What is the combination resume format and how can you use it to showcase your skills?

A combination resume is a hybrid version... both a chronological resume and a functional resume. I don't really recommend using a combination format as most hiring managers are looking for the traditional resume approach and they've been trained read them. As part of the traditional format you can easy include a "key competencies" list of up to 9 skills under your Value Proposition Summary. And each of your achievement bullet points should be talking about the functional skills you exhibited... so there's really no need to change from the traditional format. Remember, it's your achievements that will sell... anyone can list a bunch of key skills with each job but that's repetitive & takes away from accomplishments that are more influential.

The combination resume format blends the chronological and functional formats to highlight both your work history and skills. It typically begins with a skills summary or qualifications section, showcasing key competencies relevant to the job. Following this, the resume details your work experience in reverse chronological order, emphasizing achievements and responsibilities. This format is effective for those with a solid work history and diverse skill set, allowing you to showcase your expertise prominently. By using the combination resume, you can strategically align your skills with your professional experience, offering a comprehensive view of your qualifications to potential employers.

The combination resume format is your resume's power move, blending the best of both worlds: chronological and functional styles. It spotlights your skills upfront, ideal for career-changers or those with employment gaps. Begin with a strong summary highlighting key skills. For example, "Versatile marketing professional adept at strategy development and data analysis." Follow with a skills section showcasing your expertise. Then, dive into your work history, emphasizing accomplishments. Conclude with your education and additional relevant sections. This format grabs attention, showcasing skills while providing a solid career snapshot. Ready to stand out? Try the combination resume!

I use a combination resume format for clients pursuing new careers or entering fields where they have limited direct experience. This approach is especially beneficial for career changers and recent graduates. They can highlight transferable skills gained in different industries, such as project management or analytical thinking when transitioning to a tech career. Similarly, for a student with a minimal work history, I focus on skills developed through academic projects, internships, or volunteer work that are relevant to the job they're targeting. By blending a skill-focused section with their chronological work history, a combination resume effectively presents a balanced narrative of their potential and experience.

The combination resume typically begins with a skills summary or a qualifications section at the top, immediately grabbing the reader's attention. This section allows candidates to emphasize key skills and accomplishments relevant to the job they're applying for. Following the skills summary, the resume includes a detailed work history section, outlining the candidate's professional experience in reverse chronological order. The combination format concludes with an education section, listing academic achievements and qualifications. The primary strength of the combination resume lies in its ability to showcase skills prominently.

The combination resume format is a game-changer for career transitions, freelancers, and anyone with a varied work history. I'd also emphasize its effectiveness in seamlessly blending hard and soft skills—ideal for showcasing a well-rounded professional profile. Additionally, don't forget its prowess in addressing employment gaps by putting skills at the forefront. #ResumeWriting #CareerTransition"

Moreover, within the work history section, each job entry provides an opportunity to demonstrate skills through accomplishments. Rather than merely listing job duties, candidates should focus on achievements and contributions to showcase their impact. Quantifiable achievements, such as exceeding sales targets by a certain percentage or streamlining processes to improve efficiency, add substance to the resume and validate claimed skills. Additionally, the combination format allows candidates to integrate a "Key Achievements" or "Highlights" section within the work history. This subsection enables them to spotlight specific accomplishments in bullet points, reinforcing the showcased skills.

With any resume, I recommend writing to the audience to whom you are targetting. How do you best communicate your skills and experience? This hybrid model allows you to bundle your expertise, minimise gaps, and focus the reader in the direction you want to take them.

In my professional opinion a combination should be used for close to all business professionals requiring a resume. It contains all the ingredients required to pass the initial ATS processing and is visually appealing to the human eye. There is some credence for using a functional format if changing careers.

Here are my best pointers for a combination resume: - Analyse job description, not only read or skim - See what kind of person are they looking for (professional skill set) - Deep dive in your career, see what nuggets you have over the years, which you can incorporate in summary - Talk numbers, results, saving time, cost, boosting performance, optimisation etc. - Write down job roles contextually, as organisational job titles are only for papers - Build on to top relevant skills you have & what transferable skills employer can leverage from If you follow these points with a deep thought behind, your combination resume will be definitely relevant Give a thumbs up if you like the idea!

This style of functional resume works for someone transitioning or returning to a career. Set up value statements that show examples of how you use these skills. Choose your top 3 and have 1-2 sentences to highlight accomplishments. For example: Leadership: Led a sales team and drove a record increase in sales for the first time in this Midwest region.

The big paradox is that your resume should be more about the job you want, rather than the jobs you've had. The hybrid or combination format makes that easier--it can be modified easily based on the job description, so the future employer sees what they're looking for first, not just what you "think" they should see. Too many duties from old jobs that don't relate might confuse or distract the employer, leading them to think you're overqualified--or applying for the wrong job. Remember: the goal of the resume is to be invited to an interview. Nobody will be hired based on their resume alone.

Starting with contact information and then a concise summary that highlights why you are the best choice for the job, emphasis has to be placed on your skills. The skills section should feature a balanced mix of technical expertise and soft skills relevant to the targeted job. Work experience is listed chronologically, emphasizing achievements and quantifying impact wherever possible. Education details, Projects and certifications highlight practical applications. Conclude with an optional note about the availability of references upon request, creating a well-rounded and impactful resume.

The most important aspect of creating a combination resume is checking the job ad and identify the areas to be impacted through the resume. Use transferable skills and professional experience to your benefit to make a positive impact.

Be specific in terms of examples that you use to showcase your skills, responsibilities and achievements, but broad enough so the reader could understand. This means avoiding jargons, rather try to explain it using descriptors. If you must use jargons or abbreviations - spell it out. Don’t assume people would understand. One jargon/abbreviation can mean differently across persons/institutions. For example, SME could mean subject matter expert, or small and medium enterprises.

The challenges of a combination resume is translating this online. LinkedIn favours a reverse chronological model. It is imperative that you script your direction, skills and successes in your About section, utilise the skills summary and get recommendations supporting the expertise you are looking to showcase.