a functional resume definition

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.

Get that resume out there! Browse open jobs on The Muse and find your dream job »

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.

• Career Blog

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.

Related Articles

• 50+ Administrative Resume Examples That Will Impress in 2023
• 10 Bank Teller Resume Objective Examples for 2023
• Payment Processing Resume: Samples and Pro Tips for 2023
• Crafting the Perfect Artist Resume in 2023
• 10 Retail Resume Examples That Will Get You Hired in 2023

Rate this article

5 / 5. Reviews: 1

More from ResumeHead

Daring Leadership Institute: a groundbreaking partnership that amplifies Brené Brown's empirically based, courage-building curriculum with BetterUp’s human transformation platform.

What is Coaching?

Types of Coaching

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Find your coach

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

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

Jump to section

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 .

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

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.

7 types of resumes to suit various scenarios

Cv versus resume demystify the differences once and for all, how to put babysitting on a resume: 6 skills to highlight, a quick guide on how to list references on a resume, resume best practices: how far back should a resume go, use professional reference templates to make hiring smoother, how to create a resume with chatgpt, best work accomplishments to list on your resume (with examples), resume dos and don’ts: 29 tips for writing your best resume, 24 action verbs for your resume that will get you the job, 12 resume career objective examples and tips for writing one, chronological resume: how and why to write one, how to change a life, got career gaps here’s what to do about it, how to write a resume summary that works + examples, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead™
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care®
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case studies
• ROI of BetterUp
• What is coaching?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Personal Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Briefing
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

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

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

• Resume templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover letter examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Resume Help

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.

Functional Resume: Everything You Need to Know

In This Guide:

What is a functional resume format, 3 benefits of the functional resume format, when to choose the functional format & 5 resume examples, pros and cons of the functional resume format, how to write a functional resume step by step, free functional resume template, other resume formats, key takeaways.

Ever felt like your diverse skill set was getting lost in the traditional resume format ? Maybe you’re not using the right structure to make your strengths truly shine. When you need a format that highlights your skills and expertise, rather than just listing your job history, the functional resume is your go-to. It organizes your talents into categories, making it easy for recruiters to see your qualifications at a glance.

The functional resume format is perfect for career changers or those with gaps in employment. It puts the spotlight on what you can do, not just where you’ve been.

This article will help you discover the benefits of the functional resume and see how others have successfully used it in their job searches. Or, if you’re ready to get started, you can check out our expertly designed functional resume templates.

Let’s dive in.

The functional a.k.a. a skill-based resume format is designed to focus on your skills and abilities, which is why it’s called ‘functional.’ Instead of emphasizing your chronological work history, it underlines what you can do and how well you can do it.

This format typically follows this general flow:

Resume header

• Career statement
• Skills section  (grouped by relevant categories)
• Work experience  (supporting your skills)
• Optional — any other relevant sections such as certifications, projects, volunteering, or languages that enhance your application.

The functional resume is a favorite among job seekers who are changing careers, those with gaps in their employment history, or individuals with a diverse range of skills. It allows them to present their strengths and accomplishments upfront, making a strong impression on recruiters right away.

One of its biggest assets is flexibility — you can tailor it to your unique qualifications and experiences. We’ll dive deeper into customizing this format later in the article.

Wondering how to make your resume stand out in a sea of applications? Here’s why a functional resume might be your secret weapon:

• Highlights relevant skills : The functional resume format allows you to showcase your most relevant skills and abilities right at the top. This is particularly beneficial for career changers or those with varied backgrounds, as it directs the recruiter's attention to what you can do rather than where you've worked.
• Minimizes employment gaps : If you have gaps in your employment history, a functional resume can help downplay these gaps by focusing on your skills and accomplishments instead of your chronological work history. This makes it easier to present a coherent and compelling narrative about your qualifications.
• Aligns with job requirements : With a functional resume, you can tailor your skills and experiences to match the specific job you're applying for. By organizing your resume around key skill areas, you can make a stronger case for how your background aligns with the job requirements, increasing your chances of catching the recruiter's eye.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

As a stay-at-home mom trying to get back into my position as an accountant, I was really worried that my career gap would overshadow my skills. I kept thinking recruiters would just see the time I was away and not all the new capabilities I’d developed. Switching to the functional resume format helped me showcase my strengths more confidently, focusing on what I can bring to the table now. It turned my anxiety into an opportunity to shine.

Rose Williams, Enhancv customer

The functional resume format can be a game-changer for many job seekers, especially when your career path doesn’t follow a traditional trajectory. Here’s a closer look at when you might want to give this approach a try, together with some functional resume examples:

First-time job seekers

Starting your career journey can be daunting, especially when you lack professional experience . A functional resume allows you to underscore your skills, education, and any relevant volunteer work or internship roles . Instead of a sparse work history section, you can present the abilities that make you a strong candidate, giving recruiters a clear picture of what you bring to the table.

Get more expert tips on the topic in our article How to Write Your First Resume .

Career changers

If you’re switching careers , a functional resume can help you make a compelling case for your new direction. This format focuses on your transferable skills  and accomplishments. By organizing your resume around your relevant abilities, you can show potential employers that you have the necessary qualifications for your new career, even if your work history is in a different field.

Work returners

Whether due to personal reasons, health issues, or other circumstances, employment gaps  can make traditional resumes look choppy. A functional resume downplays these gaps by emphasizing your skills and achievements instead. This helps you present a more cohesive and positive narrative, demonstrating that your time away from work hasn’t diminished your professional capabilities.

If you’re a back-to-worker struggling to explain your career gap on your resume, you might find our special employment gap guide  useful.

Stay-at-home parents

Reentering the workforce after spending time as a stay-at-home parent  can be challenging. A functional resume lets you focus on the skills you’ve maintained and developed during your time at home, such as organization, multitasking, and managing household finances. By highlighting these strengths, you can reassure employers that you’re ready to step back into a professional role with confidence and competence.

Transitioning from military service to civilian employment  often requires translating military skills into civilian terms. A functional resume helps veterans showcase their leadership, discipline, and specialized training without being tied to a chronological job history. This format can effectively communicate your value to potential employers, bridging the gap between military and civilian work environments.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing the functional resume format is not understanding when it’s appropriate to use it. Many opt for this structure to mask gaps in employment or a lack of direct experience, which can sometimes lead to more suspicion rather than reassurance from employers.

Despite this, the skill-based format does have its advantages and disadvantages. Here's a look at them:

• Highlights skills:  Emphasizes skills and abilities over chronological job history, useful for career changers.
• De-emphasizes gaps:  Helps minimize the focus on employment gaps or short-term jobs.
• Focus on achievements:  Allows candidates to showcase relevant accomplishments that align with the job they’re applying for.
• Flexibility:  Offers flexibility in presenting an experience that might not fit a traditional job progression.
• Lack of context:  Not listing detailed employment history can make it harder for employers to understand your career progression.
• Employer suspicion:  The functional resume can raise red flags for employers who may suspect you’re hiding something. Also, it’s not preferred by employers in traditional or conservative industries.
• ATS issues:  Often less compatible with ATS which scans for chronological data.
• Verification difficulty:  Makes it more challenging for employers to verify work experience and job performance.

Understanding when and how to use the functional resume format can make a big difference in the job application process. While it can be a powerful tool for certain situations, it's crucial to weigh these pros and cons before deciding if it’s the right choice for your specific circumstances.

A functional resume doesn't mean you're leaving out the experience section entirely. Instead, it shifts the focus away from your work history because it might not be very relevant or is limited. Even with this format, it's essential to quantify your skills and accomplishments  with specific data and numbers. This way, you can effectively demonstrate your capabilities and the impact you've had, making a stronger case for why you're a good fit for the job.

The skill-based resume format is quite different from conventional resumes and this can help you stand out. With the education or work history section towards the end of your document, it allows employers to thoroughly see the light of your professional expertise first before getting into the other sections later. Let’s explore how you build a functional resume:

The resume header  is the section at the top of your resume serving as the first point of contact for recruiters. You can personalize it with contrasting colors  and a larger font size  to attract attention. It should contain the following details:

• Contact information : State your name, job title, and location. Make sure it also includes a professional email address.
• Links : Add a link to your portfolio  or your LinkedIn profile .
• Resume photo : Generally, it’s best to omit photos  to maintain focus on your qualifications and avoid potential biases.

Look at this example taken from a real-world NICU nurse resume :

Resume summary or objective

The next part of your functional resume is the resume profile , which should briefly overview your previous experience, skills, and future goals related to a specific job opening. We normally distinguish between two types—a career summary  and an objective statement. Here’s how to write yours:

• A short paragraph : For a summary, write 3-5 sentences that highlight your best qualities, skills, and career goals. However, in your case, it might be a better idea to opt for an objective statement . It’s shorter, up to 3 sentences, and more suitable for entry-level candidates and career changers.
• Choice of words : Use strong adjectives  to describe yourself and start each sentence with a dynamic verb. Avoid writing in the first-person perspective , as you don’t want to be perceived as arrogant.
• Finish up strong : Use the final sentence to reinforce your message. Make recruiters want to learn more about you.

Here’s how an aspiring store manager’s resume  objective can look:

Skills section

With the functional format, the skills section  is the most crucial part of the resume.

Start by identifying and grouping your skills into categories.

• Pick out 3-5 of your most relevant and strongest skills and consider if they fall into the soft skills  or the hard skills  group.
• Research the skills in demand for the job you’re applying for and align them with your strengths. Always tailor your resume  skills to the job you’re targeting. The success of your functional resume depends on its relevance score.
• Last but not least, simply listing the skills won’t cut it. It's essential to support them with quantifiable results, whether they're in a dedicated skills section, the summary, or the work history section of your resume.

If you’re applying for a Java developer position, here’s how your skills can be listed:

This skills section makes a great addition to a functional resume because it not only lists relevant skills but also provides specific, quantified achievements that demonstrate the candidate's proficiency and impact. Contextualizing each skill with real-world applications highlights the candidate's capabilities and contributions, making a compelling case for their suitability for the job.

Enhancv’s resume builder  offers great flexibility for customizing and rearranging your skills. You can list them in an achievements or additional experience section, and even change titles and icons to suit your preferences. This approach enhances your resume by highlighting your abilities and accomplishments, rather than merely listing skills.

Work experience section

The work experience section  on a functional resume is still important because it provides context for your skills and achievements. Even though the main focus is on your skills, this section helps employers see where and how you've applied those skills in real-world situations.

This is how your experience entries should be listed:

• Job title and company : Clearly state your most recent position and the company you worked for.
• Dates of employment : Include the month and year you started and ended each job.
• Job description : Optionally, add a short description of your role in the company , especially if it was a startup—recruiters will need more context about it.
• Bullet points : Write 3-5 bullet points about your main tasks, duties, and contributions. Whenever possible, include numbers or statistics to illustrate your impact (e.g., increased sales by 20%, managed a team of 10).
• Action verbs : Start each bullet entry with an action verb to showcase your initiative.

Here’s how an experience section can look for someone who’s looking to rejoin the workforce after a sabbatical.

• • Immersed in diverse architectural styles and techniques to broaden design perspectives and expertise.
• • Participated in workshops and collaborated with renowned architects and artists to refine creative and technical skills.
• • Conducted a comparative study of historical and contemporary architectural works across various regions of Spain.

Education section

Your education section should also be tailored to the job you're applying for. If you've completed coursework  that developed specific skills, be sure to highlight it to boost your chances of getting noticed. The more relevant your education is to the job, the higher it should be placed on your resume.

Here’s how to list your educational background:

• Degree : Start with the highest degree you’ve obtained (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.) and your major or field of study .
• University or college : Include the name of the institution where you earned your degree.
• Location : Mention the city and state (or country, if international) of the institution.
• Graduation date : Provide the month and year of your graduation. If you’re still studying, indicate your expected graduation date .
• Honors and awards : If applicable, list any honors, awards, or distinctions you received (e.g., summa cum laude , Dean’s List ). If you’re fresh out of school, your GPA might come in handy, but only if it’s above 3.5.
• Certifications : Certifications can often be more valuable than a degree. If you have a certification that's highly relevant to your target job, make sure it's prominently displayed. This is especially important for hands-on roles, like the one shown below:

Additional sections

Add any other relevant sections that highlight your results-driven value and how you can help the organization achieve its goals. For example:

• Projects : To showcase specific projects  where you've applied your skills successfully.
• Volunteer work : This can demonstrate your people skills and commitment.
• Awards and honors : Highlight any recognition you've received for your work.
• Language skills :  Proficiency in multiple languages can be a great asset, especially if you’re looking for a job in an international company.
• Client testimonials : Include testimonials, especially from reputable individuals, to support your skills and experience.

As with any other resume format, what you put on your resume should align with the job posting. A well-targeted functional resume  quickly demonstrates your suitability for the role, increasing your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. By tailoring your resume to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for the specific job, you make it easier for ATS  to recognize your qualifications. Plus, it also piques recruiters' interest by directly addressing their needs.

Here is a sample template to help you effectively highlight your skills and achievements. For more inspiration, you can go through our functional resume template examples.

[Your name] [Job Title] Email: [email address] Location: [location] Phone: [your phone number] LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn Profile URL]

Objective [Write a brief summary of your career goals and the value you can bring to the target job. Focus on your skills and achievements.]

Hard Skills

• [Skill 1]: [Brief description or achievement related to this skill]
• [Skill 2]: [Brief description or achievement related to this skill]
• [Skill 3]: [Brief description or achievement related to this skill]
• [Skill 4]: [Brief description or achievement related to this skill]

Tech Skills

Soft Skills

[Job Title] [Company Name] [Location, Year(s)]

• [Brief description of your responsibilities and achievements in this role]

[Degree, Major] [University Name, Graduation Year]

• [Relevant coursework or achievements]
• [Language 1]: [Proficiency level]
• [Language 2]: [Proficiency level]

There are two other formats that suit the different needs of individuals with more substantial work experience.

• The reverse chronological resume  is the most common type. It underlines your work history in order, starting with the most recent position, making it ideal for showcasing a steady career progression. This format is especially effective for demonstrating growth and consistent employment in a particular field. It’s also a recruiter's favorite as it allows them to easily see your current and relevant roles, which immediately grabs their attention. Additionally, this format is highly compatible with ATS .
• The combination (or hybrid) resume  blends elements of both the reverse chronological and the functional formats, highlighting skills and achievements at the top, followed by a detailed work history. This format is great for showcasing relevant skills while also providing a clear employment timeline. It’s best for roles in project management, marketing, graphic design, and software development where a mix of technical and interpersonal skills is essential.

The table shows you how the three formats compare to each other.

The functional resume, while less traditional, offers a unique way to underscore your skills and experiences. Here’s what it does best:

• Highlights skills over chronology:  This format focuses on your abilities and achievements, making it ideal for showcasing what you can do rather than when you did it.
• Great for career changers:  If you're transitioning into a new field, a functional resume emphasizes your transferable skills, helping you present yourself as a strong candidate despite a different background.
• Minimizes employment gaps:  This format downplays gaps in your work history, allowing you to focus on your strengths and relevant experiences.
• Ideal for varied experience:  If your work history includes diverse roles and industries, a functional resume consolidates your skills, providing a cohesive narrative.
• Helps new graduates:  For those with limited work experience but strong skills and academic achievements, this format highlights what you bring to the table.
• Showcases volunteer work and projects:  If you have significant volunteer experience or side projects, a functional resume allows you to underline these contributions effectively.

• Resume Guides

How to Write a Resume After a Career Break

When should you include your high school on your resume, the best quotes to use on your resume, how to answer 'what was your greatest accomplishment' in an interview, marketing director interview questions & answers: a stress-free guide, 7 internship interview questions and answers.

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• AI Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• AI Resume Review
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

Everything You Need to Know About Functional Resumes

Updated: July 23, 2024

Published: June 21, 2023

Not sure how to make your resume really pop? Wondering how to highlight your skills and experience, despite any possible gaps? You might benefit from a functional resume.

Luckily, this article closely examines everything you need to know about functional resumes, including what they are, when to use them, and the benefits they offer.

So, whether you’re new in the workforce, changing careers, or have experienced some time unemployed, a functional resume can help you attract potential employers.

What is a functional resume?

The benefits of functional resumes, when to use a functional resume, limitations of functional resumes, how to write a functional resume, functional resume examples.

Unlike a traditional, chronological resume, a functional resume focuses on your skills and experience — not just your work history.

So, instead of focusing on companies, roles, and dates of employment, it groups things like your marketing experience together, presenting a collection of relevant experiences and skills.

It’s great if you’re changing careers or have a gap in your work history, as it steers attention away from dates and underscores why you’re a great fit for the role.

Plus, functional resumes begin with an objective or summary statement that sets the tone. Then it highlights your skills, accomplishments, and education.

The result is a much more targeted, customized resume that reflects your strengths and qualifications.

It’s probably clear right now — functional resumes are pretty great. Still, this deserves to be broken down into specifics. Here are the four main, undeniable advantages of functional resumes:

1. Highlights relevant skills and accomplishments.

When applying for a job, a functional resume highlights skills and accomplishments related to the position. It emphasizes your most relevant skills, even if they weren't acquired in a traditional workplace.

2. Overcomes employment gaps.

Another benefit of a functional resume is that it can help overcome employment gaps.

So, for instance, if you’ve taken time off or had a period of unemployment, a functional resume leads with the good, so the gap isn’t as much of a heavy hitter.

3. Allows for flexibility.

You can also present your qualifications in a more flexible way with a functional resume. For example, you can group your skills and accomplishments under specific headings, like "project management" or "leadership experience.”

It makes it easier for employers to find the relevant bits they’re looking for quickly.

4. Stands out from the crowd.

Here’s something else a functional resume can do better than the rest: help you stand out. It’s easy to do when basically everyone else is using the standard one.

So with a functional resume, you can show that you’re not only willing to try different, innovative approaches but also that you can think creatively.

A functional resume is great if you’re looking for a way to underscore skills and accomplishments in a tailored way that fits the role you’re applying for.

It considers everything you’ve learned, even in non-traditional formats, making it a genius solution if you have employment gaps.

A functional resume may be right for you if you fit into any of these categories:

• When you have limited work experience. A functional resume can help you highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments if you're a recent graduate or have limited work experience in your field.
• When changing careers. A functional resume can help you showcase your transferrable skills that can apply to your new career path if you're changing careers.
• When returning to the workforce. A functional resume emphasizes your skills and experience rather than just your work history.
• When job requirements are specific. A functional resume can help you highlight specific qualifications and skills clearly and concisely from a job posting.

A functional resume highlights your relevant skills, accomplishments, and experiences — even with a limited work history. However, pay close attention to the roles you’re applying for.

Functional resumes only work for some applications, so make sure you research the company first before deciding which type of resume to use. Here are three instances where you might want to skip using a functional resume.

Sizable Work History

Some people are just super lucky — and you might be one of them. If you’ve been working consistently in your field, with role after role of relevant jobs and experience building, then you’re better off using a chronological resume.

You have the dates, roles, and skills to showcase. You don’t need a functional resume to help you fill in any gaps.

ATS Compatibility

With the sheer amount of resumes floating around out there, it’s no wonder some companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter candidates. However, ATS doesn’t play nice with resumes that don't follow a traditional structure.

So, even if you’re more than qualified for a role, the recruiters might never see your resume.

Employer Preferences

Also, keep in mind employer or industry preferences. Some hiring managers prefer traditional resumes, so using a functional format may hurt your chances.

Before deciding which format to use, research the company and job posting. It’ll help you tailor your resume to meet their expectations and present you in the best possible light.

If you've decided that a functional resume is the best choice for your situation, here's a step-by-step guide to help you create one.

1. Start with a strong summary statement.

Start your resume on the right foot with a summary statement showcasing your skills, qualifications, and experience.

It's important to customize this section to the specific job you're applying for so that it provides a brief overview of why you're a great fit for the position. This statement should capture the hiring manager's attention and entice them to continue reading your resume.

2. Identify your key skills.

Once you finish that, the next step is to list the skills you want to emphasize in your resume. This section should showcase your technical and soft skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for.

Demonstrating how you have applied these skills in the past helps the hiring manager understand your skills. So highlight your key strengths — it’ll help you show why you’re the best candidate for the job.

3. Organize your skills into sections.

After identifying your top skills, organize them into clear sections that make sense for your work history and your desired job.

For example, you could divide your skills into Technical Skills, Leadership Experience, or Project Management Skills sections. This allows the hiring manager to quickly and easily identify the areas where you excel and can help you stand out as a highly qualified candidate.

4. Provide supporting examples.

When detailing your skills within each section of the resume, provide concrete examples of how you've applied those skills in real-life situations.

Include specific projects you’ve worked on, notable achievements you've accomplished, or other relevant experiences that demonstrate your proficiency in that particular skill.

5. Include your work history.

Even though a functional resume may not focus heavily on your work history, providing a brief overview of your employment background is necessary.

You should list your job titles, the names of the companies you worked for, the dates of employment, and a concise description of your responsibilities and notable achievements in each position.

6. Tailor your resume to the job posting.

Ultimately, it's essential to customize your functional resume to the specific job. So brush up on the role, company, and industry.

Then use your research to adjust your summary statement, reorder your skill sections, or incorporate different examples that emphasize the most relevant experiences for each position.

By tailoring your resume to the job posting, you can improve your chances of capturing the attention of hiring managers and securing an interview.

Here are three functional resume templates to give you an idea of what your own resume could look like.

The Blended Resume

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

27 of the Best Professional Bio Examples I've Ever Seen [+ Templates]

The 17 Best Free Resume Builders We've Ever Discovered

40 Free Resume Templates for Microsoft Word (& How to Make Your Own)

Portfolios vs. Resumes — The Complete Guide

40 Interests That Deserve a Place on Your Resume

Making the Most of Electronic Resumes (Pro Tips and Tricks)

How to Write a Simple, Effective Resume (+20 Examples)

How to Write the Perfect Project Manager Resume

How to Write the Perfect Resume for Internships

Resume templates to create a killer resume for your job application.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

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

Related articles.

Resume Worksheet: Downloadable PDF & How-To Guide

How Teal Helped Travis Realize He Was Looking for the Wrong Job (and Find the Right One)

FlowCV Reviews: Ratings & User Feedback [+ Alternative]

PhD Resume: How to Make a CV for a PhD Application

We help you find the career dream.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Functional Resume Example and Writing Tips

• Functional vs. Traditional Resume

Other Types of Resumes

When to use a functional resume, what to include in a functional resume.

• Functional Resume Example

Review More Resume Examples

Depending on your work history, you may want to consider using a functional resume. A  functional resume  focuses on the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for a position.  

Unlike a traditional resume, the functional resume does not highlight your chronological work history. Instead, it focuses on the skills you have developed that fit the requirements of the job for which you are applying. 

Functional resumes are ideal for people who have gaps in their employment histories or are new to a particular industry.

Functional Resume vs. Traditional Resume

A traditional resume, also known as a  chronological resume , emphasizes your work history. It includes a list of your work experiences. For each job you have held, you include the dates you worked, the job title, and the company. Most traditional resumes list work experience in reverse chronological order (with your current experience first).  

You should use a chronological resume when you have an extensive work history that is related to the job you are applying for. It is a good way to quickly show that you have related experience.

Functional and traditional resumes are not the only  resume types  to choose from. For example, if you want to both highlight your skills and include your chronological work history, consider a  combination resume .  

If you are in a creative field (such as graphic design), consider using a nontraditional resume. This kind of resume allows you to include visuals, such as graphs and infographics. This way, you can show off your design skills within the resume.

Functional resumes are ideal for people who do not have lots of work experience related to the job they are applying for. If you are switching careers, are new to the field, or have gaps in your employment, consider using a functional resume.

If you frequently change jobs, you might also consider a functional resume. This will help you avoid highlighting the fact that you have not stayed at one job for very long.

A functional resume isn't organized by position, so you'll need another organizational structure. Typically, functional resumes are organized by categories based on your skills or qualifications. Look at the job description for cues about what to emphasize here. 

A  functional resume  does not emphasize your chronological work history. Instead, it highlights your skills and abilities:

• Typically, your skills are organized by theme (for example, “Customer Service” and “Verbal Communication”).
• Under each theme, you provide specific examples of projects, tasks, and assignments you have completed that show you have those skills.

That being said, it is still a good idea to include a brief work history section in a functional resume.

Consider including a short, chronological work history section at the end of your resume.

If you have gaps in your employment or have frequently changed jobs, you can leave out your employment dates.

Functional Resume Example & Template

Read below for an example of a functional resume. This example includes a resume summary statement , which is a great way to quickly demonstrate your skills and abilities. It also includes a concise list of experience and a detailed list of skills.

While this resume includes a work history section (labeled “Employment History”), it provides only brief details about the jobs held. It also includes this information near the bottom of the resume, to avoid highlighting it.

Download the functional resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Functional Resume (Text Version)

John A. Doe 999 Main Street Ann Arbor, MI 99999 (123) 555-1234 johndoe@email.com

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Experienced and versatile professional with strong urban planning as well as people, management, and research skills seeks a position in urban planning and environmental impact analysis with a major city or Fortune 500 company.

CORE QUALIFICATIONS

• Background managing direct transportation planning and programs
•  Adept at managing urban planning programs and people
• Able to anticipate and project organizational change
• Background as administrator of office operations

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Skilled in Government Guidelines
• Quality Control
• Urban Planning
• Environmental Impact Mitigation and Research
• Geology/Hydrology
• Site Evaluations
• Computer Software Tools
• Scientific and Business Grant Writing 

Administrative : Lead coordinator for the daily processing of thousands of checks for payment and the mailing of confidential reports, meeting strict deadlines, and avoiding late fees.

Problem Solving : Designed a waste-management program involving Recycle Ann Arbor and a major book company, intended for the efficient handling of tons of paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass, achieving net savings of $20,000 per building annually and reducing company disposal obligations.

Management:  Oversaw operations of an expanding research lab, providing expertise, commitment, and quality control during a time of significant transition.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Senior Process Engineer, September 2018-Present Zezee Corp., Ann Arbor, Mich.

Process Engineer: Technical Support, September 2014-September 2018 Zezee Corp., Ann Arbor, Mich.

Technical Professional , September 2012-September 2014 City of the Stars, Mich.

Master of Business Administration (2017); GPA 3.9 Southern Nazarene University, Bethany, Okla. (Online Program)

Bachelor of Science (Emphasis: Ecosystem/Environmental Business) May 2014 Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Mich.

Review more professionally written resume examples for jobs, internships, gigs, volunteering, and other positions.

CareerOneStop. " Select the Best Format ." Accessed March 11, 2020.

CareerOneStop. " Resume Styles ." Accessed March 10, 2020.

The Functional Resume: Definition, Examples, and Template

Want to crush your interview.

Learn how to ace your interview with superior confidence.

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 .

Popular Resources

35+ Phone Interview Questions & Best Sample Answers

Phone interviews have become a core part of the process when attempting to find a secured placement for an open position. Companies receive massive responses from potential candidates for any..

12+ Best Questions To Ask A Recruiter

Concerning a job search, you might receive numerous offers from your recruiters. Before you choose one, you need to assess all the conditions, for which it is vital that you know everything associated with the offered position..

Answering "What Makes You Unique" In A Job Interview

Answering this question during a job interview requires more than knowing why you are unique as an individual. Yes, the true scientific answer is made up of two main components: your..

250+ Ice Breaker Questions for Life

An ice breaker question is a question that’s asked from one person to another person in order to act as a conversation starter. It brings a connection...

10 Best Answers to "What Motivates You?"

Open-ended questions like “What motivates you?” can elicit a deer-in-the-headlights reaction from job candidates if they are unprepared. It’s a broad question and can leave the interviewer..

Answering "How Did You Hear About This Position" In An Interview

A lot of interviewers ask this question - how did you hear about this position? This way they can judge you if you are a passive or an active job seeker..

8 Best Thank You Emails After an Interview (Samples, Free Templates)

Writing a thank you note after an interview says a lot about you as a potential employee. Most notably, it says that you care about the opportunities presented..

Writing a Resignation Letter (How To Write It, Samples)

Writing the perfect letter of resignation is more of an art than it is a science. And we’re going to cover how to master that art form in this full guide..

How to End a Letter (Example Salutations, Sign Off's)

Knowing how to end a business note or email is an important skill to develop. It helps portray a sense of confidence, respect and tone to your message..

Help us by spreading the word

• Internships
• All Resources
• Cover Letters
• Job Descriptions
• Interview Questions
• Most popular
• Trivia Questions
• Trivia Questions for Kids
• 555 Meaning
• 333 Angel Number Meaning
• Most Likely To Questions
• Good Pick Up Lines
• Cute Names to Call Your Boyfriend
• Funny Insults
• Paranoia Questions
• 777 Angel Number Meaning
• Bad Pick Up Lines
• Funny Names

© Copyright 2024, algrim.co - Terms & Conditions - Privacy Policy - Illustrations

• Knowledge Base
• Free Resume Templates
• Resume Builder
• Resume Examples
• Free Resume Review

Click here to directly go to the complete Functional resume sample.

What is a functional resume?

It is a resume format used by professionals who want to highlight their skills over experience.

Before we dive-deeper into the use and meaning of a functional resume, we need to understand the types of resume formats available to us.

There are 3 standard resume formats used by professionals from different industries. This blog will help you understand how and when to choose a functional resume for your job application.

The following questions will be answered in the article:

• What is a Functional Resume Template?
• Difference between Chronological vs Functional Resume
• Why do we use a Functional Resume Template?
• Pros & cons of functional and chronological resume formats
• Who should use a Functional Resume Template?
• How to make a Functional Resume?
• How to structure a Functional Resume Template?
• Tips to write a Functional Resume

Types of Resume Format

There are three different types of resumes that are accepted within the industry. These resume templates are:

Reverse Chronological Resume Layout

In which your information starts from your current/last-held profile and dates back to the beginning of your education. It includes all your major achievements and information listed along with important dates.

The resume template examples follow the below-mentioned structure:

• Contact information
• Resume summary or resume objective
• Work experience
• Additional Sections

Combination Resume Layout

It is a combination of the reverse chronological resume format and the functional resume format. It allows a candidate to showcase their skills and achievements with evidence from their professional experience.

The points on this format of the resume are grouped based on the skills highlighted.

The resume template examples follow:

• Skills Summary
• Additional Skills
• Work Experience

What Is a Functional Resume Template?

Functional resumes are essentially skill based resumes, wherein professionals expand and highlight their relevant skills rather than their work experience.

This format is recommended by resume experts for people with gaps in their employment history or for ones who have changed their jobs a lot.

To help you understand better, here are a few pointer about functional resume:

• It focuses on your skill set rather than your work experience
• It works best for when your work history is not related to your targeted job
• It works in favor for professionals with gaps in their employment history or those who have frequently changed jobs

The ideal structure of the resume template is:

• Resume objective

Also Read: What is the best type of resume format?

Functional Resume vs Chronological Resume

Functional Resume Template: Why Do We Use It?

People who benefit from a functional resume are:

• Professionals joining creative industries - because your portfolio matters more than your resume.
• Professionals transitioning Industry - as a detailed job descriptions could be too difficult for unfamiliar recruiters to comprehend.
• Overqualified or Under-qualified Candidates - who are joining mid-level jobs.

A few key points about the functional resume format:

• The functional resume can be used by candidates to focus on skills and avoid the work history.
• Since the focus is on the skills, it helps mask the job shifting trait of the candidate.
• The functional resume format is not parsed by most ATS since the ATS only looks for points under the relevant work experience.
• The functional format is not a well accepted resume format as it raises suspicions in the minds of the recruiters that the candidate is trying to hide something.

Functional Resume Template: Who Should Use It and When?

A functional resume template is particularly useful for job-seekers who:

• Have frequently changed jobs
• Have gaps in their work history
• Are reentering the workforce
• Are transitioning into new careers
• Under-qualified or Overqualified for particular job posts

The reason functional resumes work well for these people is that most of our acquired skills are transferable despite our careers not standing well.

For example , if you have been a sales manager, you were possibly responsible for training, coaching, and customer relations. These skills could even be used in your functional resume for a Public Relations Manager.

In a chronological resume , this information might not appeal to a recruiter. Essentially you did not hold the title of Public Relations Manager. However, the functional resume format showcases that despite your job profile you have dealt with PR-related issues.

Eventually it comes to how you illustrate yourself. If you give the employers the same information in an improved package you are bound to increase your chances for an interviews. Functional resumes describes more than just background and experience.

How to Make a Functional Resume?

Before we move on to making a functional resume, first we need to understand the format of a functional resume.

How to Format a Functional Resume?

• Strategically group your key skills into different categories
• Keep the employment section brief
• List your previous designations along with the company in your employment section
• You can omit selective information due to non-compliance with the target profile

Structure of a Functional Resume Format

Follow the order given below to make your resume using the Functional Format:

Contact Information

• Qualifications Summary
• Relevant Skills
• Professional Experience (dates optional)
• The Additional Section

Key Sections In a Functional Resume

Functional resume summary.

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind while drafting a functional format summary:

• Spend maximum time on crafting your functional resume summary
• It should be the last section that you write in your resume
• Highlight your key skills and achievements that align with your target profile
• Limit your summary to 3-4 lines
• Avoid writing boring and elaborate summary, keep it concise and relevant

Also Read : How to write a resume summary

In functional resumes, the candidate’s skills are more important than their work history.

The skills section in a functional resume template should include at least three skills that are significant to the target job. For each skill, group 3 or 4 points which can provide evidence for the same.

Quantifying your skills in your functional resume instills confidence in the employer. It showcases that you are able to fulfill the requirements of the position.

In a functional resume template, skills come after your personal details and before your professional or academic experience. To best highlight your functional resume skills list ensure a combination of

• Skills listed in the job description
• Skills you possess

Although adding your contact information looks like the easiest part of the resume writing process yet many functional resumes manage to miss relevant contact details. Include your:

• Phone number
• E-mail address
• Home address (city and state)

You may even include your LinkedIn URL but do not redirect the recruiter to an empty profile.

Your name should ideally be the largest text on the page between 20-24 pt. font size. The rest of your font may correspond to the font style and size of the rest of the page.

Professional Experience

In functional resumes, the professional experience section showcases your experience without prominent display. This shifts the focus on the skills and other qualifications you have for the position.

To conceal your missing work experiences:

Label your period of unemployment

You may have been unemployed for legitimate reasons like being a parent or doing an independent study or being a full-time student. You may describe yourself in the following ways to label your period of unemployment:

• Full-Time Student
• Independent Study
• Full-Time Parent
• Family Management
• Adventure Travel
• Personal Travel

You must always demonstrate on your functional resume that you were doing something during your gaps in employment. Refrain from explaining them as a result of:

• Rehabilitation, or

Refrain from specific dates

In the functional resume examples you might notice minimal mention of the periods of employment. This creates the impression that even if you were unemployed during the middle of the year 2010, it appears as though you have been consistently working.

This is an acceptable way of “fudging” in functional resumes.

Drafting the education section of functional resume is similar to reverse chronological format resume.

• Include the name of the university along with the location
• Name of the course along with the GPA
• Date of enrollment and graduation

However, if your educational experience corresponds to the job you are applying for then you must mention the skills you have acquired in due process.

In case your degree is not relevant to your field, keep this section short. You may also consider changing the headline to "Training and Education" to incorporate more volume of relevant skills.

Functional Resume Format Template Sample

An example of a free functional resume sample template is attached for a better understanding of how you can proceed with writing your resume.

Tips for Crafting a Functional Resume

• Employ professional or sans-serif fonts such as, Arial, Verdana, Trebuchet MS, Century Gothic, Calibri, Lucida Sans, Tahoma, etc. over serif fonts
• Maintain the font size larger than 10 pts. but smaller than 12 pts. for the section points
• Maintain the font size larger than 12 pts. but smaller than 14 pts. for the section headings
• Stick to the same date format. The standard date format in functional resumes is (mm/yy)
• Follow the current trends. Resume examples 2019 may differ from resume examples 2022
• Refrain from cramming your resume with gimmicky graphics
• Leave more white space for your recruiters to have a comfortable read
• Do not include pictures in your functional resumes
• Do not try to fit every important information on a one-page resume. Do not, however, exclude key details about your career

Functional Resume or Chronological Resume: Which Should You Use?

Pros & cons of using a reverse chronological resumes.

Pros of using a reverse chronological resume

• It provides a clear view of your career trajectory
• This format is widely accepted by recruiters
• It works in your favor if you have an extensive work history related to your targeted job

Cons of using a reverse chronological format

• It highlights your career gaps in your resume
• Showcases unrelated work to your targeted job

Pros & Cons of Using Functional Resumes

Pros of using a functional resume format

• It helps in hiding career gaps in employment history
• It is advantageous for fresher who have no work experience
• It is the best choice for professionals changing their career trajectory

Cons of using a functional resume format

• It send a message to the recruiters that you are hiding something
• It is not ATS compliant
• It doesn't cover your entire work history

Why do Recruiters Dislike this Format?

Recruiters usually skip to the work history to figure out what you might be hiding. In the process, if you manage to impress with your skills, you are good to go.

• Within the context of skills and accomplishments, it gives you a better opportunity to make yourself stand out despite having significant experiences.
• Recruiters are familiar with that fact that the functional resume format covers gaps in the applicant’s experience.

Use with Caution

Although a functional resume might sound like it could suit your situation yet you must be conscious of the few drawbacks to this approach.

Excluding the dates or titles can raise the recruiter's suspicions that you might be trying to hide something.

It can be frustrating for recruiters to figure out where you performed a particular accomplishment.

So carefully evaluate your situation, weigh the pros and cons and if you consider the functional resume template an the advantage which outweighs the drawbacks you may go ahead with it. The skills-based resume could present you in the best light.

Key Takeaways

• It is critical to choose the best resume format for the job application. The best best format should ideally employ all the necessary keywords .
• Picking a proper format ensures focusing on either of the two - your skills or your career progression
• Make sure that your resume format do not make your recruiters suspicious of your achievements.
• Your resume format should address two points - how well you can you do the job and If you the company can work with you?
• Opt for a functional resume template if you have frequently changed jobs or have gaps in their work history
• Quantify your work experiences with your achievements using the Cause Effect formula
• Write a strong skills section and boast any certifications or awards you have received

Hiration does not recommend the use of functional resumes.

Go to Hiration's career platform which has 24/7 chat support and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

You can also write to us at [email protected] .

Share this blog

Subscribe to Free Resume Writing Blog by Hiration

Get the latest posts delivered right to your inbox

Stay up to date! Get all the latest & greatest posts delivered straight to your inbox

Is Your Resume ATS Friendly To Get Shortlisted?

Upload your resume for a free expert review.