Most job seekers organize their resume in a classic, chronological format, which sequentially lists each position they’ve held along with the associated responsibilities for each. For most professionals, the chronological resume is effective and easy-to-read. However, for certain candidates, a functional format resume may be a more elegant and flattering way to present diverse experiences. For those considering a functional resume, there are both benefits and drawbacks.

The Benefits:

Highlight Skills Over Experience
If you recently graduated and don’t have a lot of career experience, a functional resume can be a more effective way to highlight your qualifications. Using a functional format, you can point out similar accomplishments from a diverse group of activities, such as sports, volunteer work, class projects, clubs, and internships.

Create a Cohesive Picture
If you’ve worked in a lot of different career fields, your resume may not explain exactly who you are and what you do well. A functional format resume will show the link between various positions by focusing on your skill set, rather than your work history. Especially if you plan to incorporate non-paid volunteer jobs or internships, or positions that you held for a shorter period of time, a functional format resume can be used to your advantage.

Smooth Over Gaps in Employment History
If you have lots of gaps in employment history or are returning to work after a long break, a functional format resume will minimize these absences while emphasizing your skills.

The Drawbacks

May Create Confusion
Functional format resumes are relatively uncommon. Therefore, they may be confusing for human resources personnel to read or scan. In addition, many employers want to know exactly where you’ve worked and what you did at each job. A functional format makes that information less easily accessible.

Online Job Boards
Some recruiters and online job boards do not accept functional format resumes, and therefore, you may need to develop a chronological format resume to apply for certain positions.

Hybrids
If you think a functional format resume would be the most flattering way to present your skills but are concerned about the drawbacks, consider a hybrid resume. Combining the chronological and functional format, a hybrid lists each job or position chronologically (but with minimal information beyond job title, company, location, and dates), then expounds upon your skills in the following section.