Struggling with Job Hopping: Is a Functional Resume the Answer for Accountants?

I am an accountant who has had quite a few job changes over a 15-year career. To be specific, I have had twelve jobs over this period. As a result of this, I am being eliminated from the candidate pool for many jobs because visually my chronological resume has too many jobs. Is a functional resume taken seriously, or is it a red flag to employers.

Dear Hea,

Recruiters are rejecting you because they feel you are a compulsive job hopper who hates to settle down in one place, has low loyalty towards the organization, is freckle-minded, lacks tenacity, and has a casual approach to work.

I would suggest you restructure your resume in such a way that you don't appear to be a compulsive job hopper. Consider seeking professional help if necessary.

Warm Regards,
SC

Your average tenure has been 15 months per job.

The question employers raise upon receipt and review of your resume is, "Did the candidate leave for a better opportunity, or because he or she had to?"

The question will be answered in two ways:

1. Is there any gap between employment periods? (Had to leave.)
2. Does each successive position involve more responsibility, challenges, money, prestige, etc.? (Better opportunity.)

How long have you been looking for work as an accountant?

I recommend that you try to explain the reasons for your job changes in a cover letter. If the reasons are all negative, consider another line of work. Attach it to a functional resume.

The "red flag" is not the type of resume you want to submit but the person behind it.