Reverse Chronological Resume Templates

If you’ve ever written a resume before, you may already know about the reverse chronological resume format. But what does a reverse chronological resume actually involve? Let's explore.

An example of a reverse chronological resume template

If you’ve ever written a resume before, you may already know about the reverse chronological resume format. It’s the most popular resume format out there, and it’s a classic for a reason. With a reverse chronological resume, you can prioritize your most recent work experience, giving hiring managers a clear sense of where you are in your career.

But what does a reverse chronological resume actually involve? Should you always rely on this tried and tested format, or are there times when it’s better to take another approach? And do you need a particular resume template to make the most of the reverse chronological approach?

If you’ve ever asked yourself any of these questions, look no further! We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the reverse chronological resume format, so you can get the most out of it when it’s time to look for a job. Read on, and we’ll give you all the information you need to know!

On this page, we’ll cover the following points:

  • What a reverse chronological resume actually is
  • How to build your reverse chronological resume
  • When to use the reverse chronological resume format
  • Some of our favorite reverse chronological resume templates

What is a Reverse Chronological Resume?

A reverse chronological resume is a resume that organizes the work experience section in reverse chronological format. That means it lists your most recent work experience first—then works backwards, in the same order, through your work history.

If this sounds like the standard approach to writing a resume, that’s because it is! The reverse chronological resume format is by far the most popular way to arrange a resume. It isn’t the only way to do it, but it’s certainly common enough to be the default approach.

That’s because most employers consider recent work experience to be the most important factor they consider when hiring. A reverse chronological resume puts your most recent work experience at the forefront of your resume. It makes it easy for hiring managers to find what they’re looking for—and since most hiring managers are extremely short on time, that will give you a real advantage in its own right.

It’s also worth remembering that many companies use ATS (applicant tracking software) to sort qualified applicants from unqualified applicants. This happens right at the start of the hiring process, usually before a real person has even looked at your resume. Reverse chronological resumes are easy for ATS software to parse—meaning that a reverse chronological resume might give you an edge in getting through that crucial first stage.

The reverse chronological resume format is versatile, widely recognized, and easy for both humans and software to read and understand. Where other resume formats tend to have very specific applications, the reverse chronological format is a great approach to take in most circumstances. If you’re not sure which resume format to use, the odds are good that this format will work well for you!

How to Make a Reverse Chronological Resume

As you might expect, it’s simple to make a reverse chronological resume! You just need to make sure you have your approximate dates of employment in all your recent roles. That way, you’ll have a much easier time sorting them into the right order.

Like any resume, your reverse chronological resume should contain all of the following sections:

  • Your name and contact information
  • A resume summary (and objective, if you have limited prior experience)
  • Your recent work experience
  • Your education, including any certifications or licenses
  • Your skills

These sections can, within reason, appear in any order. That said, it’s standard to feature your name and contact information and your resume summary at the very beginning of your resume. And unless you’re applying for your first job, your work experience will usually be the most important section of your resume—so after those two elements, your work experience should appear next.

When writing a reverse chronological work experience section, you need to list your recent roles in order, starting with the most recent and working backwards. When listing each role, you should include all of the following information:

  • The name of the company where you worked
  • Your job title
  • Your employment dates (it’s usually fine to list the month and year when you started and the month and year when you finished)
  • A bullet-pointed list of your most relevant achievements and responsibilities within the role

As always, you should tailor this section to the requirements of the job description for the role you want. If you need prior customer service experience to be considered for your new role, make sure you mention your prior customer service experience when writing about your recent employment! And wherever possible, you should try to quantify that experience with concrete, verifiable achievements—things like statistics, sales figures and performance indicators will make your resume much more credible.

You should also make sure that all of your employment history listings are formatted in the same way. That consistency will make for a more visually appealing resume, and will make sure you look as professional as possible. Choosing the right resume template can help you with that, and we’ll list some of our favorite reverse chronological resume templates later in this post.

How to Use a Reverse Chronological Resume

The reverse chronological resume can be a great asset in a range of job search situations. But when is it a particularly good idea to use this resume format? And most importantly, when should you consider using a different format instead?

The reverse chronological format is ideal in two particular situations:

  • You have a consistent employment history, without any substantial gaps
  • You have worked in the same industry (or similar industries) throughout your career

Reverse Chronological Resume and Career Gaps

Because a reverse chronological resume gives hiring managers a comprehensive overview of your career history, it doesn’t leave you anywhere to hide any gaps or career breaks. If you’ve taken an extended period of time off from work for any reason, this could put you at a slight disadvantage if you use the reverse chronological resume format.

It’s worth noting that that doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker! If you took a few years off to raise a child, care for a loved one, or pursue further education, you may be able to list that career break as part of your work history. That way, the gap in your work history will be accounted for right away, and won’t lead to any potentially awkward questions if you get to interview.

But if you’re worried about calling undue attention to a career gap, you may benefit from using a different resume format. A functional resume or combination resume format will give you more scope to gloss over a career break, since they are less focused on providing a chronological recounting of your work history.

Reverse Chronological Resume and Career Changes

Likewise, if you’re making a big career change, you may not want to focus so much on a reverse chronological listing of your work experience. That’s because your work experience may not be relevant to the job you actually want. In this case, a reverse chronological resume format might lure you into including a lot of information that may not matter much to a hiring manager!

In that situation, focusing on your skills will give hiring managers a clearer picture of what you’re capable of. A functional resume, which puts the spotlight on your skills and how you have applied them in the past, may give you a bigger advantage.

Best Industries for a Reverse Chronological Resume

We’ve talked about the situations when a reverse chronological resume may not work well for you. But what about the industries where it can particularly shine?

As we’ve discussed, reverse chronological resumes are widely-used and widely-understood. The only real circumstances in which a reverse chronological resume won’t work for you are the two we’ve explained above. That means that, provided you don’t have any career gaps you’d like to gloss over and you aren’t making a big career change, you can use a reverse chronological resume format in just about any industry.

But there are certain industries where a reverse chronological format can really shine. If you’re looking for work in a more conservative industry, where employers may be suspicious of a less conventional resume format, the reverse chronological format should be your first choice. In that situation, applying with a reverse chronological resume will show that you understand professional norms and standards—and most importantly, that you are prepared to adhere to them.

Here are some industries where a reverse chronological resume format will serve you especially well:

  • Administration
  • Manufacturing
  • Pharmaceuticals

That’s not to say that you can’t use a reverse chronological resume in less traditional workplaces or industries! Creative fields like design, marketing and media will still understand and appreciate a reverse chronological resume. So will cutting-edge workplaces like start-ups and tech companies, which have a reputation for experimenting with new ideas before other companies follow suit.

But those companies may be more receptive to other resume formats than the industries listed above. When applying for a job in a more traditional industry, it’s smart to stick to what works—and that’s the reverse chronological resume.

What Type of Resume Offers a Reverse Chronological Order?

At VisualCV, we believe we offer some of the best resume templates on the internet. But which one should you choose for your reverse chronological resume?

The good news is that there’s no wrong answer here! All of our templates can be adapted to suit a reverse chronological resume order. What’s more, they’re all guaranteed to be ATS-compatible, so whichever template you choose will work seamlessly with ATS software regardless of its format.

To get you started in choosing the right template for you, we’ve listed some of our favorite resume templates below. Take a look and see which one you like best!

This streamlined, elegant template offers a great way to format your reverse chronological work history section. Pops of color call attention to your past employers and employment dates, so hiring managers can understand at a glance what they’re reading. It’s readable, visually engaging, and stylish enough to pass muster at any type of company—so wherever you take Arya, it will have your back.

Arya Resume Template

Are you applying for a company that could be put off by the bells and whistles of more creative resume templates? Or do you just want to be 100% confident that your resume will make it through an ATS software screening? The ATS resume template is simple, sleek and traditional in every sense—which makes it perfect for a reverse chronological resume format.

ATS Resume Template

The Corporate template is built for the world of business, featuring a streamlined two-column layout and classic, readable fonts. Within the work history section, it calls attention to the employment dates, so it’s easy for hiring managers to understand the reverse chronological format. If you’re applying for a job in a traditional industry and don’t want your resume to skew too creative in its design, this is the template for you.

Resume Template - Corporate

The Monte template offers the best of both worlds, striking an elegant compromise between its traditional layout and its more creative font and color choices. It’s designed for a reverse chronological format, with employment and education dates set apart for ease of reading. For applicants looking to add a touch of personality to a classic resume format, this template is the way to go.

Resume Template - Monte

This two-column resume template uses pops of color smartly, calling attention to key details like employment dates throughout. While its formatting choices are bold and eye-catching, it uses them sparingly enough to avoid seeming unprofessional or chaotic. This template is particularly great for candidates looking for a one-page resume—the two-column layout allows you to fit more information onto a page, without ever compromising on style.

Resume Template - Vida

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How to Write Your Resume in Reverse-Chronological Order

When setting out to write the perfect resume, choosing a format is an important decision. Reverse-chronological resumes are the standard format, so knowing how to craft one is key! This guide will teach you how to write the best reverse chronological resumes.

Ed Moss

What is a Reverse-Chronological Resume?

A reverse-chronological resume is a format focused on relevant work experience.

It is called reverse-chronological because it lists your most recent job first.

All other jobs are then listed from most recent to least recent.

3 key factors help strengthen this type of resume:

  • ‍ Relevancy: It is important to emphasize the relevance of your previous jobs. The more relevant your previous work experiences are to the job you’re applying for, the better.   ‍
  • Recency: This format will place your most recent job first in the work experience section. More recent jobs will help an employer see the skills and experience you have gained in the past 1 to 5 years. ‍
  • Longevity: Job applicants may have held previous positions for long periods. In this case, emphasizing that longevity is crucial. It helps show employers your ability to commit to a company and position.

Put simply, this resume format is a showcase of your professional experience.

The work experience section will generally be the largest.

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

College Student

‍ Why and When Do You Write a Reverse-Chronological Order?

Typically, you will want to use the reverse-chronological format as often as possible.

Using this type of resume will automatically give you an advantage.

This is due to the format being highly recognizable by hiring managers.  

Reverse-chronological resumes are the standard expected by most employers.

This format is easy to follow and clearly demonstrates a candidate’s experience.

This resume format is especially good to use when applying to entry- to mid-level positions.

The reverse-chronological resume gives you the best opportunity to showcase your experience and accomplishments.

If you do not have much relevant or recent work experience, you may want to consider an alternative format.

Are There Alternatives to Reverse-Chronological Resumes?

When it comes to resumes, there are 3 main formats:

  • ‍ Reverse-Chronological: A resume focused mainly on work experience. ‍
  • Functional: A resume focused on skills, volunteer work, and education. ‍
  • Combination/Hybrid: A resume that combines elements of both the reverse-chronological and functional. This format does not place an overwhelming emphasis on any single section.

Choosing between these 3 depends on what experience you have to show.

The following situations may call for the use of a functional or combination resume:

  • When a person is returning to work after time away
  • If a candidate is still in school or is a recent graduate
  • If a professional has decided to change career or industries

Though employers expect to see reverse-chronological resumes, the other two can be just as effective.

It’s all about keeping the format and design simple and easy to follow.

Are you feeling totally lost on which resume format to use? Read our guide on How to Choose the Correct Resume Format in 2021 (with Examples) to learn more!

Mechanical Engineer

What are the Main Sections of This Resume Layout

There are four main sections of the reverse-chronological resume:

  • Your Name and Contact Information
  • Your Work Experience
  • Your Education
  • Your Skills

The work experience section is often the most prominent on the reverse-chronological resume.

However, the other sections matter as well.

We will go over each of these four main sections to help you understand how to best format your resume.

1. Name and Contact Information

The header of any resume should contain the applicant’s personal information.

This includes:

  • Your job title
  • Your location
  • Your phone number
  • Your professional email address

This header will not take up a lot of space on the resume.

Yet, it will be the first thing the employer sees.

Make sure to enlarge and bold your font to help your name stand out.

There are two main formatting options for the header: left-aligned or center-aligned.

A left-aligned resume will have all the information aligned to the left side of the page.

This will include the header and name.

A center-aligned resume will align down the middle of the page.

This can help the name and header to stand out.

However, a center alignment is not often suggested for the remaining sections.

If this is the alignment you choose, only use it on the header.

Here is an example of a header on a reverse-chronological resume:

John Doe, Atlanta, GA Technical Analyst [email protected], 123-456-789

Why It’s Incorrect: In this example, the information is not well-organized and the name doesn’t stand out.

It is best to make the name bigger than the rest of the text.

Bolding and italics can be used to provide better visual organization to the information.

Additionally, the person used an unprofessional email.

This can be a major turn-off to employers.

John Doe Technical Analyst in Atlanta, GA (123) 456-789 | [email protected]

ProTip: Whenever you need to create a professional email, it is best to make one through Gmail. This gives you access to lots of sharing and networking tools. Plus, the Google Workspace is used by many companies!

2. Work Experience

As we have covered, there are 3 main factors to consider when writing your work experience section:

Sometimes candidates will have a lot of work experience, but none that is directly relevant to the new job.

In this case, it is essential to think of ways to tie in your job descriptions to the skills needed for the one you are applying to.

When writing your job descriptions, you should ideally include three bullet points.

These should be short and simple sentences that use action verbs.

If you have quantifiable achievements, these may be included as one of the bullet points.

Here is an example of a work experience section on a reverse-chronological resume:

In this example, the applicant is applying for a job as an office manager at a major firm.

Work Experience Administrative Assistant , Johnson Law Firm June 2019 – May 2021 · Helped to lower overall operational costs · Managed and created schedules · Handled the bookkeeping Bartender , Stir Charlotte, NC | August 2016 – May 2019 · Provided thorough customer service · Helped customers with complaints · Worked alongside a team of 20 servers

Why It’s Incorrect: In this example, the applicant does not provide detailed descriptions and uses weak action verbs. There are no quantifiable achievements or captivating details. Plus, the bartending job is not tailored to show transferable skills.

Work Experience Administrative Assistant , Johnson Law Firm Charlotte, NC | June 2019 – May 2021 ‍ · Reduced operational costs by 15 percent by scouting new supply source · Managed the travel arrangements and schedules of the top 5 associates · Optimized the virtual bookkeeping system to be more efficient Bartender , Stir Charlotte, NC | August 2016 – May 2019 ‍ · Multitasked by crafting drinks, taking orders, and closing tabs simultaneously · Settled customer complaints with patience and compassion · Delegated side work tasks amongst the serving staff

In this corrected example, the most recent and relevant job has much better descriptions. For the bartending job, the descriptions have been altered to show skills that are useful in an office setting.

For more ideas on more compelling language to use on your resume, take a look at our list of 350+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume More Effective in 2021 .

Consultant

‍ 3. Education

The education section of a reverse-chronological resume does not need to be very extensive.

In alternative resume formats, such as the functional resume, education may be more emphasized.

For the reverse-chronological resume, there are only 5 key pieces of information to include:

  • Your University, College, or School
  • Your Highest Degree of Education (Bachelor’s, high school diploma, GED, etc.)
  • Your Date of Graduation
  • The Location of the School
  • Your Area of Study

In some cases, it may be beneficial to include relevant academic experiences or achievements.

As for listing your GPA, it is recommended to only do so when specifically requested by the employer.

Here is an example of an education section on a reverse-chronological resume:

Education The University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida · Graduated May 2018 · Studied Mass Communications and Business · GPA 3.7

Why It’s Incorrect: This example is fairly disorganized and lacks visual flow. It includes unnecessary information, such as GPA. Plus, it does not list the actual degree earned.

Education The University of Central Florida Orlando, Florida · Earned a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in 2018 · Double-majored in mass communications and business · Received letter of recommendation from the Dean

Keep your education section short and sweet on a reverse-chronological resume.

If you are applying to jobs in the realms of science or academia, you will need to expand your education section.

This will likely require you to write a Curriculum Vitae instead of a resume. 

Check out our article on What is the Difference Between a CV and a Resume in 2021 ?

Your skills section is similar to your education section in that it should be short and simple.

Ideally, you should aim to list around 6 skills on your resume.

These should include a mix of both hard and soft skills.

Hard skills are those that require technical knowledge, such as how to use a programming language.

Soft skills are more abstract and emotion-based, such as communication and teamwork.

By including both types of skills, you provide employers with a more well-rounded view of your talents.

Plus, the skills section can be a great place to plug in keywords found throughout the job application and description.

Here are some common examples of hard skills:

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.)
  • Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, etc.)
  • Computer Programming
  • Typing Speed
  • Cloud Computing
  • Project Management

Here are some common examples of soft skills:

  • Communication
  • Multi-Tasking
  • Adaptability
  • Conflict Resolution

Additional Sections to Consider Adding to Your Resume

There are, of course, extra sections you can consider adding to your resume.

These include:

  • ‍ Resume Objective or Summary: A short statement on your professional experience and goals. ‍
  • Certifications or Extra Training: Certifications earned through training programs, such as coding courses or First Aid. ‍
  • Awards and Achievements: Quantifiable achievements or awards, such as Employee of the Month or Best Salesperson. ‍
  • Unpaid Experience: Unpaid internships or volunteer work. ‍
  • Languages: A list of languages the applicant can speak, read, or write fluently. ‍
  • Interests: Listing hobbies and interests is especially good for resumes lacking broad work experience sections. Interests can be points of conversation for an employer to bring up in an interview.

When including additional sections on a reverse-chronological resume, be mindful of the formatting.

You want the work experience section to remain the focal point.

You also want to keep a good visual flow by not cramming too much information onto one page.

Pro Tip: In a reverse-chronological resume, your work experience section is the most important. Be sure to take your time writing this section and tailoring it for the job.

How Do You Format a Reverse-Chronological Resume?

When formatting your reverse-chronological resume, keep in mind the following 5 elements:

  • ‍ Length: Ideally, your resume should fill up one page. This page should have 1-inch margins on all sides. ‍
  • Bullet Points: Use bullet points under your headers to create descriptions. This makes your information easier to read and skim over for employers. ‍
  • Headings: Use bold and enlarged fonts to create your section headings, such as Work Experience and Education. ‍
  • Sidebars: Your work experience should take up the most space on the resume. Creating a sidebar for your education and skills will leave more room for work experience. ‍
  • Fonts: Use simple and easy-to-read fonts, such as Times New Roman and Arial. Keep headings between 14 – 18 point size and bullet points between 11 – 12 point size.
Need more help organizing your resume? Check out our post on How to Organize Your Resume with Resume Layout Examples in 2021 .

What are Things to Highlight in a Reverse-Chronological Order

With the reverse-chronological resume, work experience is king.

Any accomplishments related to your work experience are the most important information to highlight.

This can include:

  • Professional or business-related projects
  • Relevant awards and achievements
  • Career advancements or promotions

Promotions are particularly important for a reverse-chronological resume.

They help to show a candidate’s commitment, longevity, and work ethic at a company.

For more advice on highlighting promotions, take a look at our guide on How to Show Your Job Promotions on a Resume in 2021.

Final Takeaways            

Now that you have a better understanding of the reverse-chronological format, writing your resume will be simple.

Remember these 5 key takeaways when writing a reverse chronological resume:

  • The work experience section is the most important in this format. Focus a good amount of time on tailoring this section for the job you are applying to.
  • Always use a professional email. Your email is one of the first things employers see. Using an unprofessional email can get your resume thrown out regardless of how well it’s formatted.
  • Use your work descriptions to emphasize quantifiable achievements. This is also where you can highlight promotions, projects, or other work-related accomplishments.
  • Don’t overstuff your resume with sections. Allow the work experience section to be the main jewel with the other sections serving as accessories.
  • Use Bolding, Font Size, and Italics to help specific parts of your resume stand out.

While you’re here, don’t miss out on reading our extensive collection of FREE guides ! Easy Resume offers many resume-building resources.

We have the career advice , resume examples , and templates for you.

Browse more resume templates that fit your role

Ed Moss is an author for Easy Resume

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Chronological Resume Templates Free To Download

What is a chronological resume.

A chronological resume is a resume that lists your jobs and their descriptions by the date you held those jobs. [the_ad id=’148032′] Technically, your jobs should be listed in a reverse-chronological order – that is to say, your most recent job should be listed first and your least recent job listed last.

Listing your jobs and experience in this way makes a lot of sense. Usually your most recent experience can be the most relevant experience you have when applying for a new job. It can also be where you have the most contacts to use as references that could give you a leg up on the competition.

While there are technically different ways to format your resume besides using a chronological resume layout, almost all resumes will still have some part of the work history listed out and it will almost always make the most sense to list chronologically with your most recent job first.

General Layout of a Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is going to be no different than any other type of resume and should include all of the following sections:

  • Heading with name and contact information
  • Objective or Professional Summary
  • Combination of Job History & Work Descriptions
  • Education Information

Your resume may also contain a skills section depending on the type of job you are applying for.

Chronological Resume Format Vs. Other Resume Formats

Combination

Download Free Chronological Resume Samples

All of the following resume templates for download are based on a chronological format.

Reverse Chronological Resume Template

This resume template lists your work experience in a reverse chronological order, with your most recent experience first and your least recent experience last.

File name: Reverse-Chronological-Resume-Template.docx

File size: 7.7 KB

Total downloads: 0

Chronological Resume FAQ

What is a chronological resume.

A chronological resume is a type of resume where you list your work experience from most recent to least recent. Learn more here.

How do you write a chronological resume?

Just like you would most other resumes. But with a chronological resume, your work experience and the way you describe your past jobs will be the centerpiece of the resume.

Learn more about creating a chronological resume by clicking here.

Who should use chronological resume?

Almost everyone should be listing their job experience in a chronological format, with their most recent experience first and their least recent experience last.

But you may want to emphasizes specific skills over general job experience. Learn more about which resume would be right for you by clicking here.

What order do you list work experience on a resume?

You should almost always be listing your work experience

What is a chronological / combination resume?

A combination resume is a type of resume format that combines the chronological and functional formats.

In truth, almost all resumes are some type of a combination resume – especially on this website.

What type of resume do employers prefer?

An employer prefers the type of resume that will put you and your skills in the best light.

Having said that, most employers are conditioned to look at your work experience from most to least recent experience so do keep that in mind. Part of a building a good resume is being predictable in how you communicate information, so make a good first impression in that regard by using the chronological format when listing old & current jobs.

How to Decide On Using A Reverse Chronological Resume

Article Image

Provides a clear narrative of your career

Lines up with expectations, big names play in your favor, gaps in your resume become more noticeable, harder to navigate through different sectors, not optimal for starting out.

The reverse chronological resume is the most common resume format out there, but is it impactful?

Today’s hiring landscape requires you to not only provide recruiters with information, but to package it in a way where they remember. Especially when there’s a tsunami of applicants that arrive at their desks.

Everyone is reduced to a piece of paper when it comes to your resume, so how can you make your piece of paper as effective as possible?

See the benefits of the reverse-chronological resume and examples of how others have used it in their job application process below.

Enhancv How to Decide On Using A Reverse Chronological Resume reverse chronological resume

BUILD MY RESUME LIKE THIS

What is the reverse chronological resume format?

The name itself is self-explanatory. The reverse-chronological resume describes your work experience in reverse-chronological order. This means describing your most recent job first and moving backward in time for every subsequent position.

The format comes with a general expectation of flow. It starts with your resume header coming first. Then, it’s accompanied by a personal summary , your experience, your skills, and then any other subsequent section. While this is the convention, it’s certainly not the law. You can keep the spirit of a reverse-chronological resume without sticking to a restricting structure.

Mostly, the structure is used in the functional skills-based resume format when listing out the relevant skills and experience.

(Tip: Read our full guide about resume sections to confidently optimize a stronger resume that’s more likely to attract job recruiters!)

what are the benefits of using a reverse chronological resume?

Inconsistencies in someone’s career history is one of the first red flags recruiters will notice. Especially when recruiters devote just 6 seconds for initial screenings which can cause your resume to be overlooked.

The recruiter is interested in the story of your career – including what brought you to this current position. This can play into your culture fit and your impact on the team dynamics within the organization.

Check out the example below:

Enhancv How to Decide On Using A Reverse Chronological Resume reverse chronological resume

When Jonathan was getting his job at HEB (one of the largest grocery retailers in Texas), he used the reverse-chronological order with Enhancv’s resume builder to highlight his journey into operations from data analytics. Because of this, job recruiters were able to estimate his skill level and recognize his commitment to the area.

Sometimes the traditional route is best. This can come into play when applying to large organizations with standardized application forms or those who rely on Automated Tracking Systems (ATS).

With the reverse-chronological resume being most common, it’s easily analyzed by the ATS and gives the recruiter exactly what they’re looking for. The recruiter can straightforwardly identify what you’ve worked on most recently and quickly assess how that experience compares to what you’ll be doing.

As the saying goes, “ you’re only as good as your last performance”.

One of the advantages of using this format is that it provides emphasis on the organizations you’ve worked at previously. If you’ve worked with some heavy-hitters in your industry, this can create a great impression on the recruiter which separates you from the crowd.

Enhancv How to Decide On Using A Reverse Chronological Resume reverse chronological resume

What have you got to lose when it comes to using a reverse chronological resume?

“Do they still possess the same skills they had X years ago?” “Will they be able to adapt to the current market?”

This is just two of many possible questions the recruiter might not even spend the time getting an answer on.

Any resume that relies on your chronological timeline, the gaps in your career become more apparent. Usually when you’re presenting your most recent job first, it can be a red flag for the recruiter that your most recent job was several years ago.

(Tip: One way to overcome this difficulty is to describe other projects or skills you’ve built up between the present and your most recent experience. Oriol highlighted courses in business management in his business analyst resume. )

Let’s say you have experience in both music and marketing. You’ve spent the last five years pursuing jobs in music, but now you’re looking for a new job in marketing.

In this case, it might make sense to use a reverse-chronological resume format. However, sticking to this structure could make your experience seem irrelevant. This makes it even harder for you, especially when you’re trying to move through the different areas that you’re skilled in.

With prior experience being the crux of this resume format, it’s going to be difficult to write your first resume with the reverse-chronological guide. For this reason, this format may not be suitable for those starting their first job or applying for volunteer positions for the first time.

Is the reverse chronological resume format right for you?"?

There are five ideal situations for when you should use the reverse chronological resume format. Keep in mind that these do not apply to every job seeker – everyone is at different stages in their career. So, one determining factor is that it depends on where you’re currently at.

See below for who and when the reverse chronological resume format is most ideal:

  • You don’t have much professional experience in the workforce or have gaps in your employment timeline
  • You’re still a student or a fresh graduate that came out of education (see how you can make your first job resume here )
  • You’ve had several temporary jobs, or haven’t been employed for over a year
  • You’re looking to change into a new industry or completely new/different career
  • You don’t fully meet and fit in all of the job recruiter’s expectations or requirements

Chronological or reverse chronological resumes?

If you’re someone who has inconsistencies in your career timeline and work history, it’s best if you kept to using a reverse chronological format. Whereas, if there’s not many gaps in your career history, then it would make more sense if you used the chronological resume format.

Generally, chronological resumes are preferred because it makes it clear there are no vulnerabilities behind your corporational profession. Your experiences are labelled and described in full transparency, which puts you at an advantage for the job application process when your resume is being scanned.

But, if you’re going to use a reverse-chronological resume format, one good resume structure you should take advantage of are functional skill-based resumes and combination resumes. This way, you can showcase your skills that demonstrate why and how you’re more than capable of getting the job done at a good standard.

The truth about reverse chronological resumes

While this format is great for organizing your experience (assuming you have any), it’s arguably an outdated system.

Reverse-chronological resumes are far from one-size-fits-all. In reality, your resume should be tailored to the position you’re applying to. This may mean describing a less recent job first on your resume as it’s the most recent job relevant to the position you’re applying to.

Using Enhancv’s resume creator, you can describe your previous experience in modular segments that can be moved as pieces to any place on your resume. This makes positioning easily streamlined, so you don’t have to worry too much.

Overall, you’ll benefit from organizing your resume by relevance and impact, not by date.

Do you have a reverse chronological resume prepared yourself? It’s always good to have different resumes ready at hand in case anything unexpected happens that can lead to gaps in your career.

If you’re unsure about how to build or optimize your resume effectively, check out the 530+ resume examples here. Find your job title, and see proven resumes that got others hired for your exact role.

Do you use a chronological resume format or a reverse-chronological resume format? Which one do you find has a higher response rate? Let me know in the comments below!

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Reverse Chronological Resume: Tips & Examples

There are three main resume formats, but reverse chronological is by far the most popular as well as the most effective layout for the majority of job seekers. This article will cover when to use a reverse chronological resume and how to create an effective one.

Reverse Chronological Resume: Tips & Examples

What Is a Reverse Chronological Resume?

In many countries around the world, reverse chronological resumes are considered standard. The format is sometimes referred to simply as a chronological resume, although ‘reverse chronological’ is more accurate since past positions are typically listed starting with your current or most recent job at the top and working backwards in time from there.

A reverse chronological resume prioritizes your previous work experience which makes it the preferred format for most recruiters, who generally look first for your past positions. However, if you don’t have a wealth of work experience, you may wish to use a different resume format to highlight your skills and abilities as outlined in the next section.

The reverse chronological format will also make any gaps in your work history immediately apparent to employers, but taking time away from work is no longer the red flag it once was and you can easily frame the gap in a positive light by simply including a short explanation and/or highlighting skills that you gained during that period.

Reverse chronological resumes are also the easiest for applicant tracking systems ( ATS ) to scan. ATSs are automated computer programs that scan each resume that is submitted to a company, evaluating each one on the basis of how well it matches up to keywords that the employer has inputted regarding their desired experience and skills in a candidate.

Other Resume Formats

The two other main resume formats are functional resumes and combination resumes.

A functional resume showcases your skills over your past experience, which can be beneficial for freelancers, those in creative industries, and those who have gaps in their work history or little to no work history to mention. However, a functional resume can be more difficult for hiring managers to scan and it can present some red flags that you might be intentionally concealing your work experience or lack thereof.

A combination resume includes elements of both reverse chronological and functional resumes, which allows you to highlight your skills as well as your experience while also glossing over gaps in your employment. But, a combination resume can be difficult to format effectively and is best used only when applying to highly specialized positions.

When To Use a Reverse Chronological Resume

A reverse chronological resume is a great choice if you have at least a few years of professional work experience, but the format is very versatile.

In an ideal scenario where you have several years of experience in one industry and are applying for another position in the same field, a reverse chronological resume will clearly demonstrate your career progression.

However, you can still reap the benefits of a reverse chronological resume even if you don’t have much work experience, such as if you are a student or a recent graduate. In that case, you can place your education section above your work experience section and still list everything in reverse chronological order. You can include internships, volunteer work, and so forth in your work experience section.

Again, if you are concerned about a reverse chronological resume exposing gaps in your work history, it is now considered acceptable to include an explanation for each gap in the same format that you would list a past job. Simply list the dates and the reason for the gap. If applicable (such as if you took time off to complete a training course or certification), you can also include bullet points that outline your new skills and qualifications .

What To Include on a Reverse Chronological Resume

If you’ve decided that a reverse chronological resume makes sense for your situation, here are the key sections to include:

Resume Header

Your resume header goes at the very top of your resume and should include your full name, your phone number, your email address, your LinkedIn URL, links to your online portfolio or professional website if you have one, and your city and state (or your full mailing address if you prefer).

Resume Summary or Objective

Next, add your resume introduction section, which can either be a resume summary or a resume objective depending on your situation. If you have at least a few years of experience in the industry that you are applying for, use a summary to highlight your skills and experience. An objective statement is usually a better option if you are a student, have recently graduated, or are making a career change.

Work Experience

If you have at least a few years of work experience in your target industry, add your work experience section next. If you are still a student or you’ve recently graduated, you can place your education section above your work experience.

List your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your current or most recent position. You don’t need to include every position that you’ve ever held, especially if you have previously worked jobs that aren’t pertinent to your current career. For example, if you worked as a lifeguard in high school or college and you are now several years out of school and applying for an engineering position, you don’t need to include that on your resume.

For each job, include your official title, the company name and location, and the dates you worked there (months and years only). Under each one, add a few bullet points that outline your skills and achievements , focusing on how well you performed in the position rather than just listing job duties and responsibilities. Quantify your accomplishments with numbers and data whenever possible.

If you have a college degree and at least a few years of professional experience, your education section can be brief, listing the university you went to, the degree you earned, and the dates you attended. There’s no need to list your high school information if you’ve already earned an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or more advanced degree. If you have multiple degrees, list the highest one first followed by the others in reverse chronological order.

However, if you are currently in high school or college or you don’t have much professional experience, you can include your high school information. To make up for a lack of work experience, you may wish to include extra details about your education, including your GPA (if it’s above a 3.5), relevant coursework, honors and awards, and so forth.

While you should work your skills into all other sections of your resume, you can also create a dedicated section to highlight your hard and soft skills . Be sure to list only skills that are relevant to the job that you are applying for. Read the job posting carefully to identify which skills and qualities the employer is looking for, and use those keywords in your resume. Consider using resume action verbs to convey your skills more effectively.

Optional Resume Sections

If you still have room on your resume after including all of the above sections, you can add optional resume sections such as hobbies and interests, certifications , languages , volunteer experience, extracurricular activities, and so forth.

Your resume should only be a single page if you have less than ten years of experience in your industry, and no more than two pages if you have more experience than that.

Example of a Reverse Chronological Resume

Here’s an example of what a reverse chronological resume might look like:

John Sample

Salt Lake City, Utah

(111) 222-3333

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/john.sample

Results-driven sales manager with 5+ years of experience, eager to contribute sales and management skills to ABC Company to motivate the sales team and drive exceptional revenue growth. In past roles, consistently grew sales by at least 20% year over year, managed teams of up to 20 sales associates, and increased annual revenue by $100K+.

Sales Manager, XYZ Inc., Salt Lake City, UT, August 2018-Present

  • Drafted and executed quarterly marketing plans
  • Managed merchandise purchasing and stocking
  • Exceeded sales targets by 25% each quarter

Sales Associate, DEF Company, Salt Lake City, UT, July 2016-August 2018

  • Brought in 50+ new leads each month
  • Renegotiated sales contract to increase revenue each year
  • Developed seasonal promotions

Oregon State University, Beaverton, OR

BA in Economics, 2016

  • Collaboration
  • Communication
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Relationship building
  • Sales techniques

Bilingual English/Spanish

Key Takeaways

A reverse chronological resume is a great choice for the majority of job searchers as it will highlight your skills and experience in an easy-to-scan format that is optimized for both hiring managers and ATSs. The focal point of a reverse chronological resume is your work experience, which should be listed with your current or most recent position first, working backwards in time from there.

Not sure how to create an eye-catching reverse chronological resume? Consider using Jobseeker ’s professional resume creation tool. You can enter in your information and then easily swap between formats, styles, color schemes, and more with just a few clicks. Then download your polished resume instantly and get started applying for your dream job!

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At Novorésumé, we don’t do that . We have NO hidden fees - upgrade to Premium ONLY if you LOVE our resumes!

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Expert Reviews

Oana Vintila

Career Counselor

For over 10 years now, I've been on both sides of the fence, career counseling, and recruitment, and let me tell you, the writer's block hits hard when it comes to drafting your resume.

Novorésumé not only offers you a smart and modern template for you to fill in, but their team has also crafted a winning combo of aesthetics and functionality that will inspire you to apply for the job you thought was out of your league. Give it a try!

Biron Clark

Former Executive Recruiter

Novorésumé is one of the few resume builders that I recommend online. Their resume templates are modern and eye-catching, and will grab an employer's attention. As a former Recruiter, if a candidate sent me a resume built with one of these templates, I would take notice and be impressed.

The software also makes it easy to enter your info and handles all of the formatting for you, so you can get your resume ready to send out as quickly as possible. I recommend these templates whether you're a recent graduate or experienced candidate.

Gabriela Tardea

Career Strategist, Coach & Trainer

When I consult people on resume writing, the most common question that I am asked it is about the content and what components to add or avoid, when they have less than 5 years of work experience.

On this platform, you not only have access to many options, but you get guidance on what to choose and why. When the work experience is less than 5 years, the other components such as languages, projects, volunteering experiences, hobbies etc, make a huge difference.

Resume Resources

What is a resume.

A resume is a brief summary of personal and professional experiences, skills, and education history. Its main purpose is to show off your best self to potential employers.

When applying for a job, you’re (in most cases) going to be asked for a resume accompanied by a cover letter.

If you manage to create a “good” resume, you’re going to 2x your chances of getting hired . Want to learn how? Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume .

How to Write a Resume for Your First Job?

The process of writing a resume might seem super scary to you. After all, most resume examples you see on the web are 80% about work experience. So, what the heck can you include in your resume if you have none?

Well, here’s some good news. If you’re applying for an entry-level job or an internship, no one expects you to have ANY work experience.

Instead, you should focus on what you DO have: education, projects, volunteering experience, hobbies & interests.

For a complete guide on how to make a resume with no work experience stand out, check out our article.

What to Put on a Resume?

The most common sections on a resume are:

Contact information

Resume summary or objective

Work experience

If you want to personalize your resume a bit more, you can also include the following sections:

Volunteering experience

Hobbies & interests

For more information on how to place these sections on your resume, check out our article on what to put on a resume .

How to Format a Resume?

There are 3 typical resume formats:

Reverse-Chronological Resume

Functional Resume

Combination Resume

In 99% of the cases, you’ll want to go with the Reverse Chronological resume format. That’s the format most resumes you’ve seen follow - its main focus is your work experience, written down in reverse-chronological order.

Unless you’re looking to create a career change resume , we’d recommend sticking with this format.

If you want to learn more about resume formats , check out our comparison guide.

How Long Should a Resume Be?

Ah, the most popular resume question in the world: “how long should your resume be?”

Short answer: one page. If you have a lot of work experience (10 years +), sometimes it makes sense to make it 2 pages MAX if everything you mention is super relevant for the position you’re applying for.

Long answer: check out our guide on how long should a resume be .

P.S. all of our templates are one-page resume templates, so you shouldn’t have a lot of trouble sticking to the one-page limit!

How to Write a Resume Summary?

Your resume summary is a “hook” that goes on top of your resume. Think of it as an introduction to the rest of your resume. It should, in 2-4 sentences, explain what your background is, and why it’s relevant for the position you’re applying for.

Want your resume summary to stand out? Use this proven formula:

“Professional [job title] with X+ years of work experience in [job responsibility] . In the past Y years, I have [your top 1-2 achivements] . Seeking a position of [job title] at [company name] ”

To learn more about how to create a resume summary that excels, check out our guide.

On the other hand, if you’re a student or just don’t have a lot of work experience, read our article on how to create a resume objective instead.

How to List Work Experience on a Resume

Work experience on a resume is one of those things that’s easy to learn, hard to master.

Each work experience entry should contain the following:

Position title

Company name/description/location

Achievements or responsibilities

Dates employed

Now, if you want to create a work experience section that stands out , you want to focus on quantifiable achievements. What this means is, instead of creating an entry like:

“Carried out sales operations”

You list an achievement:

“Hit and exceeded monthly sales KPIs for 5 months in a row.”

This shows the employer that you’re not just a random candidate, you’re an A-player! To learn more about how to list achievements in your work experience (and land the job), check out our article.

How to List Skills on a Resume?

Simply create a ”skills” section on your Novorésumé resume template, and list your top skills. We usually recommend going for a mix of hard and soft skills.

Not sure what skills to include in your resume? Check out these 101 essential skills for any resume .

How to Make a Cover Letter For a Resume?

Every job application asks for a cover letter (in addition to your resume). Here are some of our tips on how to do this right:

Customize your cover letter to the employer. The more personalized it is, the more likely it is for the recruiter to like you

Outline your general background (work experience, profession, etc.) and mention your top 2-3 achievements to show off your skills

If you really want to stand out, create a cover letter that matches your resume template. To do this, you can use one of our cover letter templates here.

If you want to learn more about how to write a convincing cover letter , check out our comprehensive guide.

What is the Best Resume Template?

There’s no such thing as “the best resume template” - every recruiter/employer has their own personal preference. Our general recommendation is to do your research on the company and what their values are.

For example, if you’re applying for a position at a bank, you’d want a more professional resume template. On the other hand, if you want a job in a startup where they value innovation more, you should stick to a creative resume template .

Finally, if you’re still not sure which type of template is right for the job you’re applying for, you can just use a simple resume template just to be safe.

Get Inspired with Our Resume Examples

Resume templates faq, how to make a resume with novorésumé.

Follow these simple steps:

Choose one of our top resume templates above

Follow the tips & tricks built-in our resume builder

Fill in your work history and other experiences

Hit download and start applying to jobs!

What If I Am a Student?

All of our resume samples are student-friendly! If you’re looking for something a bit more tailored, we’d recommend picking the “college resume template”

Or, if you want to learn how to create a convincing student resume , check out our guide.

Are These Resume Templates Free?

Yep, all of the templates listed above are free resume templates.

However, our resume builder comes with a ton of premium features. So if you want to personalize your resume and make it truly yours, you can upgrade!

Who Created These Resume Samples?

At Novorésumé, we put extensive care in creating each resume template.

We interviewed recruiters and analyzed applicant tracking systems to create resume samples that will maximize your chances of getting hired.

Then, our professional graphic designer worked his magic to make the resume samples compelling, well-designed, and easy to read!

Are These Resume Templates ATS-Friendly?

Yes! All Novorésumé resume templates are created with applicant tracking systems in mind.

Keep in mind, though, that using the right template is step #1. You should also optimize your resume content for applicant tracking systems. For more on that, check out our guide to creating an ATS-friendly resume .

Do You Offer One-Page Resume Templates?

Yep. All the templates you see above are one-page resume templates. They are, however, pretty flexible, so if you decide to go for 2 pages, our templates will get the job done!

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Reverse-Chronological Resume: What It Is & How to Make One (+ Examples)

Nathan Thompson

3 Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the nuances of reverse chronological resumes and how they differ from other resume types
  • Identify situations where a chronological resume can improve your chances of landing your dream job.
  • Learn how to build a reverse chronological resume in minutes with Teal’s Resume Builder .

Imagine you’re a recruiter facing a stack of resumes. Each one demands attention, but time is limited. 

As a hiring manager, what catches your eye? The answer often lies in the reverse chronological resume. Its clarity and structured layout immediately highlight a candidate’s most recent and relevant experiences. 

In this guide, you’ll learn why the reverse chronological resume is a popular resume format among job seekers, how to structure it for optimal impact, and how Teal's AI Resume Builder can streamline creating a resume that stands out in a competitive job market.

What is a reverse chronological resume?

A reverse chronological resume is a format that organizes your work history by recency—starting with the most recent position at the top and then proceeding backward in time. 

This approach effectively showcases how your roles, responsibilities, and achievements have evolved, offering a clear and linear view of your professional journey.

What’s the right structure for a reverse chronological resume?

A reverse chronological resume typically includes:

  • Contact information : Your name, phone number, email, and professional profile links, like LinkedIn.
  • Professional summary : A brief highlight reel of your career and key skills.
  • Work experience : Your roles with job title, listed from most recent to oldest, focusing on achievements in each position.
  • Education : Academic qualifications, also in reverse chronological order.
  • Skills : The most relevant skills to the job you’re targeting, prioritizing hard skills where possible.

Each section should build upon the others to create a comprehensive picture of your professional identity. 

The goal is to weave your individual experiences into a narrative that showcases not just where you've been but where you're capable of going. Tailor your resume to the job you're targeting, ensuring that it highlights the experiences and skills most relevant to the position.

Feeling overwhelmed? Consider leveraging Teal’s Resume Builder to drag and drop sections around as needed for each application requirement.

Benefits of a reverse chronological resume

Using a reverse chronological resume offers several advantages:

Highlights career progression

A reverse chronological resume vividly illustrates your professional growth, showcasing your career trajectory from junior roles to more advanced positions. 

For example, it can effectively display a progression from junior to senior analysts, highlighting the expansion of responsibilities and skills over time.

Puts recent experience front and center

This format ensures your most recent job, typically the most relevant to your current job search, is showcased prominently. For instance, if your latest role involved project management, this will be immediately evident.

Familiar to recruiters

Being a widely recognized format, it simplifies the review process for the hiring manager. 

Recruiters accustomed to this format can quickly identify key elements of your career path, such as job titles, companies, and tenure durations, making it easier to assess your suitability.

Demonstrates stability

The reverse chronological resume can highlight consistent employment and upward career movement, qualities highly valued by employers. For instance, you can demonstrate a steady climb within a single company or industry—whether it was a corporate ladder or not— indicating loyalty and commitment.

Aligns with contemporary hiring practices

Starting with your most recent job, the reverse chronological resume aligns seamlessly with modern hiring practices, emphasizing current skills and experiences. This format is particularly effective for those with a straightforward career path in a specific field or industry.

Selecting the right resume format is a pivotal step in your job search. The reverse chronological resume, a popular choice, can be particularly effective under the right circumstances.

Deciding when to use a reverse chronological resume

The reverse chronological resume format is most effective for those with a clear and steady progression in their career, particularly within the same field. 

This format is your go-to choice if your recent job experiences align closely with your target position. It allows you to present a consistent employment record, emphasizing your career stability and upward trajectory.

Contrasting functional with combination resumes

In contrast to functional resume format, which focuses on relevant skills irrespective of where and when they were acquired, reverse chronological resumes spotlight your work journey. This format differs from combination resumes , which merge skills and experience. 

Opt for the reverse chronological format if you have a strong work history with minimal gaps and your recent roles are pertinent to your current job aspirations.

Still can't decide which to use? Read this functional vs chronological resume guide for more insight on which one to use when.

Ideal scenarios for a reverse chronological resume

This resume format excels in various situations:

  • Consistent work history : Ideal for showcasing a steady employment history in the same field, highlighting your commitment and depth of experience.
  • Career advancement : If you’ve climbed the ladder in a particular sector, this format demonstrates your professional growth.
  • Traditional fields : Sectors like finance and law often favor this conventional format.
  • Recent graduates : Highlight internships or roles during your studies, especially if they are the most relevant to your job hunt.

However, a functional or combination resume might be more suitable if you're shifting careers, have significant employment gaps, or your most relevant experiences are not recent. 

These formats provide the flexibility to emphasize skills and experiences most relevant to your targeted job.

Crafting your resume: A step-by-step guide

Here, you’ll learn how to write each section of your reverse chronological resume:

1) Contact information

Begin with the basics: your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile. This information should be at the top, making it straightforward for potential employers to contact you.

Keep it simple and professional. That old email address from highschool, “ [email protected] ,” won’t cut it here (rad as it is). 

2) Target title

Just below your contact details, specify the job title you're aiming for. This sets a clear direction for your application and shows focus.

Be sure to tailor this title to each job application, reflecting the specific role you're pursuing.

3) Professional summary

Craft a resume summary that showcases your career highlights and key skills. This is your opportunity to shine and make a strong first impression, so highlight what sets you apart and how your skills align with the job you're applying for.

Try to underscore your unique strengths and how they meet the job requirements. Be engaging and concise.

4) Work experience

List your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Focus on achievements and responsibilities that resonate with the role you’re targeting. 

Use bullet points for clarity and provide quantifiable evidence of your impact where possible. 

5) Education

Detail your educational background, leading with your highest degree and spotlighting relevant coursework. This section should demonstrate your academic foundation and how it supports your career goals.

6) Certifications

Include any certifications that are relevant to the industry and job you’re applying for. These can add weight to your qualifications and show your commitment to professional development.

Tailor this section to the job description. Highlight both hard and soft skills that are pertinent to the role, demonstrating how your abilities align with the position's needs.

8) Optional sections

If applicable, add sections like projects, awards, volunteer work, or publications. These can provide a fuller picture of your capabilities and interests, distinguishing you as a well-rounded candidate.

Effective formatting for a reverse chronological resume

Formatting is crucial in crafting a resume that communicates your qualifications and catches the eye. 

Consistency and visual appeal are key:

  • Font : Choose a professional font and use it consistently throughout your resume.
  • Color : Opt for a dark, legible primary color like black for the main text, using subtle highlights (bold, italics, etc) for headings or your name to add visual interest and show hierarchy.
  • Margins : Maintain standard margins to give your resume a balanced, clean look.
  • Date formatting : Keep date formatting uniform across all sections to ensure cohesiveness.

Teal’s advanced formatting capabilities help you create a resume that stands out in both content and design. With Teal, you can:

  • Adjust layouts : Tailor the layout to ensure it best showcases your information, be it your work history, skills, or achievements.
  • Design elements : Select from a range of design elements to give your resume a distinctive and professional visual appeal.
  • Preview and edit : Benefit from the ability to instantly preview how your edits will appear in the final document, allowing for real-time adjustments and improvements.

Teal's AI Resume Builder offers a range of customization options, including various resume templates, making your resume not only professional but also reflective of your unique career path.

Reverse chronological resume examples

Project manager resume.

This example of a chronological resume for a Project Manager effectively incorporates several key elements highlighted in the blog post, making it a strong representation of the reverse chronological format.

Chronological resume format

Here's why this resume example stands out:

  • Highlights career progression : The resume showcases the candidate's career growth, starting from an assistant project manager and evolving into a senior project manager role. 
  • Puts recent experience front and center : The candidate's most recent and relevant role as a senior project manager at Tech Solutions Inc. is listed first. 
  • Demonstrates stability : The resume reflects a steady climb within the project management field, indicating the candidate's loyalty and commitment. 
  • Tailored to the job : The resume is customized to reflect the project management role, with a professional summary and skills section that aligns with the position's specific requirements.
  • Clear and structured layout : The resume's format, with its clear headings and bullet points for easy readability, follows the blog post's guidance on maintaining clarity and structure. 
  • Use of quantifiable achievements : In the work experience section, achievements are quantified (e.g., "completing it ahead of schedule and 10% under budget").

By incorporating these elements, the resume presents a compelling and cohesive narrative of the candidate's professional journey, making it an excellent example of a reverse chronological resume.

New graduate resume

Chronological resume templates

This example of a reverse chronological resume for a recent graduate is effective for several reasons:

  • Focus on education and relevant coursework : For a new graduate, academic achievements are crucial. This resume places the education section prominently, highlighting the candidate's degree, GPA, and relevant coursework. This approach is ideal for recent graduates whose education is their main qualification.
  • Project experience showcases applicable skills : Recognizing the lack of extensive professional experience, the resume includes a project experience section. This part, listed in reverse chronological order, demonstrates the candidate's practical skills and ability to apply academic knowledge in real-world scenarios.
  • Internship experience for professional exposure : The inclusion of a software development internship is strategically important. It shows the candidate's exposure to a professional environment, providing a glimpse into their work ethic and ability to adapt to workplace settings.
  • Skills section tailored to the job : The resume features a skills section that aligns with the requirements of an entry-level software engineering role. 
  • Clear and structured layout : The resume maintains a clear and structured layout , essential for easy scanning by employers. Each section follows a logical order, focusing on the most recent experiences first,a key aspect of the reverse chronological format.

IT representative resume

Resume template

This resume is a strong example of a reverse chronological resume for an IT representative for the following reasons:

  • Recent and relevant work experience is highlighted : The resume starts with the candidate's most recent job as an IT support specialist and works backward. This approach aligns with the reverse chronological format, immediately drawing attention to the candidate's current skills and responsibilities.
  • Quantifiable achievements in each role : In each position listed, the candidate includes specific achievements with quantifiable results, such as "enhancing system security by 30%" and "achieving a 95% customer success rate." 
  • Relevant skills and certifications are prominently featured : The skills and certifications sections are tailored to the IT representative role, highlighting relevant qualifications like CompTIA A+, Azure Fundamentals, and CCNA. This customization makes the resume more attractive to potential employers in the IT industry.
  • Clear and structured layout : The resume maintains a clear and structured layout, essential for easy scanning. Each section follows a logical order, focusing on the most recent experiences first.

Each reverse chronological resume example above was created in minutes with Teal’s AI Resume Builder.

Sign up and get started to begin building your reverse chronological resume today.

Enhancing your reverse chronological resume: Key strategies

Creating a resume that captures the attention of potential employers involves several key strategies:

Lead with a compelling professional summary

Your resume's opening is crucial. Write a brief yet powerful summary that encapsulates your career achievements and skills that are pertinent to the role you're targeting. This section should act as a personal pitch, setting the tone for the rest of your resume.

Emphasize achievements over routine responsibilities

When detailing your professional history, focus on significant achievements rather than day-to-day tasks. Incorporate quantifiable data, such as percentages or financial metrics, to substantiate your accomplishments, making them more tangible and impactful to the reader.

Tailor each application

Customize your resume for each job application. This means integrating keywords from the job description to effectively pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and align your skills and experiences with the specific requirements of the role.

Remember conciseness and clarity

Aim to keep your resume concise, ideally within a single page. This doesn't mean omitting important information, but rather being selective and succinct in what you choose to include.

Proofread (then do it again)

Avoid spelling or grammatical errors, as they can significantly detract from your qualification. Carefully proofread your resume multiple times, or consider using a grammar-checking tool to ensure accuracy.

Wrapping up: Writing your career narrative

Your resume is more than a document; it's a narrative of your professional journey, showcasing your career progression and potential.

The reverse chronological format effectively tells this story, but personalizing it to your unique experiences and goals is key.

Teal's Resume Builder is a helpful tool for this process. 

It's designed to help you create a resume that resonates with your individuality and aligns with your career aspirations. The platform's formatting tools and intuitive interface make your resume comprehensive and visually appealing. 

Additional features Teal’s Resume Builder offers include:

  • AI-powered writing suggestions : Get tailored recommendations to enhance your resume’s content.
  • Customizable templates : Choose from various styles to best represent your professional image.
  • Drag-and-drop editing : Easily modify, add, or rearrange sections on your resume.
  • Real-time previews : View immediate changes to your resume as you edit.
  • Job application tracker : Organize and monitor your job applications from one place.
  • Cover letter generator : Use AI to instantly tailor your cover letter, to the job you want.
  • Career resources and tips : Access a library of resources for your job search and career growth.

Ready to create a resume reflecting your professional journey and aspirations? 

Sign up for Teal today and take the first step toward a more impactful and personalized job application process.

FAQs about chronological resumes

What are the differences between reverse chronological and chronological resumes.

Reverse chronological and chronological resumes both start with your most recent job. The reverse chronological resume places greater emphasis on your work history, making it ideal for those with a steady employment record.

When should a chronological resume be used?

A chronological resume is most effective for individuals who have a continuous work history in the same field as the job they're applying for. This format showcases your career progression within a specific industry.

Is a chronological resume suitable for employment gaps?

Yes, a chronological resume can still be effective even with employment gaps. Be prepared to discuss these gaps during interviews and address them proactively in your cover letter.

How can I make my chronological resume stand out?

To make your chronological resume stand out, focus on your achievements and their measurable impact. Use action verbs and quantify your successes to demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Also, ensure your resume is clear and professionally formatted.

Is the chronological format appropriate for career changes?

For career changers, chronological resumes may be less effective as they emphasize industry-specific experience. If you're changing careers, a combination resume that highlights transferable skills alongside your work history might be more beneficial.

How does Teal's resume builder enhance chronological resume creation?

Teal's Resume Builder simplifies creating a chronological resume with customizable templates, drag-and-drop editing, and AI-guided suggestions, ensuring your resume is both tailored and professional.

Should I include volunteer work or projects in my chronological resume?

Absolutely! Including volunteer work or relevant projects in your chronological resume can support your case, especially if these experiences showcase skills or experiences pertinent to the job. Include them in the additional sections of your resume.

What is the ideal length for a chronological resume?

The optimal length for a chronological resume is typically one to two pages, depending on your professional experience. Aim for brevity and relevance to ensure your resume is impactful without being overly lengthy.

How to integrate volunteer work and projects into a chronological resume?

Incorporating volunteer work and relevant projects into your chronological resume is highly encouraged. These experiences can add depth, showcasing additional skills and commitment, especially if they are relevant to the job.

Frequenty Asked Questions

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    Head straight to our articles: Blank Resume Templates: 15+ Best Blank Resume Forms to Fill In Now and Word Resume Templates. 5. Chronological Resume Examples for 30+ Professions. Here's a list of reverse-chronological resume examples for some of the most popular jobs in 10 different industries: Administrative Jobs. Administrative Assistant Resume

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    Flight Attendant. Coffee Shop Manager. Recreational Facility Attendant. Personal Trainer. Hostess. Concierge. Retail Manager. Loan Officer. The most commonly used resume format is a reverse-chronological one as it shows hiring managers how you progressed throughout your career.

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    A reverse chronological format displays your academic and professional experiences in reverse-chronological order. It indicates that the document lists all of your previous jobs in chronological order, beginning with the most recent one you held. The last entry on the list will be your first job. This format has become very popular and is the ...

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    Chronological resume format for a 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%). Use this template.

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    Tips for building the best chronological resume template. Let's create your perfect chronological resume by following the best practices. Design. 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.

  9. Chronological Resume

    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.

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    You can use the following steps to write a comprehensive reverse-chronological CV: 1. Start with a header. A header helps introduce you to hiring managers, and you can center this section in the middle of your document. It includes your full name, followed by your current phone number, email address and location.

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    Here are three examples of chronological resumes you can download and use for reference: 1. Chronological resume example for a financial advisor ... A reverse-chronological order resume is a resume format that lists your work experiences in reverse-chronological order, starting with the most recent position at the top and moving backward ...

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    A reverse chronological resume is a resume that organizes the work experience section in reverse chronological format. That means it lists your most recent work experience first—then works backwards, in the same order, through your work history. If this sounds like the standard approach to writing a resume, that's because it is!

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    Click For Download Page. This resume template lists your work experience in a reverse chronological order, with your most recent experience first and your least recent experience last. File name: Reverse-Chronological-Resume-Template.docx. File size: 7.7 KB. Total downloads: 0.

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    The name itself is self-explanatory. The reverse-chronological resume describes your work experience in reverse-chronological order. This means describing your most recent job first and moving backward in time for every subsequent position. The format comes with a general expectation of flow. It starts with your resume header coming first.

  17. Best Chronological Resume Formats for 2024

    In the chronological format, also called the reverse-chronological format, your current job or most recent position is listed first, and it continues in reverse-chronological order through the rest of your work history. Chronological resumes follow the same standard layout: 1. Contact information. This resume section sits at the top of your ...

  18. Reverse Chronological Resume: Tips & Examples

    A reverse chronological resume is a great choice for the majority of job searchers as it will highlight your skills and experience in an easy-to-scan format that is optimized for both hiring managers and ATSs. The focal point of a reverse chronological resume is your work experience, which should be listed with your current or most recent ...

  19. Free Resume Templates for 2024 [Download Now]

    How to Format a Resume? There are 3 typical resume formats: Reverse-Chronological Resume. Functional Resume. Combination Resume. In 99% of the cases, you'll want to go with the Reverse Chronological resume format. That's the format most resumes you've seen follow - its main focus is your work experience, written down in reverse ...

  20. Reverse-Chronological Resume: What You Need to Know [+Examples]

    A reverse chronological resume is a format that organizes your work history by recency—starting with the most recent position at the top and then proceeding backward in time. This approach effectively showcases how your roles, responsibilities, and achievements have evolved, offering a clear and linear view of your professional journey.

  21. Writing a Reverse-chronological Resume in 2024

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