The purpose or importance of writing a resume should never be misunderstood. The objective of writing a resume is to kindle prospective employer’s interest in you to call for an interview.

But, how to do it? There is couple of options, which normally serves the purpose. One is Chronological resume, which is common, and popular format mostly adopted. This resume contains summary statement, objective and properly ordered chronological list of all one’s employment details including the name of the employer, post held, period of employment and accomplishments. Educational and special skills with reference to testimonials and certificates are highlighted. However, this type of resume is usually good or suitable for one who is experienced in his profession and interested in a change of service. But, if one is a new comer and not having any past record to show up, this type of resume will not be appropriate.

One has to write a functional type of resume devised specifically for certain categories like new comers, he who frequently changed jobs, reentering the work force or had long gap since his last service period etc. The reason behind the success of functional resume is based on the fact that many of us might have acquired some special skill while working which are potentially transferable provided there are takers. Now, basically to develop such takers, the functional resume is formatted. To explain the matter little lucidly, one may give the example of a Retail Manager who while performing his duties was also responsible for allied jobs like training, hiring, firing, coaching, public / employee relation issues and in fact that normally looked after by HRD wings of any organization. But, this experience of the Retail Manager, if mentioned in a chronological resume will not get properly focused whereas the objective may better be served if the resume is written in functional format with proper emphasis given to his experience in the required field.