What should be prioritized in a combination resume?

In a combination resume, the primary focus is to effectively showcase both relevant skills and chronological work experience. This format allows the candidate to highlight their abilities at the top, which is particularly advantageous for those who have specific skills that stand out or are particularly relevant to the job they are applying for. Following the skills section with a chronological list of work experience provides context and demonstrates how those skills have been applied in real-world scenarios, thus enhancing the candidate's suitability for the role.

Using a combination resume format is particularly beneficial for individuals who may be changing careers, as it enables them to draw attention to transferable skills while also providing a timeline of their professional journey. This dual emphasis not only illustrates competence but also provides hiring managers with a holistic view of the candidate’s qualifications.

Focusing solely on job locations, educational credentials, or references would not serve the purpose of a combination resume effectively. Job locations might be relevant but do not convey a candidate's competencies. Limiting the resume to education credentials overlooks the importance of practical experiences that showcase the application of skills. Furthermore, while references can support a candidate's application, they are not a priority in the composition of the resume itself, as they are typically provided later in the hiring process.