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Using a functional resume

Posted on 06. Dec, 2005 posted by Bill in Employment News

Using a functional resume

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before writing the resume, first research what the employer is looking for in an advertised position. If you are not applying for an open job, research the types of skills the organization usually looks for in their employees in positions you might have an interest.

Next, list your skills and abilities. You may want to do this individually for every position, paid or non-paid that you have held. Pull out the relevant attributes that apply. If you think there are other relevant abilities you possess, use them as well. Formulate a format that lays out your strengths. List the most important first.

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

At the end of your resume, provide a summary of your job history. Important dates and titles should be included.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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