How to Write a Functional Resume [4 Free Templates Included]

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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:

reverse chronological resume example

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:

functional resume sample

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:

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:

resume summary

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.

job search masterclass

#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

functional resume template example

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

combination resume template

This combination template allows you to showcase your skills without having to cut down on work experience.

#3. College Resume Template

college resume sample

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

professional resume example

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

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

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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

Young-Professional-Is-Working-At-Home-Office-functional-resume

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 .

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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.

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The Functional Resume Format: Tips & Examples (2024 - Updated)

functional it resume sample

Table of Contents

Tips and tricks for writing a functional resume.

Generally, there are three types of resume formats, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. There is no one-size-fits-all template, but the resume-verse does have something for everyone. In order to avoid the resume blackhole , you need a layout that helps you stand out. 

That might sound strange, but many professions prioritize a seasoned expert with cultivated skills. One just needs to know how to use a functional resume to catch the eye of potential employers . Here at Qureos, we plan to teach you exactly that. 

{{quick-link-3="/sandbox/home-v3"}} ‍

1. What Is a Functional Resume?

The functional resume is also known as a skill-based resume. That is because it focuses on marketing the applicant’s skills rather than work experience. It is the ideal format for those who have curated a highly diverse and effective skill set, which would be greatly productive in any job setting. 

Compared to the chronological or combination resume, this format is targeted towards a set group of employers who require a refined skill set rather than a history of professional work experiences. This resume showcases your ambitions relevant to the job, rather than what you have already accomplished.

‍ 2. What Is the Functional Resume Structure?

Let us guide you on how to make an impressive resume . To help you visualize it, this is what the standard functional resume should look like:

functional it resume sample

1. Contact Information

Your information should include your full name, city and country, telephone or mobile number, and email address. It can also have links to any professional websites or portfolios, like LinkedIn, Behance, or your personal e-portfolio. 

This is a necessary step because many employers will use your information to get back to you. Make sure to add this in your header, with your name in a larger font.  ‍

2. Resume Summary 

Though a solid cover letter executes this role in detail, a resume summary or objective is necessary to highlight your capabilities as a candidate. A brief yet straightforward passage must explain how you are the perfect fit for this role. If you lack work experience, a resume objective works better on a skills-based CV. Remember to be professional, keeping it relevant to the role you have applied for.

3. Skills Section

Here, you can experiment with that displays your skills in the most attractive, strong way. 

Usually, functional resumes start off with the first skills sections, called ‘summary of qualifications’, ‘relevant skills’, ‘technical skills’, and more. In bullet point format, list down all skills relevant to your job description . To further diversify your resume and intrigue your employer, you can mention self-taught skills on your resume as well!

Remember to give examples of where, when, or how you’ve implemented said skills. 

‍ 4. Professional Skills

Here, you are required to hone in on the important skills that are most likely to secure your acceptance. In a bulleted list, highlight two or three crucial skills that the employer will not be able to turn away. Then, detail when, where, and how you implemented said skills and what you achieved. 

Additionally, to further strengthen your resume, mention metrics, statistics, or any number that validates your accomplishments. Data evidence will give credibility to your skills, which is necessary. 

‍ 5. Work Experience, If Any 

In case you have any work experience, a functional resume has the space to include that. Below are your skills, like your professional history in reverse-chronological order. Start from the latest position held and describe your roles, skills, and achievements during that period. 

On the other hand, if you don’t have any experience – that’s fine! A functional resume is specifically designed to market your skills over everything else. 

‍ 6. Education

Lastly, write your educational background. Your college and degree are the most important to mention. It's not important to mention your GPA unless it is specifically asked for. Also, you can add any certifications, honors, or important medals you have received. However, ensure they are all appropriate for the job you have applied for.  

After curating your resume, it’s best to run it through a resume score calculator. This will further strengthen your profile and give you an added level of reassurance.

‍ 3. Who Should Use a Functional Resume?

For some, functional resumes can be a holy grail. It is vital to create a killer portfolio that guarantees acceptance, so it’s best to see if the functional resume meets your requirements before creating one. 

Of course, this resume is perfect for those job positions that value skills over practical experience. The format allows for your most valuable skills to shine up upfront, allowing potential employers to screen that section immediately.

Secondly, if you’re someone who has frequently switched careers, has worked in various departments, or lacks a career niche, the functional resume helps you stand out. For those with an unstructured career trajectory, this format encourages them to highlight their learning and skill development.

Thirdly, the functional resume is a highly useful format for fresh graduates or students who do not have work experience or are currently in school. Don’t fret, as one’s education and college experience are sources of skill-building that is of value to hiring managers. 

Additionally, the uniqueness of the functional resume intrigues employers. Therefore, this format is excellent for those who have employment gaps. Aside from focusing on your talents and capabilities, it adds another level to your application. 

Lastly, if you’re aiming for a drastic career shift into a different field, this format is for you. You can showcase how your pre-existing skills are flexible and generalizable to every environment. The functional resume can present you as an adaptable and multi-talented individual who can fit into any field!

However, in some cases, the functional resume may not be the right fit. Firstly, if you do have work experience that spans three to ten years and is relevant to the job. Or, if you want to display a steady career trajectory with advancements. In such a case, draft a combination resume or chronological resume. 

‍ 4. Functional Resume VS Chronological Resume?

A noticeable difference is that of formatting. A functional resume begins with your contact details, followed by a detailed outline of your capabilities, and any certifications. Lastly, it ends with relevant job experiences and educational background. 

Whereas the chronological resume starts off with identification details, followed by a resume summary, and a list of your work history. The latter is featured in reverse-chronological order. Unlike the functional resume, this format displays your education, certifications, and skills very briefly, at the end.

Secondly, while some may reject functional resumes for being disjointed or incomplete, some hiring managers prefer candidates who can work in any industry. While, chronological resumes are generally preferred, especially for job positions that require specific expertise and experience. 

Lastly, the functional resume enhances your skills as it does not prioritize what you have or have not done. It is future-focused that portrays you as a flexible candidate with holistic skills, able to succeed in any field, despite minimum work experience. 

However, a chronological resume values your work history, using it to craft a story that is appealing to employers. It focuses on showcasing accomplishments and your evolution as an employee. 

5. Functional Resume VS Combination Resume?

While we’ve mentioned the functional resume’s format, a combination resume is structured differently. It opens with contact information, a resume summary or objective, a bulleted skills list, and a chronological work experience section, ending with educational background. Unlike the functional resume, it bequeaths equal importance to skills and professional history, suitable for mid-level experienced employees. 

While a functional resume is received as an unexpected and non-traditional application, combination resumes are more creative and diverse. Though, this varies from employer to employer.

Finally, while a functional resume is focused on emphasizing your skills, a combination resume bequeaths equal importance to skills and professional history, suitable for mid-level experienced employees. 

This comprehensive guide on functional resumes is enough to kickstart you on your journey of designing an eye-catching resume. There are several brilliant resume templates available online – so don’t wait and land your dream job today!

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Top IT Professional Resume Examples: Crafting Your Path to Success

Explore our curated collection of IT professional resume examples to elevate your job application. Discover essential tips for creating an ATS-friendly resume, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices to highlight your skills and achievements in the competitive tech industry

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Table of Contents

reating an impactful IT resume requires more than just listing qualifications—it demands strategic use of the right tools. The job market is seeing a 20% annual rise in applicants, making it vital for your resume to stand out. Utilizing an ATS resume checker can help ensure your document is optimized for the Applicant Tracking Systems that many companies employ. These systems screen resumes for relevant keywords and formatting, and research indicates that nearly 40% are filtered out before reaching hiring managers.

This reality underscores the necessity of utilizing the best ATS resume checker free to refine your application. By analyzing your resume against ATS standards, you can significantly enhance its visibility. Additionally, looking at successful IT professional resume examples can provide insights into effective layouts and content strategies. By leveraging these resources, you can craft a resume that captures attention and increases your chances of securing interviews in the IT field.

Structure of an IT Professional Resume

1. contact information.

  • Name: Prominently display your full name at the top of the resume.
  • Phone Number: Include a reliable contact number for communication.
  • Email Address: Use a professional email address, ideally with a combination of your first and last name.
  • LinkedIn Profile: (Optional) Provide a link to your LinkedIn profile to showcase your professional network and recommendations.
  • Portfolio/GitHub: (If applicable) Include links to your portfolio or GitHub repository to demonstrate your coding skills and projects.

2. Professional Summary or Objective

Write a compelling summary that captures your career aspirations, key skills, and what you bring to the organization. Tailor this section to align with the specific job description.

3. Core Competencies

List your most relevant technical and soft skills in a clear and concise manner. This section allows hiring managers to quickly assess your qualifications.

Example Skills:

4. Professional Experience

  • Present your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent role. Each entry should showcase your contributions and achievements.
  • Job Title: Your official job title.
  • Company Name: Name of the organization you worked for.
  • Location: City and state (or country).
  • Dates of Employment: Month and year (e.g., January 2020 – Present).
  • Responsibilities and Achievements: Use bullet points to highlight key responsibilities, projects, and achievements, focusing on quantifiable results.

5. Education

  • Degree: Type of degree obtained (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Computer Science).
  • Institution Name: The name of the college or university.
  • Location: City and state (or country) of the institution.
  • Graduation Date: Month and year of graduation (or expected graduation date).

6. Certifications and Training

  • Include relevant certifications and training that enhance your qualifications. This section can set you apart from other candidates.

7. Projects

Highlight key projects that demonstrate your technical abilities and problem-solving skills. Include a brief description, your role, and the technologies used.

8. Professional Affiliations (Optional)

  • If applicable, mention any professional organizations you are a member of, which can further showcase your commitment to your field.

Read about:

  • IT Support Specialist Resume : Expert Tips for Crafting a Standout Resume
  • Best  IT Professional Resume : Expert Tips and Top Practices

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it professional resume examples FAQs

1. What should I include in an IT professional resume?

An IT professional resume should highlight key technical skills, work experience, certifications, and relevant projects. Be sure to include a strong summary or objective that aligns with the specific role you’re applying for. List your technical proficiencies, such as programming languages, database management, cloud platforms, and network systems. Also, mention any certifications like CompTIA, AWS, or Microsoft Azure. Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills like problem-solving and communication. If you’re looking for inspiration, consider reviewing IT professional resume examples to guide your structure.

2. How do I write a resume with no experience in IT?

Writing an IT resume with no experience can be challenging, but focus on transferable skills and relevant coursework. Highlight technical skills you’ve developed through self-study, internships, or school projects. Emphasize problem-solving, analytical thinking, and any relevant IT certifications you’ve earned. Include any hands-on experience from personal projects, hackathons, or volunteer work, as well as related education. Reviewing IT professional resume examples can provide insight into how to structure your resume effectively.

3. What is the ideal length for an IT professional resume?

The ideal length for an IT professional resume is typically one page for those with less experience, and up to two pages for professionals with more extensive work history. Keep it concise by focusing on the most relevant skills, achievements, and job responsibilities. Use bullet points for easy readability, and avoid unnecessary details. To get a clear idea of how to condense your information, you can refer to IT professional resume examples to strike the right balance between detail and brevity.

4. How can I make my IT professional resume stand out?

IT Professional Resume Examples

To make your IT professional resume stand out, focus on showcasing measurable achievements. Instead of listing job duties, highlight your contributions in previous roles with quantifiable results like improving system performance by a percentage or reducing downtime. Tailor your resume to the specific job description and include relevant keywords. Using the reverse-chronological format or functional format, depending on your strengths, is key. Look at IT professional resume examples for inspiration on how to present your accomplishments compellingly.

5. Should I include freelance or contract work on my resume?

Yes, you should include freelance or contract work on your resume, especially if it’s relevant to the IT field. Freelance projects demonstrate your initiative, technical expertise, and time management skills. Be sure to list the projects you’ve completed, technologies used, and outcomes. Freelance work can add significant value to your resume, particularly when you’re building experience. In IT professional resume examples , you’ll often find a section dedicated to freelance or contract work, which can serve as a guide for how to present it.

6. What format works best for an IT professional resume?

The best format for an IT professional resume depends on your experience. The reverse-chronological format is ideal for professionals with steady work history, showcasing your most recent job first. For those with varied experience or gaps, the functional format emphasizes skills over job titles. If you’re a mix of both, a hybrid format might be the most suitable. To get a clear understanding of which structure suits you best, consider reviewing IT professional resume examples that match your career path.

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The Functional Resume: Tips, Examples, & When To Use It

Kayte Grady

3 key takeaways

  • A functional resume prioritizes the skills you've used to do the job over where and when you've that job.
  • There are pros and cons to creating a functional resume you should know about before starting. (Plus, get several functional resume examples to use as a guide.)
  • Teal's free resume templates can help you 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. 

Looking to create a functional resume? Try Teal's AI Resume Builder with flexible resume design.

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. 

A functional resume example

Functional resume pros and cons

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.

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 

Before you choose to write one, here are some pros and cons you should know about.

Pros of functional resumes

  • Emphasizes skills by highlighting abilities over job titles
  • Showcases potential by focusing on strengths
  • Flexible for transitions because it highlights relevant skills from past roles, even if the job titles don’t match
  • Focuses on strengths with your top skills front and center—regardless of career progression

Cons of a functional resume format

  • 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 resume format vs. other resume formats

A functional resume format differs in structure and organization than other styles. Here's what you need to know about the similarities and differences.

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.

Use a chronological resume to show a clear view of your career, impact, and skills.

View this 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. 

functional it resume sample

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. 

A screenshot showing what professional details are stored in the Teal AI Resume Builder

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.

A graphic showing how the Teal Resume Builder highlights skills in job descriptions

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% 

Pro Tip:  With Teal's Design Mode, you can rename any resume section to fit your experience. Then, just move it to the best location for your format using the Drag-and-Drop Editor.

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

A functional resume example for a data analyst

Software engineer skills-based resume sample

A skills-based resume example for a software engineer

Project manager functional resume example

A functional resume example for a project manager

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.

functional it resume sample

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.

A screenshot of how to edit resume details in Teal

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.)

A screenshot of Teal's design mode

4. Proofread and edit : Make sure your resume is free of errors like placeholder text and the information is current and accurate.

A screnshot of Teal's spelling and grammar tool.

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 functional 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. A chronological or hybrid resume might be a better option if you're looking for a more easily recognized approach.

Regardless of what format you choose, if you're ready to create your resume—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.

functional it resume sample

Kayte Grady

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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.

functional_resume_format-1

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] .

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IMAGES

  1. Functional Resume Template

    functional it resume sample

  2. Functional Resume Template & Writing Guide (Free Download)

    functional it resume sample

  3. Functional Resume Format: Templates and Examples

    functional it resume sample

  4. Functional resume format: Examples, tips, & free templates

    functional it resume sample

  5. How to Write a Functional Resume [4 Free Templates Included]

    functional it resume sample

  6. Functional Resume example

    functional it resume sample

VIDEO

  1. Resumes & Career Advice : What Is a Functional Resume?

  2. Master the Functional Resume Format

  3. Next.js Resume Builder Tutorial part #2

  4. Software Trainer Sample Resume

  5. SAP MM Fresher Resume Format

  6. How to Make a Professional UX Portfolio Resume (Figma + Webflow)

COMMENTS

  1. Functional Resume: Definition, Tips and Examples

    A functional resume is a resume format that primarily showcases a candidate's skills. As opposed to a reverse-chronological resume that organizes a candidate's experience under their previously or currently-held professional jobs held in order of recency, the functional resume groups a candidate's experience under skills or categories of ...

  2. Functional Resume: Template, Examples, and Writing Guide

    2. Group your skills by type. Functional resumes can be extremely compelling when written around the skills that the employer is looking for. You can do this by writing by grouping your resume skills by type:. Read the job description and group the skills that the employer is looking for into 3-5 categories; Then list out and organise your skills into similar groups to add to your resume ...

  3. How to Write a Functional Resume with Examples

    Functional resume template. Here's a template you can use when writing your functional resume: [Your full name] [Your address] [Your phone number] [Your professional email] Resume summary: [Include two or three sentences that summarize your skills, qualifications, and experience that are relevant to the job you're applying for.]

  4. How to Write a Functional Resume [4 Free Templates Included]

    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.

  5. Functional Resume Format: Example + How to Write Yours

    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.

  6. Functional Resume Format: Examples & How to Write

    Check out our in-depth guides: Resume Summary Examples (30+ Professional Summary Statements) and 50+ Resume Objective Examples: Career Objectives for All Jobs (+Tips). 4. Write the Perfect Skills Summary. This is the shining moment for your functional resume. It should make the hiring manager's brows heighten.

  7. Functional Resume Format: Examples, Tips, & Free Templates

    Functional resume summary sample. (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.) Copy to clipboard.

  8. Functional Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    Functional Resume Example #2. Functional Resume Example #3. Skilled Nursing Professional with advanced knowledge of acute care, clinical workflows, pediatric care, and team collaboration. Developed a strong understanding of infection prevention protocols, EHR, and HIPAA.

  9. Should You Ever Use a Functional Resume Template?

    Recruiters dislike functional resumes for two main reasons: 1. It conceals information. "You're taking information out of context [in a functional resume]," said the recruiter. "It's easier to BS your way through to make things sound glamorous.". The functional resume format raises suspicion among recruiters.

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

    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.

  11. Functional Resume Template, Examples & Writing Guide

    2. Functional Resume Template. You can find an example of a functional resume for a bartender below. If you would like to see resume samples for another industry, you can view all of our resume samples. You can click the image above to learn how to create a Bartender Resume in a functional format. 3.

  12. Functional Resume Writing Guide [Templates, Examples & Tips]

    A functional resume is a resume format that highlights your professional skills. You should use a functional resume format when you lack relevant work experience or have gaps in your employment history. To write a compelling functional resume, you need to include your contact information, use a resume statement, summarize your skills, and list ...

  13. How to Write a Functional Resume: Tips, Samples, and FAQ

    Tips for writing the professional summary or resume objective: Keep your summary or objective statement brief (two to three sentences). Use action verbs and power words. Connect your abilities to the employer's needs. Avoid overused phrases such as "works well independently" or "good communicator.".

  14. Functional Resume Template (+ Good Example to Follow)

    Here's how to make a good functional resume layout: Use professional resume fonts such as Calibri, Cambria, Times New Roman, Georgia, etc. to increase readability. Set the font size to 10-12 pt. Experts recommend doing this to maximize the page's capacity while keeping the contents legible.

  15. The Functional Resume Format: Tips & Examples (2024

    Functional Resume Sample. ‍. 1. Contact Information. Your information should include your full name, city and country, telephone or mobile number, and email address. It can also have links to any professional websites or portfolios, like LinkedIn, Behance, or your personal e-portfolio.

  16. Top IT Professional Resume Examples: Crafting Your Path to Success

    Structure of an IT Professional Resume 1. Contact Information. Name: Prominently display your full name at the top of the resume. Phone Number: Include a reliable contact number for communication. Email Address: Use a professional email address, ideally with a combination of your first and last name. LinkedIn Profile: (Optional) Provide a link to your LinkedIn profile to showcase your ...

  17. The Functional Resume: Tips, Examples, & When To Use It

    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. ‍. Functional resume templates will prioritize skills over work experience. ‍.

  18. Functional Resume

    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.

  19. 6 Great Front Desk Assistant Resume Examples

    Your Front Desk Assistant resume must include your contact information, professional summary, work experience, skills and education. You can further customize your resume with extra sections to showcase other qualifications. Here are some examples of optional front desk assistant resume sections that you could add to provide greater detail: