Resume format comparison: Traditional chronological vs Project-based resumes, outlining key features, pros, and cons for job seekers and career changers

The right resume format can make all the difference in your job search.

business analysis
August 02, 2024•1 min read

I'm often asked about the best resume format.

Let's explore two popular options (see attached samples):


📍 Traditional chronological: lists work history in reverse order.

Business Analyst resume sample showcasing skills, professional summary, and customer service experience with data analysis and problem-solving achievements


📍 Project-based: focuses on relevant projects and achievements.

Business Analyst project format resume sample showcasing skills, professional summary, and customer service experience with data analysis and problem-solving achievements


As a career coach, I highly recommend the project-based format.

Here's why:
- It allows you to showcase relevant transferable skills and achievements from your prior roles

- You can tailor your experience to align with your target position

- It helps you tell a compelling career story without "throwing away" your valuable experience

Remember: You likely have more relevant experience than you realize!

Your prior skills in stakeholder management, problem-solving, and data analysis are highly valuable in many business analysis roles.

A project-based resume helps you articulate these experiences and skills better.

Struggling to translate your past experiences into a business analysis resume?

Share your challenges in the comments.

Oge is a business transformation practitioner with over a decade of experience, across multiple industry domains. She has served as project manager, business analyst, and organizational change manager on diverse transformation projects. She holds several professional certifications; CBAP®, PMP®, PROSCI®, IIBA®-CPOA and she is currently the Director, Professional Development, IIBA Nova Scotia Chapter. She is also the Chief Learning Officer at Pollard learning an IIBA® endorsed education provider, equipping professionals to start and advance their careers in Business Analysis, Change management and project management.

Oge Nwachukwu

Oge is a business transformation practitioner with over a decade of experience, across multiple industry domains. She has served as project manager, business analyst, and organizational change manager on diverse transformation projects. She holds several professional certifications; CBAP®, PMP®, PROSCI®, IIBA®-CPOA and she is currently the Director, Professional Development, IIBA Nova Scotia Chapter. She is also the Chief Learning Officer at Pollard learning an IIBA® endorsed education provider, equipping professionals to start and advance their careers in Business Analysis, Change management and project management.

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