Which type of résumé is commonly used by unprofessional résumé writers?

The reverse chronological résumé is structured to list work experiences and education in order from the most recent to the oldest. While this format is widely accepted and effective for individuals with a clear career progression, it can also be less appealing for those who may have gaps in their employment history or who frequently change jobs. Unprofessional résumé writers might default to this common format without considering other approaches that might better suit their clients’ unique situations.

In contrast, a functional résumé focuses on skills and achievements rather than chronological work history, making it a more suitable choice for individuals who have gaps or are changing careers. A chronological résumé presents information in a straightforward timeline but is often seen as a more traditional style. The hybrid résumé attempts to combine both approaches, providing a skills-focused section followed by chronological work history, which may be utilized by more seasoned résumé writers who understand the benefits of tailoring the format to individual needs.

Therefore, the reverse chronological résumé is associated with a more conventional approach, which can lead to it being used by those who may not consider the unique circumstances of the job seeker.