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As Workforce Solutions Jobslady Michelle Castrow says: “You have mere seconds to capture the attention of a recruiter. Make it obvious by showcasing your valuable skills.” A functional resume, also called a skills-based resume, is one of the best ways to do just that.
What Is a Functional Resume?
A functional resume focuses on skills and accomplishments rather than chronological work history. According to The Balance Careers, it “highlights your abilities and qualifications rather than emphasizing when and where you worked.”
This approach is especially useful if you:
- Have employment gaps
- Are changing careers
- Want to emphasize transferable skills
- Are an older worker looking to show value beyond job titles
By organizing your resume around what you can do, employers can immediately see how you’ll contribute to their team.
How to Make a Functional Resume Stand Out
- Start with a strong summary: Include your top skills and key achievements.
- Group by skill categories: Examples include Leadership, Customer Service, or Technical Expertise.
- Show measurable results: Focus on accomplishments, not just duties. For instance: “Increased client satisfaction by 20% through improved workflow processes.”
- List relevant work experience briefly: Include jobs to show continuity, but keep the emphasis on skills.
- Tailor to each job: Highlight the skills most relevant to the position you want.
Michelle Castrow reminds jobseekers: “Highlighting your transferable skills is more important than ever. Make it obvious by showcasing your valuable skills.”
Get Help with Your Resume
If you need guidance creating a functional resume, or just want a professional review, Workforce Solutions is ready to help. Career specialists review resumes daily and can give free expert advice.
Accessing the right tools can make all the difference in your job search and career development. Watch Episode 3: “Resume Tips” to discover how Workforce Solutions can help you take the next step with confidence.
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