A blended resume format combines elements of chronological and functional approaches. This format typically begins with a qualifications summary or skills section highlighting relevant expertise. It then follows with a chronologically ordered work history section, albeit often with briefer descriptions than a purely chronological resume. This structure allows candidates to showcase both their skills and their career progression.
This adaptable format offers several advantages. It effectively presents a candidate’s key skills upfront, capturing recruiter attention while still providing a clear career trajectory. This makes it particularly valuable for career changers, those with employment gaps, or individuals seeking to emphasize specific skills applicable to a desired role. The format emerged as a response to evolving recruitment practices, particularly the increasing use of applicant tracking systems (ATS) and the need for resumes to quickly convey relevant information.
