Question
What are the 3 types of resumes and what constitutes a great resume?
Answer
The first type is the functional resume that concentrates on your training, skills and practicum experiences. This is usually the format for the new graduate.
The second type is the chronological resume that is usually used by the experienced clinical and reflects a work history with the most current position listed first. Duties and responsibilities are listed. It should reflect increased responsibilities as you progressed through your career.
The third type of resume is a combination of the functional and chronological format and is used depending on your experiences. For example if you have been out of the field for a while, you will want to emphasize your credentials and the conferences and workshops you have attended to maintain your licensure. You want to showcase your past work experiences, education, activities and your skills.
A great resume is clear and concise and easy for the employer to read. This is accomplished by using appropriate headings (objective, education, clinical, research and professional experiences, etc.,) avoiding complete sentences and spelling errors and using bullets when making lists under major headings. The use of action verbs is highly encouraged (e.g. administered, conducted, evaluated, provided, etc.) Only relevant information relating to your objective and potential employer should be included. The resume should not be longer than 2 pages with plenty of white space!
This Ask the Expert was taken from the course entitled: Resume Writing
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Susan Givler M.Ed. CCC SLP is an Adjunct Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Cincinnati in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Susan received her Bachelors and Masters in Speech Pathology from Kent State University. She has worked in the Ohio school system for 35 years as an SLP and supervisor serving students K-12 in both public and private schools. She has presented at the ASHA Convention, the state convention and at regional and local workshops.