This format is best for job hunters with lots of experience and accolades. Similar to applicants with functional resumes, the combo style presents your skills right up front. If you’re applying for a job that requires certifications or technical skills, a combination resume is a great way to display this central kind of experience. A combination resume is a resume that combines the best parts of the chronological and functional resume styles. A chronological resume focuses on when and where you worked while a functional resume focuses on your skills and accomplishments. You should use a combination resume to draw attention to the skills and accomplishments to the job to which you now applying.

Although the combination style focuses more on skills, it still leaves room to detail your work experience. However, if you want to make your work experience your main focus, then the traditional chronological resume may be better for you.

You may Want to use a Combination Resume if:

• You are changing careers. Use a combination resume to help get employers to focus more on your skills and achievements and less on your previous job titles.
• If You have done the same type of work for a number of different employers. This style will prevent the resume from sounding too repetitive.
• You are a recent graduate or looking for an entry-level job. A combination resume allows you to focus on your skills and achievements gained through activities like volunteering and school.

What Resume Sections should be Included in a Combination Resume?

• Objective or Job Title
• Profile or Summary
• Skill Headings
• Employment Experience
• Volunteer Experience
• Education and Training

Combination Resume Tips:

• Use the Profile/Summary section to draw attention to your most relevant skills, experience and education.
• Group similar skills together under one skill heading, for example “Customer Service”.
• Under each skill heading create a short list of specific accomplishments.
• You can use the general term “Experience” rather that “Employment” if you want to add relevant unpaid volunteering experience or school placements.
• Employers prefer to see dates on your resume even if there is some time in between.

As the combination style features skills over work experience, this resume is particularly useful for job hunters who are attempting to enter a new industry or change careers. Because so many skills can be transferred between industries, highlighting these will prove beneficial for workers looking to switch fields or industries.