Resume hybrid format: what it is and how can you use it

Not everyone follows a traditional career path, so not everyone will benefit from the same type of resume. A hybrid resume can be the perfect choice if you have a wide-ranging set of skills and some professional work experience. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create one, what to include, and where to find hybrid resume examples.

What is a hybrid resume?

A hybrid resume, also known as a combination resume, is a format that merges elements of both the  chronological and  functional resume styles.

Like other resume formats, a hybrid resume begins with a standard resume header and summary. However, next after that comes a curated skills section where you can list your core competencies. Directly below that, you will include your work experience and education.

A hybrid resume format allows you to display your relevant  skills and accomplishments prominently, while also providing a record of your work history. It’s especially useful for people with diverse skill sets or those who are  changing careers.

When should you use a hybrid resume format?

Deciding which resume format best suits your application can be tough. However, there are times when the hybrid resume template will be the best choice for you. 

Use a hybrid resume format in these situations:

• You’re switching to a new career or industry. If you’re looking to enter a new sector or transition into a  new career entirely, the hybrid resume may be the way to go. Since your work history may not be directly applicable to the role at hand, this option lets you showcase your transferable skills before your previous work.
• You work as a freelancer or creative professional. Working on a  freelance basis means you move from gig to gig, which can make it hard to illustrate your prior work history. The hybrid resume format allows you to share your talents and highlight the relevant projects you’ve completed.
• You’re reentering the job market after a break. If you’ve taken a career break, a combination resume can help you minimize your  employment gaps. Using a hybrid resume means you can dazzle recruiters with your skills before they get to your work experience section.
• You have some experience, but want to move up. If you have the skills to move up but not the required experience, a hybrid format can help you take the next step in your career. It immediately shows recruiters that you have what it takes to meet the job’s demands and requirements.

6 Steps for how to write a hybrid resume

Follow these steps to write an impressive hybrid resume for your next job application.

1. Provide your contact information

At the top of your hybrid resume, create a header with your contact information, including these details:

• Your name
• Your location (city and state only, not your  full address)
• Your phone number
• Your professional email address
• Links to your portfolio or  professional networking profile (optional)

You don’t need to do anything fancy here; simply make sure that the information is clear and easy for the reader to find.

2. Write a resume summary

Think of your  resume summary as your pitch to prospective employers. In three to four sentences, describe your key skills, experience, and achievements. Consider the unique selling points that make you different from every other candidate. The more high-value information you can include in this section, the better.

3. List your top skills

The hybrid resume format emphasizes your  top skills, so don’t waste this opportunity to show recruiters that you have what it takes to excel. Choose 8 to 10 skills, keeping in mind that the competencies you choose should align with the job at hand.

This is especially helpful if your experience doesn’t exactly align with the job. Consider your  transferable skills and match them to the job posting before you begin. Remember to list your top skills as bullet points to make them easier to read.

4. Outline your work experience

In this section, outline the full-time work or gigs you’ve had, listing them in reverse-chronological order—starting with your most recent position or project at the top and working backwards.

Beneath each job or project, include three to five concise bullet points. Focus on the results you achieved and the impact you made instead of simply listing job duties. The more specific metrics or accomplishments you can include, the better.

5. Include an education section

While the  education section isn’t the main focus as much as your skills and experience, you should still include  any degrees or  relevant certifications you have. Keep it brief: simply list the credential and the institute you attended. If you’ve graduated within the past five years, you can also include your attendance dates.

In this section, you can also include any additional training, such as conferences, webinars, or  courses that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

6. Keep the ATS in mind

Some employers may use  applicant tracking system (ATS) software to scan and rank resumes. As you write your hybrid resume, make sure that you’re using keywords from the job description to help you pass an ATS. Including keywords throughout your resume, specifically in the skills and work experience sections, can also prove that you’re a good fit for the job.

Additionally, you’ll want to make your hybrid resume scannable with clear section headings and bullet points. Use a simple, professional layout without tables or graphics. This formatting can help your resume get through an ATS.

Hybrid resume template

Follow this example of a hybrid resume template for free below to make your own combination resume.

Hybrid resume examples

Want some more guidance? Check out these examples of hybrid resumes.

Entry-level hybrid resume example

Mid-level hybrid resume example

Senior-level hybrid resume example

Career change hybrid resume example

Pros and cons of using a hybrid resume

Still deciding whether to use a hybrid resume format? Here are some pros and cons to keep in mind.

Tips for creating the best hybrid resume

To give you a competitive edge, we’ve put together some expert tips for making your ideal hybrid resume template:

• Select your skills carefully. The skills section is the star of your hybrid resume, so be selective when choosing your skills. Include your core abilities, transferable skills, and qualities that directly  apply to the job opening.
• Experiment with the layout. Some sections of a hybrid resume, such as education, will be shorter than others. Consider putting them in a sidebar to shorten your overall document.
• Write concisely. Your hybrid resume should fit on  one page. If you’re struggling with length, remove unnecessary words or move sections to the side or bottom of the page. To get some inspiration, check out the examples of hybrid resumes in our  resume builder.
• Use a resume template. Take the hassle out of designing a resume with a  pre-made resume template. You can customize any of our templates until you have a hybrid resume format that meets your needs.

FAQs about hybrid resumes

Review some other common questions about using a hybrid resume.

Will a hybrid resume pass an ATS?

Yes, a hybrid resume is typically compatible with ATS software. 

To make sure that your resume gets through an ATS, use standard resume headers, such as “Work Experience” and “Skills.”

How is a hybrid resume different from a chronological resume?

A chronological resume prioritizes your work history and career progression. It’s a good option for those who have held steady employment and moved up one clear career ladder.

In contrast, a hybrid resume places equal importance on your skills and work history, making it a solid choice for those who have employment gaps or a non-linear career path.

What are the benefits of a hybrid resume?

Compared to other resume formats, a hybrid resume offers a few benefits, which include:

• Flexibility to emphasize both your work history and skills.
• Ideal for candidates with employment gaps and those who are changing careers.
• Emphasis on skills and qualifications, not just career progression.
• Easily customizable when applying for multiple jobs.