summary or Resume Objective

The first section of your chronological resume that gives the recruiter a glimpse into what you can do is called a resume profile .

The resume profile may take the form of a resume summary or resume objective.

The summary focuses on your previous relevant experience, and so it’s suitable for candidates who’ve been in the workforce for at least 2 years.

In contrast, the objective highlights your skills, and works great on any entry-level resume .

Don’t have a clue how to go about writing your resume profile? Read our guides: Resume Summary Examples (30+ Professional Summary Statements) and 50+ Resume Objective Examples: Career Objectives for All Jobs (+Tips)

Beyond a shadow of a doubt—

This is the heart and mind of a chronological resume.

Here’s how to make the most ofyour work experience on any resume :

• Put your latest or current position up top. Follow it up with the previous ones. This is how the reverse-chronological resume order works.
• List the dates worked , job title, and the name of the company for each position you held. You can also add the location of the company.
• See to it that your recent work history is scannable. Use bullet points, not paragraphs. Up to 6 bullets per position will do.
• Focus on presenting achievements on your resume , rather than responsibilities.
• Make a special subsection for your key achievements to give them more prominence.
• Start all bullet points with strong resume action words such as delivered , managed , boosted , achieved , etc.
• Present the experience that’s relevant to the position you’re seeking. Omit everything else.

Need more advice on tailoring your resume? Head straight to our guide: 6 Tips on How to Tailor Your Resume to a Job Description (Examples)

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Depending on how much (or little) experience you have, you may want to put your education above the experience section on your chronological resume.

Either way—

The education section should clearly communicate your value to the employer. 

If you have more than two years of professional experience, list only:

• University name
• Graduation year

If you’re fresh out of school, you may consider adding information on:

• Relevant coursework
• Dean’s List
• Study abroad

You can find more information in our dedicated guide: How to Put Your Education on a Resume [Tips & Examples]

The skills section is an important element of your chronological resume template.

Obviously, there’s no need for you to organize your skills in the chronological order. You can just as well list them alphabetically.

What’s important, though, is to make sure the list of skills on your resume consists of the relevant ones.

Here’s how to get the skills section on your resume right:

• Make a master list of all the skills that you have. Include your soft skills , hard skills , as well as technical skills .
• Take a good look at the job offer to see what skills the employer is looking for specifically. Note down these skills.
• Go back to your master list, and find the skills you identified in the job offer.
• These skills are exactly the ones you need to highlight on your resume.
• Select up to 10 of these skills and list them in the key skills section on your resume.
• It’s a good idea to pepper your entire resume with your key skills. Include some in your resume profile and work history as well.

Need more advice on how to put your skills on a resume? Here’s a guide you’ll want to read: 99 Key Skills for a Resume (Best List of Examples for All Types of Jobs)

Additional Sections

Putting additional sections on your chronological resume can always earn you extra points.

Just remember—

Relevance is the name of the game.

Only add the sections that may boost your chances. Here’s a couple of ideas:

• Achievements
• Hobbies and interests
• Volunteering

Not really sure what sections to include on your resume? Read our guide What to Put on a Resume (20+ Good Things You Should Include to Win)

4. Chronological Resume Samples and Why They Work

Now, let’s have a look at two chronological resume samples: one for a junior position, the other for a more senior role, and see what makes them effective.

At the end of this section there’s a blank chronological resume template you can fill into write your own resume.

Chronological Resume Example—New Grad

Calvin Showalter

SEO Specialist

928-899-2059

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/showalter

twitter.com/showalter

A forward-thinking graduate from Arizona State University with a BA in English and a passion for digital communications. Eager to join DigiMedia as Junior Content Developer to help devise and implement data-driven content strategies, as well as write shareable content loved by the readers. Strong background in writing and editing digital content. 3-month internship experience with SEO and digital content development.

June 2018–September 2018

• Worked with 3 different SEO analytics tools to research relevant keywords and provide editorial guidance.
• Partnered with 2 managing editors to make sure articles are optimized for Google.
• Worked hand-in-hand with the editorial team to create and edit new content verticals.
• Reported on content performance and next-step ideation.

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ

Bachelor of Arts, English

Graduated summa cum laude

Relevant coursework:

• Linguistics
• Cognitive grammar

Key achievements:

• Winner of a student essay-writing competition
• Editor-In-Chief of PsyLence.com —online magazine on psychology and digital communications
• Dean’s List 2018, 2019
• Communication (written & verbal)
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Collaboration
• Search Engine Optimization
• Google Analytics
• Adobe Photoshop
• Spanish (bilingual)
• Graphic design
• Rock climbing

Even though Calvin has just graduated college and doesn’t have huge experience, he decided to choose the reverse-chronological format.

More than that—

He consciously put the work history section above the education section.

According to a recent Job Outlook Study from NACE , the top hiring factors that employers take into consideration when hiring recent grads are:

• Internship with the employer’s organization
• Internship experience in the relevant industry

Calvin happens to have completed an internship in the relevant industry, and his chronological resume’s structure reflects the way employers assess candidates’ aptitude for the role.

If internship is what they value most, it’s exactly what they see first on Calvin’s resume.

Calvin gives a lot of attention to the education section, and the other sections as well.

The education section clearly shows that Calvin has a lot of potential for becoming a dedicated employee, and it's where he mentions his key achievements.

The position he’s seeking calls for strong communication skills and problem-solving skills , and this is exactly what Calvin highlights throughout the document. 

Here comes the other chronological resume example, this time for a more senior role:

Chronological Resume Example—Managerial Position

Matthew Gilchrist

Sales Manager

+1-299-456-7888

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/matt.gilchrist

twitter.com/matt.gilchrist

Results-driven and strategically minded sales manager with 4+ years of professional experience. Eager to join GHI Inc. to lead and inspire the sales team to delight the customer and expand into new markets. In previous roles consistently exceeded sales targets by 25% at the minimum, managed a team of over 15 sales associates, and brought in extra $200K revenue over the span of two quarters.

June 2017–

• Executed quarterly marketing plans while maintaining top quality standards.
• Ensured adequate stocking of merchandise.
• Prepared weekly schedules and assigned tasks to 15+ employees.
• Managed and developed local marketing strategies in cooperation with the General Manager.

Key Achievements:

• Exceeded sales targets by 25% in Q2 and Q3 2017.
• Identified and started cooperating with 20+ new local suppliers. 

September 2015–June 2017

DEF & Co.

• Developed and conducted quarterly promotional activities.
• Identified new business opportunities by bringing in 20+ new leads monthly.
• Reported the progression of monthly sales initiatives to internal stakeholders.
• Exceeded sales targets by 30% in Q3 and Q4 2016.
• Renegotiated sales contracts that brought in extra $200K revenue in Q1 and Q2 2016.

Penn State University, State College, PA

BA, Psychology

Associations

• National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP)—Member
• Voice of Influence (NASP)
• Six Steps to Closing Every Time (NASP)
• The Art of Prospecting (NASP)
• Sales techniques
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication
• Strategic planning
• Relationship building
• Spanish (Advanced)
• Mandarin Chinese (Conversational)
• Skateboarding
• Landscape photography

Matthew is an experienced sales manager.

He chose the reverse-chronological resume template to highlight his rich work history and key achievements.

Also, he uses bullet points to make his work history easy to scan.

The parts that recruiters pay the most attention to (i.e. job titles and achievements) are bolded to make them stand out.

In contrast to the previous example, the education section on Matthew’s resume has been reduced to the necessary minimum.

Rather than present the details of his college education, Matthew has chosen to include such sections as Associations and Certifications to show he treats his career development seriously.

Finally—

You can use, modify, and adjust the placeholder template below to structure your own chronological resume:

Chronological Resume Template

[Your Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Resume Objective or Resume Summary]

[Job Title]

[Company Name]

• [Responsibility]
• [Achievement]

[Company Name].

[Graduation Date]

[School Name & Address]

• [Association]
• [Certification]

If you’re looking for beautifully designed, ATS-compliant chronological resume templates, well, you’re in luck. Head straight to our articles: Blank Resume Templates: 15+ Best Blank Resume Forms to Fill In Now   and Word  Resume Templates

5. Chronological Resume Examples for 30+ Professions

Here’s a list of reverse-chronological resume examples for some of the most popular jobs in 10 different industries:

Administrative Jobs

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Secretary Resume
• Office Manager Resume

Sales and Customer Service

• Sales Representative Resume
• Customer Service Representative Resume
• Cashier Resume

IT and Programming 

• Software Engineer Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• UX/UI Designer Resume

Students and Recent Graduates

• Entry-Level Candidate Resume
• Internship Candidate Resume

Education and Teaching

• Teacher Resume
• Tutor Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Academic Professor Resume

Healthcare 

• Nurse Resume
• Medical Assistant Resume
• Dental Assistant Resume

Finance, Business, & Human Resources 

• Financial Analyst Resume
• Business Analyst Resume
• HR Specialist Resume
• Personal Banker Resume
• Project Manager Resume
• Team Manager Resume
• IT Director Resume

Marketing and Advertising

• Digital Marketing Specialist Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• PR Specialist Resume

Engineering

• Mechanical Engineer Resume
• Electrical Engineer Resume
• Civil Engineer Resume

Haven’t found what you’re looking for? This is where you can find a chronological resume example for any profession and career: Resume Examples for Every Profession

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key Takeaways

Here’s everything you need to know about writing a chronological resume:

• Chronological resume template is one of the most versatile resume formats out there.
• Chronological resumes draw the recruiter’s attention to your work history.
• That said, they’re universal enough to be used by fresh grads and candidates applying for junior roles as well.
• To make the most of your chronological resume you must tailor it to the job offer.

Do you have any questions about writing a chronological resume? Maybe you’d like to share advice on how to get everything right? Give us a shout out in the comments below. We’re always happy to help!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://www.jobvite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Jobvite-RecruiterNation-Report-WEB-2.pdf
• https://www.odu.edu/content/dam/odu/offices/cmc/docs/nace/2019-nace-job-outlook-survey.pdf

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• English (UK)

Chronological Resume: Format, Templates & Examples

If there’s one resume format you absolutely need to master, it’s the chronological resume. Learn how to use this versatile format to your advantage.

A chronological resume format is one of the best options out there to showcase your work experience and qualification.

It highlights not only your job history, but also any awards, recognition or accomplishments that you have earned.

Plus, its simple structure makes it easier to navigate and scan.

Read on to learn more about why a chronological format is a great option for your resume. 

This guide will show you:

• The reasons why the chronological resume format is so special.
• Expert-approved reverse-chronological resume templates that you can try right now.
• A full step-by-step guide to writing a chronological resume and adapting its structure to your needs.

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

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What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Eager to learn more about resume writing before diving into your chronological resume? Check out these resources:

• 20+ Things to Put on a Resume
• 25+ Google Docs Resume Templates
• Best LaTeX Resume and CV Templates
• Free Resume Templates to Download and Use
• Functional or Chronological Resume: Which Is Better? (Pros, Cons & Examples)
• Good Resume Examples for Entry-Level Applicants
• How to Find Free LibreOffice or OpenOffice Resume Templates
• Make Sure Your Resume Looks Good: Tips & Samples
• Microsoft Word Resume Templates: Where to Find Them?
• These 50+ Resume Tips Will Improve Your Application ASAP  
• The Most Common Resume Sections (+ Examples)
• What Is a Chrono-Functional Resume? (Example & Tips)

1. What is a Chronological Resume (And is it Different from a Reverse Chronological Resume)?

A chronological resume is a resume that focuses on your work history or your education, presented in the order from your most recent achievements to your humble beginnings. It’s the most common of the three resume formats , the other two being the functional resume and the combination resume.

Sometimes, the term reverse-chronological resume is used. It sounds like the opposite of a chronological resume , but in fact the two terms mean exactly the same. 

Why do people use it? 

Well, they want to emphasize that a resume goes “back in time” from your most recent position to your earliest relevant jobs, hence the word reverse .

2. Why Should You Use The Chronological Resume Format?

No matter if you’re writing your first resume with no experience or applying for a senior position at an international company, a reverse-chronological resume is always a good choice. Here’s why:

• You can adapt the structure of a chronological resume to emphasize either experience or education, depending on your experience level .
• Software systems that scan resumes (known as Applicant Tracking Systems) are trained to read chronological resumes , whereas other resume formats can confuse them.
• Human recruiters also find chronological resumes the easiest to read because they give a quick overview of your professional growth.
• Non-chronological resume formats can give the impression that you’re trying to hide awkward employment gaps or other embarrassing secrets .

Of course, there are a few exceptions.

For example, your work history might be hard to present in a nice, structured way (this sometimes happens to freelancers and creatives). Or you may be starting a whole new career, so you feel that your skills are much more relevant than your previous experience. In this case, you may opt for a functional resume, which focuses on skills rather than work history.

Or you may be applying for a senior position where extensive experience and a unique skillset are equally important, so a combination resume might work better for you.

However, the reverse-chronological resume is still the best choice for the majority of candidates and the majority of jobs.

3. How to Structure a Reverse-Chronological Resume

There are two basic ways to structure a chronological resume, depending on how experienced you are:

Chronological Resume Structure for Experienced Candidates

• Header with contact information
• Resume profile
• Work experience (going up to 10–15 years back from the latest job)
• Education (usually the latest degree only)
• Additional sections if relevant (Languages, Certifications, Awards, etc.

Chronological Resume Structure for Entry-Level Candidates

• Additional sections

If you have relevant experience, make it the most prominent part of your resume and put your education below it.

But if you’re just starting out, put your education above your (modest) work experience. You’ll flip them in a few years’ time when writing your next resume.

The Best Chronological Resume Templates You Can Try Right Now

The quickest, easiest way to write a resume is to use a resume builder with a rich gallery of built-in resume templates. You just fill in the blanks using our built-in tips and autofill features, fine-tune the colors and fonts, and hit the Download button.

Here are some of the reverse-chronological resume templates that have helped our users land their dream jobs:

This chronological resume template is a favorite among our users. Its bold contrasting sidebar offers ample space for your skills, languages, and personal info. Your work experience and education section get all the attention they deserve thanks to the clean, structured layout.

Cubic is one of our most versatile templates for a chronological resume. No matter how much (or how little) information you’d like to put on the page, it never looks empty or overcrowded.

Expert Hint: With all our templates, you can adjust the font sizes as well as the line and entry spacing to make sure your resume fills the page optimally.

Primo gives you an opportunity to establish your personal brand without hiring a designer to create your logo—a sleek, modern graphical interpretation of your initials is an integral part of this chronological resume template!

This template is a mirror image of Cascade—this time, the distinctive sidebar is on the right. As always, feel free to use the editor’s drag and drop functionality to reorder the resume sections according to your needs.

This reverse chronological resume template offers a clean single-column resume layout and a sophisticated logo in the corner. The smart use of whitespace makes this template remarkably easy on the eyes.

This bold resume template is another great choice for reverse-chronological types of resumes . The timeline emphasizes your growth and progress, and the modern round icons help guide the reader’s eye towards the most important information.

4. How to Write a Chronological Resume Step by Step

Writing a resume can be a daunting task, but we know how to make it easy and painless. You can check out our full data-driven guide on how to write a resume or go through the steps outlined in this article.

1. Start With a Flawless Resume Header

The resume header is the part on top of your resume that contains your contact information, that is:

• Your full name
• Phone number
• Email address
• (Optionally) Website and additional social media handles

While writing a resume header sounds simple, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Make sure you provide a professional-looking email address, like [email protected]. Even if you think that email username you made up in high school is insanely witty, the recruiter will probably just reject you without bothering to read the rest of your resume.
• Always include your LinkedIn profile. As many as 4 out of 10 recruiters won’t call you in for an interview if they can’t find your professional profile online .
• If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, go create one right after you finish reading this article. It won’t cost you anything.
• Only include links to your website and social media if they’re somehow relevant to the job you’re applying for. So if you’re a food blogger in your spare time, don’t link to your blog if you’re applying for a job as a neurosurgeon. No one cares.

2. Create a Catchy Resume Profile

Your resume profile is that little paragraph on top of your resume. There are two kinds of resume profiles:

• A resume summary is what you write if you’ve got a few years of experience under your belt.
• A resume objective is what you write if you’re just starting a new career.

In a resume summary, you point out a few of your key achievements and promise to achieve similar (or even greater) successes for your new employer.

A resume objective, on the other hand, focuses on your skills and how you’re going to use them to help your new employer achieve their business goals.

Whichever one you pick, here’s a universal formula to follow:

• Start with an adjective that describes your professional self.
• Follow with years of experience.
• List 2–3 relevant skills or accomplishments.
• Name-drop the company you’re applying to and explain what you have to offer.

Here’s what a resume summary can look like, as seen on a senior marketing specialist resume :

3. Present Your Work Experience Like a Pro

The work experience section is the most important part of a reverse chronological resume (unless you’re a total newbie). Here’s how to write it:

• Start with your current or most recent position, then follow it with the one before it, then the previous one, and so on.
• Limit yourself to up to 15 years of professional experience. Leave off all positions older than that.
• In every entry, include your job title, company name, dates worked, and up to 6 bullet points detailing your duties and achievements.
• Focus only on what’s relevant to the position you’re targeting—it’s called “tailoring” a resume to match the requirements of the job on offer .
• Don’t dwell on what you did. Highlight how well you did it. If you have quantifiable accomplishments , show them off.
• As you go back in time, use fewer and fewer bullet points. Your most recent professional activity is what really matters to recruiters.

When writing your work experience section, you might be worried about any job gaps on your resume.

In fact, some people get so nervous about their employment gaps that they try to conceal them by “forgetting” to put full employment dates, straight-out lying, or even opting for a non-chronological resume format altogether.

Don’t be like those people.

A recent study revealed that even long periods of unemployment don’t matter to recruiters, as long as you hold a relevant job afterwards . Even if you’re unemployed right now, there’s no need to worry: current employment gaps shorter than 9 months have no effect on the success of your application.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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4. Craft an Education Section That’s Just as Long as Necessary

For most candidates, listing education on their chronological resumes is a sheer formality.

If you have over 2 years of relevant experience in your field, make your education section brief and to-the-point.

Include only:

• Major (and minors, if you have them)
• University name
• Graduation date

Like in this example:

BSc in Mathematics; Minor in Italian

The City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY

Recently graduated and don’t have a solid work history to show off yet?

Do two things—

First of all, make your education section the main selling point of your chronological resume. Put it above the work experience.

Secondly, add more details about your educational background: list relevant coursework , honors and awards, extracurricular activities, and other achievements.

You can learn more by reading our guide to perfecting your education section .

5. Show You’ve Got The Right Skills

Writing the skills section feels like tiresome guesswork to many candidates. But what if we told you that it’s actually very easy to identify the skills the recruiter wants to see on your resume?

Here’s how:

They’re all in the job ad.

Read the job ad carefully and highlight all skills-related keywords you can find. There’ll be quite a few.

Pick somewhere between 8–10 of them, put them into a bulleted list, and you’ve got the skills section of your resume. Just make sure that these skills actually apply to you!

To make your expertise more believable, sprinkle the skills from your list all over your resume profile and work experience sections. This will make your resume more cohesive. Also, resume-evaluating software will love seeing keywords from the job ad in your resume.

Need more tips? Check out our complete guide to  skills to put on a resume for an in-depth look at crafting a job-winning skills list.

6. Add Relevant Extras

By now, you’ve completed all the mandatory sections of a reverse-chronological resume. But, where do you put additional certifications? Awards? Relevant volunteering experience? Unique hobbies?

Well, that’s what additional resume sections are for. Here are some common ones:

Certifications

• Affiliations
• Industry awards
• Conference participation
• Publications
• Volunteering experience
• Hobbies and interests

A word of warning, though: your resume shouldn’t include every remotely interesting fact about you. Only include relevant information and boost your value in the recruiter’s eyes.

5. A Basic Chronological Resume Template (Just Fill in The Blanks)

Are you a DIY kind of person? Prefer to create your resume from scratch using Word or Google Docs? Here’s a basic template you can copy and paste:

[Your Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Resume Objective or Resume Summary]

[Job Title]

[Company Name]

• [Achievement]

[School Name & Address]

[Graduation Date]

Associations

• [Association]
• [Certification]

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

Key Takeaways

The reverse-chronological resume focuses on your work history and education. It presents your professional growth by starting with your most recent achievements and ending with your earlier successes. Because it’s so versatile, the reverse-chronological resume is the most popular resume format.

Here’s how to write it step by step:

• Create a header with your contact information.
• Craft a catchy resume profile.
• List your jobs (from latest to oldest), focusing on achievements rather than responsibilities.
• Present your educational background (but don’t go into too much detail).
• Demonstrate that you’ve got the exact skills the employer is looking for.
• Spice up your resume with extra sections.
• Play around with different templates in our builder and tweak your chosen template until your resume looks perfect (or format your resume using your favorite software).
• Create a matching cover letter.

Questions? Concerns? Need further help? We’re here to listen and respond. Drop us a line in the comments, and I’ll get back to you double-quick!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Olga is a career expert with a background in teaching. At ResumeLab, she writes actionable guides to help job-seekers highlight their unique strengths and unlock their career potential.

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Charismatic

Introduction

Writing your summary statement, writing your skills section, writing your work history section, writing your education section, using action verbs in your chronological resume, adding metrics to your chronological resume, most popular resume templates.

It is imperative to catch the eye of a hiring manager. This means having a resume that is visually appealing, such as this chronological resume template for Word. Hiring managers may see hundreds of job applications a day, so yours needs to be something special. You can craft your own standout resume using the template. Also, consider the guidelines below that will assist you as you write each part. Included here are strategic tips on how to write the summary statement, skills section, work history section and education section.

To be impactful, your resume must have a strong beginning. This means a polished summary statement. This section is a brief yet clear description of who you are and what you can do. It should showcase what makes you the best choice for the position, just as was done in the chronological resume template for Word. To help you as you write yours, consider these three best practices:

• Write your summary statement so each point demonstrates how you meet the requirements outlined in the job description
• Write in first person without using pronouns
• Make sure to include some personal strengths that make you distinctive

Here are a few examples of how this section might look for various professions:

Paragraph Style:

List Style:

• Eight years of experience working as an administrative assistant in a busy office environment
• Effective at managing multi-line phone systems and organizing demanding schedules
• Upbeat, friendly and focused attitude

A well-written skills section can solidify your ability to do the job at hand. By listing your top skills, you are showing the hiring manager right off what your abilities are. This section must be strong to keep the hiring manager reading. You can get a good idea of what it looks like in the chronological resume template for Word. As you work on your own resume, keep these tips in mind:

• Use this section to include many career-related keywords and terms
• Keep phrases short, but don’t include periods
• All skills listed should be related to the job for which you are applying

Here’s a solid example of what a skills section might look like for a financial analyst:

• Expert in strategy development
• Superior communications and relationship management skills
• Organized and focused, with a commitment to accuracy and detail
• Strong abilities with technology and learning new technologies

Providing proof that you actually have done the job before or have experience in a certain area is essential to convincing a hiring manager you can do the job. This is the point of the work history section, which outlines your previous employment duties. The chronological resume template for Word highlights how this section should be constructed. The following tips will also be useful as you work on crafting your own work history section:

• Write this section in reverse chronological order
• Avoid including jobs from more than 15 years ago unless they are your only job or highly relevant to this position
• Make sure you always include the job’s location
• Vary each job list by include duties along with accomplishments

The following are some examples of work history sections:

Project Manager

• Led a team of 15 employees to facilitate projects
• Maintained projects within budget restrictions
• Developed relationships with clients to ensure smooth communications

Maintenance Technician

• Installed and maintained plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems
• Managed maintenance schedules for three residential apartment buildings
• Conducted repairs of systems during breakdowns and emergency situations

Customer Service Representative

• Answered incoming calls from new and existing customers
• Maintained quality while moving calls along quickly
• Managed distressed customers to reach an amicable solution to their issues

By the time the hiring manager gets to the education section of a resume, he or she wants to see clean and concise information. This section should be brief and easy to scan with solid formatting, as shown in the chronological resume template for Word. Because some professions may require more formal education, this section might hold more weight for some jobs than others, but it should always be included. As you write, follow these best practices:

• Starting with your most recent education or training, work in reverse chronological order
• Include your graduation or completion date unless it would create a gap or was many years ago
• List coursework you may be currently working on and note it is in progress

Here is an example of how of an account manager’s education section might look:

• Bachelor of Business Administration – 2001
• University of the Great Lakes, Lakeville, OH

To make a resume interesting to read, you have to avoid boring terms. This is why you should always make sure to begin phrases with action verbs. This type of verb conveys authority and adds strength to a statement. As you read through the chronological resume template for Word, note how action verbs were used. Also, take a look at the following phrases that employ this type of verb:

• Managed and trained a staff of 15 employees
• Promoted due to stellar performance over a two-year period
• Coordinated activities between departments
• Exceeded set quotas for my production line each quarter
• Encouraged purchases through friendly service and upselling

Metrics are numbers and quantifiable data that can give your resume a boost. General statements do not have much of an impact, but if you add in specifics that include a number, percentage or dollar amount, you can make each statement more influential. They also help provide more useful information that allows a hiring manager to gauge your true capabilities. You can see metrics used throughout the chronological resume template for Word. Review how they were used there to get an idea of how you can use them. Also, look over the following to see just what metrics can do for your resume and how effective they can be:

With metrics

• Reduced spending by 50 percent on paper products
• Increased 3rd quarter profits in 2015 by 25 percent
• Secured a new account worth $1.3M

Without metrics

• Helped decrease department spending
• Increased profits through hard work
• Secured new accounts for company
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Chronological Resume: Templates, Examples & How-to Guide

by Hailey Brophy | Career Advice Expert

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

Table of contents

What is a chronological resume?

Who should use the chronological resume format, chronological resume template and examples, how to write a chronological resume and tips for every section.

The chronological resume format prominently displays your employment history, with your most recent work experience listed first. Featuring work history makes it easy for hiring managers to quickly scan your resume to see whether your skills and experience align with the requirements of the open role.

Despite its popularity, the chronological format — sometimes referred to as the reverse-chronological resume or standard resume format — isn’t for everyone. We will cover the following topics to help you decide if it is right for you:

• A selection of chronological resume templates and examples
• Tips for how to write a chronological resume
• Frequently asked questions about the chronological resume format

A chronological resume is one of the three types of resume formats . This format lists your work history in reverse-chronological order, placing your most recent job first and your previous roles in descending order from there.

According to a recent survey, three out of four hiring managers in the U.S. prefer the chronological resume format because it is easy to scan and helps them gauge if a candidate is qualified for the role.

Unlike the combination resume format or the functional resume format, the chronological format, by definition, places the most emphasis on an applicant’s work history. In short, experienced applicants should use a chronological resume versus a functional resume, which is more appropriate for inexperienced applicants. Here is how a chronological resume should look:

Structure of a chronological resume

You should use the chronological resume format to apply for a job if:

• You have at least one year of relevant work experience.
• You have a steady employment track record.
• Your skills match the job description closely.
• You can show steady job advancement.

Pros and cons of using a chronological resume:

• It allows applicant tracking system (ATS) software to quickly scan your resume for keywords.
• Employers can see your past employers and job titles at-a-glance, which is advantageous if you worked for well-known or prestigious companies.
• It devotes a lot of space to your work history, so hiring managers can see what you achieved in each position.
• This format showcases a stellar work history and lets recruiters see how you’ve moved up the ladder.
• Any gaps in your employment history will be made evident with this format.
• Skills, education or training take a backseat to work experience.
• “Job-hopping” — making frequent job changes — stands out on a chronological resume.
• Freelance, contract and other short-term jobs can be tricky to explain in a chronological resume format.
• This format doesn’t work well for applicants with little to no work experience.

For other examples of resume formats, see our combination and functional format pages.

Free downloadable chronological resume template

As you learn how to format your resume , using one of our premium or free resume templates can help. Our templates ensure that your resume is properly formatted and organized. We offer modern , professional , creative and simple templates to suit every job seeker and industry. Check out our full selection of resume templates , or download the template below for free and insert your resume information.

Chronological resume example

Whether you are applying for a job in nursing , customer service , engineering or IT — or any other field — studying chronological resume samples can be beneficial. Find a sample chronological resume example for the job title you seek and learn how to write a resume that will get you noticed.

Tips for writing the resume header:

• Use your full name and not a nickname.
• List a professional email address.
• Only add your city and state, not your complete mailing address.

Tips for writing the professional summary:

• Keep it short — three-to-five sentences are all you need.
• Find relevant skills and experience in the job ad and highlight them here.
• Use data to highlight a professional accomplishment, such as “Increased monthly revenue by 12%.”

Tips for writing the work experience section:

• A reverse-chronological list of the relevant jobs you have held.
• Bullet points that highlight your job responsibilities.
• Use more bullet points to describe your current role, and fewer as you go down the page.
• Use data and metrics whenever possible to show the impact of your work.

Tips for writing the skills section:

• Review the job ad for critical skills. Put those key skills toward the top of your skills list.
• Be sure to include soft skills in addition to your technical skills. Skills like communication and collaboration are hard to teach and, as a result, are highly sought after.
• Be sure to include special skills and training. These can set you apart from similarly qualified candidates.

Tips for writing the education section:

• Double-check the exact title of your degrees and certifications to ensure they are listed accurately.
• Be sure to highlight any academic awards you’ve received.
• Don’t list your dates of graduation — doing so can introduce age bias into the hiring process.

How do you list your resume in chronological order?

List your work experience on your resume in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent position, working backward in time. Generally, you should only include jobs from the past 10 years. Follow the same arrangement for your education section, with your latest, most advanced degree (or coursework, if you haven’t completed your studies yet) presented first.

Does resume work experience have to be in chronological order?

Yes. In a chronological resume, regardless of the resume you choose, your work history is always presented in reverse-chronological order. However, if you have gaps in your work experience or lack extensive experience, you may want to consider a functional resume, which focuses on your abilities and skills.

Do you put work experience or education first on a chronological resume?

In the chronological format, work experience will appear first. This allows you to show hiring managers that you have the necessary experience to excel at a new job. Like your work history section, the education section should start with your most recent degree or accomplishment. You should include information about your degrees, relevant coursework, notable achievements and certificate programs.

How can I make my resume stand out while using the chronological resume format?

There are three main ways to make a chronological resume stand out. They are:

• Mirror the job description. You can stand out by highlighting those skills that are listed in the job ad that you possess. If you have specific certifications and licenses or other training that is listed in the job ad, be sure to mention it.
• Focus on your achievements. Employers don’t want to read a long list of job responsibilities. Hiring managers want to know the impact you have made in past positions to see what you’ll bring to the table. To drive it home, use data and metrics whenever possible. For example, instead of writing that you, “Welcomed customers and answered questions,” you should write, “Increased customer satisfaction by 40% through high-quality customer service.”
• Write a compelling summary statement. Many job seekers use generic summary statements such as, “Good communicator with 10 years of sales experience.” If you want to stand out, make your summary enticing. Write a compelling statement, such as, “Proven success in revitalizing underperforming sales numbers through scalable marketing strategies that have driven a 32% increase in leads,” which is sure to get attention.

Should I include jobs where I’ve had a short stint?

It depends. Most experts agree it’s best to stay with a company for at least two years because it shows a level of commitment and a thoughtful understanding of your own career path. But if one or two of your jobs lasted a year or less, it is OK to add them. Just be prepared to confidently and clearly explain why they were short-term stints during your interview. You can also address any such concerns in your cover letter. However, if you’ve had several short-term jobs throughout your career or within one year, then a functional resume format is a better option for you.

If I’m changing careers, can I make this format work for me?

Absolutely. You can make the chronological format work for you if your career change entails applying for the next step up from your current role, and you have a track record of stable work experience and a clear path of advancement in the industry. For example, if you’ve been a construction worker for five years and want to apply for a project manager job, it’s acceptable to use the chronological format. However, if you are a nanny and want to apply for an administrative assistant position, you should use the functional format.

Was this information helpful? Let us know!

Hailey Brophy

Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.

Read more articles by Hailey Brophy

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Chronological Resume Guide: Template and Tips

Learn when to use a chronological resume format, and get tips on how to write your own.

Your chronological resume tells the linear story of your career, starting with your most recent position and working backward. In highlighting your accomplishments and responsibilities, each position will logically build upon the previous, showing how you’ve grown your skill set over time.

Chronological resumes are among the most common types of resumes for two main reasons:

1. They tend to be straightforward for potential employers, listing the information they want, like your work history, job responsibilities, and significant accomplishments.

2. They incorporate the type of information that applicant tracking systems (ATS) are programmed to screen for. They filter qualified candidates by credentials such as job titles, company names, or role-related keywords.

Other common resume types include functional resumes, which highlight skills, or combination resumes, which mix elements of chronological and functional resumes. Learn more about [the various resumes you may want to consider]. In this article, we’ll walk through the chronological resume format and offer some tips as you write your own.

What is a reverse chronological order resume?

A reverse chronological order resume is another name for a chronological resume. Although they sound like they could be opposites, people use both phrases to refer to the same type of resume in which a person highlights their work history, starting with the most recent position.

Chronological resume format

If you have less than 10 years of work experience, you’ll likely aim to create a one-page resume, while your resume will likely be longer if you have more experience. Therefore, it’s important to be strategic with the information you include and keep it relevant to your desired job type.

Your chronological resume will include several key sections:

Objective or summary (optional)

Work experience

Certifications.

Skills (optional)

Before getting started, read through a few job descriptions for roles you are interested in. Highlight specific keywords, tasks, and skills, and list ways you’ve incorporated each of them into your work experience. You’ll likely want to include most (if not all) of those list items in your resume, so keep that list nearby.

Chronological resume template

Use this chronological resume template to write your resume as we detail what to include in each section below.

Your resume header is at the top of your resume, typically leading with your full name in a more prominent font than the rest of the document. You may use a larger font size, bold text, or write in all capital letters.

On the line below your name, write key contact information, including your email address, phone number, city and state, and website or portfolio address if you have one. Keep this information on one line, separating each item with a vertical bar.

Objective or summary

Depending on your work experience and job search goals, you can include an objective or summary below your header, if you don't mind. You can use either type of statement to add context to your resume.

A resume objective is an introductory sentence expressing who you are, the value you bring, and what you want moving forward. For example: "Social media coordinator with agency experience looking for a position managing social media strategy, planning, and execution for a major health care brand."

Resume objectives can benefit people who recently graduated college, are changing careers, or are looking to advance their careers. 

A resume summary briefly summarises your career and accomplishments so far. For example, "Senior project manager with eight years of experience successfully leading large teams and identifying opportunities to reduce overhead and cost."

Resume summaries help people with some work experience or varied work experience succinctly state the common themes of their careers. 

Your work experience is going to be the bulk of your chronological resume. For each position, you should include:

Company name

Dates of employment

Results-oriented list of accomplishments

If you choose to, you can include one sentence summarising your job responsibilities for each role before listing your accomplishments. You may add this brief description if your job title doesn’t fully capture your range of responsibilities or you prefer that organisational style.

This is the section where you’ll incorporate items from the list of keywords, tasks, and skills you created while researching job descriptions. Try to frame all of your tasks as accomplishments, focusing on your work's impact rather than the routines. Use action words to show how you participated actively in your work.

Be accurate, as your future employer may verify the information on your resume before finalising your job offer.

Dealing with employment gaps

Since your dates of employment are prominently featured, chronological resumes tend to highlight gaps in your work history. There was a time when employers saw employment gaps as a red flag. Now, as they’ve become increasingly common amongst people in the workforce, there are more ways to work around an employment gap on a resume.

If you practiced or learned a relevant job skill during your employment gap, you can put an entry on your resume highlighting what you did. For example, if you took time off from work so that you could raise children or care for a family member, you may want to add "caretaker" to your resume to highlight your empathy and communication skills. If you were the primary head of your household, you might even write an entry showcasing your budgeting, scheduling, and delegation skills. Similarly, you can add an entry for any side hustle, contract, or freelance work you did during that time.

Your story didn’t stop when you stopped working for an employer, so get creative as you portray your growth and contributions.

Showing promotions on your resume

There are a few ways to demonstrate promotions on your resume. The two most common ways are: (1) by stacking multiple job titles under a single company header or (2) by creating separate entries, one for each position.

If you want to optimise your resume for ATS scanning, creating separate entries for each position is typically best. This increases the likelihood that the ATS will "read" your resume more accurately. If you submit your resume directly to a recruiter or hiring manager, you can choose whichever format you prefer.

Unless you just graduated, your education section should go below your work experience. If you have more than one degree, organise them with the most recent. For each degree, include:

School name

Degree obtained

Field of study

If you are a recent graduate, you may also opt to include:

Dates attended or graduation date

GPA, if it is 3.0 or higher, or CGPA, if it is 7.5 or higher

Honours, achievements, relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, or study abroad programmes

If you have relevant certifications or professional certificates, you may choose to include a dedicated section on your resume. Alternatively, you can add certifications as a subsection within your education section.

For each certification, include:

Certification name

Awarding institution

Date it was awarded

Expiration date (if applicable)

Relevant skills

Including a separate section for your skills is only sometimes necessary, especially if you can incorporate job-related skills throughout your work experience section. However, if there are additional skills you’d like to highlight, include a section at the end of your resume and list your technical and workplace skills.

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Chronological Resume Templates Free To Download

What is a chronological resume.

A chronological resume is a resume that lists your jobs and their descriptions by the date you held those jobs. [the_ad id=’148032′] Technically, your jobs should be listed in a reverse-chronological order – that is to say, your most recent job should be listed first and your least recent job listed last.

Listing your jobs and experience in this way makes a lot of sense. Usually your most recent experience can be the most relevant experience you have when applying for a new job. It can also be where you have the most contacts to use as references that could give you a leg up on the competition.

While there are technically different ways to format your resume besides using a chronological resume layout, almost all resumes will still have some part of the work history listed out and it will almost always make the most sense to list chronologically with your most recent job first.

General Layout of a Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is going to be no different than any other type of resume and should include all of the following sections:

• Heading with name and contact information
• Objective or Professional Summary
• Combination of Job History & Work Descriptions
• Education Information

Your resume may also contain a skills section depending on the type of job you are applying for.

Chronological Resume Format Vs. Other Resume Formats

Combination

Download Free Chronological Resume Samples

All of the following resume templates for download are based on a chronological format.

Reverse Chronological Resume Template

This resume template lists your work experience in a reverse chronological order, with your most recent experience first and your least recent experience last.

File name: Reverse-Chronological-Resume-Template.docx

File size: 7.7 KB

Total downloads: 0

Chronological Resume FAQ

What is a chronological resume.

A chronological resume is a type of resume where you list your work experience from most recent to least recent. Learn more here.

How do you write a chronological resume?

Just like you would most other resumes. But with a chronological resume, your work experience and the way you describe your past jobs will be the centerpiece of the resume.

Learn more about creating a chronological resume by clicking here.

Who should use chronological resume?

Almost everyone should be listing their job experience in a chronological format, with their most recent experience first and their least recent experience last.

But you may want to emphasizes specific skills over general job experience. Learn more about which resume would be right for you by clicking here.

What order do you list work experience on a resume?

You should almost always be listing your work experience

What is a chronological / combination resume?

A combination resume is a type of resume format that combines the chronological and functional formats.

In truth, almost all resumes are some type of a combination resume – especially on this website.

What type of resume do employers prefer?

An employer prefers the type of resume that will put you and your skills in the best light.

Having said that, most employers are conditioned to look at your work experience from most to least recent experience so do keep that in mind. Part of a building a good resume is being predictable in how you communicate information, so make a good first impression in that regard by using the chronological format when listing old & current jobs.

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Chronological Resume Templates & Writing Tips

Choose from our best chronological resume templates.

Blending a classic single column layout with helpful color accents and dividers for ease of reading, the Simple CV template is a balanced choice.

Professional

If you’re looking for a design that is subtle, elegant, and combines the best of the old and new, the Professional CV template is the perfect choice.

This interesting Cool resume example uses a twin-column format and charming icons to differentiate sections.

This Modern resume example displays define sections with a traditional black-and-white color pattern.

Contemporary

This Contemporary resume example counts with thin lines and a classic single-column format that will make the perfect first impression on any hiring manager.

For a balance between lighthearted creative and serious profesional, the Creative CV template offers visualizations and a functional two column design.

Why You Should Use the Chronological Resume Templates

Chronological resume templates are one of the most popular styles, and for good reason. They put your most important qualifications front and center, showing at a glance the job positions and responsibilities you’ve held. Many businesses value real-world experience highly, so making this factor stand out on the page is a smart idea. If you've worked for well-known companies, the chronological resume format really shows it off.

When you apply for a management position, potential employers often look for similar experience in past jobs. For example, someone with experience coordinating projects usually should have the skills and personality to handle other leadership responsibilities. The closer your career trajectory matches the qualifications the company is looking for, the better your chances of getting hired. Chronological resume templates are a great fit in any industry, from construction and manufacturing to health care and marketing.

4 Chronological Resume Templates FAQs

Which is the best resume template to use.

The resume you choose makes a statement about your personality and about how you view the position you're applying for. There's no one "right" answer. You want the resume to leave recruiters with a great impression from the moment they see it.

Bold design elements and colors can be excellent for job positions where creativity and initiative are valued, such as marketing. Selecting a traditional layout can transmit an air of professionalism appropriate for weighty responsibilities. Your goal is to stand out in a positive way.

With a chronological resume, single-column layouts draw immediate attention to your most important work experience. A double-column format feels modern and lets you include additional information without crowding the page.

Is the chronological resume template free?

You can create a chronological resume template for free on a trial basis. This can help you get started customizing your resume and choosing the look and feel that fits your goals.

Do you want to work with even more resume templates, professional resources, and amazing resume-building tips? Signing up gives you access to all of those things and more, including a powerful resume builder for putting your personal touch on things.

How should I format the chronological resume template?

Chronological resume templates are always formatted with your current job (or most recent) at the top. List other job positions in reverse-chronological order, going from most recent to least recent. You don't have to include every job you've had, only the ones that highlight your most important qualifications.

Under each job position, list a few bullet points with your responsibilities or accomplishments. Keep sentences short, powerful, and clear with action verbs.

What if holding a degree is essential for the job? In that case, you may want to put educational qualifications first, followed by work experience.

Does the Chronological resume template work with Microsoft Word?

Creating an eye-catching chronological resume template is a breeze with the resume builder. The simple and friendly interface guides you through the process, showing you exactly what to do. Along the way, HR-approved layouts and expert tips help you avoid common mistakes and create a resume that makes an amazing first impression.

Include some of the professionally written job description bullet points to give the resume extra flair. You can customize headers, fonts, sizes, and layouts to make the template completely unique. Afterward, download the finished chronological resume in Word format (.docx) and make any additional changes you want.

More Resume Templates Like This

Using color and a two column design, the Awesome resume template gets a lot of information across with an air of creativity.

ChatGPT Resume Prompts & Tips from Career Experts

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ChatGPT is an advanced AI language model that has made waves in recent years for its ability to produce human-like responses to seemingly any question or task.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to use ChatGPT for your resume, including the best prompts to try and important precautions to remember with AI-generated content. 

If you’re looking to save time and streamline your resume-building process, consider using an AI-powered resume builder instead of ChatGPT. 

Resume builders are designed to help you create a targeted resume with pre-designed templates and professionally written content that’s tailored to your career goals and industry.

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What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an advanced AI-powered chatbot developed by the artificial intelligence research and development company, OpenAI. 

ChatGPT uses generative pre-trained transformers (GPTs) to produce human-like text responses based on user input. 

It is trained on vast amounts of data from the internet, allowing it to understand and generate coherent and contextually relevant responses.  

ChatGPT has gained popularity for its ability to engage in conversational interactions, making it a valuable tool for various applications, including resume writing.

Can ChatGPT write a resume?

With the right prompts, ChatGPT can help you write a resume from scratch or improve an existing resume. 

That being said, relying solely on ChatGPT for creating a resume is not recommended, as it does not have personal knowledge of your specific experiences, skills and achievements. 

Your resume is a crucial document for showcasing your career journey, and it requires a personalized and professional touch that AI-generated content lacks. 

Here are a few considerations when it comes to using ChatGPT to assist with writing your resume: 

• Does not have formatted resume templates , it will only generate text for your resume. 
• Often misunderstands prompts, resulting in inaccurate or irrelevant content output. 
• Does not know your work history, professional skills and notable accomplishments. 
• Often uses generic language that might not be impressive to hiring managers.

Explore our library of resume examples and cover letter examples to see real-world samples for different jobs, industries and career levels.

ChatGPT vs. online resume builders

A resume builder is a specialized tool that is designed specifically to create effective and professional resumes.

While ChatGPT can generate a resume, a resume builder provides more features and customization options. 

Our Resume Builder includes ATS-friendly templates built by professional graphic designers, step-by-step prompts with expert insights and ready-made content suggestions written by Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW).

Resume builders offer a wide range of templates and customization options that allow you to tailor your resume to your specific needs and preferences. 

The prewritten content suggestions from our Resume Builder incorporate industry-specific language to help you highlight your skills and accomplishments in a way that resonates with potential employers.

You can choose the best resume font , format and layout that suits your career goals and personal branding.

Best ChatGPT resume prompts

When selecting a ChatGPT resume prompt, the first step is to decide which format best reflects your skills and qualifications (chronological, combination or functional).

Explore our guide on resume formats to determine which one is right for you, then see the best prompts for each one below to get started.

Chronological resume prompt

“Please create a chronological resume for me that lists my work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with my most recent position. Use a clear and easy-to-read format and highlight my relevant skills and achievements.

Include a professional summary that highlights my expertise as a [ your professional title ] with [ your years of experience ] [ three to five key tasks and skills you want to highlight ]. 

Include the following information in my work history section: [ your past roles, dates of employment, company names and a brief summary of your job duties and accomplishments for each position ]. 

Create separate sections for my skills ([ skill #1, skill #2, skill #3, etc ]), education ([ your education credentials ]), professional certifications ([ your professional certifications ]) and my volunteer and extracurricular activities ([ your volunteer experience and extracurricular activities ]).”

Combination resume prompt

“I would like a combination resume that showcases my work experience, skills and achievements. Include a professional summary that highlights my expertise as a [ your professional title ] with [ your years of experience ] [ three to five key tasks and skills you want to highlight ].

Include a summary of qualifications with the following information: [ key qualification #1, key qualification #2, key qualification #3 ].

Organize my work experience in reverse-chronological order and list the following information: [ your past roles, dates of employment, company names and a brief summary of your job duties and accomplishments for each position ]. 

Create separate sections for my skills ([ skill #1, skill #2, skill #3, etc ]), education ([ your education credentials ]), professional certifications ([ your professional certifications ]), and my volunteer and extracurricular activities ([ your volunteer experience and extracurricular activities ]).”

Functional resume prompt

“Can you create a functional resume for me that highlights my skills and achievements? Include a professional summary that highlights my expertise as a [ your professional title ] with [ your years of experience ] [ three to five key tasks and skills you want to highlight ].

Organize the following accomplishments under three skill categories ([ skill category #1, skill category #2, skill category #3 ]): [ your key tasks and accomplishments from past roles ]. 

Include a brief summary of my work experience: [ your past roles, dates of employment, company names and a brief summary of your job duties and accomplishments for each position ].

Create separate sections for my education ([ your education credentials ]), professional certifications ([ your professional certifications ]), and my volunteer and extracurricular activities ([ your volunteer experience and extracurricular activities ]).”

ChatGPT does not know your professional history, meaning any prompt you use must include your skills, work history and qualifications.

To ensure your professional information is properly dispersed throughout your resume, we recommend using separate prompts for each section. 

We’ll detail how to use ChatGPT for each section of your resume below. Always remember to review AI-generated content for inaccuracies or generic language. 

How to use ChatGPT to write a resume

We’ll walk you through how to generate a resume with ChatGPT, section by section. This method lets you input detailed descriptions of your work history and notable skills to ensure that your resume offers a complete look at your professional qualifications.  

Navigate to ChatGPT

Open ChatGPT to get started. You can start chatting immediately or create an account to save your chat history, share chats with friends or colleagues and personalize your experience. 

Input prompts for each section of your resume

Explore the prompt ideas below and enter them into the ChatGPT text box to generate each section of your resume. 

You can copy and paste the ChatGPT responses into a separate document to start putting your resume together. 

Resume summary

Your resume summary highlights your key skills and qualifications in three to five sentences at the top of your resume. Try the prompt below to generate a resume summary:

Skills section

It is important to include a detailed skills section on your resume with hard skills and soft skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Here is a prompt you can try for this section: 

Work history section

Listing your work experience on a resume is essential for demonstrating how your past experience makes you a great fit for the role. Try out the following prompt to get started:

Education section

You can also generate a resume education section using ChatGPT. Check out the prompt below to get started: 

We recommend using our ATS resume checker to scan your resume for 30+ common errors and receive instant suggestions for optimizing your resume for applicant tracking systems.

Review and revise

Once you have completed your resume, review all the content to ensure that it is accurate and free of grammatical or spelling errors. 

It is always advisable to seek guidance from professional resume writers, career coaches or mentors who can provide personalized feedback and suggestions for creating an effective resume.

Mistakes to avoid when using ChatGPT for resume writing

• Over-relying on ChatGPT: While ChatGPT can provide valuable suggestions, it’s important to remember that it’s an AI language model and cannot replace your own expertise and understanding of your skills and experiences. Use ChatGPT as a tool to supplement your own inputs and ideas.
• Not providing enough information: ChatGPT needs specific information about your work experience, skills and accomplishments to generate effective resume content. Make sure to provide as much detail as possible in your prompts to get the best results.
• Not considering design and formatting: While ChatGPT can provide content, it may not always consider design and formatting. Make sure to choose an appropriate font, layout, and color scheme that is professional and visually appealing.
• Not seeking feedback from professionals: While ChatGPT can provide valuable suggestions, it’s always a good idea to seek feedback from professionals or trusted individuals in your field to further refine and improve your resume.

How to use ChatGPT to improve your resume

In addition to using ChatGPT to write a resume from scratch, you can also use it to improve an existing resume. Below are a few tips on how to use ChatGPT to update your resume.

Tailoring for specific job applications

If you have a specific job in mind, provide ChatGPT with the job description or requirements. ChatGPT can assist you in customizing your existing resume to highlight the skills and measurable achievements that align with the job you’re applying for.

Reordering sections

If you want to reorganize the sections of your resume, such as moving your skills section higher or highlighting your education, you can discuss these changes with ChatGPT and get suggestions on how to best structure your resume.

Adding keywords

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific keywords. ChatGPT can help you identify relevant keywords for your industry or job role, ensuring that your resume has a higher chance of passing through the ATS and reaching human eyes.

Editing and proofreading

ChatGPT can assist you in proofreading your resume for spelling, grammar and formatting errors. It can also provide suggestions for improving sentence structure and clarity, helping you create a polished and error-free resume.

Ask for formatting and design advice

In addition to content, you can also ask ChatGPT for formatting and design advice. Seek suggestions on how to structure your resume, choose appropriate fonts and colors and create a professional and visually appealing layout. See our guide on what your resume should look like for expert tips. 

ChatGPT resume writing tips

• Provide clear and specific prompts: The more details you provide, the better ChatGPT can generate relevant and tailored suggestions.
• Iterate and refine: Review the suggestions, make necessary edits and ask ChatGPT to iterate on specific sections until you are satisfied with the result.
• Customize for each job application: Provide the specific requirements and keywords from the job posting to make your resume more targeted and aligned with the position you’re applying for.
• Proofread and edit: Check for any grammar or spelling errors, and ensure that the information provided accurately represents your skills and experiences.

Key takeaways

• ChatGPT can be a useful tool for generating a first draft of your resume or updating an existing resume.
• You’ll need to provide ChatGPT with your work history, professional skills and relevant qualifications to generate accurate and detailed content for your resume.
• Resume builders are more effective than ChatGPT since they include professional templates, expert insights and professionally written content suggestions.

How do I ask ChatGPT to improve my resume?

To ask ChatGPT to help improve your resume, you can provide it with your existing resume and ask for suggestions and guidance. We also recommend checking out our guide on updating your resume for additional tips.

Here’s an example of how you can prompt ChatGPT:

• Input your prompt: Hi, I have a resume that I would like to improve. Can you provide me with suggestions to enhance my resume?
• Add your resume: Copy and paste your existing resume here or provide a summary of its content. 
• Ask questions: How can I make my resume more impactful? What sections should I focus on? Can you incorporate action verbs into my bullet points? Are there any keywords I should include? 

Remember to review and validate the suggestions provided by ChatGPT and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your resume accurately reflects your skills and experiences. 

Can employers tell if you use ChatGPT?

Employers may be able to recognize if a resume or cover letter has been generated by an AI language model if the writing is overly generic or lacks a personal touch. 

This can raise concerns about the authenticity and suitability of the candidate and hinder their chances of landing an interview. 

It’s always recommended to use ChatGPT as a tool for inspiration and guidance rather than relying solely on it to write your resume.

We recommend using a resume builder instead, which features expertly crafted templates and professional content written by real experts. 

How do I prompt ChatGPT to tailor my resume to a job description?

You can prompt ChatGPT to tailor your resume to a specific job description by providing it with the job description and your existing resume. Here are the steps you can follow:

• Copy the job description of the position you are applying for and paste it into the ChatGPT prompt box.
• Provide some context to ChatGPT about your current resume. For example, you could say, “I have a resume that I would like to tailor to this job description.”
• Provide ChatGPT with your current resume by copying and pasting the text into the prompt box.
• In the prompt box, enter “Can you provide me with suggestions for how I can tailor my resume to this job description?”
• Review the suggestions provided by ChatGPT and make any necessary changes to your resume.

See our guide on what to put on a resume for additional tips and examples.

Is there a ChatGPT resume builder?

ChatGPT does not have a specific resume builder feature. There are many other online resume builders that can help you create a professional-looking resume quickly and easily. 

These resume builders come with pre-designed templates, industry-specific language and customization options to help you highlight your skills and experiences. 

We also recommend using an AI cover letter generator to create a cover letter that expands upon the information from your resume. 

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Harvard Business Review. Article. Wilson, Robb. Should You Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume?
• Coursera. Article. How to Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume
• Forbes. Article. Westfall, Chris. How to Use ChatGPT to Write Your Resume, With 3 Step-BY-Step Prompts
• CNBC. Article. Malinsky, Gili. The No. 1 danger of using ChatGPT on your resume: ‘It is going to hallucinate information’

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Elizabeth Muenzen, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Elizabeth is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and a member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches. She is passionate about delivering information that empowers job seekers to achieve their professional goals.

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