From Chronological to Functional: Exploring Resume Format Options

Posted by Napier Resume on 17 Nov 2025

What is the best resume format? There are multiple options depending on the job you are in and your previous experience when deciding on the best option. The most common to choose from are: Reverse-Chronological, Functional, Combination.

Your resume is a crucial tool for job seeking and it’s essential that it’s properly formatted and simple to read. In Napier Resume, we specialize in providing resume writing services to ensure that you stand out the competition. In this article, we’ll review the different kinds of resumes and provide tips on how to choose the right one for you.

  1. Reverse-Chronological: This format is the most common and is the best for those with a solid work history. It lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent job at the top.
  2. Functional Format: This is the best for those with diverse or non-linear work experience. It concentrates on your strengths and accomplishments, not your work history.
  3. Combination: This format combines elements of the reverse-chronological and functional formats. It highlights your skills and accomplishments, while also listing your work history in reverse-chronological order.
  4. Make it specific to the job Your resume should be tailored to match the job you’re applying to. Pick a format that emphasizes your skills and experiences which are relevant to the position.
  5. Get help from a professional: If you’re struggling to choose an appropriate format or need assistance in adjusting it to the task take advice from a professional by contacting Napier Resume.

Each of these formats have their own pros and disadvantages. The reverse-chronological format is best for those with a solid work history, the functional format is best for those with diverse or non-linear work experience, and the combination format is a good balance of both. Create a resume that is customized to the specific job you’re applying to and seek professional help if needed. Napier Resume can also assist with the creation of a successful resume that highlights your abilities and experiences.

Excellent friendly service and outstanding results. Thanks Napier Resume.
Ian Robinson
I found the service very professional and my new resume and cover letter are great. The team was very helpful and responsive to all of the questions i had.
Jodie Morris
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value I only moved to Australia a bit over a year ago, with Covid it wasn’t easy to find a job so i took the first opportunity to keep our household going. But i want more, i want educate myself and find a better job. With Napier Resume i finally get this chance, since cv’s and cover letters work a bit different here and i need help to stand out in this harsh times. Tanja is an awesome professional, very responsive and her writing is incredible! Fingers crossed i’ll land my dream job now!
Elle Street
Absolutely the BEST. Tanja was very professional and kind and took the time to really understand my career change and what it was that i wanted out of my new resume. Cant recommend enough
Jack Taylor
Thank you so very much, Tanja and team! Our resumes look amazing! Appreciate all your help!
Wilfred Botin
First time using a resume writer, and so happy with the finished resume. I was also so impressed with the prompt responses throughout the whole process from Tanya and in general the quick turnaround time to produce it. I love the fact the resume represented who I am based on my skills and attributes. I definitely recommend Napier Resume to anyone who hasn't used a resume writer before. They are also so affordable compared to so many on the market who charge an absolute fortune.
Angela Skaf
Outstanding service and super quick to do it tanja is the GO TO girl. Awesome job
Jason Latsarnos
Exceptional - Process was amazing - Tanja was very specific and strategic; Love the interaction!
Jin Simon Shin
Professional service, outstanding customer care and they made a fantastic CV and Cover letter. Thankyou!
Chris Pathirana
Positive: Professionalism Ms Tanja Coyne helped me a lot with my resume. She was patience, responsive and professional. When she finished my resume, I offer to double her pay but she refused. I recommend Tanja! Thank you very much.
Ben Wong
Finding the Perfect Fit: Understanding Different Resume Formats

Resume

We provide professional resume writing services.

Finding the Perfect Fit: Understanding Different Resume Formats

Cover Letter

We provide professional cover letter writing services.

Finding the Perfect Fit: Understanding Different Resume Formats

LinkedIn Profile

We provide professional linkedin profile writing services.

Finding the Perfect Fit: Understanding Different Resume Formats

Contact Us

Click the button below to get in touch.

About Us &

What We Do

We offer professional resume writing services and our highly experienced resume writers will make sure your new resume sticks out among the crowd.

We’re a team of highly qualified and seasoned HR professionals, recruiters, and consultants that are committed to delivering an excellent, well-written cover letter or resume.

We pride ourselves on our extensive understanding of top-practice hiring methodologies and Australian recruitment standards. Also, our expertise in a vast range of industries and professions means that we can deliver a high-quality, impactful resume that meets your specific needs.

Our goal is to deliver you with an impressive, striking resume that is perfectly maximised for success in Napier‘s competitive job market.

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our writing services, so you can be confident that you will be happy with your new resume or cover letter.

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Make an Enquiry

Request a Quote

Fill out the form below to get in touch or call us today on
0800 215 100