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How and when to write a functional resume (with examples)

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What is a functional resume?

When should you use a functional resume over a chronological resume, building your functional resume, 5 tips for creating an impactful functional resume, functional resume templates & examples, how to discuss employment gaps and career changes in an interview, prepare for your career move with functional resume help.

If you have limited work experience in your desired field, you could benefit from creating a functional resume. This resume type can show off your personal achievements and strengths, regardless of your employment history. This gives you a chance to demonstrate why you’re a good fit for a role, even if you don’t have relevant experience.

A traditional resume format might work best if you’ve held similar jobs in the past. But there are situations where using a functional resume format just makes sense. To get an employer’s attention, you’ll need to understand

A functional resume is a type of resume that focuses on relevant skill sets and qualifications rather than work experience. Also called a skills-based resume , this resume format doesn’t focus solely on your employment history. Instead, it highlights how your hard skills and soft skills make you a good match for a specific role. 

Traditional resumes often follow a chronological resume format. This makes your work experience and employment dates the main focus of your resume. Chronological resumes highlight your professional skills within each job description rather than pointing them out separately.

Functional resumes should include the following content:

• A brief summary of your unique skills and how they relate to the role
• Your career objectives , especially if you’re switching careers
• Key skills , abilities, and accomplishments
• Your education
• A short work history section
• Your contact details
• Optional professional reference

Functional resumes are a better fit for the following circumstances: 

• Career changes: You’re changing professions mid-career or starting a new career later in life and have little to no relevant work history 
• New grad: You recently graduated from your college or university program and haven’t yet attained experience in your desired field 
• Big career break or sabbatical: You’re reentering the workforce with large career gaps that might look worrisome on an application (e.g., going back to work after maternity leave )

When to use a chronological resume

Certain scenarios are better served by a chronological resume. Consider using a chronological resume when the following is true:

• You have plenty of relevant experience
• You can demonstrate career growth in your field
• You’ve worked for prestigious companies that might impress a hiring manager
• You’ve worked with previous employers for a long time

When to use a combination resume

Combination resumes, which are a hybrid of functional and traditional resumes,  give hiring managers the most well-rounded understanding of your experience. These resumes should be used when you have relevant experience and certain skills you’d like to spotlight.

Learning how to craft a good resume is an integral part of the job search. According to Indeed, employers only look at a resume for an average of six or seven seconds . This short scan could make or break your chances of landing an interview. That’s why understanding resume dos and don’ts is critical to your job search success.

When building your functional resume, make sure the following details are covered:

• Your phone number
• Your location
• A summary statement
• Education details
• Any relevant certifications
• Soft skills (i.e., communication and organization)
• Hard skills (i.e., proficiency in software like Microsoft Office or project management tools )
• Relevant volunteer experience (if applicable)
• List of previous employers, job titles, and dates of employment

As you create your skills-based resume, make sure to align your specific skills with what the potential employer is looking for. Doing this could make it easier for recruiters to make a decision about your resume and remove any guesswork or misinterpretation they may have.

Now that you know what to include in your functional resume, it’s time to start writing. Here are five tips for building an effective document.

1. Utilize action verbs

Action verbs are words that describe how you’ve used your skills in a professional or personal setting. These powerful verbs are important for resumes because they’re more likely to create an impact and attract attention. They also make your sentences clearer and more concise.

Here’s an example of how the tone of a sentence can shift by using an action verb:

• Original resume bullet: I was a supervisor for a team of seven employees
• New resume bullet: Supervised a team of seven employees

The second bullet says the same thing as the first but cuts out four unnecessary words. It also sounds more direct but still emphasizes that you managed an entire team.

2. Use quantifiable achievements to showcase results

Data should be used to maximize your resume’s impact. Research on resume statistics shows that using numbers on your resume can increase your chances of getting an interview by up to 40%.

For example, rather than simply saying you “increased sales,” add more context to highlight your work. You could write something like: “Increased sales by 63% in one year, adding $50,000 to the company’s monthly recurring revenue.”

When you make claims about your accomplishments, be sure to include any data that backs them up.

3. Match keywords to job requirements to optimize for ATS

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a tool used by employers during the hiring process to help screen job applications. To ensure your application makes it to a hiring manager, you need to know about applicant tracking systems and how to optimize your resume for them. This makes it more likely that your resume will make it through to a human.

According to JobScan, more than 97% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems . Smaller organizations are also starting to jump on board. 

One way to optimize your functional resume for an ATS is to include keywords from the company’s job description. Here’s an example:

• Job description: “We’re looking for a detail-oriented project manager who excels in data analysis and has experience with Asana. This person will ideally have a background in manufacturing within the tech industry.”
• Keywords you could include in your resume:
• Detail-oriented
• Project manager
• Data analysis 
• Manufacturing
• Tech industry

Tailoring your document to each specific job posting is necessary to make your resume stand out among the competition. (With that said, make sure you always keep a tracker of which resume you send to which potential employer.)

4. Prioritize readability

Considering hiring managers may only spend seconds looking at your resume, it’s important to make it easy to read. You can do this by formatting your document with the following:

• Clearly labeled section headings
• Consistent font size throughout the document
• Using bold text to point out important areas of relevance
• Leaving white space where possible
• Using black text on a white background
• Keeping it short (ideally one page for a functional resume)
• Using a simple, easy-to-follow layout

5. Proofread and edit

Once you’ve finished writing your functional resume, read it carefully to ensure it’s free of mistakes. These could include typos, grammatical errors, and misspellings. These errors can come across as unprofessional, especially if writing will be part of your job. 

If you don’t feel confident in your proofreading skills, consider asking a friend or using a tool like Grammarly to catch mistakes. 

If you feel stuck trying to get started, don’t panic. Consider using a resume builder or ChatGPT to write your resume draft. You can also use an existing functional resume template. 

The key sections of a functional resume and example templates are included below.

Contact information

Put essential details like the following in the top right-hand corner of your resume: 

• First and last name
• A work-appropriate email address
• Phone number
• Your city and country
• Links to your website or portfolio
• Links to up-to-date professional social media, like a LinkedIn profile

Summary statement

Include a two- to four-sentence statement about your professional identity and why you’re applying for the position. Consider adding a personal value statement to stand out to the hiring panel. Make sure to personalize this to each job ad and organization. 

Here are a few professional summary statement templates for functional resumes:

Recent graduate 

Recent graduate of [program name] from [university name]. Experience with [list skills acquired through internships or other experiences]. Knowledge of [areas of study that apply to the job description]. Strong attention to detail and a resourceful problem solver [or other soft skills listed in the job description]. 

Why it works: Highlights experience and demonstrates basic knowledge relevant to entry-level jobs .

Career change 

Results-driven [or other soft skill] [field or job role] with over [number] years of experience in [industry]. In-depth knowledge of [ hard skills ]. Strong [ soft skills ] with a commitment to [value]. Recipient of [certification or award]. Achieved the [name a specific example of an accomplishment with stats, if possible]. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment . 

Why it works: Places strong emphasis on hard and soft skills that are transferable to the desired company or industry. 

Significant gaps on functional resume

[Job title] with [number] years of experience. Seeking to [goal] at [company name]. Have [most significant/relevant work accomplishments with stats]. Spent the last [number of years] developing my [2–3 soft skills]. 

Why it works: Explains what this person did during the career break and reflects accomplishments or acquired skills, like being a new parent or babysitter .

Skills section

Skills and qualifications are the center of any resume. Carefully read the job description, study the company’s core values and mission statement , and align your language to both.

Outline three hard and soft skills that are required or valuable to the job role. Be specific about how you acquired and used those skills with action verbs and statistics.

Imagine you’re transitioning from sales to a project manager role. Highlight commonalities between the roles. Use examples from your previous position to show proficiencies outlined in the job ad. Here’s an example of relevant resume bullet points.

Sales management:

• Acted as a liaison between clients and the sales team. Managed five accounts for tech development companies and led and organized more than 10 employees.
• Implemented digitized sales interface and increased team productivity by 25% and turnover by 45%, resulting in $2.5M in sales.
• Increased sales quota by 230%. Exceeded sales quotas for six consecutive years.

Education section

Use this space to outline degree specifics while listing honors and awards , personal achievements , or relevant courses and certifications. If you recently graduated, consider including your GPA on your resume .

Employment gaps and career changes are common. Nearly 70% of U.S. workers have an employment gap on their resume . Among these job seekers, 60% believe that their career gap has made it harder for them to find work.

While career gaps are not as taboo as they once were, you should always be ready to explain them in an interview. Here are a few tips to help ensure that conversation goes smoothly:

• Be honest about the reason for your career gap
• Make your explanation brief and then move on 
• Highlight something new you learned during your gap or any new certifications you received 
• Make it a positive story about how ready you are to jump back into the workforce
• Be confident and keep a positive attitude

Career changes can also be tough to explain, especially when they’re done later in life. Here are some tips to prepare for a career change conversation:

• Briefly describe why you want to make the switch (maybe your previous career wasn’t as fulfilling as you’d like, or you felt it didn’t fully exercise your skills)
• Explain why you’re passionate about the new career you’re exploring
• Talk about your objectives within your new career path and how this position can help you achieve them
• Compare the two career paths by explaining any transferable skills or responsibilities

Functional resumes offer many benefits for those lacking a strong work history. They’re ideal for people making career changes or post-grads seeking purpose after college . They can highlight your strengths while minimizing your weaknesses. This enables you to put your best foot forward.

If you’re preparing for a big career move, consider working with a career coach. Career coaching can help you present your strengths in a compelling way and give you helpful job-hunting tips . This can position you to excel in your career with both confidence and clarity. Find your career coach .

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Functional Resume: A Beginner’s Guide with Examples

In today’s competitive job market, it is essential to make a strong first impression on potential employers. However, traditional chronological resumes may not always be the best option for individuals looking to showcase their unique skills and experiences. This is where functional resumes come into play.

A functional resume focuses on a candidate’s skills and accomplishments rather than their work experience. Rather than listing job titles and specific duties, a functional resume emphasizes the candidate’s abilities and how they can add value to a workplace. It is especially useful for individuals who have gaps in their employment history, are changing careers, or have limited work experience.

Why Choose a Functional Resume

A functional resume can be an excellent option for individuals who want to stand out from other candidates. By highlighting their unique skillset, candidates can show potential employers that they have the necessary qualifications and can be an asset to their organization. Additionally, a functional resume can help applicants who have changed jobs frequently, as it emphasizes their transferable skills rather than their work history.

Benefits of a Functional Resume

There are several benefits to using a functional resume. Firstly, it allows individuals to focus on their strengths, making their application more compelling to potential employers. It can also help reduce concerns about gaps in employment by highlighting the candidate’s skills and experience rather than their work history. Additionally, by presenting their qualifications in a clear and concise manner, candidates may be able to attract the attention of hiring managers more effectively.

A functional resume can be an excellent option for individuals who want to showcase their unique skills and experience. By highlighting their strengths and minimizing perceived weaknesses, candidates can increase their chances of getting hired and landing their dream job.

Anatomy of a Functional Resume

A functional resume is a type of resume that focuses more on skills and achievements, rather than the chronological work history. This style of resume is perfect for job seekers who have significant gaps in their work history or who want to highlight their transferable skills.

Structure of a Functional Resume

The structure of a functional resume typically involves a few key sections, which include:

Header : This section includes your contact information, such as your name, email address, phone number, and address.

Summary/Objective : This section is a brief statement that highlights your top skills and experiences. This is where you can showcase your unique value proposition and communicate what you can bring to the company.

Skills : In this section, you list your relevant skills, such as technical skills, hard skills, soft skills, and language proficiency.

Experience : This section lists your work experiences and accomplishments, but it is organized by relevant skills rather than by job title or date.

Education : This section includes your educational background and any certifications or awards you may have earned.

Sections of a Functional Resume

All the sections included in a functional resume are designed to showcase your transferable skills and achievements. Unlike a chronological resume which is primarily focused on your work history, a functional resume is tailored to highlight your areas of expertise.

The Difference between a Functional Resume and a Chronological Resume

The key difference between a functional resume and a chronological resume is the focus on your work history. A chronological resume is organized by dates and job titles, while a functional resume is organized by skills and achievements.

A chronological resume is best suited for job seekers who have a consistent work history with minimal gaps. Meanwhile, a functional resume is ideal for job seekers with limited experience or those who want to highlight their transferable skills.

A functional resume is a powerful tool for job seekers who want to stand out from the crowd by showcasing their skills and achievements. The structure and sections of a functional resume are strategically designed to highlight your unique value proposition and communicate what you can bring to the company.

When to Use a Functional Resume

A functional resume is a great choice for certain job seekers depending on their work history, experience, and career goals. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to use a functional resume:

Who Should Use a Functional Resume

Functional resumes are ideal for job seekers who have gaps in their work history, have changed careers frequently, or have relevant skills from other work or life experiences. These types of resumes highlight those skills and experiences rather than focusing on specific job titles or employers.

Another scenario where a functional resume might be appropriate is for recent graduates who have limited work experience but have developed relevant skills through internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.

It’s important to note that functional resumes may not be the best option for recent graduates who are applying to entry-level positions in their field.

Situations that Call for a Functional Resume

There are several situations in which a functional resume may be a better choice than a traditional chronological resume.

If you are returning to work after a long absence, such as raising children, taking care of a family member, or dealing with a personal health issue, a functional resume can help you emphasize skills and experiences gained during that time.

Job seekers who are changing careers may also benefit from a functional resume as it allows them to highlight transferable skills and show how they are relevant to the new industry or job they are seeking.

Finally, if you have had a lot of short-term jobs or freelance work, a functional resume can help you highlight your skills and achievements across those different roles rather than simply listing each job and its duties.

How to Know When a Functional Resume is Appropriate

If you are unsure whether a functional resume is the right choice for you, consider talking to a career counselor or professional resume writer who can help you assess your skills and experience in relation to the jobs you want.

You should also carefully consider the job listing and the employer’s needs. If the job posting emphasizes specific job titles or required experience, a traditional chronological resume may be a better choice.

A functional resume can be a great option for job seekers who have varied work history or skills gained outside of traditional employment. By emphasizing skills and experiences over job titles and employers, it can help you stand out to potential employers and showcase your strengths.

Preparing to Write a Functional Resume

Before you start writing your functional resume, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that your final document is effective in highlighting your skills and qualifications.

Steps for Preparing a Functional Resume

Research the job description:  Start by reviewing the job posting or job description thoroughly. Highlight and make note of the skills, experiences, and qualifications that the employer is seeking.

Make a list of your own skills and qualifications:  Next, make a list of your own skills and qualifications, taking into account the job requirements that you have identified. This list should include both hard and soft skills, as well as any relevant experience, education or certification.

Evaluate your career history:  Take time to evaluate your career history and consider any significant achievements, projects, and experiences that demonstrate your strengths and key competencies.

Decide on resume sections and order:  Once you have compiled your list of skills and qualifications, you can start organizing your resume sections. Decide on the order of your sections based on what is most relevant and eye-catching to employers.

Identifying Your Skills and Qualifications

Hard skills:  These are specific, measurable technical skills that you have developed through education or experience. Examples include proficiency in a particular computer program or language, hands-on experience with a specific tool or machinery, or certification in a particular discipline.

Soft skills:  These are personal attributes that reflect how you interact with others and contribute to an organization’s culture. Examples include communication skills, time management, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

In a functional resume, you will want to prioritize your skills and qualifications above your experience. This way, any potential employer can quickly see what you bring to the table and how you can benefit their organization.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Functional Resume

There are three main formats to consider when writing a functional resume: chronological, hybrid, and functional.

Chronological:  In a chronological resume, your experience is listed in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job at the top. Skills and qualifications are typically listed in a separate section below the experience section.

Hybrid:  A hybrid resume combines elements of both a chronological and functional resume. The top section of the resume highlights your skills and qualifications, followed by a chronological listing of your work experience.

Functional:  In a functional resume, your skills and qualifications take center stage. This format de-emphasizes your work history, but still includes a brief summary of your career achievements, along with a list of relevant work experiences.

When choosing the right format for your functional resume, consider the job requirements and the employer’s preferences. By using the appropriate format and putting your skills and qualifications front and center, you can create a winning functional resume that effectively markets your talents and experience to employers.

Writing a Successful Functional Resume

A functional resume is a great way for job seekers to showcase their skills and experiences without emphasizing their job history. By highlighting your professional accomplishments and qualifications, you can create a powerful resume that will capture the attention of potential employers.

Here are some writing tips to help you craft a successful functional resume:

Writing Tips:

Start with a strong summary statement that highlights your skills and qualifications.

Use bullet points to organize your achievements and skills.

Use action words to describe your achievements and skills, such as “created”, “managed”, “designed”, etc.

Be concise and clear with your language. Avoid using overly complicated industry jargon or long sentences.

Use a standard, easy-to-read font and format your resume consistently throughout.

Next, it’s important to consider what keywords to include in your functional resume.

Keywords to Include in a Functional Resume:

Using relevant keywords can help your resume get through automated applicant tracking systems (ATS) and improve your chances of getting noticed by human recruiters.

Here are some common keywords to include in a functional resume:

• Industry-specific skills and qualifications
• Software and technical skills
• Professional certifications and licenses
• Project management experience
• Leadership and team management skills

Remember to include any relevant keywords that match the job description, as this can increase your chances of getting selected for an interview.

Lastly, here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a functional resume:

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Functional Resume:

Not including specific achievements or accomplishments.

Listing irrelevant work experience.

Using a generic summary statement that doesn’t match the job description.

Using buzzwords or industry jargon that may not be understood by recruiters outside of your field.

Focusing too much on job duties and not enough on accomplishments and skills.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a functional resume that showcases your unique talents, accomplishments, and qualifications. Remember to highlight your skills and experience and tailor your resume to each job description to increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Examples of Functional Resumes

Functional resumes are an excellent option for job seekers who want to draw attention to their skills and abilities instead of their work history. Here are three examples to help you understand how to structure a functional resume:

Example 1: Functional Resume for a Recent Graduate

[Your Name]

Recent Graduate | Seeking Entry-Level [Industry/Position]

Motivated and enthusiastic recent graduate with a [Degree/Major] from [University/College]. Strong academic foundation in [relevant coursework/skills]. Passionate about [industry/field] and eager to apply knowledge and skills in a professional setting. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities.

• [Relevant Skill 1]
• [Relevant Skill 2]
• [Relevant Skill 3]
• [Relevant Skill 4]
• [Year of Graduation]
• Relevant coursework: [Coursework 1], [Coursework 2], [Coursework 3]
• [Project 1]: [Brief description and key achievements]
• [Project 2]: [Brief description and key achievements]
• [Project 3]: [Brief description and key achievements]

Intern, [Company/Organization]

• Assisted with [specific tasks/responsibilities].
• Conducted [research/analysis] to support [project/initiative].
• Collaborated with team members to [achieve goals/outcomes].

Volunteer, [Organization]

• Contributed to [specific tasks/responsibilities].
• Assisted in organizing [events/activities].
• Demonstrated strong [skill/ability] in a team environment.

Additional Skills

• Proficient in [Software/Applications]
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational abilities
• Adaptability and willingness to learn

Certifications

• [Certification 1]
• [Certification 2]
• [Certification 3]
• [Language 1]: Native proficiency
• [Language 2]: Intermediate proficiency

Example 2: Functional Resume for Experienced Worker

Experienced Professional | [Industry/Position]

Results-driven and accomplished professional with [number of years] of experience in [industry/field]. Proven track record of success in [specific areas/achievements]. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. Committed to driving [goals/objectives] and delivering exceptional outcomes.

Professional Experience

[Current/Previous Position], [Company/Organization]

• [Key Responsibility/Achievement 1]
• [Key Responsibility/Achievement 2]
• [Key Responsibility/Achievement 3]

[Previous Position], [Company/Organization]

Additional Experience

[Related Experience 1], [Company/Organization]

[Related Experience 2], [Company/Organization]

• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Detail-oriented and highly organized

Formatting Your Functional Resume

When it comes to formatting your functional resume, there are key design and layout decisions you must make to present a well-organized, polished document that will catch an employer’s attention. Below are some important design guidelines, font and layout considerations, and tips for creating a professional look.

Design Guidelines

Make sure to choose a clean, easy-to-read design that is visually appealing. Use a standard paper size and keep margins at 1 inch all around. Avoid too much white space, which can make the resume look sparse, but don’t clutter the page with too much text or graphics. Sticking to a one-page format is ideal, but ensure that all relevant and important information is included.

Fonts and Layout Considerations

Your choice of font is important, as it can impact the readability of your resume. Choose a font for headings that stands out, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and use a slightly smaller font size for body text. Avoid fonts that may be harder to read, such as script or cursive styles.

In terms of layout, use bullet points to make information easy to scan and digest. Avoid long, dense paragraphs. Use headings and subheadings to organize content and lead the reader through the document. Additionally, use bolding, italicizing, or underlining to highlight important information, but use these effects sparingly.

Creating a Professional Look

In addition to adhering to design and font guidelines, there are other steps you can take to create a professional look for your functional resume. First, make sure that you have consistent formatting throughout the document. Use the same font, font size, and spacing throughout the body of the resume. This helps create a cohesive, polished look.

Secondly, don’t forget the importance of proofreading. Spelling errors, inaccuracies, or other mistakes can detract from the overall impression of your resume. After drafting your functional resume, take time to review and proofread it thoroughly to ensure that it is error-free.

Finally, consider tailoring your design and format to the job you are applying for. Review the job posting and consider the industry or company you are applying to. Adjust the layout or design elements to fit the desired “feel” of the position or organization.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can create a professional, well-organized functional resume that effectively showcases your unique skills and experience.

Tailoring Your Functional Resume to a Job Posting

When it comes to job hunting, tailoring your functional resume to a job posting is crucial. A functional resume is designed to highlight your skills and accomplishments, rather than just your work experience, which makes it a great choice for those who have gaps in their job history or who are changing careers. However, to really make your functional resume stand out, you need to tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for.

Job Posting Analysis

Before you start tailoring your functional resume, you need to carefully analyze the job posting to understand what the employer is looking for. Look for keywords and phrases that are repeated throughout the posting. Pay attention to the qualifications and requirements that the employer is looking for. Think about how your skills and experience match up with what they’re looking for.

Targeted Functional Resumes

Once you’ve analyzed the job posting, it’s time to start tailoring your functional resume. Start by creating a master resume that includes all of your skills and work experience. From there, you can create targeted functional resumes for each job you apply for. Use the keywords and phrases you found in the job posting to highlight your skills and accomplishments that match up with what the employer is looking for.

As you’re creating your targeted functional resume, keep the job posting in mind. Customize your objective statement to align with the position you’re applying for. Use the same language and terminology that the employer uses in the posting. Highlight your skills and accomplishments that are most relevant to the position.

The Importance of a Tailored Functional Resume

Tailoring your functional resume to the job you’re applying for is important for a few reasons. First, it shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to research the position and understand what they’re looking for. Second, it highlights your skills and accomplishments that are most relevant to the position, which makes you a stronger candidate. Finally, it helps you stand out from the other applicants who may be using a generic functional resume.

Tailoring your functional resume to a job posting is a crucial step in your job search. By analyzing the job posting, creating targeted functional resumes, and highlighting your most relevant skills and accomplishments, you can increase your chances of standing out from the crowd and landing the job you want.

Cover Letter Writing Tips for a Functional Resume

When it comes to job hunting, a functional resume can be an effective tool to showcase your skills and qualifications. However, it’s important to remember that your cover letter also plays a crucial role in the application process. In this section, we’ll discuss some tips on how to incorporate your functional resume into your cover letter, highlight your skills and qualifications, and address any employment gaps.

Incorporating Your Functional Resume into Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter should complement your functional resume and not simply repeat information. Therefore, it’s important to think about how your skills and qualifications can be integrated into your cover letter. One effective approach is to use specific examples of how your skills and experience match the requirements of the job you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position and your functional resume highlights your experience in social media management and content creation, you could mention specific campaigns you’ve managed in your cover letter. This shows the hiring manager that you have the skills they’re looking for and have experience applying them in a professional context.

Highlighting Your Skills and Qualifications in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is a chance to really highlight your strengths as a candidate. Rather than simply listing your qualifications, take the opportunity to explain how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the position.

For example, if you’re a recent graduate with limited work experience, you could focus on your academic achievements and any relevant coursework or projects. Alternatively, if you have years of experience in a particular field, you could explain how that experience has given you a unique perspective on the job you’re applying for.

Addressing Employment Gaps in Your Cover Letter

If your functional resume includes employment gaps, it’s important to address these issues in your cover letter. Rather than trying to hide or explain away the gaps, be honest about what you were doing during that time and emphasize any skills or experience you gained.

For example, if you took a break from work to care for a family member, you could explain how that experience taught you valuable communication and organizational skills. Alternatively, if you pursued a personal project during your employment gap, you could highlight how that experience gave you new perspectives or taught you new skills.

Your cover letter offers a chance to expand on the information in your functional resume and showcase your skills and qualifications. By incorporating specific examples and addressing any employment gaps, your cover letter can help you stand out as a strong candidate for any job.

Submitting a Functional Resume

When it comes to submitting a functional resume, there are several tips and strategies that can help increase your chances of landing an interview. Additionally, it’s important to be prepared to follow up on your application and deal with rejection if necessary.

Tips for Submitting Your Functional Resume

Here are some tips for submitting your functional resume:

Customize your resume for each job application. Your functional resume should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.

Use keywords from the job description. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for relevant keywords. Make sure you include keywords from the job description to increase your chances of passing the ATS screening.

Focus on achievements rather than duties. Instead of listing your job duties, highlight your accomplishments and how you added value to your previous roles. This will help the employer see the impact you can make in their organization.

Keep it concise and easy to read. A functional resume should be no longer than two pages, with clear headings and bullet points to organize the information.

Following up on Your Functional Resume

After submitting your functional resume, it’s important to follow up on your application to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for the position. Here are some tips for following up:

Wait a week before following up. Give the employer a chance to review your application before reaching out.

Send a brief email. Keep your follow-up email short and to the point. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest in the position.

Showcase your skills and experience. Use your follow-up email as an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and why you’re a good fit for the job.

Be persistent but polite. If you don’t hear back after your initial follow-up, it’s okay to send another email or make a phone call. However, remain polite and professional in your communication.

Dealing with Rejection

Unfortunately, rejection is a part of the job search process. Here are some tips for handling rejection:

Don’t take it personally. Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not a qualified candidate or that you’ll never find a job. It’s simply part of the hiring process.

Ask for feedback. If possible, ask the employer for feedback on why you weren’t selected for the position. This can help you improve your resume and job search strategy moving forward.

Keep a positive attitude. It’s important to maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated during the job search process. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family, and focus on the opportunities that lie ahead.

Submitting a functional resume can be an effective way to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers.

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How to Write a Functional Resume [4 Free Templates Included]

Struggling with your resume because you just graduated from university and don’t have much work experience?

Or maybe you’re switching careers, and aren’t sure how to make your past position relevant for the new field?

Whichever the case, the solution is pretty simple:

Use a functional resume format!

• What’s a Functional Resume?

When to Use a Functional Resume?

How to write a functional resume.

• What Are Some Other Resume Formats (and When To Use Them)

What is a Functional Resume?

A functional resume, also known as the skill-based resume, is a resume format that focuses on your professional skill test as opposed to work experience.

If you were to create a traditional resume, you’d list out your work experience in reverse chronological order as follows:

Whereas, in the case of a functional resume , you list out each of your skills, and then back them up by highlighting how you’ve practically applied them in the past:

It’s better to use a functional resume in the following situations:

• You’re a recent graduate with no work experience. As the functional resume focuses on skills rather than experience, it can be very helpful to students.
• You’re switching careers . If you have some work experience, but the said experience isn’t relevant for the position you’re applying for, you can use a functional resume to highlight how your skills make you the right candidate.
• You have a long history of unemployment (or gaps between jobs). Since the functional resume format focuses on skills, you can use it to downplay your work experience gaps.

That being said, in around 90% of cases, we don’t recommend using a functional resume .

While it does have its perks (e.g. standing out as a recent graduate), it also comes with significant downsides.

First off, it’s nowhere near as popular as the traditional resume format, and in certain parts of the world, recruiters might not even know that the functional format is a thing.

In addition, some recruiters might find the lack of work experience in a resume suspicious because it can hint the candidate isn’t being truthful (e.g. red flags, being fired from previous employment, etc.).

These 2 disadvantages combined make a compelling case against the functional resume format.

So, if you do decide to create a functional resume, weigh the pros and cons and proceed at your own risk!

Want to also learn how to create a traditional resume ? Check out our guide!

First things first - pick a compelling resume template to get started. We recommend using our Functional Resume template:

Then, create the following sections on your resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Summary
• Skill Summary

If you have additional space once you’re finished with these sections, you can fill it up with some optional sections (which we’ll explain a bit down the line).

Now, let’s walk you through each of these sections and explain how to do them right:

#1. Contact Information

While it might sound elementary, there’s a ton of tid-bits you need to know about getting the contact information section right.

Here’s what you need to include in the contact information section:

• First and last name
• Current job title
• Email address
• Phone number
• City and country you’re based in

Optionally, you can also include links to relevant social media profiles. For example:

• If you’re a writer, you can link your portfolio page or website.
• If you’re a developer, you can link your GitHub profile.
• If you’re a marketer, you can link your Instagram or Twitter page.
• Your LinkedIn profile link (if it’s up-to-date).

#2. Resume Summary

The next section on your functional resume is the “resume summary.”

This section goes right under your contact information, and looks something like this:

In a nutshell, a resume summary is a 2-4 sentence recap of your biggest professional achievements and career highlights.

The goal of this section is to show the recruiter (in one glance) that you’re qualified for the position you’re applying for.

Here’s what a well-written resume summary would look like:

• Professional executive assistant with experience in supporting high-level CEOs and other executives for over 5 years. Experienced in customer support, data entry, and scheduling meetings. Skilled in time management, MS Office, and Adobe Photoshop.

#3. Skill Summary

This one’s going to be the bulk of your functional resume.

In a skill summary section, you mention the top 3 skills required for the position you’re applying for and then provide information on how you’ve gained the said skills right under them.

Let’s say, for example, you’re a recent graduate applying for a role in marketing. Here’s what your skill summary could look like:

Copywriting

• Wrote over 20+ well-researched papers for my university.
• Worked at the university news media as a journalist, interviewing interesting university alumni and publishing their stories on the website.
• Created and published high-quality tech articles on my personal blog (www.exampleblog.com).
• Participated in a university project for a real-life company (Company X), where we had to come up with ideas for expanding to a new market.
• With the help of my team, came up with 5 ideas, out of which 3 were actually implemented by the company.
• Came up with 100+ topic ideas for content on my personal blog, some of which got over 50 shares when published.

Project Management

• Acted as a team leader for most of my university projects, ensuring that they were completed on time, and that every group member contributed.
• Was part of the Startup Weekend organizational committee. Helped source speakers, organize the event, find sponsors, and overall ensured that the event went smoothly.

#4. Education

The next section on your functional resume is Education , and this one’s actually pretty straightforward.

Here, list out the following information:

• Name of the degree (e.g. B.A. in Computer Science)
• Name of the university and dates attended (e.g. Boston State University, 2012 - 2016)

Optionally, you can also include the following as part of your education section :

• GPA. If you had an impressive GPA in your university (3.5 - 4.0), you can list it in your resume. Most companies, however, don’t really care about your grades all that much .
• Honors. E.g. Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, etc.
• Academic Achievements. Your thesis, interesting or noteworthy research papers you’ve written, etc.
• Courses Attended. If you’ve taken some very impressive classes (and they’re related to the role you’re applying for), you can mention them in your education section.

#5. Optional Sections

Still have some space left on your resume? Here are some other sections you can include:

• Projects - In our opinion, this one’s the most underrated resume section. Here, you can include any kind of personal or university project you’ve worked on. E.g. blog you’ve started, a piece of software you coded, etc.
• Extracurricular Activities - If you’re a recent graduate, you can include a section about the extracurricular activities you’ve participated in during university.
• Languages - Knowing an extra language or two can always come in handy. When filling these out, though, make sure to include your level of understanding (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Fluent, or Native).
• Work History - Yep, you CAN include work history on your functional resume. If you decide to do this, though, your resume will be a combination resume and NOT the functional one.

Other Resume Formats

There are 2 other resume formats in addition to the Functional one:

• Reverse-Chronological Resume Format
• Combination Resume Format

Here’s what they’re about:

#1. Reverse-Chronological Resume Format

This one’s the most common resume format out there and it’s what most people have in mind when they refer to a “resume.”

This resume format simply lists out work experiences in reverse-chronological order and backs them up with other essential resume sections (skills, education, etc.).

Unless you have specific reasons to use either of the other resume formats (combination or functional), we recommend you stick with this one.

#2. Combination Resume Format

The combination resume is almost the same thing as a functional resume, with a small twist.

In addition to the skill summary section on the resume, you also add a work history section (which helps even out the downsides that come with a functional resume).

Usually, the combination resume is used by senior professionals with a decade’s worth of work experience.

4 Free Functional Resume Templates & Examples

Want to get started with your functional resume?

All you have to do is pick one of our free templates and you’re good to go!

#1. Functional Resume Template

Our functional resume template adds a dash of style to the traditional black-and-white resume.

Use this template to present your skills and talents in the best way possible!

#2. Combination Resume Template

This combination template allows you to showcase your skills without having to cut down on work experience.

#3. College Resume Template

Our College resume template is perfect for recent university graduates, allowing you to emphasize your skill-set over your work experiences.

#4. Professional Resume Template

Looking for something a bit more professional? This resume template is a prime favorite for job-seekers who are serious about their careers.

Key Takeaways

And that just about sums up everything you need to know about functional resumes!

Now, let’s do a small recap of everything we’ve learned so far:

• A functional resume format is a type of resume that focuses more on skills rather than work experiences.
• You can use a functional resume if you’re a recent graduate with little work experience or if you’re switching careers.
• To create a compelling functional resume, you want to get your skill summary section just right.
• Functional resumes, however, are not that common in most parts of the world, so we recommend sticking to a conventional resume format to most job-seekers, instead.

Discover More Resume Templates

• One Page Resume Templates
• 2 Page Resume Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• Word Resume Templates
• Chronological Resume Templates
• Creative Resume Templates
• Minimalistic Resume Templates
• High School Resume Templates

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The Functional Resume: What It Is & When To Use It (Spoiler: Never)

3 key takeaways

• What a functional resume is (+ functional resume examples)
• How using this resume format might put you at a disadvantage
• How to use our free resume templates to put your best foot forward

Considering a functional resume format because your skills outweigh your work experience?

A functional resume focuses on specific skills rather than roles and companies—moving away from a traditional or chronological resume layout. And while it sounds like a good strategy if you're looking to highlight certain abilities, using a functional resume still requires some consideration. 

What is a functional resume?

A functional resume (sometimes called a skills-based resume format) focuses on the skills that qualify you for a role. This resume format prioritizes the tools and aptitudes you've used to do the job over where and when you've done it. 

Teal Note: We can provide guidance for building a functional resume, but this resume template doesn't exist in the Teal platform.

As the workforce evolves, functional resumes have become increasingly popular—but not universally accepted; the trend toward functional resumes is more prevalent among job seekers than hiring professionals. Here's why:

By emphasizing transferable skills and abilities, a functional resume allows anyone with a non-linear career path or limited work experience to present areas of strengths and potential rather than a job history.

But while the core of a functional resume emphasizes skills and competencies, it doesn't focus on:

• Comprehensive work history 

Recruiting expert and Teal Social Media Manager Leah Dillon says:

"Anyone can list a skill, but just listing it doesn’t add value. It’s about showcasing that skill through experience, whether at a company or independently: How do you know it? How did you use it to have an impact alongside other skills?"

The elements above are critical for hiring professionals to assess your qualifications, especially during the initial screening. Direct, relevant experience, reflected through a clear timeline and job titles, is crucial to many job requirements.

Dillon echos this sentiment:

"Companies are looking for people to help drive the business forward, and those who showcase they’ve helped drive initiatives along tend to have higher interview rates."

Disadvantages of a functional resume

• Lack of familiarity:  Recruiters may find a functional resume less intuitive, making it harder to extract critical information quickly.
• Potential for skepticism:  The absence of a chronological work history can look like an attempt to hide gaps in employment or a lack of specific experience.
• Difficulty establishing career progression:  Demonstrating professional growth over time is often key to emphasizing the evolution of roles and responsibilities.
• Limited skills showcase: Functional resumes miss the opportunity to show the breadth of your abilities. A range of skills throughout your resume will help align your experience with a job's requirements. Merely listing skills without showing how they've been applied collectively to have an impact undermines the effectiveness of your entire resume.

Functional resumes vs. other resume formats

Chronological resume.

A chronological resume (or reverse-chronological resume ) is the most widely accepted resume format—presenting your work history in reverse chronological order.

It offers a straightforward view of your career progression, highlighting your work experience and making it easy for hiring managers and recruiters to see your background, achievements, and how you've used your skills to have an impact over time.

View our full selection of free reverse-chronological resume templates to find a style and presentation that suits your career.

Combination resume

The combination resume , or hybrid, blends elements of both functional and chronological resumes while still offering a clear and easy-to-read layout. It typically starts with a professional summary, followed by a section for hard or technical skills, and then a reverse chronological listing of your work history. 

When to use a functional resume

If you've made it this far and still feel the best resume format is a skills-based resume, here are the best use cases.

Career pivoters

Suppose you're transitioning to a new industry or career path. In that case, a functional resume can help highlight transferable skills relevant to your new field—regardless of where you've acquired them.

Those with employment gaps

If you have a gap in your employment, you can use a functional resume to emphasize your skills, highlighting what you bring to the table rather than focusing on your employment history.

Reentering the workforce

If you're returning to work after a significant break, a functional resume can help you highlight your relevant, valuable skills.

First-time job seekers

If you're a job seeker creating a resume with no work experience , a functional resume format focuses on skills rather than a non-existent or thin work history.

For applications that request this format

Some job postings might request a functional resume. In these cases, sticking to this format shows you can follow directions and understand the specific preferences of your prospective employer.

How to write a functional resume

Before you choose a resume format, you need the  right  tool to store your skills, achievements, and more. 

The Teal  AI Resume Builder  is a free platform to house all these details in one central location. 

Now, it's time to write your functional resume.

1. Start with your contact information

You want prospective employers to contact you, so you're going to need to give them those details as clearly as possible.

Your resume contact information should include:

• Phone Number
• Professional email address
• LinkedIn profile URL 
• Portfolio or personal website URL (if applicable)
• Your target title

2. Add a professional summary

Below your contact information, write a 3-5 sentence professional summary. Consider this your highlight reel—zeroing in on top achievements, skills, and qualifications while generating enough interest to keep the hiring manager or recruiter reading the rest of your resume.

Pro Tip: If you want to save time writing your professional summary, try Teal’s AI Resume Summary Generator to write tailored, position-specific summaries in seconds.

3. List relevant skills

Next up, list your skills. Because you're using a functional resume format, this section will change each time you apply for a specific role.

The skills in your resume (regardless of format) should  always  align with the job description of the role you're applying to.

Resume skills example: 

If a job description says,

"3 years of experience in an SEO, Growth Ops, or Marketing Ops role, ideally in a startup environment for a B2C audience with strong knowledge building and owning workflows as it relates to SEO, content production, and publishing."

Then, your resume's "Skill" section should focus on at least three skills listed. 

• Content Production

Not sure which skills matter most? Teal's got you covered. The Teal AI Resume Builder pulls the top skills as keywords from any job description, so you know which ones matter most.

Once you've identified the top three skills in the job description, add three to five bullet points beneath each to showcase  how  you used that skill to have impact.

Using the job description above, here's a functional resume example of how this might look.

• Orchestrated a growth ops strategy, successfully improving SEO workflow efficiency by 25%
• Led a team in implementing growth op practices, increasing web traffic by 35%
• Redesigned growth op workflows, improving content production and publishing by 20% 

4. Add optional sections

Once you have your primary skills and the impact of those skills, add job history, an "Education" section, and certifications to support them.

4 tips for writing a functional resume

Now that you understand how to write a functional resume let's go over some best practices that'll help guide you.

• Only emphasize relevant skills : Identify the skills most relevant to the job you’re applying for and provide specific examples of how you used those skills.
• Quantify your achievements : Wherever possible, use numbers, metrics, and data to show the impact of your work. Think efficiency improvements, revenue growth, etc.
• Use a clear, organized layout : Ensure your resume is easy to read. Use headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting to make your skills and achievements stand out.
• Tailor your resume : Customize your target title, resume summary, skills, and bullet points—ensuring your content aligns with what an employer is looking for.

Functional resume format

The functional resume layout differs significantly from other traditional formats. Here's how to do it:

• Contact details
• Your resume summary
• A clear "Skills" section with achievements relevant to the role

If you include an employment history, place it after the skills section. Education and any other relevant details (certifications or volunteer experience) should come last.

3 tips for formatting a functional resume

• Provide clarity: Use a clean, easy-to-read layout. Opt for bullet points to describe your skills and achievements, making the resume scannable .
• Use consistent formatting : Your resume content should stick to one font style and size, with clear and slightly larger or bolded headings to distinguish each section.
• Balance white space and text: A well-balanced layout avoids clutter, making your resume clear and easy to read.

Functional resume examples

A functional resume example can help guide your process—giving you a clear idea of how to create a compelling functional resume.

Data analyst functional resume example

Software engineer skills-based resume sample

Project manager functional resume example

Functional resume templates

A free functional resume template can be a valuable tool in writing your resume.

Functional resume templates provide a structured layout so you can effectively showcase your skills and their impact.

Websites like Teal, Canva, Google, and Microsoft offer a variety of resume templates . These platforms are user-friendly, and their simple resume templates cater to different career needs and styles.

How to use skills-based resume templates

1. Copy the template into your editing software : Copy and paste (or download the template) in your preferred editing software.

2. Customize each section : Replace any placeholder text with your own details. Focus heavily on the skills section, making sure to highlight only skills that are 100% relevant to the job you're applying for.

3. Adjust the design : While the template provides a basic structure, feel free to make minor adjustments to the design. (This could include changing font sizes or styles, adjusting the layout of sections, or adding a small pop of color. Just be mindful to keep it easy to read.)

4. Proofread and edit : Make sure your resume is free of errors like placeholder text and the information is current and accurate.

Skills-based resume templates

Below are some free skills-based resume templates that provide a solid foundation for you to start from. Use them as a guide for showcasing your unique skills and experiences effectively.

Student skills-based resume template

[Full Name]

[Contact Information]

[Target Title]

Professional Summary

[Highly motivated and detail-oriented student] pursuing a [Bachelor's/Master's] degree in [Field of Study] with a strong foundation in [Key Skills]. Experienced in [mention any relevant internships, part-time jobs, or projects with impact] and passionate about [specific interest within the field].

[Relevant Skill]

• Achievement with impact

[Bachelor's/Master's] in [Field of Study]

[University Name], [Expected Year of Graduation]

Coursework (Optional)

[Course] - [Brief description]

Recent graduate functional resume template

[Energetic and motivated recent graduate] with a [Bachelor's/Master's] degree in [Field of Study] from [University Name]. I have excellent [Key Skills] and am eager to apply academic knowledge and [internship/academic project with results] experience to contribute effectively to [industry/role]. Strong [relevant soft skills] and a quick learner, ready to excel in a [specific field/role].

[University Name], [Year of Graduation]

Projects (Optional)

• [Project Title] - [Brief description and outcome]

Career pivot skills-based resume template

[Experienced professional in [previous career] with a strong foundation in [relevant skills] and a passion for [new career/industry]. Seeking to leverage [transferable skills] to transition into a [target role/industry]. Accomplished in [mention at least one relevant achievement with impact] and committed to achieving success in [new career/industry].

Certifications

[Certification] - [Organization]

Professional Experience

[Previous Job Title] | [Previous Company], [Years of Experience]

• [Any relevant achievements]

Create and manage your resume with Teal

While functional resumes showcase specific skills, they also have limitations.

Their format, which deviates from the traditional chronological layout, is less familiar and more challenging for hiring professionals to navigate. This unfamiliarity may lead to difficulty in quickly assessing what you bring to the table—leaving you at a disadvantage compared to other candidates.

A chronological or hybrid resume might be a better option if you're looking for a more easily recognized approach. These formats are more familiar and provide a clear, linear view of your skills and how you used them over time to have an impact.

If you're ready to grab (and hold!) the attention of hiring managers and recruiters with a holistic view of your skills and experience—one they can easily follow and appreciate—it's time to get started:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do employers like functional resumes.

Employers typically don't prefer functional resumes because they can obscure chronological work history and specific job titles. Unless a functional resume format is specifically requested, try to use a chronological or combination resume format instead.

What is a functional skills resume?

A functional skills resume focuses on skills and experiences rather than chronological work history, highlighting your top competencies.

When should you not use a functional resume?

You should not use a functional resume when applying to roles that require a clear understanding of your work history and progression.

Kayte Grady

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Functional resume format: Examples, tips, & free templates

Sections to include on your functional resume

Choosing the right format is one of the first and most important decisions you have to make when writing a resume . This guide will discuss the nuances of the functional format and the circumstances for using it. We'll also provide you with adaptable examples and plenty of other resources to help you choose the right type of resume.

A functional resume focuses on your skills and talents. It shows the reader how you can contribute to their organizational objectives from day one. It also helps to mask any issues with your employment history which a chronological resume may expose, such as limited experience or job gaps. We will discuss the pros and cons.

This guide will help you to confirm that a functional resume is the best choice for you, by teaching you the following:

• Introduce the functional resume as an option
• Show you how to create a layout for this type of resume
• What information to include in a functional resume
• How to organize each section

Why do many recruiters hate functional resumes? While a functional resume will be suitable for certain job seekers, as we will explore, we cannot escape the fact that recruiters dislike them. Functional resumes make it hard to understand when you accomplished specific things, there is little opportunity to understand the context of accomplishments and they automatically assume that the applicant is hiding something. If you have any career of note (3+ years) - think very carefully whether you want a recruiter to be feeling this way.

The functional resume: An introduction

The functional resume format is applicable for individuals with a great deal of education and training and/or a strong set of job-related skills. This includes new graduates or experienced workers transferring to a new industry where their skills and education will apply. It is also good for people who have worked for a limited number of organizations and whose skills are more important than the employers they have worked for.

A functional resume highlights your skills and talents and how they relate to the job you’re applying for. Often, the skills you have are the same ones described in the job posting. This type of resume is best for people working in technical or skill-based professions, or who are transitioning into a new career .

There are 3 common resume formats: chronological, functional, and a combination. Here's how to choose the right one for you.

My career path hasn't been smooth. Should I hide it with a functional resume? Being open and honest about your career is the only choice. If you attempt to hide job hopping and career gaps with a functional resume, you guarantee an awkward barrage of probing questions in an interview (where you will have to tell the truth). Career gaps happen, mistakes happen and people get fired for no reason. Interviewers understand this - a bumpy career history doesn't mean that you won't do a fantastic job.

Format of a functional resume

The format of a functional resume is very specific. It is structured to enable recruiters to quickly determine your qualifications for the job and to encourage them to read the complete resume to learn more about you. An easy way to create your resume is to select a functional resume template which you can find online and simply insert your details into the appropriate sections, following the prompts provided by the functional resume template. However, you still need to know what the structure of a functional resume looks like.

The basic structure for a functional resume is:

• Name and contact information (email, phone and possibly the location, but never an address)
• Title – This should match the job title you are applying for
• Summary of applicable skills and any experience relevant to those listed in the job posting.
• Hard Skills – The emphasis is here. These are the skills directly related to the job
• Additional Skills – Soft skills which complement the job
• Education – Formal, vocational and subsequent training in specific skills (note – this may precede the Skills section if you are a recent graduate or have received recent training which would qualify you for the position)
• Experience – Brief listing of employers, dates, and title
• Industry related certifications
• Industry organizations
• Volunteer experience

Career change is a valid reason for a functional resume format. Having said that recruiters don't like functional resumes, when you are changing careers and wish to emphasize that you have the necessary skills to do your new job, a spotlight on functional skills and competencies is exactly what you need.

The basic content you include in your resume is similar for any resume format you choose to use. However, how it is organized and how much detail you provide for each section differs depending on the type of resume you are writing. Here are the content and organization recommendations for the functional resume .

Contact information

The resume starts with your contact information. This will allow the employer to reach out to you to invite you to an interview , which is the purpose of a resume. Your contact details should include:

• Phone number
• e-mail address
• LinkedIn profile URL

Each of these items could be at the top of each page of the resume so the employer will know whose resume they are reading. Your name should be slightly larger than your contact information. Your email address and LinkedIn URL can contain links which the employer can click on. Anything you can do to make it easier for the employer will help you land the interview.

Professional summary

The next item in your functional resume is a brief summary of your professional background. This enables the employer to begin to know something about you and encourages them to want to read the rest of your resume. It should be the same as your ‘ elevator pitch ’ or your answer to the infamous ‘ Tell me about yourself ’ interview question. It should summarize your skills, experience, and ability to contribute to the employer’s business objectives in 2-3 sentences.

(Adjective 1) and (adjective 2) (job title) who is passionate about (job duty) and offering (service provided by company) with efficiency and attention to detail. Excited to learn more about (field) from (company name) and be a part of achieving (goal.)

A resume summary is one of the most important components of any resume, and it’s probably the most challenging part to write.

This next section will include both ‘ hard skills ’ , which are directly related to the job you are applying to, and ‘ soft skills ’ , which are character traits. This latter category will demonstrate your ability to work well in the employer’s environment. They include things like communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and others.

When you opt for a functional resume , the skills section is the most important and you will spend more time on this section than you would in other types of resumes. The individual skills will be grouped in similar categories and described in much more detail. It may also contain examples of accomplishments related to the skills.  

Here is an example of the type of skills you could add to your own functional resume:

• Technical knowledge
• Personality trait
• Quality mentioned in job description

Similar to the skills section, the employment history or professional experience section of the resume will differ depending on the style of the resume you are using. For all formats, the basic information you include will be:

• Company name
• Dates employed

The positions are listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position and working backward. You should only list jobs going back for about 10 years. Anything prior to this either is no longer relevant to contemporary positions or the experience has already been described in more recent employment listings.

In the functional resume, this is all the detail you need to provide. The focus here is on your skills, which you have already described in detail.

• Your main job duty
• Your attitude towards customers and coworkers
• A skill you learned on the job
• Your biggest achievement

This section details both your formal and informal training related to the job you are applying to. The formal education is listed in reverse order, starting with the most recent or highest degree attained. The information you include is:

• Degree, with major and any minors if applicable
• School or institution
• Activities including offices held, organizations, key projects or publications

If you have had informal education related to the jobs you’ve held or are applying to, include it in your resume. The descriptions should include:

• Name of the class or certificate attained
• Instructional institution or issuing agency

These items should only be included if they enhance your qualifications for the job. If any education, training or certifications are listed as ‘Required’ in the job posting you are applying to, you may want to move this section to just below Skills and ahead of Experience. If you have a higher education degree, there is no need to list your high school on your resume.

• mm/dd/yyyy – mm/dd/yyyy: Degree name, University name, City, State
• Expected graduation mm/yyyy: High school name, City, State,

The best functional resume example

Check out our example of a great functional resume below. You can make one just like this in only a few clicks by using our easy-to-use resume builder .

Pros and cons of a functional resume

A functional resume poses certain advantages that can quickly help you get your career off the ground. However, it's not the right choice for everyone since the structure can be limiting in terms of work history. Let's explore the pros and cons of this type of resume.

Pros of a functional resume:

• Easy to create without much experience to go off of
• Allows you to highlight your personality traits
• A great option for students and recent grads
• Can be used to change careers and showcase transferrable skills
• The best way to highlight education and abilities with no work experience

Cons of a functional resume:

• No employment history section to highlight previous positions
• Can make you appear like an early-career candidate even if you're not
• Less ability to show hard skills or lessons learned on the job
• Not favored by employers for certain roles
• Stands out as a candidate who doesn't have experience in the field

Functional resume format for freshers

When you are leaving university it is unlikely that you will want your resume to focus on the various student roles that you undertook to earn some money for weekend socializing. 

The jobs in themselves are not important. It is the skills that you developed which matter.

Because it is likely that freshers will have to do a whole range of casual work, the format of a functional resume allows them to pick out the specific skills that each role demands. Employers will understand the sense in avoiding a long list of roles in chronological order - they are interested in your assessment of whether you have what it takes to succeed.

What are the common mistakes found in a functional resume? The most common mistake in a functional resume is the lack of context for the skills that you listed. Every resume, no matter what the format, should be packed with quantifiable proof of your career story. By all means, put a lot of emphasis on your skills, but do not forget to outline exactly what value you have brought to previous employers.

What is a combination resume?

A functional resume is most useful in situations where you need to highlight skills and knowledge that can't be attributed directly to a previous position. But what about when you do have some experience? That's when the combination resume can be a great asset.

The combination resume takes elements of a functional format and adds a shorter work history section similar to the one found on a standard reverse chronological resume. Generally, the skills/experience section that comes from the functional resume will be placed at the top of the page and the employment history will come later. 

The combination resume is a great choice when you have some work experience to show but not enough to fully switch over to the chronological resume. It can also be a good idea to create a combination format if you work in certain creative fields where your skills are more important than previous employers. Freelancers also find this format useful because it focuses more on the services they offer while letting them highlight just a few impressive clients.

The combination (hybrid) resume is increasingly popular. A hybrid resume combines the skills focus of the functional resume with the context-laden career story of a reverse chronological resume. No employer can read too much into a one-word skills section, but a hybrid resume offers a dedicated space to explore the functional fit in more detail. 

Functional resume: Final thoughts

Most people are good at what they do for a living but find it difficult to describe it in writing. Luckily, there are many online resources available to help you design and write a resume . The key is choosing the right format for your particular situation and then filling it with the right content, written in the right way.

Once you select the format, you can either write the resume yourself or find a functional resume template you can use. These are available on the internet and make it easy to create a professional looking resume. You simply fill in your details in the appropriate section and then save or print the resume.

What Is a Functional Resume? Example and Tips on How to Write Yours

Your resume should be tailored to the role you’re applying for. No sweat, right? The thing is, creating a customized resume for every job you have your eyes on is no easy task, especially if your work history isn’t an exact match for the position you want. Wouldn’t it be easier if you could just list all your skills out without having to worry about making your work experience look cohesive? Like, say, on a functional resume?

Below, we break down everything you need to know about a functional resume: what it is, when to use one, when not to, and, of course, how to write yours in a way that helps the hiring manager see how your unique set of skills matches their needs—and why you’re the ideal person for the job.

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What is a functional resume?

A functional resume, sometimes called a skills-based resume , places the focus on your skills and areas of expertise, rather than on the details of your work history. Instead of simply listing your recent jobs and corresponding duties in reverse chronological order (like you would on a more traditional chronological resume ), you’d select only the most relevant responsibilities from each of your past roles and combine them to paint a broader picture of your skill set.

Functional resume format

Like any other resume, a functional layout features your name and contact information at the top and lists your technical skills , interests, and education toward the bottom (unless you’re a recent graduate—in that case it may be closer to the top).

The difference is that the body of a functional resume highlights your most important skills—such as “administrative experience” or “customer service”—with three to five bullet points that show how you’ve applied those skills in various roles.

Then your work history would appear as a simple list below your skills section , where you’d only include your job title, the name of your employer, the city where you worked, and your dates of employment. (Check out our example functional resume below to get a sense of how that works.)

Because this layout places the primary focus on your relevant skills, functional resumes allow you to better tailor the content to a specific role you’re hoping to land, without having to worry too much about job titles that don’t sound relevant, gaps in employment, or an eclectic work history.

Functional resume vs chronological resume

In a chronological resume, you list your work history in reverse chronological order—from your most recent to oldest experience. This is the most common type of resume and is ideal for professionals with little to no employment gaps and relevant experience related to the job they're currently applying for.

That's exactly what differentiates a reverse chronological resume from a functional resume. While functional resumes focus on skills, reverse chronological resumes highlight employment history and relevant experience​​—where you worked and what you accomplished there.

Combination resume vs functional resume

A combination resume mixes elements of both functional and reverse chronological resumes. In this format, relevant skills are listed first, followed by employment history in chronological order, from newest to oldest experience. This type of resume is recommended for job seekers with diverse backgrounds and transferable skills relevant to the job opening.

Should you use a functional resume in your job search?

If you have other viable choices, probably not. Recruiters often see functional resumes as a red flag and might assume that the applicant behind the resume is trying to hide something, like a lack of qualifications. So although a skills-based resume might be an effective way to highlight your relevant experience, this resume format greatly decreases your chances of landing an interview .

Recruiters want to learn as much as they possibly can about an applicant from their resume, so they’re going to be looking to find out which companies you’ve worked at, your tenure in each role, and what you’ve achieved in each position. When you bury these details at the bottom of your resume (or exclude them completely), a recruiter is likely to assume that your background must not be a very strong fit.

Recruiters are also notoriously short on time, often reviewing hundreds of resumes a day. They don’t want to be forced to scour your resume for relevant details—your resume should, ideally, be very easy to scan. And because functional resumes aren’t terribly common, a recruiter might have a harder time making sense of an alternative format. (Instead, you might consider using a combination resume .)

When can you use a functional resume?

Red flags aside, there are times when a functional resume may still be your best option. For instance:

• When you don’t have recent experience: If it’s been a few years since you last held a traditional job, you may not want your less-than-recent work history to be the first thing a hiring manager notices on your resume. Leading with your skills could be a good way to pique a recruiter’s interest before they review your dates of employment.
• When you’re making a major career pivot: If you’ve collected an array of transferable skills throughout your work experience but have never used them in the context of a single role, a skills-based resume might allow you to demonstrate how your unique abilities will translate into the next act of your career.
• When you don’t have work experience: Functional resumes enable you to be a little creative with your work history and allow for some flexibility in the skills you choose to highlight. For example, you probably developed some great research skills as a student, solid scheduling experience when you headed the PTA committee, or exceptional customer service acumen that time you volunteered for that political campaign.
• When your work history is all over the place: If you’ve held a string of short-term positions or worked in a variety of roles (I’m looking at you, freelancers and temp workers—no judgment, I’m one, too!), using a functional resume may be a great way to organize your experience into a more cohesive story.
• When your relevant experience isn’t rooted in traditional work: Say you've volunteered at a soup kitchen for the past few years and now you want to land a job as a server. You’d probably want to feature the skills you’ve picked up as a volunteer, while also highlighting your other, more traditional experience. A functional resume could be a great way to bring it all together.

When not to use a functional resume?

In certain circumstances, the traditional reverse chronological resume is definitely the best option. For example:

• When you can demonstrate career growth: In most fields, recruiters put a lot of value in experience and achievements. So if you have years of experience in the field and your employment history clearly demonstrates professional evolution, it should have the spotlight.
• When your recent work experience is relevant: Let's say your last job was in the same position you're applying for right now, but other than that, you don't have much experience. In this case, ditch the functional resume and use the reverse chronological format.
• When listing past employment is important: In some industries—think medicine or education, for example—it's crucial to list your past employment. Recruiters often ask for reference or recommendations as well.

How to write a functional resume in 6 steps

Once you decide that the functional resume format is the best choice for your application, you want to make sure you build it correctly.

Writing a functional resume is much like any other resume style; it should still include your contact information , education , work or volunteer experience , and technical skills. The main difference is that your skills and achievements will be featured prominently in the body of the resume.

If it makes sense, you can separate your skills into subcategories to make it easier to read. You may also want to consider including a brief resume summary to tie everything together. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Write your contact information

The first piece of information on your resume should be your full name, followed by your contact information—which includes your email address, phone number, LinkedIn profile , and your address (limited to city, state, and zip code, for your safety).

Step 2: Craft a relevant resume summary

Writing a resume summary is optional, but when used effectively, this section provides recruiters with insights into who you are and what are your career aspirations. For instance, if you have an employment gap or are transitioning into a new field, the summary section can come in handy, so the recruiters don't have to figure it out by themselves.

You can also use this space to incorporate relevant skills and achievements using keywords from the job description, making it easier for the ATS to scan. Two to three sentences are enough to summarize relevant information about your education, skills, achievements, and objectives.

For sake of illustration, here's an example of a summary for a virtual assistant making a career pivot to social media:

Dedicated and detail-oriented virtual assistant with three years of experience working with clients worldwide online. Skilled in social media management, copywriting, image and video editing, data entry, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, and Final Cut. Looking for a career pivot to social media management.

Step 3: Group your skills and achievements

The skills section is the most important section of a functional resume. Its goal is to help recruiters quickly understand how your skills match the job requirements. Instead of presenting a gigantic list of skills, it's a good idea to group them and use bullet points for each category.

For example, if you're applying for an entry-level social media position and you're skilled in writing, filming, and editing, your section skills might look like this:

RELEVANT SKILLS

Copywriting

• Wrote over 30+ blog posts for my school's website, driving a 5% increase in readers
• Wrote all posts and captions for the school's social media for two semesters, increasing followers by 10%
• Created the concept and wrote all posts for my personal blog and newsletter (www.greatsite.com) school events and interviews with students and professionals for social media content
• Created scripts, filmed, and directed educational videos for the school's website, increasing students engagement by 12%
• Used Adobe Premiere and Final Cut to edit and add special effects to videos for the school's social media and website
• Used editing tools such as Capcut to make short versions of videos for the school's TikTok page
• Used Adobe Photoshop to edit images for the school's social media and website, as well as for my own blog and newsletter

Step 4: List your education background

Include the name of your institution, degree type, year of graduation, and any relevant coursework or achievements, if applicable. If you have an impressive GPA, add that too. For example:

B.S. Computer Science, Carleton College

September 2007 – May 2011, Northfield, MN

Graduated magna cum laude; GPA: 3.6

Step 5: List your work experience

In a skill-based resume, work experience typically comes last, although you may also find functional resume examples where the education section is placed at the end. There's no right or wrong here—choose based on what information is most relevant to the position you're applying for.

You don't have to include all the details about your employment history—remember, that's not your main focus on functional resumes. Just mention your job title, employer, and the dates you worked there. For example:

WORK EXPERIENCE

Virtual Assistant

Assisting Inc. | June 2021—Present

Sales Manager

Great Store | May 2018 — March 2020

Step 6: Add your certifications or awards

If you have certificates relevant to your field or the one you're trying to enter, consider including a dedicated section for them. However, if your certifications aren't related to the job you're seeking, you can skip this section. Same goes for awards—only add them if they're relevant.

What’s a good functional resume example?

When putting all the steps above together, here’s what your functional resume could look like:

Download a Free Example Functional Resume

Bonus tips to write a functional resume

If you’re going to give drafting a functional layout a shot, keep in mind that the tried and true best practices of resume writing still apply. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Keep your resume to a single page (this is true for basically everyone except those decades into their careers—in which case a two-page resume isn’t out of the question).
• Include clear, concise headlines (like “Areas of Expertise” and “Work Experience”) to break up each section, thus making your resume easier to scan.
• Use compelling verbs to describe your skills and accomplishments (words like achieved, led, directed, streamlined, or solved).
• Attribute a tangible, measurable outcome to each job duty whenever possible.
• Tailor the content of your resume to the job you’re applying for, including relevant keywords where appropriate (this is for the hiring manager to skim and for the ATS to give you the thumbs up).

Functional resume FAQs

What does a functional resume highlight.

A functional resume highlights your skills. Unlike the reverse chronological resume format, where work experience comes first, in this format, the skills and achievements section stays right at the top of the page. This way, you make sure it's the first thing recruiters see when reviewing your resume.

When should you write a functional skills resume?

You should consider writing a functional resume if you lack work experience, have a diverse employment history, are making a career pivot, or have a significant employment gap.

Do employers like functional resumes?

Truth to be told, employers generally prefer the traditional resume format with reverse chronological order, and a simple, clean layout. However, this doesn't mean they'll discard a functional resume outright. For entry-level positions , for example, a resume that focuses more on skills, achievements, and education rather than work experience is often expected.

What best describes a functional resume?

A functional resume can be described as a skill-based resume because it prioritizes your skills as the most important information. This contrasts with the traditional reverse chronological resume, where employment history is considered more relevant.

In conclusion

Whenever possible, you should stick to a traditional resume to keep recruiters from making unfavorable assumptions about your experience. But if you know that a chronological layout won’t properly tell your story in a compelling way, a functional resume may help.

Just remember that you might be starting off at a disadvantage when it comes to your resume, so you’ll also need to have a strong networking plan, a consistent application strategy, and an exceptional cover letter . Amanda Cardoso contributed to the latest version of this article.

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What is a Functional Resume and When To Use It

• Jul 17, 2024

No matter where you are in your career, writing a resume can be a difficult task. You need to sell a prospective employer on the value you create while touting your skills, achievements, and expertise using the right resume format.

Thankfully, there is an online resume builder with templates and examples that use proven, ATS-compliant strategies to help you create the perfect career document.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

However, most available free resume templates are what is called a "combination resume" and will suit professionals with an existing and consistent career history.

What if that doesn't apply to you? You could have limited experience or have a professional gap . Then you need a seldom-used resume outline that highlights your skills rather than the experience.

In comes the functional resume .

What is a Functional Resume?

The functional resume (also known as a skill-based resume) places your mastery in the driver's seat. It prioritizes transferrable and pertinent skills to communicate the impacts you can make on an organization.

Instead of the reverse-chronological ordering, you see in most popular resume examples , in a functional resume your experience is divided by overarching skill sets , like problem-solving, data analysis, project management, etc.

You still include your professional experience but as an abbreviated section towards the end of the document.

To frame it another way, recruiters always want to see bullets on a resume, right? Rather than placing those bullets underneath a job title with a specific company, you attribute your accomplishments to an expertise category.

Other types of resume formats include:

• Chronological . This is the most common type of resume , where your work experience is listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. This format is effective for showcasing job progression and stability.
• Combination . This type of resume combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats . It includes a summary of qualifications at the top, followed by a chronological work history section.
• Video . A video resume is a short video presentation where you introduce yourself and explain why you are the ideal candidate for a job . This type of resume allows you to showcase your personality and communication skills in addition to your qualifications.

When to Use a Functional Resume?

You should explore using a functional resume format if the usual reverse-chronological might uncover something that you would rather a recruiter or HR not see.

Four main categories of people should turn to a functional resume template:

You Should Probably Use a Combination Resume

While one of the above situations may describe you to a "T", you may still want to avoid writing a functional resume. Skills-based resumes are, by far, the least used type of resume format because the disadvantages of style often outweigh the positives.

• Hides employment gaps.
• Organizes a varied work history.
• Displays non-traditional skills.
• Non-ATS-friendly resume.
• Difficult for hiring managers to review.
• Hard to form a cohesive narrative.
• Can highlight lack of experience.

Now, let's compare that to the pros and cons of a combination resume, the professional resume format typically preferred by companies and recruiters.

• ATS compliant.
• Easy for a hiring manager to skim.
• Reverse-chronology easily shows your career path.
• Highlights your most recent, and applicable, experience.
• Adds attention to career gaps.
• Harder to structure and create.
• Lack of experience can make it feel unpopulated.
• Likely requires customization for each job posting.

For over 95% of professionals, the combination resume is going to be the best format. As it is easily parsed by both computer and human eyes , maximizing your chances of getting an interview .

If the combination resume is usually preferred, how can we circumvent some of the cons?

Project Manager, O'Connell Group | 2022 - Present. Full-time Caregiver, Greenholt Inc | 2019 - 2022. Project Supervisor, Casper Ltd | 2018 - 2019.

Confining a resume to a single page is good advice for anyone. Daniel Lyons

How to Write a Functional Resume?

If you still want to use a skill-based resume , how do you go about creating one? Options for templates and guides are much more sparse than a combination resume.

Thankfully, in many ways, most sections are analogous between the two.

Let's go through the essentials, section by section of a functional resume, to ease the process as much as possible.

Header & Contact Information on a Functional Resume

A study by TopResume found nearly one in four applicants will fail to have all the necessary contact data. With this, 52% of employers would instantly reject a candidate if they don't include contact information.

In this section of functional resume, you must have your:

• Phone Number.
• Email Address.

Tip: Always use a professional email address. Ideally, it will be your name with no numbers, using either a Gmail or personal website domain. Consider making a dedicated email for a job search.

It may also benefit you to have your LinkedIn profile , job title , and personal website mentioned on your functional resume. For the former, only include the link if your profile is up-to-date and represents something that employers should see.

Ideally, you should be updating your LinkedIn profile every year . Or whenever you start a new job search as you could land your next big opportunity through the growing platform.

You can include your job title if your skills align with the position you are vying for. If you are a project supervisor looking to make the jump to a manager. However, if you are switching industries or focuses, you will likely want to omit the job title as it could confuse employers.

Finally, a website could be a hugely beneficial asset, especially if you are creative with a portfolio of work. Just as with a LinkedIn profile, ensure that it is something you want employees to see.

Refrain from including things like personal blogs or other social media pages unless they are directly related to your career focus.

Functional Resume Example:

John Doe [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | linkedin.com/john.doe

Functional Resume Summary

Remember, a professional resume summary is very different from an objective statement . For the most part, objectives are outdated and will only invite eye-rolls from recruiters. The goal of your functional resume should always be to present the value you create . And not what you are hoping to get out of the position.

In your summary statement, you want to highlight your expertise, relevant skills, and some type of impact you've made in a previous role.

You want this section of a functional resume to be brief, no more than 3 sentences , since the longer it is, the less likely someone is to read it. Here's a rough template you can use to write your professional summary.

Results-driven professional with a proven track record in project management and strategic planning. Proficient in leveraging data analysis to drive business decisions and optimize processes, resulting in cost savings and efficiency improvements. Skilled communicator with a talent for building strong cross-functional relationships and leading teams to exceed goals.

In a traditional resume, your professional experience is the most important section. For a skills-based resume, you leverage an extended skill section to build your professional brand.

Instead of filing achievements under job titles, you will want to use functional resume headers , or headings that state a broad skill the subsequent bullets exemplify.

Just as with a reverse-chronological or combination resume, you want to omit all pronouns. Start each bullet with a strong action verb to engage the hiring manager.

With this, whenever possible, include some type of metric or number to substantiate your accomplishment, providing important context and enhancing its memorability.

For this example , the applicant is looking to transition into branding and content creation from a background in customer service and retail.

Client Relations Evaluated the needs of over 20 clients daily to synthesize tailored solutions that leveraged proprietary technologies. Cultivated relationships with key, high-spend customers to boost acquisition rates by 15% and retention by 34%. Brand Development Increased personal website traffic by 17% after SEO enhancements driven by Google Trends research. Represented Company X as a brand ambassador at local events and concerts.

Professional Experience

You've put in the hard work with your skills section, so now your experience block should be a breeze.

For a functional resume format, you don't need any bullets, responsibilities, or achievements tied to a specific role.

On a functional resume you will only need the essentials:

• Start and End Years.
• Location (sometimes).

Even if you are using a skill-based resume due to a career gap, you will want to include the years at a given position. Remember you can add the reason for the hiatus as a position (per the example earlier in the article).

For that same applicant, their professional experience section may look something like this:

Project Manager | Acme Solutions Inc., New York, NY June 2018 - Present. Lead cross-functional teams to successfully deliver multiple projects on time and within budget. Operations Analyst | BrightStar Corporation, San Francisco, CA January 2015 - May 2018. Conducted comprehensive data analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and streamline operational processes, resulting in a 10% reduction in expenses.

Education on functional resume

Most functional resumes will conclude with a straightforward education section.

However, if you are a recent graduate, you may elect to move this section to the top, after your professional summary, as the skills you developed during your schooling are much more relevant.

You can also turn this section into an "Education & Certifications" one. This is especially useful for those looking to change careers as it can show expertise in a skill without practical experience.

Some other tips include:

• If within 5 years of graduation, include any honors gained and your GPA (if it's over 3.5).
• You can likely omit your high school degree on a functional resume. A much better use of space would be another bullet or two to support your skill set.
• Also consider including coursework - a semester dedicated to the study of Tableau fundamentals could lead to an entry-level data analyst position, for example.

Functional resume example

Bachelor of Arts, Communications | Missouri State University, 2017 GPA: 3.8, Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society Relevant Coursework: Introduction to Accounting, Financial Planning & Analysis, Finance Fundamentals for Startups, FinTech Principles

Functional Resume Examples

Recent graduate.

Mary J. Vacca 4118 Dennison Street Stockton, CA 95219 Phone: (124) 325-7458 Email: [email protected] Objective: Motivated and adaptable individual eager to launch a successful career in Business Administration. Possessing a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills , and a commitment to learning and growth, I am seeking an entry-level position where I can apply my enthusiasm and drive to contribute to the success of the team. Relevant Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills developed through academic projects, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work. Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities, with a demonstrated capacity to identify issues and develop effective solutions. Proven ability to collaborate with diverse teams to achieve common goals and objectives. Flexible and quick to learn, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments and embrace new challenges. Effective organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and deliver results. Additional Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Basic knowledge of CRM software such as Salesforce. Fluent in English and Spanish. Projects: Marketing Campaign Project , UCLA, January 2023 - May 2023 Developed a comprehensive marketing campaign for a local nonprofit organization, including market research, strategic planning, and promotional materials creation. Led a team of four students to execute the campaign, achieving a 20% increase in community engagement and donations. Education Bachelor of Science in Business Administration University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), CA , August 2020 - May 2024 Relevant coursework : Marketing Principles, Financial Accounting, Business Communication, Organizational Behavior. Participated in group projects simulating real-world business scenarios, developing teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Non-Traditional Experience

Career changer.

Willie D. Torrance 4118 Dennison Street Gardena, CA 90247 Phone: (254) 864-7878 Email: [email protected] Objective: Enthusiastic and dedicated individual with a passion for teaching, seeking a fulfilling opportunity as a Math Teacher to inspire and educate students. Leveraging strong communication skills, patience, and a commitment to student success cultivated through customer service experience to create engaging learning environments and promote academic excellence. Summary of Qualifications: Strong passion for mathematics and a desire to share knowledge with students. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills developed through customer service roles. Patient and empathetic approach to understanding and addressing students' needs and challenges. Proven ability to adapt quickly to new environments and learn new skills efficiently. Volunteer Experience: Math Tutor Local Community Center, Gardena, CA , September 2019 - May 2020 Provided individualized math tutoring to students in need of extra support. Adapted teaching methods to suit the learning styles and abilities of each student. Fostered a positive learning environment to encourage student engagement and confidence. Experience: Customer Service Representative Johnson & Johnson, Los Angeles, CA , June 2021 - Present Skills: Utilizing project management tools (MS Project, Monday). Word processing (Microsoft Word, Google Docs). Investigating data (Excel, Tableau). Education: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), CA Graduation Date: May 2021

Limited Experience

Writing a functional resume: conclusion.

While rarely used (and with good reason), the skills-based resume can be a boon to a professional who has found themselves in a unique situation or is looking to break into a new industry. It highlights your skills, rather than your career history, to showcase the value you can create for an employer.

If you find yourself searching for work in a new sector, after a break from the workforce, or as a budding professional, the functional resume could be the style you need to nab your next opportunity.

Trevor Richfield

Career Coach & Professional Resume Writer

Trevor is a professional resume writer, career coach, and Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert (NCOPE) with well over 1,000 resumes under his belt. He emphasizes the importance of building an authentic professional brand you are proud to display to potential collaborators and employers. From recent graduates to executive leaders, Trevor has helped professionals land jobs at Fortune 500 companies and expand their own independent ventures.It's not only about results with Trevor, but about a continuous journey of professional and personal empowerment.

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The Functional Resume: Definition, Examples, and Template

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A functional resume is a resume format that highlights skills over work experience. Sometimes referred to as a skills-based resume. This resume format displays your qualifications as a professional, leading with your soft skills and technical skills.

Who is a functional resume for?

When should you use a functional resume?

Is it going to be an effective way of securing a job?

Get an answer to each of these common questions below.

What is a functional resume?

A functional resume is a type of resume format which utilizes prior work skills or characteristics over work experience. The purpose of a functional resume is to bring attention to the professionals transferrable skills rather than their work history (usually listed in chronological format).

A functional resume is common for academic or science positions, where skills and education could be more important than work history.

The name of the resume format refers to how the resume is organized, primarily the resume sections what comes first or last.

What goes inside of a functional resume?

This resume format still contains most of the information that could be seen inside of a traditional resume or chronological resume.

That includes:

• Contact information.
• Work history/employment history.
• Volunteer work.
• Certifications.
• A resume summary /career objective.
• And other resume sections.

Functional resume vs. chronological resume

A key difference between these two resume types is how much emphasis the skills section receives. And the overall layout of the resume.

For example, a chronological resume will list these sections in priority:

• Employment history.

While a functional resume will list the resume sections in this priority:

In both circumstances, the resume formats will list work history in reverse chronological order . Resulting in the most recent place of employment being at the top of the resume.

Job seekers should always list their most recent place of employment at the top of the resume. As recruiters and hiring managers will have a far easier time comprehending the resume.

Who should use a functional resume?

Functional resumes should be used by academic and science professionals. It should not be used by the traditional job seeker. It is not a way to stand out from other job seekers and applicants.

It would be a grave mistake to think that using a functional resume could be a key differentiator in the job application.

While it's primarily up to the job seeker to determine if the a functional resume format is best for them.

The best way to determine whether a functional resume format is best for your job application is to consider what the job description/job ad is looking for.

If the job requires skills and accomplishments as their main method of judging the applicant, a functional resume would be best.

Read the job advertisement and look whether the hiring manager is seeking skills related to the job over work experience and education.

Good for those with employment gaps?

For those with employment gaps, it's best to use a reverse chronological or chronological resume.

A functional resume is not great for those with gaps in their resume.

What about people who want to change careers? No. Stick to a chronological resume.

What are the 4 types of resumes?

Technically, there are 5 types of resume formats. They are:

Chronological resume

Functional resume.

• Combination resume/hybrid resume
• Targeted resume
• Mini resume

Here is the breakdown of the resume types and their benefits.

• Highlights experience and achievements.
• Easy to read for recruiters.
• Applicant tracking systems can read them.
• Highlights key skills and relevant skills.
• Good for academics.

Combination resume

• Highlights skills related to the work.

And here are their cons.

• Requires consistent formatting.
• Doesn't look creative.
• Could expose employment gaps.
• Difficult to read.
• Applicant tracking systems cannot scan/read these.
• Recommended for specialized professionals.
• A difficult format to organize.

Remember , a functional resume is best for job titles where the hiring manager wants to see your skills inside of a position more than seeing traditional work experience.

This resume format allows you to highlight your relevant skills rather than focusing on past jobs.

Functional Resume Example

Below is an example of a functional resume.

Susanne Smith

Chemical Engineer

444 Synergy Drive

Chicago, IL, 60610 USA

773-444-5508

[email protected]

susannesmith.com

linkedin.com/susansmith

Resume objective

A highly passionate chemical engineer with a BA in engineering from Northwestern Medical. Seeking to start my career in a place that embraces the science behind cancer research and the science of proteins. Interested in developing and creating new chemical compounds on a regular basis.

Skills summary

Science background

• Led research and development around the use of proteins in in the body.
• Worked with other scientists to create over 10,000 tests that studied the human body.
• Designed chemical compounds for lab tests and lab animals during clinical trials.

Clinical work

• Created more than 100 lab tests that led to Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials.
• Worked closely with senior lab technicians and scientists.
• Assisted lab technicians in following lab protocols and regulation/compliance.

Work history

March 2020 to present

Chicago, IL

May 2018 to May 2020

San Diego, CA

BA in Chemical Engineering

Northwestern Medicine, 2009

Additional skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, clinical trial work, regulatory compliance, problem-solving, and more.
• French and Spanish

Resume example for students

Below is a functional resume sample for students.

Bryan Anderson

Conceptual Artists

599 Emergy Lane

Geneva, IL 60134 USA

630-744-5867

banderson.com

linkedin.com/b.anderson

A passionate, experienced individual who recently graduated. Looking to secure a position as an artist within a 3D studio. Able to contribute a wide variety of creative needs. From typography, layouts, font design, and 3D/4D animation design. Looking to use my art to increase brand awareness and develop strong marketing campaigns alongside a bigger brand.

Design background

• Developed creative executions that spoke to customers through billboards.
• Worked with clients to research, concept, design, and execute art pieces through a variety of mediums.

Client work

• Assisted sales teams in creating collateral for their marketing/sales efforts. And tried to reach the customer where they frequented.
• Became a problem-solver and executor within three small businesses.

Illustration work

• Created more than 10,000 infographics.
• Developed new graphic design concepts for promotional campaigns.

New Solutions

April 2020 to present

Marketing Fields

April 2018 to April 2020

BA in Graphic Design and Fine Arts

Columbia College Chicago, 2009

• Proficient in Adobe Suite, Illustrator, 3DS Max, Maya, PageMaker, Illustrator, Adobe After Effects, and many more.

Functional Resume Format/Layout

Here's what will go inside (the resume structure) of a functional resume when you write your own.

Name and job title

Your name and job title that you hold in your career. This should come from a past position that you held. Or having strict knowledge of what type of job title you're best suited for.

Contact information

Should include your name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn url, professional website, and other details related to reaching you.

A resume objective

A brief summary of what you hope to achieve in your career. Career objectives should state what you hope to achieve with your new job. And how that will advance your career.

Include some references to prior job experiences if available.

Skills and summary

A history of your abilities on the job. It doesn't need to include the job title. Rather, lists the skills that you utilized in order to achieve specific objectives.

These skills should be related to your industry and the job you're applying for.

For example:

• Utilized interpersonal skills and comprehension of automation to increase sales 4X.
• Adapted the management style of our sales team by utilizing market research skills in changing economic conditions.

Your education history. Should include any undergraduate work. Doctorate degrees. Or master's degrees.

Recruiters in academic/science industries will be looking at education more than work history.

Similar to writing a chronological resume, a history of past employment.

Employers will always want to see your career history/past jobs. And how that landed you on the position you're applying for.

Will increase the overall quality of your functional resume. Additional skills can be unrelated to the job/industry. And can provide recruiters with the opportunity to place you in another position that you aren't applying for.

Functional Resume Template

[Your name]

[Job title]

[Your address]

[City/state/zip]

[Your phone number]

[Your email address]

[Professional website]

[Your LinkedIn URL]

[Anywhere from 150 to 200 words about your career objectives]

[General category of the skill set]

• [Skills and experience related to the job you're applying for]

[Employment Dates]

[University and year graduated]

• [List additional skills relevant to the job]

Languages/certifications

• [Language proficiency]

Tips when writing a functional resume.

• Look at examples. Always reference examples of a functional resume format when writing your own. Don't copy and paste the examples verbatim. Rather, use them as guides to help you write an effective resume for the job you're applying for.
• Pick the right format. It's been mentioned in this guide often, make sure that a functional resume is the best type of format for your job application.
• Proofread. It sounds simple. Having a friend or a family member read your resume can be very beneficial. A spelling issue on a resume can lead to disaster. And it can communicate that you don't have attention to detail or professional writing skills.
• Make sure your priorities are correct. If you're writing a functional resume, be sure that the resume sections are in the correct order.
• List relevant skills. Because this resume format is emphasizing your skills over any work history, it's best to consider what skills are going to be most relevant to the job. Read the job description/job posting in detail. And make sure that you're considering what the hiring manager is looking for in an ideal candidate. Then, write your skills and how you utilized those skills according to the job.
• Customize the resume. Similar to making sure that you list relevant skills, make sure the resume is entirely formatted for the job you're applying for. Consider the employer, industry, hiring manager, and how other applicants resumes could look.

Similar resources

• Sales Skills
• Functional Resume
• Interpersonal Skills
• Resume Format
• Volunteer Work on Resume
• How to List References on a Resume
• What is a CV?
• Resume Summary Examples
• Language Proficiency Levels
• Professional Background
• How to Pout Shadowing on a Resume
• Job Hunting
• How Far Back Should a Resume Go
• How to List Publications on Resume
• Skills List for the Resume

About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes , Glassdoor , American Express , Reader's Digest , LiveCareer , Zety , Yahoo , Recruiter.com , SparkHire , SHRM.org , Process.st , FairyGodBoss , HRCI.org , St. Edwards University , NC State University , IBTimes.com , Thrive Global , TMCnet.com , Work It Daily , Workology , Career Guide , MyPerfectResume , College Career Life , The HR Digest , WorkWise , Career Cast , Elite Staffing , Women in HR , All About Careers , Upstart HR , The Street , Monster , The Ladders , Introvert Whisperer , and many more. Find him on LinkedIn .

Fact checked: Our small and dedicated team rigorously evaluates every article, guide, and reference to ensure the information is accurate and factual. Learn more .

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Functional Resume Myths: What You Need to Know

12 min read · Updated on July 16, 2024

Do employers like functional resumes?

When it's time to apply for a new position, you need a compelling resume to get past the applicant tracking system and impress a hiring manager. Fortunately, there are only three to choose from. This makes life a lot easier, considering the hundreds of thousands of templates you can find with an Internet search for acceptable resume formats. 

What are the three types of resumes?

Chronological

Hybrid, sometimes called Combination

Functional resumes have a lot of stigma surrounding them. Many people think they are okay to use, while others find them taboo. 

What's the truth? 

Do the so-called functional resume myths hold water?

What do you need to know about resume formats?

Roll up your sleeves; it's time to learn something. 

From the past to the present

In the past, a functional resume was one of the best options to highlight specific skills. For decades, it was considered “the” tool to attract employers because of its high focus on relevant skills. 

As you're probably aware, traditional resumes list all the places you've worked with bullet points that describe what you accomplished in each role. This is called a chronological resume. 

The functional resume is a bit different. When crafting a functional resume, instead of listing chronological work experience, a summarized work history is included at the bottom. The bulk of the resume focuses on the variety of skills you have, such as managing people, developing robust marketing plans, etc.

The idea behind that type of resume was to force the hiring manager to focus on the transferable skills you have rather than a chronological list of employment history, which was an especially good idea if you didn't have a whole lot of relevant experience.

As time progressed, people began to use the functional resume format to try to hide the appearance of job-hopping or minimize employment gaps. After a while, employers got savvy to this and started jumping straight to the employment list to see if that's what is going on in the functional resumes they get. 

Welcome to the future: the applicant tracking system

On top of employers' opinions of the functional resume changing, today's resume screening technology, or ATS , has caused the functional resume to no longer be relevant. 

The newest types of resume parsing systems can also determine the skills you possess but also when and how often you've performed them. Plus, they can infer based on the meaning of words and concepts instead of relying on a narrow definition.

Put simply, we're talking about keywords and context. 

These systems screen resumes using relevant keywords, job titles, and years of experience. Applicant tracking systems are programmed to scan resumes looking for a straightforward timeline. When you use a functional resume format, that timeline doesn't exist in the traditional sense of the word. This can make it harder for the ATS to properly parse information from your career history. 

Here's what the ATS is looking for that will be missing from your functional resume:

Clear job titles and dates. Since the functional resume is built with a focus on skills, aptitudes, and transferable abilities, the ATS may have difficulty extracting details about your career timeline. 

Lacking context for your experience. The clearly defined timeline of a chronological resume makes it clear which skills you got from which job. Since the functional resume doesn't include bullet point achievements with your work history, there's no context for the ATS to assess your skills. 

Less effective keyword matching. You'll hear it time and again – you have to tailor your resume to different jobs to ensure you're using the right keywords. The ATS is looking for the right keywords. The lack of association with job titles or experiences makes it harder for the ATS to determine if you're a match for the job. 

All of this could lead to your resume being wholly rejected by the ATS and that's one of the main reasons that job seekers are ghosted by companies. 

The ATS rejects an application

The human beings at the company don't know the candidate exists

The candidate is ghosted

Functional resumes ARE NOT dead

It may seem that you just received a ton of information about the reasons to avoid using a functional resume. For the most part, avoiding them is the path to take. However, they do still have a place in the world – albeit a very small place.

Changing careers

If you're changing careers, a functional resume may serve you well. This isn't to say that you're changing careers from being a marketing rep in the oil and gas industry to being a marketing rep in the luxury cosmetic industry. 

The only time to use a functional resume for changing careers is if it's a major change, like from a teacher to a marketing rep. At this point in your career, you'd really have to draw attention to transferable skills and show how you utilized things like project management and data analysis as a teacher to make your students successful and follow district policies. 

Re-entering the workforce after an extended absence

Life happens sometimes. Things cause you to have to step away from work for a while. Perhaps you had children and decided to stay home to raise them for a few years. Maybe one of your close family members became gravely ill and needed someone to take care of them. In these instances a functional resume may be your best bet at properly relaying your skills and knowledge to a new employer. 

Employers are less interested in the fact that you took a break and more interested in how what you know how to do will help their team. If you can make them see you're capable of fulfilling the duties of the role, you'll be able to move them past the fact that you were out of pocket for a while. 

Important note: You should avoid using the functional resume format to minimize employment gaps that are less than one year in length. 

Functional resume template

For the very few instances when a functional resume is a good choice for you, you probably would like to know how to put one together. 

The structure is important. You have to use clearly defined section titles and a layout that's easy to follow. Be sure to include the following:

Your name and contact information

A title or headline

A profile paragraph

'Core Competencies'

A well-defined and bulleted list of career aptitudes and skills

Your work history

Your education

City State Zip | (111) 222-3333 | [email protected] | LinkedIn URL

Title that Mirrors Job Description

MAJOR HARD SKILL | MAJOR HARD SKILL | MAJOR HARD SKILL | MAJOR HARD SKILL

Three to five sentences that outline the major events in your career. Start with something that mirrors the title on the job description to which you're applying. Next, discuss a few HARD skills. End this paragraph with some SOFT skills.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

How does your experience with PROJECT MANAGEMENT (or whatever skill you want to highlight) relate to the job to which you're applying?

Example(s) of projects or situations where you used this skill.

1 to 2 accomplishments or measurable results showing your expertise with this skill.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

How does your experience with BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT (or whatever skill you want to highlight) relate to the job to which you're applying?

ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

How does your experience with ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP (or whatever skill you want to highlight) relate to the job to which you're applying?

WORK HISTORY

NAME OF COMPANY | Position Held | mm/yyyy to Present

NAME OF COMPANY | Position Held | mm/yyyy to mm/yyyy

DEGREE | Name of School

While a functional resume can be a good option if you have large employment gaps or are changing careers, a more successful modern resume is a combination format with both chronological and functional elements.

Using a different format will help you do two things:

Avoid any stigma associated with the use of a functional resume 

Minimize the risk of the ATS not being able to properly read your resume

A great alternative to functional resumes

A combination resume includes a functional skills summary that presents all the exciting transferable skills you have but also has a chronological list of work history that talks about the top things you accomplished at each position. 

Overcoming the stigma

By using the functional and chronological format together, you increase the transparency of your career history. It's important to remember that hiring managers are people, too, and it's unlikely that even their career timeline is spotless. Everyone has something to explain. 

When you pair your combination resume with a cover letter, you address any concerns head-on, which can help elevate you to the top of the stack of potential candidates. It proves that you are the type of person who values open communication and professionalism . 

Resume writing involves strategy

Since you're writing your resume for two audiences – the ATS and the human hiring manager, a bit of strategy is critical. Not only do you have to use the right keywords to get past the ATS, but you have to also highlight your qualifications in a way that the hiring manager can immediately understand the type of value you'll bring to their team. 

We've already mentioned the ATS will be scanning your resume for experience and keywords, but engaging the human on the other side of the ATS is just as important. It can be difficult to create a document that impresses both a human and a computer, but it's quite doable. 

Select the right keywords to optimize for the ATS

Use the correct formatting to appeal to the human hiring manager

Tell a story that resonates with someone within a few seconds

Tailor and update your resume to different jobs

Combination resume template

Making the transition from a functional resume to a combination can be a tough nut to crack, but climbing this hill can be the difference between getting an interview and never hearing anything back. 

Here's what your combination resume should look like:

First Last | (111) 222-3333 | [email protected] | www.linkedin.com/in/clientname

Title That Mirrors Job Description

A three to five-sentence profile paragraph that acts like your elevator pitch to the new company. Mention how much experience you have and add in some hard and soft skills. Make a note about how what you've learned from previous roles sets you up to be successful in the new position.

CORE PROFICIENCIES

This is the place for a bulleted list of skills. Include 9-12 skills that you have that mirror the job description. Just because you can do it doesn't mean it needs to be here. 

You're targeting THIS resume to THAT job.

APTITUDES or CAREER HIGHLIGHTS or SIMILAR

The idea with this section is to include up to 5 bullet points that indicate why you're a great candidate for the job to which you're applying.

This section is called out if you're in sales and need to quantify achievements OR if you're changing careers and need to demonstrate how your transferable skills match the new company.

These bullets should be VERY achievement-based (i.e., I did this great thing that resulted in a huge WIN for my company).

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

COMPANY NAME | mm/yyyy to Present

POSITION TITLE

2-3 Sentences that briefly explain your role. DO NOT copy and paste your job description. Talk about what you did on a daily basis and at least 1 major thing you accomplished.

3-5 bullets MAX that show achievements you had.

Anytime you can use numbers, it is best to do so.

ATS scans search for measurable accomplishments – most want to see at least 5 pers 10 years' experience.

COMPANY NAME | mm/yyyy to mm/yyyy

A great resume has between 10- and 15-years' experience represented.

Your resume isn't meant to be a record of your professional life's events.

Talk about achievements that will intrigue a hiring manager to call you for an interview.

The era of the 1-page resume has died.

RULES: Recent college grad or less than 10 years' experience – 1 page; 10+ years' experience – 2 pages.

Avoid going to 3 pages.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

DEGREE | School

CERTIFICATION | Where you obtained it

It is no longer customary to put graduation dates unless you are still in school or graduated within the last year. Be sure to spell out degrees (i.e., Bachelor of Science) and school names. Put any relevant acronyms in parentheses after you've spelled out the words. 

Functional doesn't usually work anymore

In the past few years, a more modern resume that is successful is one that keeps up with technology and job search trends – like the rampant use of the ATS. In the contemporary job search world, a functional resume simply won't work. The stigma that surrounds them is just too much for you to have to worry about. 

A professionally written resume that combines the functional style with the traditional reverse-chronological format will provide a clearer and more concise overview of your work history in a way that will impress hiring managers. 

Bottom line: Avoid the less-than-ideal functional resume and use other tools at your disposal – e.g., a cover letter – to make your case for being chosen for a new job. 

TopResume can help turn your functional resume into a hybrid resume that will win interviews. It all starts with a free critique of what you're currently using when you apply for jobs.

Recommended reading:

17 Resume Tips to Get Seen and Hired Faster

Changing Careers? 7 Details to Include on Your Resume

Stay-at-Home Mom Returning to Work? 10 Ways to Land the Job You Want and Need

Related Articles:

Great Jobs for Teens: Top Picks for 16-Year-Olds

Selecting the Right Resume Format for Your Job Hunt

Cashier Skills: Add to Improve Your Resume!

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Functional Resume Format

A functional resume illustrates work experiences and abilities by skills areas in order to highlight strengths rather than specific positions or dates of employment.

Sample Resumes/Letters (PDF)

  Use a functional resume when:

• Your work record does not justify a chronological resume
• Much of your work has been volunteer, free-lance, consulting, or temporary
• You have a variety of different, relatively disconnected work experiences
• Your career growth has been stagnant or you've had an extended absence from the workplace
• You are in the process of a career change
• You need to emphasize skills not used in recent work experience

Do not use a functional resume when:

• You can demonstrate career growth
• Listing specific employers is important, as in highly traditional fields
• Recent employers are highly prestigious

Content in a functional resume:

• Contact Information: Name, address, phone, email
• Career Objective: Must be clear and concise, or use a Functional Summary to summarize experience and skills in a few sentences
• Four or five separate paragraphs
• List in order of importance relative to objective
• Stress your most significant abilities, skills, and accomplishments 
• Use past-tense, action-oriented verbs
• Brief synopsis of actual work experiences including employers, titles, and dates
• If no or spotty work experience, leave this section out, but be ready to discuss it in the interview
• If date of last attendance is three years or less, move this section to after the Contact Information
• If more than three years, or unrelated field, include education after work experience
• Indicate degree received, date, institution
• Grade point average can be included if it is above a 3.0
• References: Use Chronological Resume format guidelines

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