When to Use a “functional” Resume Instead of a Traditional One
When you open the resume template, it’s pretty simple: your past jobs are listed in reverse chronological order at the top, starting at about 10 years old. But sometimes you may need a “functional” resume, even if the templates for it are a little harder to find.
What is a functional resume?
A functional resume is a resume that lists your job-related skills and abilities right after your contact information. In most cases, according to Indeed , this is done in the form of a bulleted list. You may have a list of skills you have acquired in past jobs, school, or training, as well as any awards you have received.
The goal here is not to show the hiring manager what you have done in the past, but what you are willing and able to do for his company. Leadership with your talents and accomplishments shows that you are competent and capable, not just that you have worked or studied before.
When to Use a Functional Resume
There are a few times when functional resumes should be used, as well as a few times when they should be avoided. Try one of these if you’re one of the following, according to Novoresume :
- Recent graduate with no work experience
- Changing industries and finding entry-level jobs
- If you have held various positions that have little to do with each other and/or with the job you are currently looking for
Keep in mind, however, that this is quite rare, and in most cases, hiring managers are more welcoming to traditional resumes. Using unorthodox formatting can show off your skills, but it can also make it look like you’re trying to hide something, like a gap on your resume. If you want to hide employment gaps or other shortcomings in your story, don’t do it. You must explain this and be honest with hiring managers . Only use a functional resume if you really want to take the lead on your talents and potential rather than your experience and past deeds, but not if you’re trying to be a little deceitful. Continue to use a chronological resume if you remain in your current industry or have a well-defined career path that you are happy to remain on.