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Are you currently living in Canada?
A man is sitting at a computing and smiling while working on his resume. There are different types of resume formats to use for a job application.

For newcomers, it’s important to choose the right type of resume format because this can play a key factor in getting hired in Canada. And a well-written resume is vital to grab the attention of Canadian employers. A good resume highlights all of your best skills and accomplishments in a way that is relevant to potential employers. This is why there are different types of resume formats for jobs, each useful in its own way.

Writing a Canadian-style resume is important. And it’s vital to invest the time. Otherwise, you can send out hundreds of resumes that go unnoticed and this will only be frustrating and lengthen your job search. Also, it’s helpful to know that there are many free settlement services that can help you to write a Canadian-style resume.

When you know what elements are important, you can convey this information and increase your chance of employers contacting you for an interview. Here, I’ll discuss the three main types of resume formats and when to use each one. 

Three Main Types of Resume Formats

These three types of resume formats each look different and highlight aspects of your education, skills, and experience. Let’s take a deeper look at each of these resume formats.

  1. Chronological resume

2. Functional resume

3. Hybrid resume (also known as combination)

1. Chronological Resume

A chronological resume format lists all your experience and previous jobs in reverse chronological order. This means that you will list your jobs in order from when you did them. Your most recent job will be at the top of your resume, followed by your second most recent job, and so on. 

A chronological resume is the most common and practical resume format. Employers usually prefer this type of resume format because it:

You should use a chronological resume wherever you can. It is the most preferred by employers and recruiters and is the most likely to get you invited for the interview. This is because employers usually value experience over qualifications. Experience indicates that you have all the skills necessary to complete the job. However, there are situations in which a chronologically formatted resume may not be the best option for you.

Chronological resumes are very straightforward. They list your work experience in order starting with your most recent employment along with the dates. Canadian employers prefer this type of resume because it allows them to quickly assess your employment history. It shows when and for how long you were unemployed as well as what type of work experience you have.

Show Your Employment Chronologically

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Electrical Engineer                                                                 2015 – 2021

Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)

Computer Programmer                                                          2011 – 2015

Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)

Customer Service Representative                                          2008 – 2011

Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)

When to Avoid the Chronological Type of Resume

You should avoid using this type of resume format for jobs if you:

You may want to consider writing a functional resume if the chronological resume format isn’t suitable for your needs.

[cjtoolbox name=’Resume Template’]

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2. Functional Resume

The functional resume for jobs highlights your skills rather than work experience. This is the opposite of a chronological resume because the focus is not on your previous jobs. With a functional resume format, you will be able to highlight your most relevant skills and abilities. You will also be able to list your most relevant job experience. This will shade any employment gaps while still showing all your skills that are related to the role.

Functional resume formats for jobs are not the best way to present yourself to a potential employer. In fact, recruiters do not like functional resumes. Not only do they take time to make, but they are also hard to go through on the recruiter’s side. 

This type of resume format is ideal for people that have gaps in their employment history. A chronological resume format will give away any of those gaps but a functional resume will hide them. Instead, a functional resume will present all your skills and accomplishments.

A functional resume format is good for:

The main idea is that if you do not have an employment history relevant to the job you are applying for, functional resumes become useful. Just remember that employers usually value experience more than qualifications. This is why it is best to include at least some relevant experience in your resume.

If you feel like you have a successful work history and you also want to showcase your skills and accomplishments, you can use a hybrid resume.

Highlight Your Skills with a Functional Resume Format

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Manufacturing

Management

Estimating

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Project Chief                                                                                                             2005 – 2016
Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)

Structural Engineer                                                                                                  2002 – 2005
Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)

3. The Hybrid Type of Resume Format

The third type of resume format for jobs is the hybrid resume, also known as a combination resume. It is a blend of chronological and functional resume formats. This resume format starts off by listing skills, qualifications, and achievements first. Then you move on to your employment history and work experience in reverse-chronological order.

A hybrid resume format for your resume will give you the chance to get the best of both worlds when done right. There are many situations in which a hybrid resume will be the best option for you.

If you are highly qualified in your profession and also have a successful work history, you will want to use the hybrid resume format. This type of resume format will allow you to showcase all of your qualifications as well as your work history. Your skills and qualifications will give the resume an eye-catching element while your employment timeline will show the employer you have the experience necessary for the job. A hybrid resume format is best for people that have both a good employment history and qualifications in their profession. 

One of the best things about a hybrid resume format is that they are extremely flexible. You can include things such as education, training, relevant online courses, experience, previous jobs, and any accomplishments. With a hybrid resume, you can exclude any irrelevant facts about yourself and only include the things that matter to your employer and increase your chances of getting hired.

Key Takeaways

So to conclude, here is a brief summary of what type of resume format you should choose:

  1. Chronological resume format: If you have a successful work history and adequate qualifications, you should choose a chronological resume format.

2. Functional resume format: If you do not have an employment history relevant to the role you are applying for, consider a functional resume format. This will allow you to showcase your qualifications, skills, and achievements.

3. Hybrid resume format: If you have a successful work history, and you also want to highlight your skills and accomplishments, a hybrid resume might be the best option for you.

Once you have chosen a resume format that works for you, you might be looking to build a Canadian-style resume that makes you stand out. Here is a helpful article that will give you 8 tips on how to write a Canadian-style resume.

A great addition to a resume is a cover letter. If you are serious about getting the job, a resume will not be enough. A cover letter is a great way to explain any employment gaps and explain why you are the perfect candidate for the job. Here is an article that will help you write an effective cover letter.

Choosing the right resume format could mean the difference between landing the job and getting rejected. It’s all about how you present yourself in front of your potential employers. Whether it be the skills you want to showcase or your employment history, choosing the right resume format will help you present yourself the way you want.

For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!

A Canadian-style resume is necessary to propel your job search and help you to find the right job faster. As well, employers look for specific items that you may need to add to your existing resume format in Canada. And, in some cases, you may need to delete information. Revising and updating your resume format with these tips will get employers in Canada to notice you.

Eight Tips to Write a Canadian-Style Resume

1. Choose the right format for your resume in Canada

2. Read the job description carefully

3. Tailor your resume to the job description

4. Use keywords in your resume

5. Include the right information on your Canadian-style resume

6. Omit irrelevant information

7. Use strong and concise language

8. Proofread your resume for spelling and grammar errors.

[cjtoolbox name=’Resume Template’]

Why is a Canadian-Style Resume Important?

The format for a resume in Canada may look much different than the resume you have used in your home country. So it’s important to know what information to include or omit on a Canadian-style resume. This is important because your resume is often the first impression you will make with a potential employer. 

As well, recruiters may easily receive over 100 resumes for one position. And when they view that many resumes, they quickly scan them for essential information. 

Preparing Your Canadian-Style Resume

1. Choose the right resume format

There are three resume formats that job seekers commonly use: 

Chronological resume: this format highlights your work history and timeline.

Functional resume: this format highlights your work experience and previous job activities.

Combination resume: this combination format shows your experience and timeline as you would see in a chronological format and has a strong emphasis on your skills as you would see in a functional format.

You can decide the best resume format based on your work history and what you want to highlight. 

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2. Read the job description carefully

The job description will provide you with a clear picture of the:

You can even use a pen or highlighter to mark what requirements match your work experience and achievements. This will give you a good sense of how closely your experience matches the job requirements.

3. Tailor your resume to the job description

When you see a job that interests you and that matches your skill set, take the time to tailor your resume to the job description. The time you invest in tailoring your resume will pay off. And when you tailor your resume you clearly show potential employers how you are a perfect fit for the job. This will increase your visibility to employers.

However, when you submit the same resume to every employer you reduce your chances of meeting specific job requirements the employer is seeking.

Whatever your job focus, you will need to clearly state the qualities you bring to that job to sell yourself to a prospective employer. For example, you can do this by adding a strong career objective/profile at the top of the first page, followed by a breakdown of your skills/talents with concrete examples. Then list your job experience and educational credentials on page two.

4.  Use keywords in your resume

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to collect, sort, and store resumes. This automated software can also compare your resume to keywords in the job description. If there is a good match your resume will appear in search results. 

You will have a better chance of appearing in search results if your resume contains keywords in the job description. A good way to determine keywords is to read job descriptions for keywords that are used. Use those keywords to tailor your resume based on your skill set. 

5. Include the right information on your Canadian-style resume

Ideally, your resume format should not exceed two pages. This requires you to be concise and only include the relevant information that you want to highlight. So avoid listing every job responsibility and only include the skills and responsibilities that best match the job description. Also, rather than listing your responsibilities, showcase what you accomplished. For example: 

Instead of:

Use:

Again, it’s important to remember that recruiters will quickly glance at your resume. So make it easy for them to identify that you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to achieve success in the job you’re applying for.

6. Omit irrelevant information

Be aware of the information that you do not need to include on a Canadian-style resume. Avoid including the word Resume at the top of your document. Recruiters know they are reading your resume and this also takes up valuable space. It’s also unnecessary to add your photo. 

Other information to omit on a resume in Canada:  

Your ultimate goal is to showcase your experience, skills, and qualifications. Most importantly, you want to avoid including information that can be used to discriminate based on age, nationality, marital status, or other factors. This information can also contribute to employer bias in the selection process.

For newcomers entering the Canadian job market, it’s helpful to know that employers cannot ask interview questions that could be viewed as discriminating. For example, interview questions about your marital status, nationality, religion, and other factors defined by the Canadian Human Rights Act are illegal.

Many settlement agencies in Canada can help you adapt your resume to meet Canadian requirements when you arrive.

7. Use strong and concise language

It’s important to use strong action verbs that will grab attention. Choose strong verbs that showcase your capabilities. And remember to use the past tense to describe your previous experience. 

Consider these strong action verbs:

Acquired   |   Advised   |   Analyzed   |   Assembled   |   Briefed   |   Centralized   |   Consulted   |   Collaborated

Composed   |   Defined   |   Enhanced   |   Evaluated   |   Exceeded   |   Expanded   |   Facilitated   |   Forecasted

Informed   |   Influenced   |   Mobilized   |   Negotiated   |   Overhauled   |   Redesigned   |   Resolved   |   Secured   

Streamlined    |   Stimulated   |    Surpassed   |   Transformed   |   Verified

8. Proofread your resume

To write the perfect Canadian-style resume, be sure to check and double-check for spelling and grammar mistakes. It’s also helpful to ask someone to proofread your resume. A good proofreader can identify unclear sentences, spelling, grammar errors, or repetition.

While using the spell-checker on your computer is helpful, it’s not always perfect. For example, it may not pick up the difference between words such as there, their, and they’re. So always remember to check your spelling.

When you follow these eight tips to format your Canadian resume, you’ll be on your way to resuming your career in Canada.

Final Format Checklist for Resumes in Canada

a Canadian-style resume with a summary at the top and work experience listed below.

When you have completed your resume, review this short checklist before you submit it to the employer:

Also, remember to write a one-page cover letter to accompany your resume in Canada. The purpose of the cover letter is to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and how well you’ll fit it and add value to the company. Many hiring managers may not even read your resume if your cover letter doesn’t capture their attention.

For additional information, resources, and webinars related to finding a job in Canada, click here! We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada!

Cover Letter Format
Make your cover letter stand out!

Your cover letter for a Canadian job will help employers notice you! And importantly, it can help determine whether or not a recruiter contacts you for an interview. While there is some debate over the need for a cover letter, it’s absolutely essential. Your cover letter format can help you to stand out among other candidates and give you a key advantage. With a cover letter for a Canadian job, hiring managers will notice a compelling story about your skills and achievements. On the other hand, a poorly written letter reflects a casual attitude that may affect your ability to land a job.  

Often, newcomers spend much time and energy writing a strong resume but not enough time on writing a persuasive cover letter.  This approach can often lead to nowhere. Without a compelling cover letter, it’s easy to get caught in a spiral of rejection from employers or settle for a job that isn’t well suited to you.

While it can be time-consuming to write a letter that is worthy of notice, you’ll find that it’s time well spent. Many Canadian employers will agree that a great letter can make all the difference when selecting who they will interview. However, if the job posting clearly states that a cover letter is not required, you can avoid it. This will also show that you can follow instructions. So if you’re wondering if you need a cover letter to include with your resume the answer is yes!

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What is a Cover Letter?

It’s an important element when you apply for a job in Canada. A proper cover letter format allows you to share information about yourself that goes beyond what’s on your resume or CV.

A strong cover letter uses clear and concise language and states what is relevant to the job posting. It’s like a sales pitch to convince an employer that you are the right candidate for the position.

The Cover Letter Format

While you can find many generic cover letter samples to use, it’s best to write your own cover letter. And tailor your letter to the specific job and company that you are applying to.

No doubt, tailoring a cover letter for each job is time-consuming. However, it’s time well spent.

Do your research to identify why you want to work at that company. Take the time to express it in every cover letter that you write. If you can’t express why you want to work for the company in your cover letter, you’ll struggle to answer that question in an interview. As well, thorough research will help you to identify if your past experience, career goals, and values align with that of the company and the position.

Your research will also help you to identify what you admire about the company. For example, has the company successfully expanded in the marketplace? Has the company won a coveted award? Or it is an industry leader in an area that you are passionate about?

Cover Letter Sample

This cover letter sample includes six main sections:

Section 1: Contact Information:

Include your:

Tip
You can create a personal LinkedIn profile URL that will look professional and current.

Section 2: Employer Contact Information

Include this address format for the employer:

Section 3: Salutation (or greeting)

If the job description mentions the name of the hiring manager, begin with Dear Ms. (or Mr.) followed by their surname. If you’re unsure of the person’s gender, it’s best to use Dear followed by their first and last names.

When the name of the hiring manager is not provided, you could try to find their name on the company website or through LinkedIn. Alternatively, it’s appropriate to use “Dear Hiring Manager” for the salutation. But, do make an effort to find a name. It’s that much more personal and your effort will show.

Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.

Section 4: Introduction

A great cover letter format will grab the hiring manager’s eye with a compelling opening statement. Explain why you are interested in the position. Show that you want to work for that specific organization. Convey that you’re excited about the role. Employers love to hear that you’re excited about the company and that you have done your research.

Answer these questions:

Section 5: Body

Describe what you can offer the employer. Draw on your past experience and results that relate directly to the job. And help the reader to see why you’re the best candidate.

Make it easy for the reader to connect the dots. For example, your ability to speak multiple languages makes you an ideal candidate for a customer service role. Describe what makes you different from every other qualified applicant. Ideally, this section should be one to two paragraphs.

Answer these questions:

Asking yourself these questions will help you to build a foundation for your cover letter format and make it easier to write it.

There are many personality assessments that can help you to identify your strengths. For example, you can complete our free Drake P3® Assessment. Highlight the strengths that are directly related to the role and convey your passion.

To read more about discovering your strengths, check out this post: Self-Awareness is Key to Your Job Search. When you know your strengths, you show confidence in your unique ability to succeed in the role.

Section 6: Closing

This final section is more than just closing your letter. It’s about opening the door to further contact. This is where you state what your next action will be. For example, you could state that you will phone or email the reader to follow up or arrange a time to meet.

It’s also a great opportunity to express your genuine excitement for the role along with your initiative.

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter for a Canadian Job | Do’s and Dont’s

Do:

Don’t:

Writing a great cover letter for a Canadian job is a time-consuming process, but the reward it pays is worth your effort. As a result, a well-written cover letter will pave the way for more job interviews and give you a greater chance to secure a job in Canada that’s perfect for you!

https://www.prepareforcanada.com/before-you-arrive/working-in-canada-before-you-arrive/first-90-days-in-the-canadian-workplace-success-tips

For more helpful information, free resources, and tools to help you resume your career in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals!