chronological resume download

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.

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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 2023, 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

A chronological resume is probably the most common and most recognizable resume template.

What is a chronological resume?

When to use a chronological resume, chronological resume format, download a free template (word).

This is a classic resume style that features work experience first. Your jobs are listed in “reverse chronological” order, meaning your current or most recent job is listed first with the rest following in order from most recent to most distant.

If you have work experience directly related to the position you’re applying for, this is a highly recommended format. Employers like seeing what you’ve accomplished in previous positions, so it’s beneficial to highlight all of your relevant experiences and accomplishments.

If you have little to no work experience – or if your only work experience is completely unrelated to your future career – then you probably want to consider another option.

Because your work experience is the focus of a chronological resume, it should be the first section after your personal information. The only exception is if you’re currently in school, in which case your education should be listed first then your work experience.

Within work experience, your current or most recent job should be listed first. Then, any previous jobs should follow in reverse chronological order.

Additional sections like trainings, volunteer activities, or skills, are encouraged if they apply to your profile. Just remember that your resume should always be a maximum of two pages.

A free to use and direct downloadable resume template for a chronologic resume. This template was created by a certified resume expert and can be used with Microsoft Word.

Download resume-template-chronological.docx 18 KB

License Terms: The following license terms and conditions apply when you download any of our free templates:

• The templates are for a personal use only.
• You are not allowed to sub-license, transfer, resell or share any of the templates even for free.

Need some help writing your resume? Take a look at our guide for writing a perfect resume

As a professional recruiter, I have over 10 years of experience helping candidates find work with businesses that match their skills, personalities and goals. Here on Resume Supply, I share some of the key things I have learned over my career to help job seekers with resumes, applications and interviews.

10+ Chronological Resume Templates

There are several documents that are responsible for many of our advancements in our life. Resumes Samples are one among them. Resumes help us display our education, knowledge, and skill sets in a proper manner to the concerned. A chronological resume starts by listing your work history, with the most recent positions listed first.Employers typically prefer this type of resume because it’s easy to see what jobs you have held and when.

• Resume Templates
• Combination Resume Templates

Sample Chronological Order Resume Template

Functional Chronological Resume Template

How to use the Chronological Resume formats?

Reverse chronological resume template.

High School Teacher Chronological Resume Template

Administrative Assistant Chronological Resume Template

Effective Chronological Resume Template

General Chronological Resume Template

Entry Level Chronological Resume Template

Professional Chronological Resume Template

Simple Chronological Resume Template

Mechanical Engineering Chronological Resume Template

Who benefits from the Chronological Resume Formats?

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Chronological Resume Format: Examples and Tips

Last Updated: June 15, 2021

The chronological resume — also known as the reverse-chronological resume — is the most popular resume format used by job seekers. It’s particularly useful for candidates with extensive work experience, as the reverse-chronological order resume focuses on work history to show career growth. Read on to learn how to write a chronological resume, review our examples, and create your professional resume using our Resume Builder .

• 30% higher chance of getting a job
• 42% higher response rate from recruiters

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

What is a chronological resume?

A chronological resume is a resume format that emphasizes your work history, focusing on your top job accomplishments and responsibilities, along with related top skills. The chronological resume format places the work history section below the professional summary , so the recruiter or hiring manager will see your experience and career progression right away.

While the most popular, you might want to steer away from using the reverse-chronological resume format if you have no experience , are changing careers or have a significant gap between jobs. For these situations, there are other formats from which to choose.

Ready to streamline the process of building a professional chronological resume with our easy-to-use resume builder ? Craft a seamless career narrative that showcases your experience, and take the first step towards your dream job.

Who should use a chronological resume

You’ve shown consistent growth in your career.

A chronological resume highlights your job titles, promotions and accomplishments. With a clear pattern of success, hiring managers will see that you are a motivated , valuable candidate, driven to succeed. Give three to five examples of your best achievements for each job.

The job places heavy importance on experience.

Some jobs just aren’t for first-timers. Suppose you’re applying for a position that places a premium on employees who’ve put in the work and understand the job inside and out. In that case, a chronological resume is the best format for showing off your experience. Give examples of how you’ve specifically improved businesses and their bottom lines and taken on more responsibilities over time.

There are no gaps in your employment history.

Since a chronological resume offers a comprehensive rundown of your career, it’s the best format for showing steady employment over a long period — and displays your extensive, gap-free experience for all employers to see.

How to write a chronological resume

Professional summary

Also known as a summary statement and resume summary, this section is the first chance to present yourself to the hiring manager. To start your chronological order resume the right way, give a quick overview of your top skills and qualifications that make you the best candidate for the job.

Work history

In a chronological resume, the  work history  section takes up the most space because it’s the focus of this format. Present your work experience in reverse-chronological order, showing how you’ve grown through the years and progressed in your career.

Even though the skills section is usually placed below the work history, as this reverse-chronological resume example shows, it’s still essential to feature key skills. Feature six to eight skills that complement your work experience and resume summary. It helps the hiring manager understand who you are and  what you can do .

As the name suggests, the education section in a chronological resume is where you list your academic credentials and any special training or certificates you have. You don’t have to include your graduation date if you graduated more than 10 years ago.

Chronological resume examples

A resume example is a great way to get inspiration and see the chronological resume in action. Use the chronological resume samples below as a guide for your own resume, and find more job-specific examples on our resume examples page.

We also have dozens of resume templates you can use, including free reverse-chronological resume templates for Word you can easily download and edit. Our templates come in various categories, from professional resume templates to creative , modern and more.

Chronological resume example for administrative assistant

The sole focus of a chronological resume is to highlight career advancement. In this particular case, the candidate shows how they have grown through the years and taken on more responsibilities.

Sample of a chronological resume for a bank branch manager

Like this chronological resume sample, list the financial services you’ve specialized in and concrete details on the activities you’ve led, such as managing a staff of 12 employees or overseeing customer service, staffing and other operational duties.

Chronological resume format for principal

Mention experiences in which you’ve had to manage large groups of faculty and students in your reverse-chronological resume. Add any recognitions you’ve received for your work (e.g., your school receiving an award for academic excellence).

Sample chronological resume for event coordinator

In the work experience section of your reverse-chronological order resume, list examples where you’ve organized various events for groups of all sizes and show how you’ve been able to collaborate successfully with clients.

Chronological resume sample for financial analyst

Give examples of how your analyses and recommendations have resulted in positive outcomes for clients and businesses, like the reverse-chronological resume template above. Don’t forget to list your knowledge of job-specific software in your skills section.

Sample of a chronological resume for medical assistant

Focus your reverse-chronological resume on communication skills, empathy and other intangible qualifications necessary for working with patients and specific medical training and certifications.

Chronological resume format for warehouse manager

Like this reverse-chronological resume example, use your work history to show how you’ve improved operations and profits as a manager, using specific numbers that demonstrate your effectiveness (e.g., improving inventory accuracy by 25%).

Sample chronological resume for pharmacist

This particular chronological order resume features the candidate’s extensive work history, published articles and other credentials that make them an expert in their field. It’s extensive, thorough and detailed.

Chronological resume sample for retail manager

Give examples of how you’ve increased company revenue while ensuring customer satisfaction. Don’t forget to list intangible abilities important to the job in your reverse-chronological resume, such as team leadership, time management and attention to detail.

How to make a chronological resume

1. make your summary an “elevator pitch.”.

Similar to an elevator pitch , your summary statement is a succinct overview of your top skills and experiences that lets a prospective employer know who you are right off the bat. Model your pitch on what the employer is looking for. For example, if you’re applying for a software engineer job and one of the prime requirements is “experience with Objective-C,” start your reverse-chronological order resume by mentioning any skills and experiences of your own that match (e.g., “Hard-working software engineer with 6+ years experience programming in Objective-C.”).

2. Focus on achievements and numbers in your work history.

This is the heart of the chronological resume format. When you list your work experience, start with your current or most recent job first and then go backward — that’s where the reverse-chronological order comes in. Remember to list the name of the company, the dates you’ve worked there, and the titles of the jobs you’ve held. Underneath each job title:

• Feature three to five bullet points that highlight your top responsibilities or accomplishments .
• Begin each statement with a powerful action verb like adjusted, analyzed, compiled, created or implemented.
• Use quantifiable achievements in your chronological order resume to show how you’ve excelled at previous jobs. For example: “Collaborated with the motion capture department to collect data for over 100 specific characters and apply them to animations” or “Managed $500,000 budget, improving processes that resulted in 17% reduction in costs from the previous year.”

3. Feature your top skills.

Always customize your chronological resume to best job’s needs, including the skills section. Write a mixture of six to eight hard skills (such as Microsoft Office, Photoshop, or employee evaluations) and soft skills (like good communication, detail-oriented or time management).

4. Include important training and educational credentials.

If you’ve been in the same line of work for a while, any evidence you can provide that you’ve honed your skills through additional education or training can positively impact recruiters. List any specialized coursework or certifications in the education section of your reverse-chronological order resume.

You should present your academic qualifications in reverse-chronological order, including the name of the university, high school or technical school and the credential you gained there. No need to include the graduation date — just stick to the basic facts, such as the subject you specialized in.

Check out our How to Write a Resume article for more resume-writing advice.

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Chronological resume format FAQ

How to write a resume that stands out when using the chronological format.

There are several ways to make a chronological resume stand out, but the following no-fail tips are our favorite. 

• Use a resume template to give your resume a professional and polished look. Our premium and free resume templates are professionally designed, ATS-friendly and easy to customize. 
• Make a great first impression with an enticing professional summary or resume objective . Think of it as an elevator pitch — a short but compelling overview of your top qualifications. For example, “Attentive and knowledgeable massage therapist with a five-year track record of solid customer service and a knack for building relationships. Experienced in a wide range of massage techniques, including deep tissue, Shiatsu and trigger points.”
• Focus on your accomplishments to make an impact. Hiring managers want to see what you can do for them, not a list of tasks you performed at previous jobs. Be specific and use numbers to make your point. For example, “Increased customer satisfaction by 30% in two months.”

Will the chronological resume format work for me if I’ve never had a job?

Since chronological resumes focus on employment history , we suggest using the functional resume format if you’ve never had a job. A functional resume is great for first-time job applicants because it highlights skills and education.

How many pages should a chronological resume format be?

Ideally, a chronological resume should be one-page long. Still, two pages are acceptable if you have more than 15 years of experience; showing your entire work history will benefit you. If you think you need more than one page for your chronological resume, ensure it’s concise, relevant and easy to read.

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Chronological Resume: Format, Templates & Examples

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

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

2. why should you use the chronological resume format, 3. how to structure a reverse-chronological resume, chronological resume structure for experienced candidates, chronological resume structure for entry-level candidates, the best chronological resume templates you can try right now, 4. how to write a chronological resume step by step, 1. start with a flawless resume header, 2. create a catchy resume profile, 3. present your work experience like a pro, 4. craft an education section that’s just as long as necessary, 5. show you’ve got the right skills, 6. add relevant extras, 5. a basic chronological resume template (just fill in the blanks), key takeaways, about resumelab’s editorial process, was it interesting here are similar articles.

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Chronological CV Format

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Whether you’re just entering the job market or are a seasoned professional, writing a good CV might be a difficult task. Did you know that CVs have a clearly defined structure, which can vary depending on the country in which you are looking for a job? Currently, there are 5 basic CV formats that you can find in the UK. These are:

• one page CV
• two page CV
• skills-based CV
• chronological CV
• and European CV .

Here we will focus on the chronological CV format. The chronological CV format, laid out on a one page CV , is currently one of the most common forms of CV in the UK. The format owes its name to the chronological - or rather reverse chronological - order of the information provided in the CV. In practice, this means that when writing out your employment or education history, you will start with those most recent and work backwards. Although it may seem simple, the process of writing a CV can be a tedious and time-consuming job. Fortunately, we will show you how to make this task much easier. You will learn the structure of the chronological CV format and see practical examples of chronological CVs for different professions. In addition, we will answer the most frequently asked questions, share some valuable tips on writing a chronological CV and point out the most common mistakes to avoid.

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What is the structure of the Chronological CV Format

The chronological format of CVs in the UK has a clearly defined structure. Typically, it should fit on one page . Unless you are applying for a job where appearance is important, such as modelling or acting, your CV shouldn't include a photograph. The structure of the chronological CV includes the following sections:

• Contact information

[the first on the CV should be your name and contact details. Place this information at the top of the page. It is common practice to use a fairly large font to make it easy to read. Remember to include the following:]

• First and last name.
• Address, or at least your city and postcode
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Personal statement

[ about 3 or 4 sentences will be enough here. Briefly outline who you are, what your achievements are and how you achieved them, or present your goals and how you intend to meet them. Personal statement , serving as a brief summary, should quickly introduce the recruiter to your CV and encourage further reading.]

Work experience

[this section contains details of your employment, ideally from the last ten years or the last three positions. Consider adding a simple overview of the duties you performed on each job. List the jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.]

[following your employment history, also known as the experience section, you should list your job-related skills. Usually, 6-8 skills, listed in bullet points, are all you need. Choose skills from both soft and hard skills categories . Hard skills are those that are necessary to perform the job. A list of these will certainly be included in the job advertisement. Soft skills are transferable skills that enhance your qualifications and help you stand out from other candidates.]

[last, but not least, is the section on your education. Like with experience, start with the most recent. You don't have to give a comprehensive list and go all the way back to kindergarten, just state the highest education you have.]

AIDEN LEONARD 07912345678 [email protected] 11 Guild Street, London, ENG N19 0NB

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Hardworking Makeup Artist with over a decade of experience and proven success at using product knowledge and exceptional customer service skills to provide a tailored service, increase client retention, and exceed sales goals.

WORK HISTORY

06/2019 - Current Colour and Create Salon, London, Greater London Senior Makeup Artist

• Developed individual makeup and skin-care programs and recommended products to achieve this at home
• Maintained a solid knowledge base of all salon products and services
• Inventoried, ordered, and stocked makeup product lines.

12/2015 - 05/2019 C'est Magnifique Makeup Counter Westminster, Greater London Junior Makeup Artist

• Welcomed clients as they arrived for appointments
• Informed clients of appropriate products available to increase retail sales
• Assisted manager with daily salon operations, including opening and closing procedures

Subtle and effective sales skills Customer service-orientated Strong verbal communication Attention to detail Safety and sanitation training Excellent phone etiquette Team player Airbrush makeup artistry

2013 London College of Fashion, London Bachelor of Arts: Hair and Makeup for Fashion

2010 St Mary's School, London A Levels: Business Studies, History of Art, English Literature

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Chronological CV Format in different samples

Sample 1: acclaimed chronological cv format.

This chronological CV layout looks classic but with a modern twist. The subtle use of colour will make you stand out and attract attention. Choose the colour that best suits your application, from muted steel greys to juicy orange. This chronological CV template is very versatile, great for jobs in the entertainment sector as well as working in a heavyweight corporation.

Sample 2: Impactful Chronological CV format

The CV layout with side column is one of the most classic chronological CV layouts. It is ideal for people who have a lot of experience. The clever use of the column allows you to use space wisely without overloading your CV. Suitable for all sectors, it will work well for experienced professionals.

Sample 3: Centred Chronological CV format

This subdued CV template is a classic approach to a chronological CV. It is elegant and simple. Separating your skills into two columns is a great way to save space and a perfect opportunity to split your hard and soft skills and better present your profile.

When to use a chronological CV

The chronological CV format is so popular that recruiters not only expect it but actually consider it the default form. Chronological CVs can be used practically with any job application. They work well for people who have extensive experience and expertise, as well as for the entry level candidates. This kind of CV format is suitable for all kinds of industries. Whether you’re a lawyer, barber or librarian, this CV format is for your. Chronological CV format allows the job seekers to demonstrate their progression in previous positions and display their career development history. The focus is on the experience that employers are looking for and that is described in the job advertisement. A chronological CV is the most common form of CV – it shows work experience and education in reverse chronological order (most recent to oldest). Unlike a skills-based CV, which focuses on hard skills, in particular, a chronological CV focuses primarily on employment history.

When you are a seasoned professional

Example of work history section for a seasoned purchasing manager

When you have little work experience

Example of work history section for a person with little job experience

When is it better to choose a different format

A chronological CV is so versatile that you can easily adapt it to your job title and level of experience. That said, it is worth noting that while a chronological CV will work well even if you have little experience, those who have no experience at all should opt for a functional CV i.e. a skills-based CV.

Essentially, a chronological CV focuses on experience. Rather than highlighting these gaps, a skills-based CV allows you to focus on the skills that may be relevant to the role you are applying for. 

You can read more about the skills-based CV format here .

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Check out chronological CV examples from different industries and occupations. Create and download your very own CV in just a few minutes with our CV builder. By tailoring the CV to your industry, you can be sure that it will not only be fully professional but that it will also meet accepted standards, and writing a CV in a chronological format gives a better picture of your career development.

Chronological CV dos and don’ts

• DO: keep it organised. Chronological CV format (or rather reverse chronological) means that both experience and education should be listed from the most recent to the oldest one that is still relevant for the role. Also keep the sections in the following order: contact details and personal statement first, followed by experience, skills and education.
• DO: add duties to each job title Ideally, add 3-5 key duties as bullet points for each position. Provide unique tasks for each position to maximise the potential of your CV. This will better represent you as an asset to the company and increase your chances of being invited for an interview.
• DON’T: go over two pages, unless you write an academic CV. Ideally, your CV should have one, maximum two pages. If you're struggling with it, you might want to use a professional CV template to fit it to the right format.
• DON’T: lie about your experience If you feel that you have too little experience to create a good chronological CV, it is better to opt for a skills-based one. Remember that a recruiter or employer can very easily verify all the information included in your CV, so trying to bend the truth is never a good idea and might ruin your chances of getting hired in the future..

Frequently Asked Questions about chronological CV Format

What is chronological cv.

A chronological CV is the type of CV format that focuses on your relevant work experience. It displays your employment history in a reverse chronological format, which means that the most recent is on the top. This kind of CV format highlights your achievements and allows the recruiter to see the path of your progression. You can use this CV to apply for a position in any industry. The chronological CV is usually combined with a one page CV format.

Does a CV have to be in chronological order?

Yes, currently this is standard practice. However, it is worth mentioning that when we say chronological order, in the case of CVs we actually mean reverse chronological, i.e. you provide information about your employment starting with the most recent and going back to previous positions. This order enables to follow your career path and your development and also allows the recruiter to get a quick overview of your situation.

How to write a chronological CV?

Start with a good CV template to make things easier. When writing your CV, you should include five basic elements:

• Contact information (name address, phone number and email address)
• Personal statement (3-4 sentences telling who you are, as well as what your professional achievements are and you did to achieve them)
• Work history (in reverse chronological order. For each position, give date of employment (month and year), place of employment and 3-5 key responsibilities)
• Skills (give examples of both hard and soft skills)
• Education (also in reverse chronological order).

Chronological CV: key takeaways

A chronological CV format is the most common and expected by recruiters form of a CV. Its main purpose is to focus on your experience and career path, and highlight your accomplishments, while still mentioning the skills. Recruiters like it because it only takes a glance to get an idea of a candidate's professional situation.

A well-written chronological CV should fit on one page and contain five basic elements:

• Work history

A chronological CV owes its name to the order in which it lists your professional history and education. Namely, you start with your most recent experience at the top of the list and follow it up with your previous experiences. For this reason, you may also come across the name reverse chronological CV.

When writing a chronological CV, it is a good idea to use ready-made CV templates that will allow you to format and arrange all the information correctly, creating a professional document that will impress recruiters. What to remember about the chronological CV format - key takeaway

Related CVs

• Europass CV Format
• European CV Format
• One Page CV Format
• Skills-based CV format
• Two Page CV Format

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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:

What is a chronological resume?

Who should use the chronological resume format.

• 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.

Chronological resume template and examples

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.

How to Write a Chronological Resume and Tips for Every Section

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.

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