While chronological resumes are the most common resume format, they aren't always the most effective. Chronological resumes work well for job seekers who have a strong, logical work history. Functional resumes tend to work better for job seekers who may not have a logical work history. The functional resume is designed to allow you focus on job specific skills and accomplishments that applicate to the specific position being applied for. If your job history isn't very impressive due to gaps or if it just doesn't make sense a functional resume is probably your best bet.
Functional resumes are designed to emphasize job skills and major achievements. Managers reviewing a functional resume can see what a potential employee’s skills are without having to sift through details about prior jobs since these details are usually omitted. A variety of formats can be utilized when preparing a functional resume. These resumes are effective when making a career transition or when the individual preparing one has worked in a variety of different fields or had numerous responsibilities at prior jobs. In other words, functional resumes are effective for people who are not specialists. College graduates, stay at home moms, or military professionals entering the job market will benefit from preparing a functional resume.
Individuals making career transitions should prepare a functional resume. However, potential employers will not be able to identify specifics about prior work experience from reviewing a functional resume which may be an issue for more traditional managers.
Jobseekers who should consider using a functional resume format include:
Professionals who are making a dramatic career change.
Those with disparate career experiences and jobs that don't show a clear-cut career path.
Individuals with gaps in their work history. A chronological resume will draw attention to gaps in work history.
Students with mimimal work experience or unrelated work history.
Military transitioners who are entering the private sector for the first time.
Individual with a strong work history who want to avoid getting stuck in a similar position.
Older workers who do not want to emphasize their age.
The following is a useful functional resume template:
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