The hybrid resume, also called a combination resume, is a combination of the chronological resume format and the functional resume format.

The hybrid resume highlights the job seeker’s skills and achievements section first (like a functional resume) followed by work experience (the focus of a chronological resume format). While the chronological resume format seems a bit too traditional to some modern job seekers, the functional resume format is typically not preferred by hiring managers.

Think of it like Goldilocks and the Three Bears–the hybrid resume is the resume format that’s “just right.”

The Benefits of a Hybrid Resume Format

Highlights skills and accomplishments

Takes the pressure off of work history/gaps (but doesn’t hide it)

Top-loaded style shows hiring managers the most valuable information first

The neutral format appeals to both traditional and non-traditional hiring managers

The functional resume template focuses on skills as well, but it is not preferred by hiring managers because it tends to leave out employment history and gaps in employment, which makes the applicant seem unforthcoming. Employment gaps happen, and most hiring managers will understand. The hybrid format helps diminish those gaps without totally hiding them.

It also helps hiring managers see your best selling points (your skills) first. As Jessica H. Hernandez, Executive Resume Writer explains, “Hiring managers are not reading the entire resume on the first pass. They’re going to scan over it for position titles, employment dates, keywords and metrics that stand out before deciding to read it thoroughly. The resume format you choose should make those areas of information simple to locate and read.

Who Should Use a Hybrid Resume Format

The hybrid resume is, most often, the best option for a job seeker, but it is particularly useful to those starting out in the workforce for the first time, changing careers or re-entering the workforce.

This format shifts the focus away from work experience and turns the attention toward transferrable skills (skills that you may not have picked up by working in a particular industry but still apply to the job for which you’re applying), which is why it’s great for people who don’t necessarily want to showcase their work history.

If you’re applying for a job in the same industry that you’ve worked in for many years, you can also consider the chronological resume format.

Hybrid Resume Examples and Templates

Get additional templates here.

Skills sections are an important part of any hybrid resume. Including skills also helps your resume make it past applicant tracking systems. Jobscan compares the job description to your resume and lets you know exactly which skills you’re missing.

To write a great hybrid resume, this is what you need to know: