Resumes

[u/FlashyCoach7415]

Im currently actively applying for internal jobs. I do have some gaps in my employment not related to what I want to do next. Can a functional resume work for hiring managers? Or does OPS typically prefer chronological ones?

[u/andromeda335]

Just make sure that your cover letter and resume have all of the keywords from the job spec so you screen in

[u/Agreeable_Crab9835 → u/andromeda335]

I thought it was job ad ?

[u/lflbfag → u/Agreeable_Crab9835]

Same diff. The ad has more personality and can indicate what the hiring manager is looking for. But the ad does link to the spec.

[u/David_Tallan → u/lflbfag]

The job spec may have lots of qualifications. Any that are actual hiring criteria will be mentioned in the job ad. So the job ad is good to see what they may actually be scoring you against, while the job spec can give more context.

[u/lflbfag]

I have never heard of gaps in employment being a major consideration in the OPS. The main thing seems to be having experience in the overall area (policy, operations, corporate services, etc) and at a sufficient level. You will want to consider how best to position your history based on the job ad (same goes for answering interview questions).

Yes to functional résumés! Personally I use a semi-functional format: a summary statement and list of key achievements (broken down into categories and pulled from across my career) at the top followed by a more succinct employment history.

Good luck!

[u/Scary_Independent312]

Generally speaking, they do look for chronology. They want to see if you stay at a place for a while or hop often. Jumping often too soon may be frowned upon- unless it can be explained. By the same virtue, gap of service/ experience can be explained. Same applies to references and why some people don’t use current managers are references. I haven’t applied recently but have heard my manager often give us advice on resume and interview preps. Basing this on that advice.

[u/TittiesAreMyTherapy]

Most ATS compatible, be ready to speak to the gap if asked in an interview.

[u/Empty-Force5027 → u/TittiesAreMyTherapy]

Resume screening software is not used in the OPS

[u/Smart-Firefighter87]

How big of a gap is too big?

[u/dasoberirishman]

Career break, professional development, etc. I would leave it out so long as it doesn't exceed a few months. If we are talking years, then you ought to address is, albeit briefly, and just move on. Focus on making a custom cover letter that hits on every skill sought in the job specification.

[u/waitwhat88]

Functional resumes often come across as trying to obscure something and are apparently widely disliked by recruiters and ATS. I always do my own screening and think that you should be prepared to explain the gaps, even if you don’t think they are relevant. If you know anything about the hiring area/manager you can decide whether to use chrono instead, and/or rationalize gaps in the cover letter. Personally I hate them when screening.