Using a teacher resume template or a creative resume format will be your decision, but a resume template can be extremely generic. It may not yield job interviews for your dream teaching position.
It might seem like all resumes are the same, but you will discover there are actually some massive differences after you have read a few. Many resume writing mistakes to be aware of, and choosing the wrong format is one of them.
The resume format you choose can be the deciding factor in getting called for a job interview or sending out more copies of your resume.
Many aspects separate an attention-grabbing resume from an unsuccessful one. Many job seekers make the mistake of thinking that the layout of the resume is unimportant. The reality is the layout and design are almost as important as the information you include.
There are three popular types of layouts or formats you can choose to use. I would estimate that at least 90% of the resumes created are either created using a chronological format or a functional format. The third is the combination resume format that is rarely used but is growing in popularity.
Chronological Teacher Resume Format
When you write a chronological resume, you will want to make sure your employment and educational accomplishments are listed chronologically. Place your most recent experiences at the top of the resume and work your way down.
Most prospective employers prefer a chronological resume to a functional resume because it makes it easier for them to access your background and qualifications. It lets them see how quickly you have progressed, how long you stick to employment commitments, and if you have gotten laid off or fired frequently.
This type of resume will communicate immediately if you have any gaps in your work history. A chronological resume is beneficial to many job seekers because it can highlight impressive school districts or organizations where you worked. If your work history is solid and shows progression, this is an added benefit. Some job seekers’ downfall is that if their job history is not perfect, this resume format will show every gap or time period where they didn’t progress within their career.
Functional Teacher Resume Format
The second type of resume you should know about is called a functional resume. Instead of listing your employment and educational history in order, you will want to focus on your skill set instead of employment history when you are drafting a functional resume.
When you create a functional resume, the aim is to draw attention to the highlights you have experienced relevant to the position you are seeking. It includes skills-based and categorical sections that help to determine if you are qualified for the position.
Functional resumes are commonly used by a student seeking an internship, a stay-at mom or dad entering the workforce, or someone interested in making a career change.
Combination Teacher Resume Format
The third type of resume format you might want to consider is a style that incorporates chronological and functional resume format. This type is appropriately called a combination resume, and it is becoming increasingly popular.
Teachers and other professionals started using a combination style because it gives them the freedom to draw a prospective employer’s attention to their skills and unique talents. It lets them communicate a strong educational and employment history quickly.
Once you have decided on the teaching resume format you want to create, ensure all the information is written clearly and concisely. Don’t overload your resume with irrelevant information, which could ruin your chances of getting an interview – remember to save some details for the interview.
Click here for more information regarding resume writing tips and strategies.
