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Functional Resume

            The functional resume helps overcome this highlighting problem.

            In its purest form a functional resume does not list dates, employers, or job titles. And, unless specifically requested, submitting one in its purest form is not the best way to go about getting an interview. However, a modified version may be the best way to get your foot in the door.

            Ideally, what a functional style should strive to do is emphasize what you have done in your career along with your educational accomplishments. The secondary emphasis should then be to tell the employer when and where.

            A functional resume can be considered when there is something in your work history you want to de-emphasize. This might include job-jumping, frequent career changes, a gap in your work history or a demotion.

            Another time to use this form of resume is if you are an older employee with a lengthy work history and many titles or employers. In this case, a chronological resume might prove very long and burdensome. It also may tend to highlight your age.

            People with little work history, but with lots of experience in volunteer work or unpaid activities may find it beneficial to use a functional resume.

            The real goal of a functional approach is to direct the reader to view the skills and abilities that you want considered. You want the reader to know what you can do for the employer.

            Choose a layout and formulate a format that emphasizes your strengths. List the

most important first.

            Consider showing how your experience in other jobs is applicable. Don’t always leave it up to the employer to figure this out. Most employers usually take only seconds with most resumes, so you have to grab their attention right away.

            At the end of your resume, consider providing a summary of your job history. Important dates and titles should be included. Hiring managers will often be looking for them.

            If your concern is that you are an older employee with an extensive history, provide only your most recent ten or fifteen years.

            There are several problems with functional resumes. If possible, and if it is in your best interest, try to use an approach that lessens each problem.

            First, with the functional style, it is difficult for the reader to match your skills with your past positions. In cases where this type of matches is important, you may want to point out these connections.

            Second, a distinct clear career path may not be shown. Use a summary to help explain points that may be confusing.

            And third, your most recent accomplishments and skills may not be apparent. You may want to use your summary to explain this as well.

            Many of job seekers are not sure when to use a functional resume.  Many recruiters and hiring managers prefer a chronological format and may question why one is not being used. If you choose to use a functional approach, the reason should be that it is in your best interest not to use a chronological resume, not just that you like the style.

            The functional resume can prove to be a valuable tool in helping you get the job you want. Use it if it is applicable and in your best interest.