The preferred resume format in the United States is what is known as reverse chronological, which lists most recent experience and works backward from there. The functional format, which categorizes experiences by skill area, tends to elicit a less welcoming reaction from employers. In the United States, it is relatively rare to see a longer, CV-style document except for special fields such as academia or scientific research.

A frequently acceptable alternative to the standard reverse chronological form is a "combination," which integrates desirable elements from the chronological format with those from the functional format.

Résumé length can vary, depending on factors such as the individual’s length of experience and level of responsibility. In most cases, non-management-level applicants should strive for a concise one-page document, while mid-to-senior-management candidates can justify a two-page résumé. Three-page executive résumés may also be seen, but the trend is toward conciseness even there, so it should only be done if the situation clearly supports that length.