What CV format is considered the most traditional?
There are three basic CV formats: reverse-chronological, functional, and hybrid. However, when you think about a “traditional” CV format, you’re most likely picturing the reverse-chronological.
A reverse-chronological CV lists the work experience with the most recent job first, and works backward. It contains the following sections, generally in this order:
● Contact information: name, phone, email, town or city, county, and LinkedIn or online portfolio URL.
● Professional summary: a two to three sentence overview of an applicant's most important skills, expertise, and accomplishments.
● Skills: a list of relevant hard and soft skills.
● Work History: an overview of jobs starting with the most recent.
● Education: lists the name of the university, location, and degree.
● Other relevant information: this could contain certifications, licences, languages spoken, or older work experience.
The classic reverse chronological is especially useful for those who have a clearly-defined career path, as it shows a linear progression from the start of a person’s career to the present day.
This format and style are also concise and easy to read, with the candidate’s information placed in a straightforward, logical order.
It also tends to be ATS-friendly, as the systems can easily parse the information, increasing the chances your CV lands in the hands of a recruiter.
Formatting your CV in a classic reverse-chronological order highlights your commitment to your career trajectory, current skills, and achievements.
Are traditional CVs effective?
Yes, they are. Traditional CVs, such as the reverse-chronological with a classic style, are the most common, and the ones that hiring managers and recruiters are most used to seeing.
Traditional, classic CVs are commonly used in fields such as finance, law, healthcare, and education, where a straightforward narrative of a candidate’s career trajectory is highly valued.
The effectiveness of traditional CVs is due to the following factors:
● It looks professional: a traditional CV avoids distracting elements often found in more modern or creative templates, ensuring your experience and skills take centre stage.
● It’s customisable: the straightforward layout of a traditional CV allows the candidate to easily tailor it for each job they’re applying for.
● They are familiar and consistent: hiring managers are accustomed to the traditional format and can easily skim to find the information they need.
● It is concise yet detailed: the traditional format allows for a thorough encapsulation of a candidate’s career and includes skills, accomplishments, and overall experience.
Pros and cons of a traditional CV
Before deciding if a traditional CV is right for you, consider the following:
Pros
● Easy for recruiters to follow and understand due to the straightforward layout.
● They work well with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
● Are preferred in industries where a formal presentation is expected.
Cons
● Depending on the field, they may appear less creative or innovative compared to modern designs.
● Can make it harder to stand out in a competitive job market.
● Not ideal for roles that emphasise design or personal creativity
