An important tool in the job application process is the resume or curriculum vitae (CV). It is an applicant’s personal identification where all pertinent information is reflected. Resumes are necessary documents that the recruiting team of a company will need from anyone who is applying for a job.

Whether making an online or hard copy of a resume, an effective type of resume to be followed is the competency-based resume. Sometimes called functional resume, it highlights the core skills and qualifications of the individual as opposed to chronological and traditional resumes.

Since an applicant is selling personal experience through acquired competencies in a job application process, this person must capture the employer’s attention and interest through a competency-based resume to increase the chances of getting that interview, which by the way, is usually a competency-based interview.

Although this type of resume is more applicable for experienced working individuals who have proven their skills in various fields and situations, it is still beneficial for the new, aspiring individuals in the world of employment.

Emphasizing personal capabilities for a certain position or field enables an applicant to focus on a more suitable position. Even in a company that does not follow the competency-based approach, having a competency-based resume will make an applicant stand out from the rest since this person has structured his CV in a way that targets the needs of the company.

Two Types of Competency-Based Resumes

Basically, there are two kinds of competency-based models used in resume preparation. These are work-based competencies and behavior-based competencies.

Work-based competencies include the individual’s skills and abilities that are useful for the job such as the knack for computer programming or training module development.

Behavior-based competencies would cover the person’s inherent character traits and attributes such as having a pleasing personality, motivation, goal-oriented, and interpersonal skills.

The combination of the two competency-based models is most useful to applicants who aim for a position in larger and more established companies. Big companies also employ these models in their search for qualified candidates. So, for a person who is planning to hit a career in big corporations, flaunting measurable accomplishments and key competencies to attract a potential employer is necessary.

How to Create an Effective Competency-Based Resume

The preparation of a competency-based resume may be quite different from how it is done with a traditional resume. The following steps will guide an aspiring applicant in making a competency-based resume:

1. Determine the core competencies for the desired position and field of work. List-down skills and attributes in various areas.
2. Think of past accomplishments that were achieved through personal competencies and how expertise or mastery was effectively demonstrated in carrying out those competencies.
3. Make a summary section, which will highlight strengths and solid experience relating to competencies for the given position.
4. Prepare an initial draft using the two competency-based models mentioned above.
5. Do not forget to write down personal information such as educational experience and contact details at the top portion of the resume. These are needed during the interview.
6. Make a section for Skills and Qualifications where accomplishments and areas of expertise are emphasized. Creating competency-related statements addressing core skills and experiences would highlight them for an employer to see.
7. Take time to review and proofread the resume for any flaws.
8. Make a final draft either by producing a hard copy or uploading it online.

Competency-Based Resume Tips and Warnings

• When applying for more than one potential employer and position, it is important for an applicant to customize or revise the resume according to the requirements of the job.
• Always proofread for any corrections needed to ensure a professional content.
• Refrain from producing multiple pages for the resume. For applicants with a 10-year work experience or more, two pages will do.
• Avoid any controversial information that will possibly give an applicant a hard time when answering questions asked by the interviewer.
• Practice learning how to answer possible interview questions smartly. Use the online resources and seek advice from professionals for more information.
• Categorize the information provided in the resume to keep an organized approach but always highlight accomplishments and contributions. Better yet, do it in a chronological listing.