Which is better, a chronological or a functional resume?

For most job seekers, a chronological resume is better. It is what employers expect, it shows your progression and recent experience clearly, and it works well with applicant tracking systems.

A functional resume groups experience by skill and plays down dates and employers. Many recruiters find it hard to judge, because they cannot see what you did in each job or when. Some assume it hides gaps or frequent job changes.

Use chronological if:

• You have a steady work history in your field.
• Your most recent role is relevant to the job.

Consider an alternative only if:

• You are changing careers, returning after a long gap or have very varied experience.

Even then, a hybrid resume, which keeps the dated work history, is usually safer than a purely functional one.