Ask the Recruiter is a regular feature. We answer questions we receive from active candidates, those considering making a change or those in active transition. Send your questions to SelfPerspective.
Why do executive recruiters prefer a chronological resume versus a functional resume or curriculum vitae?
Two reasons — to easily document your career progression and to match your performance improvements — quantifiable accomplishments — with the specific employer.
Physicians and some nursing candidates are the biggest offenders. Never send a curriculum vitae unless specifically requested to do so.
For every project a search firm takes on, there are literally dozens upon dozens of resumes flooding in the door. Researchers and recruiters must be able to quickly scan a resume and immediately see a good progressive career history with a record of relevant accomplishments. Many recruiters see the functional resume as more about trying to cover short tenures, multiple layoffs or uneven performance. Our Firm requires a chronological resume.
Curriculum vitae is really a latin term for a career document guaranteed to irritate the recruiter. Unless we are recruiting for an academic, research or related position, do not send a 40-page CV loaded with stuff the recruiters — and most employers — couldn’t care less about (research papers, presentations and poster presentations). If you want to do it anyway, do not be surprised if the recruiter requests a chronological resume. So, why waste time — theirs and yours?
If you have a question, write to John at asktherecruiter@johngself.com.