The combined CV: How to write a combined CV?
The combined CV consists of a hybrid version of the post-oriented CV and the chronological CV. It's a mix of the two that allows you to focus on the skills you've learned during each professional experience, without sacrificing the chronology of the events. What is a combined CV? And how do I write a combined CV?
The combined CV? What precisely is involved?
As we explained above, the combined CV is a hybrid version of the post-oriented and chronological CVs. It emphasises the contribution of skills from each professional experience while preserving the chronological aspect of the more traditional CV. Be careful! Some recruiters ask to receive a CV in chronological form, so be careful when reading the job offer before you start writing a combined CV.
This CV offers the advantages of a chronological CV, and a post-oriented CV at the same time: it emphasises the skills acquired during your professional experience, while clearly indicating the dates you worked for each company that you want to mention. Thus, it is preferable if you have an atypical career, disjointed, or diversified as it clearly explains each professional acquisition on your part. It is also worth considering if you have 'holes' in your career, that is, if you have not worked for a certain length of time.
The combined CV: what is the method for writing a combined CV?
How do I create a professional CV? Which topics should be included?
You will have to use the same topics as for the chronological CV, or the post-oriented CV:
- The 'Objective' section: it serves to present you briefly and show your understanding of the various issues of the position. Do not hesitate to consult our page dedicated to this section « Objective ».
- The 'Education & Training' section: this introduces each element of your educational path. You should mention the various degrees and certificates obtained, and any preparations for examinations or competitions you have participated in, specifying the dates, institutions, and any results that you obtained. This section is essential if you don't have much professional experience yet(less than 10 years). Do not hesitate to consult our page dedicated to this section « Education and Training ».
- The 'Professional experience' section: it consists of chronologically or thematically listing the different positions you have held: in which companies, what challenges were involved, and what outcomes were achieved. You can thus favour a graphic CV style that will allow you to focus on your experience, and even on some specific experiences in particular. Since you are not constrained, as with a chronological CV, you can select your work experience and focus only on those that answer to a challenge in the position for which you are applying. Nevertheless, you will still have to specify the exact dates for each experience mentioned. Don't forget to note your references, or place them in a small insert at the bottom of your CV. Do not hesitate to consult our page dedicated to this section « Professional experience ».
- The 'Skills' section: very important in a professional CV, the 'Skills' section is a place to include different keywords relating to your professional and personal skills, that is to say your knowledge of hard skills (specific calculations, mastery of a suite of software, etc...) and soft skills (conflict resolution, managerial skills, etc...). Do not hesitate to consult our page dedicated to this section « Skills ».