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What Is a Functional Resume?
A functional resume is a resume format where skills and achievements are the focal points. It prioritizes what you are good at and what you have accomplished – this is why it is also known as a skills-based resume. Work history is included, but only as a list of job titles and employers.
Main Advantages
- A functional resume can increase the chances of getting an interview, even if you don’t have the exact work experience required for the position.
- This type of resume is perfect for transitioning into a new career. Relevant skills are highlighted and lack of experience is less noticeable.
- Functional resumes do not show detailed employment history. This hides work gaps in cases where candidates are re-entering the workforce.
- A functional resume is suitable for someone who has frequently changed jobs.
Main Disadvantages
- A functional resume can play against you with recruiters who assume you are excluding details of your employment history because there is something to hide.
- Functional resumes do not clearly showcase career growth or development in past responsibilities.
- This format doesn’t work well in traditional fields or with conventional firms that look for specific information in the resumes they receive.