What is a Chronological CV?
Isebell Gauche
July 2009

Basically the chronological CV will provide information in order of how it happened. You will for instance, list your career development from the day you left school up to where you are now. The reverse chronological CV is better in the sense that it works from the present backwards. In other words you will state your current employment, then the previous employment. You will then proceed to list your education qualifications.

When will you use the chronological CV?

The chronological or reverse chronological CV is best used when you have a long and stable work history with no unexplained employment gaps. When you have enough qualifications for the job, have an extensive profile of writing etc., applying for a lawyer or academic position etc. You will use the reverse or normal chronological CV when you are seeking a position directly related to your qualifications and experience.

What is the main focus of this type of CV?

The focus is solidly on your work experience and then on education.

How to list the headings:

First list the current employer and then the previous employers (don't go back more than ten years unless you have enough space). If you want to also list employers beyond 10 years - only list those employers shortly. Then list the education with highest qualifications first back to school Grade 12. Then list your interests - no more than 3 and no fewer than 2. Make sure the interests are related to your work otherwise leave the section out. List accomplishments, the computer literacy, language abilities, and basic info such as driver's license etc.

When not to use this type of CV

Don't use this CV style if you have job hopped or have unexplained employment gaps. Rather use the combination CV or the functional CV in these cases. If you plan a career change stay clear from this type of CV.

How to shorten the CV

Delete all repeat tasks - simply a waste of paper. List the details of the current job, your previous one if relevant to the position, and the one before it if relevant to the position. Be sure to use power words and bullets rather than paragraphs.

The Chronological CV has several advantages such as providing an easy to follow format and highlighting experience and qualifications. The disadvantages are that is the most used format and thus kind of boring and it can become quite lengthy.