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

Background Image

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

cookies image

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

  • 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.

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] .

functional resume examples 2021

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.

functional resume examples 2021

Everything You Need to Know About Functional Resumes

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.

marketer holds 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

Functional resume example, specialist resume

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

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

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

Portfolios vs. Resumes — The Complete Guide

Portfolios vs. Resumes — The Complete Guide

40 Interests That Deserve a Place on Your Resume

40 Interests That Deserve a Place on Your Resume

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

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

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

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

How to Write the Perfect Project Manager Resume

How to Write the Perfect Project Manager Resume

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

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

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

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

How to Write the Perfect Resume for Internships

How to Write the Perfect Resume for Internships

Maximize Your Impact: 205 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

Maximize Your Impact: 205 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

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

How to Write a Functional Resume | Definition and Examples

Quick Navigation:

What is a functional resume?

How to write a functional resume, functional resume template, functional resume example.

A functional resume focuses on an applicant’s skills and abilities instead of the chronological order of previous work experiences. This resume format is a good choice for people with significant gaps in their work history or those with previous work experience that is irrelevant to the position they’re applying for.

Using a functional resume can be an effective way of showing an employer that you have the hard and soft skills required for a particular job, even if your work history doesn’t show it. It can also help people who have worked many different jobs in a relatively short time and might otherwise be seen as unstable employees. This article includes some tips on writing a functional resume, along with a template and an example.

When creating your functional resume, always keep in mind that the goal is to highlight the skills that are relevant to a particular job. 

These are the steps that are typically required for writing a functional resume:

1. Firstly, list your contact information 

The top part of the page should contain your full name, address and email.

2. Secondly, summarize your work experience and acquired skills 

This provides the employer with context and positions your best skills and achievements where they will be read first.

3. Next, create a skills section 

This is the most important part of the resume, and it is formatted similarly to a classic professional experience section. Add at least three skills that are relevant to the position you are applying for and provide bullet points for each. The bullet points should describe achievements that highlight each particular skill.

4. Then, make a professional experience section

The whole point of the functional resume is to highlight relevant skills instead of work experience, so this section should be brief and without specific dates. A good way of listing work experiences without revealing employment gaps is by listing only the years instead of the full dates.

5. Next, mention your education

Unless your education is directly related to the job you are applying for, this section should include only the name, city and state of the last school or college you graduated from, the years attended and your degree or specialization.

6. Finally, list awards and honors when applicable

If you earned an honor or award during your career that would be relevant to the position you are applying for, this is where to add it. If not, you can skip this section altogether.

The key to writing a good functional resume is matching your skills to the ones the hiring manager is looking for. Writing a cover letter also helps, as it adds more context and helps the employer get a better understanding of your professional history.

[Full Name] [Address] [Email Address]

[A short description of your current professional status, including relevant experience and interests that are related to the desired position.]

  • [First example of skill 1]
  • [Second example of skill 1] 
  • [First example of skill 2]
  • [Second example of skill 2]
  • [First example of skill 3]
  • [Second example of skill 3]

Professional Experience

[Professional Experience 1, Year]

  • [Most recent relevant professional experience, job responsibilities and achievements]

[Professional Experience 2, Year]

  • [Other relevant professional experience, job responsibilities and achievements]

[Name of university/college/high school, years attended]

[Degree or specialization]

Awards and Honors

[Any that are relevant to the position]

Johanna Wong 123 Sunset Boulevard Houston, Texas 77001 [email protected]

Sales professional with a proven track record in multiple fields during a five-year career. I am customer-oriented and passionate about building strong long-term relationships, constantly improving the sales process and increasing brand loyalty.

Communication 

  • Created and implemented new company policies that made communication with customers easier on all channels. 
  • Created a new sales employee manual, including all the relevant procedures that every member of the sales team must follow to constantly improve the selling process and increase market share.
  • Averaged more than 10 follow-up calls per day, with a 20% success rate on customers who have previously declined to use our services. 
  • 83% of the customers acquired through follow-up calls reported a positive experience after working with the company and recommended our services to their acquaintances.

Process Streamlining

  • Worked to improve the sales process by using statistics to make every step faster and more efficient. 
  • Developed procedures and templates that sales employees can use to save time and increase customer satisfaction, resulting in a 30% shorter sales flow.

Strategic Prospecting

  • Exposed the company to new potential customers by researching and targeting new markets. 
  • Expanded the potential customer base by 45% over a three-year period, increasing the interest shown in our services by 30% and sales by 17%.

Regional Sales Manager, Cyberdine Electronics, 2017

  • My job responsibilities were to coordinate, train and support the sales team in my region. In the space of 15 months, sales increased by 20%, the company became one of the top three in the region by market share, and the team I managed was the company’s second-best sales team in the Houston area.

Sales Representative, Johnson Real Estate, 2012

  • My job responsibilities were to identify properties that were available for rent in my allocated region, promote them and present them to interested customers. By using my communication and persuasion skills, I became the company’s top sales representative in the residential rental division after 10 months.

Rice University, Houston, Texas, 2007-2011

Bachelor of Science in Commerce

Presented with the Golden Falcon Award for excellent achievements in real estate, 2014.

The Best Resume Format Guide

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

resume format

By Mike Simpson

By now, as a seasoned job hunter and student of The Interview Guys , you should know there are a few essentials you should have in your arsenal: business cards , a solid cover letter , your elevator pitch , and your well-formatted resume .

Hang on, haven’t we already gone over all this in that other article, How to Make a Resume 101 ?

Yes…and no.

In that article we did go over how to write a resume, but in this article, we’re going to take you to the next step and focus specifically on one seemingly small but massively huge part of resume building: resume format and how to select which one is right for you.

FREE BONUS PDF CHECKLIST : Get our "Perfect Resume CHECKLIST" that gives you a handy 38-point Checklist that will let you craft the perfect resume.

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR CHECKLIST

Why Is Resume Format So Important?

As any good “Interview Guys student” will tell you, a resume is a document used by job seekers (you) to quickly and easily let a hiring manager know what skills they have, what their work history is, and any accomplishments they might have.

Seems simple, right?

Well, it is, but only if you know what you’re doing. The tricky part of writing your own resume is it’s a deceptive document .

No, not deceptive as in you use it to lie to an employer about what you can do (don’t EVER do that!), but deceptive in that it seems like it should be really easy to write.

Trust me, it’s much easier to write a bad resume than a good one…and there are a LOT of bad ones out there, which, believe it or not, is a good thing.

Wait. It’s good that there are bad resumes out there? That doesn’t make any sense!

Yes, and the reason is, when a recruiter or hiring manager has to slog through a mountain of bad resumes, seeing a good resume is like a breath of fresh air. It stands out!

And if you follow our guide, that breath of fresh air resume is going to be yours!

But first, we need to figure out what type of resume format you need .

Types of Resume Formats

Once upon a time, many moons ago, there was just one way to write a resume, reverse-chronologically.

Chronological Resume Format

The reverse-chronological resume (simply called the “chronological”) was just that, a chronological listing of everything you’d done up to that point, starting with your most recent and working backwards.

According to the resume experts over at ResumeGenius.com , a chronological resume “…shows recruiters that your most recent work experience is relevant to their needs, presents yourself in terms of promotions and upward career mobility and demonstrates that you’ve had a normal career without work gaps or terminations.”

We agree that these are some of the benefits of this style of resume, which is why, during the heyday of the chronological resume, everyone used it. It wasn’t just industry standard, it was global standard.

Brain surgeons and tax accountants used the same chronological format as plumbers and babysitters – and for the time, it was fine.

Then someone said, “Hmm. These jobs aren’t all exactly the same..so why are the resumes being used exactly the same? Shouldn’t they be specific to the job you’re seeking? Shouldn’t it be more…functional?”

And in that moment, the functional resume was born.

Functional Resume Format

Rather than just simply listing what you’ve done (chronological), a functional resume specifically targets the job you’re going after and makes sure that it highlight the skills and abilities you have that relate to that position.

Rather than listing a ton of stuff that might not relate to what you’ve done, it highlights what is most relevant for the position you’re going after.

Whereas a chronological resume can seem cold and impersonal, almost a ‘shopping list’ of skills, promotions and upward mobility, a functional resume allows you to interject a little of “who” you are into the conversation, not just “what you do.”

And then someone said “I can’t decide…what works better for me? Chronological or functional? Ugh, why do I have to decide? Why can’t I use both?!”

And thus the combination resume was born.

Combination Resume Format

The combination resume takes all the best parts of a functional resume (relevant skills, qualifications and specifically targeted information) and combines it with the chronological resume (everything you’ve done in the past that’s gotten you to where you are right now.)

But which of the three resume formats is right for me?

How To Choose the Best Resume Format For You

The first thing you have to do when settling on what type of resume you plan to write ( chronological , functional or combination ), is figure out which resume format or resume layout matches your needs and who you are. While it’s true you tend to see less chronological resumes out there, the fact is your resume format choice should depend more on your experience and situation more than anything.

CHRONOLOGICAL RESUMES are great for people who have had a steady career path in the same field for a long period of time or are applying for jobs in similar fields and has few, if any, gaps in their employment history.

Employers like chronological resumes because it’s easy to see, at a glance, what an employee has done in the past. For people who have stayed within the same industry their whole career and haven’t moved around much, it’s a great option as it shows a potential employer quickly and easily your progression.

For example, executives who have had a steady progression to the top would benefit from a chronological resume.

Chronological resumes are also great for people who are just starting out or find themselves in the mid-level of their careers.

When organizing your chronological resume, you want to make sure you keep the following categories in this order (see, I told you we’d come back to categories in resume formats!)

  • Objective Statement or Summary Statement

Experience/Qualifications

FUNCTIONAL RESUMES are great for people who have started and stopped their careers and are facing gaps in their work history or are making a significant career change. Functional resumes are also great for people who are targeting a particular position and need a resume that highlight specific skills and abilities that directly relate.

People just entering the job market can also benefit from a functional resume as it focuses more on skills than past work history.

When organizing your functional resume, you want to make sure you keep the following categories in this order:

  • Achievements/Accomplishments

COMBINATION RESUMES are great for people who are looking to make a career change and move from one industry to another. It’s also a great format for highlighting well-developed skills and talents that are relevant to a specific position. This is the best resume format for someone considered a master within their field.

When organizing your combination resume, you want to make sure you keep the following categories in this order:

Best Practices For Formatting Your Resume

Now that we’ve gone over different resume formats, it’s time to go over formatting the resume format (?) you have selected. Tongue twisters and confusing sentences aside, let’s start with the basics!

How Long Should A Resume Be?

No matter which of the three formats you decide to go with, it should fit neatly onto one single sided page without crowding .

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, and in some (rare) cases (career changes, highly advanced technical fields, or individuals at the senior/executive level), a slightly longer resume is acceptable.

Anything longer than that and you’ve moved out of the world of resumes and into the world of CV’s (hey, we have an article for those! Check out our CV article here! ) which are acceptable, but ONLY in VERY SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES. (If you’ve been asked for your resume, make sure that’s what you give them or you run the risk of it being tossed.)

Keep in mind this isn’t your autobiography! 

This is meant to give a hiring manager just enough information about you that they feel compelled to call you in and meet you face to face!

To put it bluntly, the average hiring manager spends initially between 10-20 seconds on each resume which means you have 10-20 seconds to catch their eye. The last thing you want to do is give them something that’s messy, confusing, or unorganized.

Rather than spend an additional 10 seconds trying to figure out your resume, most hiring manager will just throw it away…and we don’t want that!

Ok, so what about fonts, margins, paper, etc?

Let’s start with fonts.

Best Resume Fonts To Use

Choosing the right resume font can seem like an impossible task, especially as there are hundreds of choices available. Making sure your resume is readable is step number one.

You want to make sure that a potential employer can easily read it regardless of if it’s printed out or on a computer screen. Speaking of computer screens, not everyone is on the same operating system which means a unique or quirky font on your screen might show up as code or nonsense on someone else’s.

And nobody’s hiring nonsense.

Your resume is a professional representation of who you are, and as such, should look professional.

Many companies these days use an automated applicant tracking software to first pre-qualify candidates and the last thing you want to do is get sorted to the bottom of the pile, or worse, rejected, because the computer program didn’t recognize your font or had difficulty reading it.

Sans Serifs fonts are fonts which are clean, crisp, sleek, and most importantly, scanner-friendly! They’re also “eyeball-friendly” which means a hiring manager reading it won’t have any issues trying to figure out what they’re looking at or run into eye-strain.

Stick to fonts like Arial , Verdana , Trebuchet MS , Century Gothic , Gill Sans MT (but NEVER Comic Sans), Lucida Sans and Tahoma .

Of course, over here at The Interview Guys, we’ll confess that we’re partial to Helvetica . It’s a flawless blend of style and clarity.

Another thing to keep in mind with fonts is the size you’re using. Shrinking everything down to the size of an ant just so you can fit it all onto a single page won’t win you any points. Again, you want to ensure that your resume is readable.

Try to stay between 10.5 and 12 points. Any smaller and it’s hard to read.

Formatting Your Margins and Spacing

When you format your resume you want to make sure that your leave enough margin space to allow for printing . If you try to adjust your margins and make them too narrow in order to fit more into your page, you run the risk of critical information being cut off if an employer prints it out.

Inversely, making your margins too large will leave your resume looking boxed in and squished. The general rule is to set your margins at one inch on all sides .

Think of your resume as a piece of fine artwork. Your margins should create a beautiful frame around it. If you’re truly desperate for space, you can slightly adjust your top and bottom margins but try to avoid adjusting your side margins.

In terms of the spacing, keep your resume to single-spaced with a blank line between each section of your content.

When you turn a resume into a potential employer, you want to make sure you’re using paper that helps convey the message that you’re a professional.

Of course, if you’re using an online submission system, you don’t get to choose what sort of paper an employer might potentially print your resume out on, but in the instances when you’re physically turning something in, it’s a good idea to put some extra time and thought into the paper you’re using.

Try to always print your resumes out using a laser printer or inkjet printer that produces crisp, high-quality results. You want to print on paper heavier than what you traditionally find in photocopiers.

Generally copier paper is considered 20 lb. weight. This is a lighter, flimsier paper which is perfect for running through a Xerox in high quantity at high speeds, but for a resume comes across as unprofessional and sloppy.

Aim for paper that’s slightly heavier. Most resume paper is rated at 24 lb. If you’re using paper with a watermark, make sure it’s facing the correct way relative to your resume.

When selecting the color of paper you’re using, it’s always a safe bet to stick to white or neutrals. Off-white, cream, ivory and light gray are acceptable for most professional jobs.

Finally, make sure you’re always using 8 ½ x 11 paper.

Which Resume Categories Do I Include?

Organizing your resume is just as important as formatting it. Many resumes are put together by job seekers who aren’t sure of how to organize their information, resulting in a resume that lacks focus.

You always want to make sure that your categories are well defined and organized appropriately for not only who you are, but the type of resume that you’re using (don’t worry, we’ll go into that further in just a bit!).

Here are the categories that you need to include on your resume:

The first thing you need to do is make sure that a potential employer knows whose resume they’re looking at!

Make sure you include your personal information at the TOP of your resume. Include your full name, phone number, email and personal branding website (if you have one, which as an Interview Guys student you should!) You can also include your mailing address, but this is purely optional.

Resume Objective Statement

An objective statement is a quick outline of your employment goals with the company you’re applying to and should take up no more than a sentence or two.

For our in-depth article on how to write a  resume objective statement, click here .

Resume Summary Statement

A resume summary is a quick recap of your skills and experiences and, like an objective statement, should be no more than a sentence or two.

For our in-depth article on how to write a  resume summary statement, click here .

This section is where you talk about your work history and highlight not only who you worked for but what you did as well as how long you did it. Be sure to include your job title as well as a bulleted list of your duties and/or responsibilities.

***This is listed in reverse chronological order with your most recent job first.

Skills & Abilities

This is where you want to highlight your relevant skills that relate directly to the position or job you’re applying to. Make sure you list things here that set you apart and help show a potential employer that you’re the perfect candidate for the job!

These can include things like technical skills, language skills, computer skills, anything and everything that sets you apart and fits exactly what the employer is looking for.

Check out our skills to put on a resume article for more information .

For recent graduates and people just entering the job market, this would mean where you went to school. For people in technical fields or fields where outside training is either required or encouraged, you would include this information here.

Once upon a time references were always included. These days, however, references are no longer a must have on resumes. That doesn’t mean you don’t need them… instead, have them as a separate list, and if requested, you can provide it.

Check out our articles on professional reference letters and character reference letter 101 if you need more info.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Spelling and grammar mistakes (and typos).

Always proofread your resume before you send it out! This includes double checking your contact information. It won’t do you any good if you have the perfect resume and employers who want to hire you if they keep calling the wrong number or emailing the wrong email. Double check! Then…check again!

Similarly, don’t forget about punctuation! According to the Cawley Career Education Center at Georgetown University , “… be consistent in your use of punctuation throughout the document. For instance, either use periods at the end of all your bullets or not.” Great advice!

Not Targeting Your Resume

Blanketing the job market with a one-resume-fits-all approach not only makes you look lazy, but it shows an employer that you’re comfortable doing the bare minimum rather than going the extra step to make sure your resume is targeted to the job you’re specifically seeking.

Remember, you’re one candidate out of hundreds, if not thousands. Submitting a resume that’s long, rambling, confusing or poorly organized isn’t going to get you anything except dumped. This includes padding your resume with unnecessary information. Keep your resume targeted, clear, concise, and clean.

Personal Information

Religious affiliations, social security numbers, personal social media contact, birthday (or age), marital status, or anything else that’s personal has no place on your resume. This also includes photos or headshots. All a potential employer needs to know is what your name is, how to contact you, and why you’re the perfect candidate based off of your skills, experience, and qualifications.

Salary Information

Save that for a personal discussion with the hiring manager a little further down the road. Putting your salary requirements on your resume is never a good idea. Check out the article we wrote on “When and How to Negotiate Your Salary” here .

Top 5 Resume Formatting Tips

1. Keep your format simple : Remember, you have 10-20 seconds to snag a hiring managers attention. Presenting them with a resume that’s overly crowded, hard to read, confusing or just plain messy isn’t going to get you the job…it’s going to get you thrown out. Watch your spacing, font size and margins. Keep it legible!

2. Keep it professional : Avoid cute fonts, gimmicks, scented paper, glitter, odd shapes, or anything that could potentially make an employer look at your resume and question your sanity. Don’t print on cheap paper. Show an employer you’re serious about the job.

3. Focus on what you did for past employers, not just the job you held . Anyone can push a button. Why were you the best button pusher there was? What set you apart from every other button pusher who came before you and will come after you? Don’t just outline the job description. What were your accomplishments while doing that job?

4. Make sure you’re selecting the resume format that best reflects who you are, your work history, and the job you’re applying for . Keep in mind employment gaps, career trajectory, where you are in your industry, and where you plan on going. Make sure you’re selecting the right format resume (chronological, functional or combination).

5. Be honest : I know we’ve said this again and again in multiple articles on this site, but it’s a sentiment that bears repeating. Be honest. Don’t pad your resume with jobs or duties you’ve never held or exaggerate ones you have just to impress an employer. The last thing you want to do is get a job you can’t do. Not only will you look bad, but it’ll haunt you down the line with other future potential employers. Be honest!

Finding the Best Resume Format Examples

Of course, reading about it is one thing, but seeing how these resumes look is another. If you’re interested in seeing examples of how these resumes look in person, head on over to our How to Make a Resume 101 article. Just make sure, no matter which format you choose, that you’re targeting it for the job you’re applying to.

We also have to give some credit where credit is due. Our pals over at NovoResume have put together some really great content about resume format over on their site, along with a few great examples. This will be a great companion to the information we have already taught you here!

Putting It All Together

Whew! Did you get all that?!?

We promised you a much deeper look into resume formats and I think we’ve managed to deliver just that!

Making sure you have the right resume for the right job means more than just filling in your qualifications, it means selecting the right format and ensuring that you’re organizing it properly…and now, thanks to this article, you shouldn’t have any problems!

And as always…good luck! (One final thought. How is your cover letter looking? Are you confident that it is formatted properly? Because we have created a companion guide just like this one called “Best Cover Letter Format Guide Click the link to read it now!)

FREE : "Perfect Resume" PDF Checklist

Ok the next thing you should do is download our handy "Perfect Resume" Checklist PDF ".

In it you'll get a 38 point checklist that will let you overhaul your resume and make sure you aren't missing any critical components.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE "PERFECT RESUME" CHECKLIST

functional resume examples 2021

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

' src=

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

Copyright © 2024 · TheInterviewguys.com · All Rights Reserved

  • Our Products
  • Case Studies
  • Interview Questions
  • Jobs Articles
  • Members Login

functional resume examples 2021

Easy Resume Logo

Functional Resume Templates

Functional resume templates and CVs are the right choices for highlighting your soft and hard technical skills over your work experience.

Functional Resume Templates

Browse templates by resume style

Mix & match unlimited theme, font and color combination..

Product screenshot of how to edit the colors and fonts in Easy Resume editor app

Use our suggestions to complete your resume 5x faster.

Get a head start with one of our resume examples.

Easy Resume Logo White

Facebook • Twitter • Linkedin • Pinterest • Crunchbase

header background

Functional Resume Templates

With our functional resume template, you’ll be on your way to interviewing in no time. To get started, just click on a template below and start importing your existing content.

All templates

Single Column

Skill-based resume template. Resume is focused on your abilities gained at different companies, rather than career Timeline.

Template Image

Career-change resume template. If you're switching career fields, pick this template.

Template Image

Job-hopper resume template. Keep your skills updated when switching jobs.

Template Image

Competency-based resume template. A functional design that highlights your skills and competencies, making it suitable for professionals with transferable skills and experience in a variety of industries. Ideal for entry- to senior-level professionals.

Template Image

Double Column

Career summary resume template. A functional resume that highlights your career summary and accomplishments, making it easy for employers to understand your strengths and experience. Great fit for mid-level professionals.

Template Image

Expertise-focused resume template. A functional resume that focuses on your areas of expertise and the value you can bring to an organization, making it a perfect fit for entry- to mid-level professionals.

Avatar image

What is a functional resume template?

A functional resume template is a fantastic option for anyone who’s starting their career or switching to a different field. The focus is on your professional skills rather than your work history.

Functional resume templates are a format that groups your experience under skill categories instead of job titles to emphasize transferable skills by listing examples of your abilities from both work and personal experiences.

Functional resumes are perfect for highlighting your experience and are easy to write with our already-made template structure .

When to use a functional resume template?

With their specific structure, functional resumes put your skills and achievements front and center and before the work experience. After your contact information, you go straight into your most relevant abilities and accomplishments, and then you can give brief details about your job history.

That’s why this format is preferable to people with employment gaps , military experience, or entry-level.

Functional Resumes are also perfect for jobseekers who are switching industries or want to take a new direction in their career path. The main purpose of this resume template is to put to light your skillset, especially if you apply to a different industry. In this case, emphasizing your transferable skills can help you land a new job.

Unfortunately, a functional resume, as attractive as it can be to some jobseekers, can cause suspicion in recruiters, because of the presented information, which can be taken out of context. That’s why some recruiters prefer a combination of functional and reverse-chronological resumes.

But still, there are so many good reasons to use this formatting if you do it right. Check our guide on how to write a resume .

Tips for building the best functional resume

A functional resume or skill-based structure can be used with the modern design template or the classical one. It will depend only on your personality, experience, and the type of business industry you are applying to. Let’s begin to create the best functional resume, so you can get the job of your dreams:

Take the best from both worlds. You can use some features from the modern design and the traditional one. Keep your resume clean of unnecessary graphics. Use icons only to pop up your skills and achievement sections. Each section on your resume is arranged in blocks to emphasize the important information - your accomplishments and abilities. You can be inspired by some of the best resume designs .

Your resume should be easily readable. That’s why you should choose your font carefully . The best fonts are those that have enough white space to read well on both screens and print, it will make your resume easier to scan/read. Enhancv’s functional resume template uses Lato for all headings, subheadings, and body text. And while the body of the text is consistent throughout, the resume headings are large enough to catch the readers' eye.

Using black, white, and a third color like blue or green is a safe resume color scheme . That’s why we are using a splash of blue to help draw attention without being distracting. The general rule is to make one color dominant, one secondary, and the third to place emphasis. Use white for the background, black for the text, and the third color to highlight important parts like heaters for the different sections.

Select the best layout

A functional resume follows a skill-based structure to emphasize your strengths and achievements, which are one of the first things to list. The resume features several sections: heading, summary, strengths, achievements, experience, and education.

Of course, you start your resume from the header , where you can list your name and contact information. Your name is the biggest thing on the resume to ensure you stand out. It’s always better to add something more about yourself, as a link to your profile in professional networks or if you have a portfolio website that is appropriate to share. Headshot’s not a must to include, but if the recruiters specifically mention it in the job application, you should add it at the header near your name and contact information.

The summary in the functional resume looks a little bit different. The focus here is to highlight your skills and achievements, allowing you to describe your qualifications with more detail using strong action verbs. If you have gaps in your employment history or other problems, here is the place to explain them. Use the summary to illustrate to the recruiters why you're qualified for the position.

The next step is to the key sections on your functional resume. Strengths and achievements are featured first to show recruiters what sets you apart from other candidates. In the first section, list and give examples of your transferable skills like time management, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, organization, leadership, and so on. Emphasize these strengths, giving examples of what you accomplished by applying this skillset to your previous jobs, personal situations, or academic life in the achievement section.

A functional resume is focused on your experience and skills, in the education section you can list the basic facts regarding your degree, including institution name, location, degree, and major. If you don’t have any previous work experience, you should spend more time in the education section by providing more details on your courses if relevant to the job you are applying for. You can check our guide for resumes without work experience .

Another section that you can add to your functional resume is information about your certifications . Especially in the cases in which you decided to career change and took professional retraining courses to enable you to do the job you are applying for. It’s essential to mention this certification on top of your resume in the summary section, or you risk the recruiter just skipping over your resume and missing this information.

Additional sections and information that you can add if applicable to your resume can be - special awards or commendations; testimonials from clients; volunteer work; projects; publications, or special courses. You can list them by importance and significance in separate sections. Name each of your sections, then add a short description below

Number of pages

Keep your resume between one or two full pages . Your application’s length should be determined by the position you’re applying for and the amount of relevant experience you have. If you are an entry-level candidate or a fresh graduate, you can fill up one page effortlessly. It’s your choice how to arrange all the sections - in one or two columns. Functional resumes are very flexible and can give you a lot of freedom to creatively shape your resume on one or two pages.

Functional resume templates pros and cons

  • A functional resume is the right choice for candidates with non-traditional work experience or no work experience entirely.
  • A functional resume emphasizes your skills and accomplishments. It is an effective way to tell your career story if you have a lot of experience and want your goal is to showcase your accomplishments.
  • It is easy to adjust the content to a specific role you’re hoping to land without thinking much about job titles that aren’t relevant to the job application, employment gaps, or lack of experience in the field
  • More experienced recruiters don’t like this type of resume formatting because your skills and achievements are laid out without context.
  • Some recruiters will skip to the part of your work experience and education and entirely miss evening else.
  • Functional resumes aren’t very common, which can lead to confusion, and the recruiter might have a hard time scanning and understanding this alternative formatting

Resume image 1

Frequently asked questions about functional resume templates

Do employers like functional resumes, how do i write a functional resume with no experience, are functional resumes still used.

  • Resume Examples

Article image

How to Make Resume Margins the Right Size

Article image

Resume Without Work Experience: 6+ Sections to Demonstrate Impact

Article image

Resume After Career Break

Article image

How to Answer The "Why Do You Want To Change Your Career Path" Interview Question

Article image

How to Write a 'Thank You' Email After Interview

  • Create Resume
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Preferences
  • Resume Templates
  • AI Resume Builder
  • Resume Formats
  • Resume Checker
  • 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
  • Resume Guides
  • 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.

IMAGES

  1. Functional Resume Examples & Writing Tips

    functional resume examples 2021

  2. Peoplesoft Functional Resume Samples

    functional resume examples 2021

  3. FREE 9+ Functional Resume Samples in PDF

    functional resume examples 2021

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

    functional resume examples 2021

  5. functional resume examples 2021

    functional resume examples 2021

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

    functional resume examples 2021

VIDEO

  1. Functional Resumes

  2. Mastering the "Skills" Section of Your Resume

  3. How to Write a Resume Optimized for Recruiting Software

  4. Resume for first job

  5. How To Prepare A Functional Resume

  6. The Beauty of a Functional #resume

COMMENTS

  1. Functional Resume: Definition, Tips and Examples

    Here's an example of what a functional resume should look like: When to use a functional resume You should use a functional resume if the standard reverse-chronological format is not a flattering or appropriate representation of your qualifications. This might be true.

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

    Reviewed By Conrad Benz template and Build My Resume Now As featured in * Looking to emphasize your skills rather than your career progression? The functional resume format is the ideal choice for you.

  3. How to Write a Functional Resume with Examples

    Jun 29, 2021 Should you use a functional resume? Steps for writing a functional resume Functional resume: What it is and how to write one Knowing which type of resume to write to best highlight your skills and experience is key to presenting yourself in the most attractive way possible to potential employers.

  4. What Is a Functional Resume? Template, Examples, & Tips

    A functional resume is the best solution for you if you're switching careers, have employment gaps, or just graduated with not much work experience. Thanks to the functional resume format, you can effectively deal with a winding work history. And it's easier to write than you think!

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

    Combination Resume Format 4 Free Functional Resume Templates & Examples #1. Functional Resume Template #2. Combination Resume Template #3. College Resume Template #4. Professional Resume Template Key Takeaways Discover More Resume Templates Share this article

  6. Functional Resume

    Home Resume Formats Functional Resume Formats Functional Resume Format: Examples & Tips By Elizabeth Muenzen, Career Advice Expert Last Updated: January 05, 2024 A functional resume - also known as a skills-based resume - highlights your skills and qualifications instead of work experience.

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

    19 min read What is a functional resume format and who should use one? Plus tips, examples, and free resume templates. 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.

  8. What Is a Functional Resume, and When Do You Use One?

    Similar to a traditional resume, a functional layout 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 ...

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

    11/09/2023 Functional Resume Template (+ Good Example to Follow) The functional resume is a good choice for some candidates—but only if you know how to use it. Read a functional resume example prepared by experts and start writing. Roma Kończak Career Expert

  10. Functional Resume Guide: Template and Tips

    A functional resume, also known as a skills-based resume, ... for example, if you are changing ... Executive Assistant, ABC Company, June 2019 - June 2021. Education. Your education section will look the same as it would on a chronological resume, listing your school name, location, degree obtained, and field of study. ...

  11. Functional Resume

    9 min read Table of contents 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.

  12. Everything You Need to Know About Functional Resumes

    Functional Resume Examples. Here are three functional resume templates to give you an idea of what your own resume could look like.. The Blended Resume. Image Source. This sample resume from The Balance takes a blended approach to the functional resume. In the "Experience and Skills" section, the applicant shared their past experience relevant to the job posting.

  13. Top Resume Formats: Tips and Examples of 3 Common Resumes

    For example, if you have limited work experience, you might instead focus on academic work, volunteer positions or apprenticeships with a functional resume instead of a chronological resume, which prioritizes job history. Resume format 1: Chronological resume Image description

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

    A functional resume is an ideal choice for candidates with limited work experience or employment gaps. Learn how to write one with our guide! ... How to Write a Functional Resume in 5 Simple Steps Free Functional Resume Template Functional Resume Example Closing Thoughts. ... 07/2021 #5. Make Use of Additional Sections ...

  15. Functional Resume Examples & Writing Tips

    Categorize your skills under areas of expertise List examples of how you achieved success with those skills When to use a functional resume When should you use a functional resume? A functional resume works best in these situations: You have an employment gap in your career that is difficult to explain You're pursuing a career change

  16. Functional Resume Format: Examples + How To

    A functional resume is always going to follow this order: Contact information. A summary statement or objective statement. Summary of qualifications. Professional skills. Work history. Education. For "Awards and Honors," "Press," "Certifications" or "Volunteer Work," it's best to place them after your education section.

  17. How to Write a Functional Resume

    1. Firstly, list your contact information The top part of the page should contain your full name, address and email. 2. Secondly, summarize your work experience and acquired skills This provides the employer with context and positions your best skills and achievements where they will be read first. 3. Next, create a skills section

  18. The Best Resume Format Guide

    As any good "Interview Guys student" will tell you, a resume is a document used by job seekers (you) to quickly and easily let a hiring manager know what skills they have, what their work history is, and any accomplishments they might have. Seems simple, right? Well, it is, but only if you know what you're doing.

  19. 2021's Top Resume Formats: Tips and Examples of Three ...

    1. To view or add a comment, sign in. A great resume can capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and help you stand out from other applicants. There are different ways you can ...

  20. Best Resume Format: Templates & Examples (2024)

    The best resume format in 2024 is the reverse-chronological resume format. It's also the most common resume format, working perfectly for most candidates. Plus, it's recruiters' all-time favorite, so it's hard to go wrong choosing a chronological resume. However, a lot depends on your professional history.

  21. Functional Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    1. Craft an outstanding profile with a summary of your functional qualifications On a functional resume, your professional profile should only focus on relevant skills. While concision has benefits, the drawback is that you're unlikely to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

  22. How To Write a Functional Resume for a Career Change

    Here's a functional resume template you can use if you're planning to change careers: Contact information. [Name] [City, State] [Phone number] [Email] Objective statement. [In one to three sentences, briefly describe your career goals and the relevant skills you can bring to a new position.] Skills.

  23. Functional Resume Templates & Formats for 2022

    Functional Resume Templates & Formats for 2022 | Easy Resume Resume Templates → Functional Resume Templates Functional Resume Templates Functional resume templates and CVs are the right choices for highlighting your soft and hard technical skills over your work experience. Get started with your resume: Create your resume

  24. Functional Resume Templates

    Functional resume templates are a format that groups your experience under skill categories instead of job titles to emphasize transferable skills by listing examples of your abilities from both work and personal experiences. Functional resumes are perfect for highlighting your experience and are easy to write with our already-made template ...

  25. 5 Functional QA Resume Examples & Template

    Get top 5 real-life examples of functional QA resumes and find tips to improve yours and score a truly good position. ... July 2021 - present. Project Role: Software Engineering / Testing Manager. Customer Domain: Manufacturing and Auto. Team size: 50-60. Responsibilities: