Here at Path Forward, we receive a lot of questions about resumes. While the answers to each of these questions differs from case to case, there are a few fundamental principles that remain consistent in how you present yourself and your work:
1. The resume is a marketing tool that is meant to showcase your relevant work experience (including unpaid work), degrees, and certifications to make the case that you are qualified for the position you are applying for.
2. A best practice is to individually tailor your resume to each job that you apply to. Cross reference your resume against the job description and ensure that your direct or transferable experience is clear. (You can use online tools like Jobscan to help you). At the bare minimum, you should have different versions of your resume that you can plug in for different types of roles you are seeking.
3. Language matters. When listing past deliverables and responsibilities, use action words and highlight your individual accomplishments and contributions.
Yet, even with these rules, there is still some nuance in how to present your work experience. We’ve put together four templates to act as a starting point for returners who need to create (or revamp) their current resume.
Click here to download a zip file containing a Microsoft Word template for each of the following.
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Chronological Template
The chronological resume is the most commonly used format for traditional candidates. In this format, work experience is displayed from current or most recent role(s) to previous experience in reverse chronological order. This template is ideal for those with relatively linear experience and clear career progression.
Functional Template
The functional resume is formatted to highlight specific skills rather than list work experience in the order that it happened. This format is perfect for those with career gaps and/or attempting to pivot careers.
Tech Template
Displaying tech experience requires a different approach than corporate experience. Use this format to showcase the languages you’ve learned, the skills that you’ve developed, and links to any projects or portfolios.
Returnship Template
When applying to a return-to-work program offered by Path Forward’s employer partners, a career gap is an eligibility requirement. Make sure to clearly list the break with as much or as little details as you feel comfortable sharing. Underneath, you can list volunteer or other unpaid work experience as long as it is clearly noted as such.
Additional resources:
- How to Create Your Comeback Resume [recorded webinar]
- How to Represent Your Career Gap on Your Returnship Resume (With Example)
- Revamping Your Resume [recorded webinar]
- Teal Resume Builder
Article and templates created by the Path Forward Programs Team.