A chronological resumé creates a timeline of your work, education, and training. You start with the most recent job and work your way back. You repeat this timeline for any relevant education and training.
If you have a steady work history, this type of resumé is a good choice.
Your name
Email address
Phone number(s) with area codes
Website (optional)
Objective or goals (optional)
Know what the goals are of your potential employer. Briefly list how your skills and training will help the employer reach those goals.
Experience
List any jobs that relate to the position you want. You don’t have to stop at 3 jobs. Describe the skills you used in each job that match what the new position requires. Briefly list other duties and responsibilities. Describe your successes. For example:
- Consistently met or exceeded sales targets or service standards
- Received positive feedback from clients or customers
Start each item with a strong verb. For example, use “Helped set up...” instead of “Responsible for helping to set up...”
Work title, 20XX–20XX (most recent first)
Employer name
City, province (optional)
- Relevant responsibilities, skills, duties, and successes (use a bulleted list)
- Managed the company’s social media presence across 3 platforms
Work title, 20XX–20XX (second-most recent)
Employer name
City, province (optional)
- Relevant responsibilities, skills, duties, and successes (use a bulleted list)
- Created and ran an internal SharePoint site to improve team communication
Job title, 20XX–20XX (third-most recent)
Employer name
City, province (optional)
- Relevant responsibilities, skills, duties, and successes (use a bulleted list)
- Served customers promptly and professionally
- Earned 3 awards for Employee of the Month last year
Education
List your degrees, diplomas, or certificates. Include short education, training, and professional development courses that relate to this new job.
Diploma, certificate, or degree earned; focus of study or training (optional)
Name of educational institution, 20XX–20XX
City, province (optional)
Diploma, certificate, or degree earned; focus of study or training (optional)
Name of educational institution, 20XX–20XX
City, province (optional)
Name of training or professional development course, Month 20XX
Other (optional)
Include sections for any related information such as:
- Languages
- Awards and honours
- Hobbies and interests
Here are some example resumés that use a chronological outline:
- Chronological resumé example 1 [pdf]—an experienced tradesperson
- Chronological resumé example 2 [pdf]—a high school graduate with paid work experience