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The best resume formats for candidates in 2023.

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Man writing resume and in home office with laptop.

You find a job you like. You decide to create or update your resume and hit "apply." Weeks or months pass, and you hear nothing back from the recruiter or employer. Did you use the right resume format to get your message across, that you are the best candidate for the job? What could you have done wrong?

Not all resume formats are created equal, so it's important that you identify early on, which layout you are going to use to present your experience, qualifications, and skills in the best possible light.

We're all familiar with the standard chronological resume format—the kind where you begin with a short paragraph summarizing your key candidate highlights and then proceed to outline your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order. This is the template most commonly advocated for, as it is most widely used and favored by employers.

But what if you face the dilemma of having little to no relevant experience, or have had a long career break or multiple gaps in employment history? How do you prove that you're an exceptional candidate without reverting to your painfully odd chronological resume?

Welcome to the functional resume!

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, how to write a functional resume.

Typing new resume on laptop

With the functional resume layout, the focus is more on your transferable skills and core competencies to meet the requirements of the role, than the conventional work experience.

Before you start writing, you need to first study out the job description and pull out the competencies listed in the "Person Specification" or similar section. Identify your transferable skills from this list, and pinpoint specific examples of experiences where you have demonstrated these qualities.

You also need to ensure that the skills listed in your functional resume are relevant, and are a decent combination of technical skills and soft skills.

As you start creating your resume, begin with your contact information, relevant portfolio links, and a professional summary.

Next, list out core skills relevant to the role—and provide a short summary for each, of where you have implemented these skills, including any success metrics or positive results as well.

Following this, list out your work experiences including employer, job title, and dates worked, without going into detail about your responsibilities. This should be listed in reverse chronological order, just as you would with a standard chronological resume.

Insert a section for your education and professional development certificates, and finally, include volunteer experience or other significant projects that are relevant.

Pros and cons of a functional resume format

Before you start creating a functional resume, here are a few points to consider:

Functional resumes are not compatible with ATS systems. This means that applicant tracking software cannot detect the key information it needs when a recruiter is scanning through your resume, due to the unconventional layout.

Therefore, if you really need to use one, be sure to send it in a way that guarantees that it is read by an actual human, for example, sending via email or a LinkedIn message.

Hiring manager and candidate reviewing resume in an office

Another important factor to consider is that most hiring managers prefer the traditional chronological layout to the functional skills-based resume. This is because it is straight-forward and easier to scan through to obtain key information about places you've worked, experiences and achievements for each, and how long you've worked for each of your employers.

Hence, although it highlights your skills, opting in for a functional resume may sometimes hurt your chances of successfully landing the job.

One way to navigate this issue is to use a combination resume, also known as a hybrid resume layout. This includes your professional summary and detailed core competencies at the top, but just not as detailed to the extent that you would see in a functional format. It then lists out previous work history in the same way a chronological resume would.

This makes for a fantastic option if you are pivoting your career and have work experience that is irrelevant, but do not wish to give the impression that you've never worked at all.

So what is the best resume layout to use?

If you're applying to roles that are directly aligned with your industry and experience, use the traditional resume format.

If you have little to no experience, or have gaps in career history, use the functional resume, but with extreme caution and care.

However, the most preferred option is to use a combination resume, which will reduce red flags for employers, be easy to scan, demonstrate consistency and a solid work background, and at the same time bridge the gap between where you are now and where you desire to be in your career.

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40 Best Free Resume Templates to Use and Customize in 2023

It’s easier to create a stand-out resume when you have a starter template instead of a blank page. The best resume templates are designed to pass through an application tracking system (ATS) and catch the attention of recruiters. This way, all you have to do is plug the right information into the right places. From there, the goal is to land beaucoup job interviews so that you can get that dream offer ASAP.

Ahead, you’ll find 41 professional, free resume templates to consider.

You may notice that many of our favorite resume templates are minimalistic, with fewer graphics, charts, and sections than you might find elsewhere. A simple, software-friendly design is what you want for an ATS, because these tracking systems don’t always “read” as well as a human and can’t handle a lot of formatting. Certain design elements—like columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, graphs, and graphics—can cause an ATS to read out of order or drop things entirely.

Keep these limitations in mind when choosing your fighter, because not all online templates follow best practices. Even the best ones (including some on this list!) slip up here and there. A few common changes you’ll have to make to templates are:

• Moving all text out of text boxes, headers, and footers and into the body of a document
• Changing any creative section headings to traditional ones
• Removing any graphic elements or replacing them with text

Not all embellishments are out of bounds, however. You can give your resume some character (without compromising your chances of getting hired) by using:

• Bold and italicized text
• Underlined words (in headings and hyperlinks)
• Color (dark blues, greens, and reds are popular since people can also read them easily)
• Different text alignments (e.g., right, left, center)

Now that you know what goes into choosing an effective resume template, check out our favorites:

Free B&W resume templates

Here are a few traditional templates with straightforward, chronological formatting and classic section headings. They’re tried-and-true templates that won’t run into any trouble with an ATS.

File format: Google Doc

Our downloadable template uses blue for the section headers, adding a slight pop to an otherwise simple sample, and is totally customizable.

File format: DOCX

HLoom offers templates that are ideal for ATSs. Some incorporate color and bullet points, but they do away with other bad-for-ATS elements. The “Proficient” resume template is a straightforward, chronological resume with space for experience, education, and skills.

File format: PDF, DOCX

Rezi guides you through filling out their standard template step-by-step, asking you what level of career and industry you’re in to make sure you’re using the right sections for you. For example, one option is for students who may want to put projects, activities, and coursework front and center (until they gain more experience). Make sure you delete the contact info icons and stay away from any template Rezi doesn’t explicitly mark as ATS-friendly. .

This template is geared toward job seekers who want to call out the specific job they’re looking for by putting the title front and center. It can be downloaded with headers that come in five different color options, including forest green and aquatic blue.

Jobscan’s focus is on helping people get past an ATS and, as a result, their templates stick closely to ATS-friendly formatting. The “classic format resume - chronological” is exactly what it sounds like: a basic, classic resume with a focus on your experience in reverse chronological order. The template also comes in a functional format as well as a hybrid format .

This template is a solid, traditional choice. Just delete the objective section or make it a summary instead, and change the “Expertise” label to “Skills.” (To download this one, scroll to the green hyperlink that reads, “Download This Template).”)

This simple resume from Microsoft Word is straightforward but adds a few more design elements in the form of horizontal bars to break up the text (though they can also be removed if you prefer).

Free colorful resume templates

These resume templates are still pretty basic, but they use color to make key elements stand out and liven up your resume a bit. Pro tip: You can almost always change the color to suit your preferences (or even add a pop of color to any of the other templates in this list).

This chronological template has plenty of space to include a strong resume summary at the top and reiterate your most relevant skills at the bottom.

This simple ATS-friendly template downloads as a Microsoft Word file and has space for a title and summary. Its use of color gives it a bit more zing than some of the more bare-bones options.

Here’s another Career Reload template that takes advantage of ATS-friendly design elements to give you something a little more unique. But make sure to swap out the “Career Objective” for a “ Summary ” section (or just get rid of it entirely).

This ATS-friendly resume template adds some color to help your name, headings, and the places you’ve worked and studied stand out. You can find this resume under the “Simple Resume Templates” heading at the link above.

The “elegant” template from Resume Companion injects colored bars to highlight sections but maintains the traditional bulleted format. Note that you can (and should) delete the footer of the document since that information is already at the top.

Free minimalist resume templates

If you want a sleek, distraction-free resume that lets your skills and experience speak for themselves, check out these basic, no-frills templates.

This entirely unembellished template keeps things as simple as possible but still has room for all of your most relevant details.

File format: PDF, Microsoft Word

This is another option with a step-by-step walkthrough that’s good for someone who wants a completely utilitarian resume. Once completed, the resume can be downloaded as a PDF or Word file.Note: You should definitely delete the date of birth section.

This site’s template for applicant tracking systems is the lowest of low-frills—but that may be perfectly fine if you’re seeking a no-risk option that still includes everything you need.

This template is another simple option that places section headers on the left and details on the right, creating a good amount of white space. (Note that these columns can be read from left to right, so they’re perfectly ATS friendly.) Just be sure to delete the “References” section—these don’t belong on your resume in 2023.

Free eye-catching resume templates

These templates are perfect for people who want their resumes to stand out from the pack—but still get read by a computer.

File format: PDF, Google Doc, TXT

Every Cultivated Culture template is fully customizable—so you can eliminate any elements that aren’t ATS-friendly. We recommend the Austin Belcak template as a starting point. Just be sure to replace the graph-based skills section with a traditional bulleted list.

This is another Cultivated Culture template that will get through the ATS with just one change: Delete the “Interests” section to eliminate the columns (you don’t really need it anyway).

File format: PDF, DOCX, DOC, HTML

If you want columns, this template includes them in a way that can still be read by an ATS. Just be sure to move your name and contact info out of the text box it’s currently in (where it might get missed or garbled by the ATS) and into the body of the resume. You can customize your resume directly in your web browser and download it as a PDF, Word, or HTML file. Not all of Super Resume’s templates are ATS-friendly (some include graphics and columns), but you can also check out “Resume Template 5” and “Resume Template 6” for more options.

File format: PSD, PDF, Word

This template places the most emphasis on the personal summary at the top and keeps the job experience straightforward in the body. It’s ideal for specialized fields in which getting to know the applicant as a person is key (in this case, chefs and restaurant employees who may interact closely with customers and clients, but it can be adapted to any field). Just be sure to tweak the section headings to common ones for your industry.

This template keeps things short, elegant, and easy to read. The colored graphic at the top adds a nice design element to stand out, especially against a straightforward layout that places your most recent job experience at the top and education and skills below. Just be sure to delete the icons next to the contact information and move it to the body of the resume.

File format: DOCX, PSD, AI

Don’t be fooled by the erasable icons—this template may have a modern look but it keeps things simple and compact. Keep in mind that some ATSs will read your resume from left to right, ignoring columns, so we recommend including either the job title or timeframe in the left column (not both!) and moving the other piece of information to the right.

Free skill-emphasizing resume templates

If you’re early in your career, switching career paths, or in a highly technical field, you may want to spotlight your relevant skills over your past work experience. These templates do just that.

This template puts less emphasis on your formal work experience, and plays up your accomplishments, skills, and strengths—ideal for someone who is trying to switch careers. It can also be a smart choice for freelancers, or folks who've taken a career gap to focus on family or travels. 

This option prioritizes job seekers’ skills, placing that section at the top of the resume. If you’re making a big career change, you can keep the objective section ; otherwise delete it or replace it with a summary statement.

File format:  DOCX

This template gives plenty of space to both list and expand on your most important skills right up top. Plus the columns are fully ATS friendly and the pop of color will catch the eyes of your reader.

This template highlights applicants’ academic histories as well as skills and abilities, making it a good match for a graduate student or anyone in academia. This could also be expanded into a full CV by adding your publications, presentations, conferences, and awards. As always, ditch the resume objective or replace it with a summary!

Word’s computer programmer resume maximizes space for computer skills (which you may want to rename “Technical Skills”), education, and experience, which are key for software engineering applicants to include. But you could easily tweak this template to work well in other fields.

This template emphasizes both skills and experiences, but places key skills most prominently at the top—with room further down to put them in context and expand on your related accomplishments.

If you’re applying for a new job within your current company, the resume you create may emphasize different things than if you were applying to a new employer. Word’s internal transfer resume highlights accomplishments and skills while placing general information (like education) at the bottom. There is some formatting that might trip up an ATS—but if you remove the main resume text from the text box and place it in the body with “match destination format” selected, you should be good to go. Then you can restore the colors if you’d like.

Free resume templates for experienced job seekers

These templates are ideal for people with longer work histories.

Jobscan created this resume for people who aren’t ready for management just yet but are well past entry-level. This hybrid template places an emphasis on hard skills, but still has room to put those skills in context—perfect for applicant tracking systems.

Rising to the top of the ranks? Jobscan’s “New executive resume template 3” puts an emphasis on results while allowing more space up top to quickly highlight your biggest achievements. This template is more than one page to account for a more extensive work history.

This chronological template is good for people with more work experience and it gives space for job seekers to fill in both a position summary and bullet points. You can use this if you want to emphasize key achievements or special projects from your past jobs. Just make sure to delete the “Find My Profession” image from the template.

This ATS resume template highlights industry knowledge, interpersonal skills, the ability to delegate, and leadership qualities. The summary and skills at the top let you put the most important pieces of a longer work history front and center—for when it’s time for a human to look at your resume.

Free resume templates for entry-level job seekers

If you’re just starting out in your career, you might want a template that showcases your education and relevant skills over your past work experience.

Like many recent grad resume templates, this option places collegiate experience at the top. But it also gives you two sections for work experience (relevant and additional) so that you can place that internship from junior year ahead of your pizza-delivering gig. Jobscan’s other recent grad templates are strong choices as well.

This template is a very simple starter resume that highlights recent grads’ education, skills, abilities, and experience. Just remember to swap out that objective for a resume summary (or delete it).

This template is geared toward undergraduate students seeking investment banking job opportunities (but it can easily be tweaked for other industries). In just one page, it includes space to list your education, study abroad and/or internship experiences, undergraduate leadership positions, and skills and interests (both personal and professional).

Free Adobe resume templates

These more stylized templates require the Adobe suite to edit, so they’re not for everyone. Just make sure you save your final resume as a PDF so the ATS can still read it.

File format: AI

Need a little more space? This two-page template injects more personality with golden accent colors but is still professional. You can make this option even better (for both humans and robots) by nixing the line graphs in the “Skills” and “Language” sections, and sticking to text instead. Since the ATS might read your resume straight across (from left to right, ignoring columns) you should adjust what text you put in the left column so that the text still makes sense if read this way.

File format: PSD

Despite a two-column format in the education section (which you can turn into one), the graphs on page two (which you can replace with text), and a photo (which you should remove), this template is a strong choice if you want to stand out without being too flashy. The blue font adds an extra design element but everything else is straightforward and modern.

This option requires you to have an Adobe account—but it’s free if you’re already set up. The bold color pattern ensures that you’ll stand out, even with very traditional formatting that places a brief personal summary at the top, experience and education in the middle rows, and skills at the bottom. The Adobe Spark logo in the bottom right corner can be removed.

As always, delete the photo box and stick to text. This option comes with a second resume page and cover letter template you can use if needed. The numbers to the left of the job titles can be removed and the line graphs on the second page can be replaced with text.

Regina Borsellino contributed to the latest version of this article. 

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Resume Writing Tips

What your resume should look like in 2023 (with examples & templates).

Learning what your resume should look like in 2023 isn’t just a matter of aesthetics.

Hiring data shows there’s an average of 200 applicants per job opening. Some researchers say that figure may be closer to 500 candidates , depending on the position.

I share these figures not to scare you, but to highlight your stiff competition.

Your resume is your best chance to make a powerful first impression on hiring teams and recruiters. These decision-makers are inundated with well-qualified applicants as soon as they post a job.

And to make matters worse, eye-tracking studies reveal they only spend 7.4 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to read it in its entirety or move on to the next one.

That’s not a lot of time to capture and excite readers about your value.

So in this post, I’ll highlight exactly what your resume should look like in 2023 to stand out, engage readers, and boost your chances of landing an interview.

What Your Resume Should Look Like In 2023: 5 Must-Haves + Examples

An attractive, high-performing resume immediately piques a reader’s interest. It subtly draws them down the page to learn why you’re the candidate they’re looking for.

So every resume in 2023 should incorporate these five elements to achieve that goal:

1. An Updated, Modern Design

A traditional resume format (think: chronological order, bullet points, etc.) won’t give you a leg-up on your competition in 2023. Using one may even hold you back.

See, hiring managers tune out when one of those stale resume templates lands on their desks for the umpteenth time. These boring resumes don’t excite or connect with readers. So your resume could be passed over in that brief 7.4-second scan before it’s even read.

That’s why it’s so important to freshen up the look of your resume with an updated, modern resume template like this one:

Want to use this resume template? Click this link purchase it and start customizing this template (or any others in this article) now.

Unlike a traditional resume template, the one above builds a personal connection with readers by introducing and showcasing your value first. A quick scan of the top half provides them with a snapshot of your areas of expertise and core competencies, two very attractive “hooks” to hiring teams.

Readers will then feel compelled to learn where you honed those skills. So the bottom half of this resume template helps organize your career achievements in an engaging, eye-appealing way. 

Rather than reading like a bland job description, each point should back up your skill set while proving your track record of success.

Anyone reading your resume formatted with a modern template like this will know precisely who you are and the value you’ll deliver, which is the ultimate goal.

2. Clear Sections To Highlight Your Best Features

Resumes that look like one giant block of text are intimidating. They tell hiring teams they’ll need to spend time and effort to mine for the intel they’re looking for. And with hundreds of other resumes vying for their attention, they’ll probably just pass on doing so.

That’s why most modern resume templates are divided into sections with clear, distinct headers. This makes your resume easier to scan and read, not to mention far more enjoyable for busy hiring managers.

The resume template above does a fantastic job of breaking up a resume into bite-sized chunks of information. The example below takes this concept a step further:

The highlights and expertise section in this resume template sits in a blue box to draw the reader’s eyes and attention. This is like telling hiring teams, “Hey! Come check this out!”

So think of your resume as a cheat sheet for hiring managers and recruiters rather than a dossier.

Your resume headings and sections will create an organized outline of your qualifications. Then these call-out boxes can be used to show off your best features, as they’re likely one of the first things hiring managers will notice during their initial scan.

3. Strategically-Placed White Space and Tight Copy

Often times, candidates are so focused on adding every little detail to their resume that it becomes too crammed to read. Headings and call-out boxes can help with this problem. But nothing works quite as well as more white space.

White space, or the places in your resume without words or formatting, adds breathing room to your resume . It prevents a resume from appearing jam-packed and hard to read.

A resume with well-defined sections naturally creates more white space, like this resume template :

Aim for short copy to add more white space to your resume . Break up any big chunks of text to make reading less overwhelming and easier for the eyes.

Your resume is like a garden. You don’t want wordy sentences hiding your highlights and achievements like weeds overrunning a beautiful flower bed. 

Prune your copy, and you’ll easily add more white space to your resume and draw attention to your best selling points simultaneously.

4. A Bold Pop of Color

If you really want to stand out and catch someone’s attention, a pop of bold color on your resume is a must. But this doesn’t mean you should haphazardly throw a rainbow of color wherever you want.

When done strategically, as this example does, color can be used to add emphasis, contrast, and personality. It can also help break up the sea of black text on your resume.

Want to use this resume template? Click this link to customize this template or any others in this article now .

Though a pop of color can help your resume stand out and make a memorable first impression, colors that are too bright or off-putting will do so for the wrong reasons. Opt for deeper, saturated shades, so your resume will be legible in person and on-screen.

5. A Clear, Easy-to-Read Font and Formatting

It’s essential to think about the font you choose for your resume .

Anything “cutesy” will likely be regarded as unprofessional. Likewise, a font that’s too light or too bold may also be difficult to read.

The best fonts to use on a resume include Serif and Sans Serif fonts, such as Times New Roman, Georgia, Verdana, and Arial.

As for the font size, stick to 10-14 points (10-12 for regular text and 12-14 for headings and subheadings).

This template offers a great example of resume text formatting:

On a similar note, be sure to emphasize the right areas, not everything . Only use bold or italics to draw attention to your top achievements, companies you’ve worked for, and other notable points according to the role.

Ready To Update Your Resume for 2023?

Now that you know the must-have ingredients for a high-performing resume, it’s time to put these tips to good use.

Incorporating today’s must-have elements will give your resume a fresh upgrade for 2023 and help you connect with hiring teams and recruiters.

Even better news?

If you use one of the resume templates shared in this guide, you’ll ace this task in half the time. Just purchase and download the one that fits your needs best, plug in your information where prompted, and voila! 

You’ll have a modern, professional resume ready to send out in a matter of minutes instead of spending all day reformatting your current one.

Click this link to learn more about the resume templates featured in this article. Psst! You’ll also find a free executive resume template download on our resources page.

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About the author

Jessica hernandez, president, ceo & founder of great resumes fast.

Hi, I’m Jessica. I started this company back in 2008 after more than a decade directing hiring practices at Fortune 500 companies.

What started as a side hustle (before that was even a word!) helping friends of friends with their resumes has now grown into a company that serves hundreds of happy clients a year. But the personal touch? I’ve kept that.

You might have seen me featured as a resume expert in publications like Forbes, Fast Company, and Fortune. And in 2020, I was honored to be named as a LinkedIn Top Voice of the year!

I’m so glad you’re here, and I can’t wait to help you find your next perfect-fit position!

This is very well-detailed content. I highly appreciate your work. Thank you for sharing your ideas!

Hi Jessica,

As I was looking to give my resume a fresh, new style for 2023, I came across your article. I kid you not, I have been styling my resume like this for the last 3 years! I am an independent career coach–would you be interested in hiring a partner?

I’m not kidding.

I found these resume formats to be reader friendly and they target what potential employers want to see quickly. It allows the reader to focus on the accomplishments beyond the day to day duties.

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12 FREE PROFESSIONAL RESUME TEMPLATES

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Updated: 12/14/21

Published: 07/30/18

Are you looking to create an awesome resume that lands the job of your dreams? Whatever industry you’re applying to work in (from marketing to sales), there’s one thing all resumes need to have in common: the ability to stand out.

But, this uniqueness doesn’t mean you need to make your application uncommon — especially when you’re using a template.

Resume templates allow job seekers to put together a unique one-page document that’s proven to get results. The best part? Even a non-designer could whip-up an incredible resume template in a matter of minutes and see results, including invites to interview or job offers.

Work your way through this guide to discover how a resume template can help you land a new job.

Resume Template Format

Design Best Practices

Resume Writing Tips

Free Resume Templates

Creative resume templates, resume builder tools, how to create a resume template.

Are you ready to make a start on the template that’s going to boost the success rate of your resume? Grab a pen and paper — it’s almost time to dive in.

Here’s what your one-page document needs to include, and the resume outline that’ll bring the best results (no matter the industry).

Featured Resource: 12 Professionally Designed Resume Templates

Download the Templates Now

1. Your Details

The first thing you’ll need to build a resume template is a section for your personal details. Granted, this might be the most obvious part of your resume, but don’t underestimate their importance. The most obvious things often go unnoticed, right?

All resumes need to include details such as:

• Your full name and address
• A contact number
• Your address

You could also add an image or your personal logo to your template. Resumes for creative jobs need to stand out, and in an industry where design is important, adding a visual touch to your resume could be all it needs to make an impact.

Not only will these contact details make your resume look professional, but it edges the recruiter towards our end goal (a job offer) if your contact information is easy to find.

2. An Objective Statement

If you’re frantically Googling the definition of an objective statement before reading into this section, don’t worry. Here’s all you’ll need to know about creating one for your resume template.

An objective statement is 1-2 sentences on how you want to achieve a goal in relation to the position you’re applying for. It’s usually listed at the top of a resume, and it’s an essential element of any resume template because it sets you apart. That’s the goal here, right?

How to Write a Resume Objective Statement

When writing a resume objective statement, think about the job in question. Then, ask yourself:

• Why do I want to work at this company?
• How will the role help me achieve my goals?
• What skills do I want to develop?

Each of these questions requires you to dig deep into your career goals , and show the company you’re motivated to reach them.

For example, if I was building a marketing resume template, this might be my objective statement:

“Looking for a position where I can develop my 5+ years of inbound marketing experience and help to build a solid content marketing strategy for a startup.”

It touches on my experience (what I can bring to the table), along with how I want to help the company. I told you it wasn’t too complicated!

3. Your Experience

Now we’re moving onto the good part of your resume template: your experience. After all, that’s the bare bones of this document, and it’s the section recruiters spend the most time reading .

This step is self-explanatory — tell the recruiter the jobs you’ve had prior to this one.

Include your job title, company name, dates of employment, and a brief summary of your duties. This allows the hiring manager to understand how your experience could help you, should they chose to bring you on-board.

This part of our resume outline comes with a warning: Don’t over-do it. Keep your list of duties short — preferably in a bullet-pointed list — to keep the recruiter’s attention.

4. Your Education

The education section of your resume template is also pretty self-explanatory. You’ll need to include the school you attended (with dates), along with the grades you achieved.

However, don’t fall into the trap of including your middle (or even worse, elementary) school as part of your resume outline. You likely didn’t learn anything here that was out of the ordinary, so don’t include it on your resume.

Instead, stick to high school and preferably college and onwards, highlighting university grades, should you have them.

You should also include any training programs you’ve completed in the education section of your resume outline. These can set you apart from other candidates, especially if they’re directly related to the role or industry you’re applying for.

(If you’re building a marketing resume, our HubSpot certifications would fit perfectly in this section!)

5. Your Skills

The skills section of a resume template is where many job-seekers struggle . Whether you’re shaking your head in confusing or asking “what skills do I need to put on a resume?”, it’s not uncommon to get it wrong.

That’s because people don’t know the best skills to list. Should they list skills that are applicable to any role, or stick with industry-specific skills that directly relate to the role they’re applying for?

The answer is simple: a combination of both.

Soft Skills

Skills that are applicable for any job are called soft skills. They’re essentially what makes you a “good worker.”

Soft skills can include:

• Conflict resolution
• Excellent communication
• Great at working in a team
• The ability to work on your own initiative

93% of employers say soft skills are an “essential” or “very important” factor in hiring decisions. So don’t leave them out!

Hard Skills

On the other hand, hard skills are a bit trickier to build. They relate directly the role (or industry) you’re applying for and listing them on your resume template will show that you’re a great fit for that specific position.

Hard skills include things like:

• Customer service
• Data analysis
• Computer programming
• Graphic design

Since these hard skills are more difficult to master, don’t be afraid to toot your own horn on this part of your resume template. If you’ve got it, flaunt it!

6. Personal Qualities and Interests

What better way to make your resume stand-out than to include information about yourself? It’s a surefire way to make your resume template unique — there’s only one you.

The personal qualities and interests section of your resume outline should let the recruiter know about the person behind the document.

What qualities set you apart? Do you have any interests or hobbies? What activities do you love doing outside of working hours?

Don’t worry if your hobbies or interests don’t directly relate to the role. Personal accomplishments — like training for a marathon, taking cooking classes at night, or learning a new language — show your commitment to learning new things and experiencing new perspectives.

Best Practices for Resume Design

Now you’ve got the structure of your resume template, let’s get your creative juices flowing and move onto the design.

Despite this being the fun part of your template, it can be the hardest to master. Not everybody has the same taste in design and what works for one industry might be a no-go in another.

Here are the best practices for designing a resume template:

Resume Layout

The layout of your resume is how it looks on a page. You’ve got control over the columns, spacing, and order of your resume template, and each option has its benefits:

Sequential Order

Resumes that show your contact details, objective statement, and experience in order are sequential.

This style works well because it allows the recruiter to easily follow a resume. Although it’s only a one-page sheet, the hiring manager can flow through your resume without putting too much brain power into the information they’re looking for.

However, because sequential resumes are popular, it might miss the mark on uniqueness.

Not-In-Order

Resume templates that go against the norm and display information out-of-order look more unique. That’s because you have more creative control over the layout of your resume.

I sense a “but” coming?

The “but” here is opposite to a sequential resume: They’re not easy to follow. You have a risk of overwhelming or confusing the recruiter and seeing your resume get tossed into the trash, which is not what we want.

Best practice for a resume layout depends on the risk you’re willing to take. If you’re more willing to lose out on uniqueness and avoid losing a recruiter’s attention, stick with a sequential resume (and vice versa).

What Fonts Should You Use on a Resume?

Font choice is another tricky one that depends on the role and industry you’re applying to work in.

As a general rule of thumb, serif fonts are usually easier to read . But, sans-serif look more modern. (Notice how much of your resume template is based on preference?)

Head over to Google Fonts and enter text to see how each font looks. If you spot any you’d like to use in your resume template, add them to your PC or Mac. You’ll then be able to find them when editing your template in a document, like Microsoft Word.

Here are some recommendations for each font style:

• Serif fonts : Roboto , Open Sans , Lato
• Sans-serif fonts : Slabo , Lora , PT Serif

When finalizing your font selection, avoid using a different font for each sentence. Stick to three or fewer throughout your entire resume template, or browse Google Fonts’ popular pairings for groups that are proven to work:

What Color Should You Use on a Resume?

Color is another resume design element that is totally decided by preference.

Here, best practice is a light background color paired with dark text.

Switching this around and using dark backgrounds can make text hard to read, and be too off-putting for the recruiter scrutinizing the detail in your resume.

But, in terms of best practice for any other elements, stick to three (or fewer) colors throughout the entire page. Going full speed ahead with 25 different colors could risk your resume template looking like a child’s coloring book.

CV vs. Resume: What’s the Difference?

CVs and resumes are two names for similar things. But, if you’re applying for a job, how do you know which document you should be sending — and the things you’ll need to include for each?

When to Use a CV

Send a CV ( curriculum vitae ) if the recruiter wants an in-depth dive into your experience. These documents tend to be 1-2 pages in length, and talk about various things in detail, including your education, experience, and skills.

CVs are used commonly in the U.K. but aren’t very customizable. That’s because achievements need to be listed sequentially.

When to Use a Resume

On the other hand, resumes are a one-page document that details everything a recruiter would need to know, without the added detail.

Since a supporting cover letter dives into the nitty gritty of your experience, a resume only covers top-level information. This makes them more to-the-point than a CV.

And, because the goal isn’t to explain your experience (it’s to make you stand out), they’re highly customizable. Feel free to let your creative juices flow and experiment with every aspect of your document!

5 Tips for Writing an Attention-Grabbing Resume

Did you know that recruiters only spend six seconds reviewing a resume? (That’s less than the precious seconds you spend making your morning coffee.)

You can stand out from the crowd of resumes on a recruiter’s pile by:

1. Include hard-hitting stats.

Grab the recruiter’s attention by using hard-hitting stats in your resume template, and relate them to your skills. Not only does this look more impressive, but it proves you do have the skills you’re listing — especially if you’ve got great results from them before.

These statistics can be used in your experience section. Take a look at the below example. Which looks more impressive to you?

• Redesigned the company’s website.
• Executed a complete redesign of the company’s website, which saw an uplift of 30% on-site conversions just two weeks after implementation.

Option B hits you hard and gives the wow factor, right?

2. Ditch the fluff.

A surefire way to make sure your resume gets tossed into the trash is to fill it with fluff. Remember, we only have a few seconds to win-over a recruiter with our resume.

The most common form of “fluff” on a resume template is overused skills that anyone is likely to have — such proficiency with Microsoft Word. That’s a skill most people learn in school, so it’s not going to set you apart from your competition.

It’s also important to remember that recruiters care for what you did that made an impact, not always what you coordinated or strategized. So, ditch the “managed a team of two people” and use “executed an entire rebrand for the company, directing a team of two to increase subscribers on the site by 50%” instead.

And, if you’re including non-relevant positions in the experience section of your resume outline, show how those skills translate to this job. That way, you’re proving you have cross-functional skills that relate to the role you’re applying for.

3. Make it fun.

Many job-seekers struggle to liven-up their resume without going overboard. The line can be fine between a sense of humor and immaturity in the workplace, after all.

However, you can liven-up your resume template (and demand your recruiter’s attention) by adding humor in the stories, facts, and information you share.

Boring resumes they’ve seen hundreds of times before aren’t going to make an impact. Creative resume templates that allow your personality to shine through, will.

4. Don’t overcomplicate it

A unique layout can make your resume stand out, but don’t go crazy (to the point where it’s too complicated to understand). Although it sounds obvious, it’s an easy mistake to make … especially when you’re experimenting with fonts, colors, and formats.

You can get a great understanding of how easy your resume is to read — without the risk of finding out from recruiters — by asking family and friends to review it.

Do they look overwhelmed when they first lay eyes on it? Are they asking questions like, “what does this mean?” or “where can I find your experience?”. If so, it’s probably too complex.

5. Use resume action words.

The words you’re using on a resume should be powerful. And, although any fluff should already be ditched by this point, a few simple tweaks to the start of your sentences could be all it needs to reach perfection.

You can do this by using action words, which give the wow factor to your resume template.

So, if you catch yourself writing “managed”, “was responsible for”, or “helped” to kick off a new sentence, replace it with “executed”, “trained”, or “directed”.

Looking for a done-for-you template where you can cut and paste your own information? Luckily for you, we have a list of resume templates that’ll help you get noticed in a stack of others.

However, if you’d prefer resume samples that can be used directly from your document software, here are a few to keep your eye on:

Resume Templates for Word

Microsoft Word offers tons of templates to build your resume.

Simply open a new Word doc and type “resume” in the template search box:

Our favorites include:

Resume (Modern Design)

This resume template is simple, but it covers everything you’ll need to include in your document.

Plus, with the option to add an image and the simple color choice, you can’t go far wrong:

Crisp and Clean Resume

This template was professionally designed by Moo.com, and has a unique layout that’s easy to customize.

There’s also free matching cover letter template that you can use in conjunction with this resume template:

Creative Resume

Also designed by Moo.com, this Microsoft Word resume template uses fun patterns and icons to make your document stand out:

Google Docs Resume Templates

If Google Docs is your software of choice, you’re able to pick from five resume templates.

Once you’ve created a Google account (or signed into your own), head to Google Docs and hit “Template Gallery”.

Scroll down to see the Google Docs resume templates:

Our favorites are:

This one has got you covered if you’re looking for a modern, single-column resume template:

This resume template for Google Docs uses a two-column format. It’s easy to read, but uses very little color:

Modern Writer

Looking for a resume template you can use for writing roles? This Google Docs option uses a unique typewriter-style font that’s bound to set you apart:

Applying for a role where creativity is important? Graphic design, marketing, or branding industries might be looking for creative resumes that really go above and beyond to make an impact.

Luckily for you, you have complete control over every aspect of your resume template. You don’t always have to list your points in a boring black and white document. In fact, there are various other resume formats that allow you to show your creativity.

Our favorite? Infographic resumes .

Infographic resumes turn a boring one-page document into an exciting resume in image-form.

They’re fantastic for online applications because internet readers pay close attention to information in images . People spend more time looking at images than they do text when reading on the web, making it a simple way to make sure your resume doesn’t get lost in the sea of browser tabs that a recruiter has open.

However, infographic resumes come with a warning: Always check that online applications allow image uploads. Many sites only allow document files to be uploaded, so it could be a total waste of time if you create an infographic resume and can’t send it to the company!

Although they take longer to create and still need to be customized for each job you’re applying for, they’re a guaranteed way to make an impact and help your resume stand out.

The resume template tools we’ve listed here are bound to set you off on the right foot.

But, if you’re wishing to go above and beyond with your document, we recommend using these resume builder tools:

• Canva : Create your own infographic-style resumes using a professionally-designed template, or build your own from scratch. Then, download your infographic resume as PNG, JPEG, or as a PDF.
• Resume Genius : Choose from 20+ resume templates and get your final version personally reviewed by a resume expert. It’s great for people who’re too shy to ask family and friends for feedback !
• Visual CV: Go against the norm and create an online resume instead of a document or image-based one. Once built, you can add a link to your online resume from your personal website.
• Resume Coach : This site offers lots of pre-made resume templates to choose from, varying in format, color, and style. Plus, they’re exclusive to this site — you won’t find the same ones on another site. There’s no need to worry about selecting a common, overused template.

Great job. You’ve just created a resume template that’s bound to land your dream job!

When adding details to this document, remember to be unique and look into the application requirements for each one.

You’ll soon stand out from the crowd, be invited to interview, and maybe even land your dream job.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Resume templates to create a killer resume for your job application.

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Resume Templates

Need a job? Our huge range of free resume templates can help you. Simply choose your favorite template, download it directly to Word or open it in Google Docs, and fill it out. We also provide a copy-paste resume template that quickly walks you through each step of making a resume.

Premium Resume Templates to Edit & Download

The "Advanced" CV template uses color to highlight your contact information and key skills.

Featuring a colorful two-column layout, the "Clean" CV template enables employers to quickly scan for key information.

With its straightforward design, the "Corporate" CV template conveys confidence and professionalism.

Sleek and minimal, the "Modern" template is ideal for marketing and business professionals.

The "Minimalist" CV template has a contemporary appearance, clean fonts, and colorful design elements.

The "Majestic" CV template highlights your name with a unique graphic header.

The "Taj Mahal" template's clever sidebar highlights your contact information, summary, and education.

The creative "2024" template has a compact layout organized along a central line.

Formal but not stuffy, our "Classic" CV template is well-organized and versatile.

The "Windsor" template's bold headings and dividing lines will make your CV look structured and professional.

The "Pantheon" is formatted for specialists and executives by centering your career summary and work experience section.

If you're looking for a buttoned-up CV template that will impress more traditional employers, the "Professional" is a great choice.

The "Elegant" template’s centered headings and serif font contribute to its pleasing aesthetics and easy readability.

The "Chicago" CV template has matching color headers and horizontal lines to break up sections.

The "Milano" template looks timeless, featuring serifed fonts and a classic layout.

Free Resume Templates to Download & Print

Professional templates.

Our “Minimalist” resume template is easy for readers to digest with its clean font and subtle color accents.

Who should use this template?

The Minimalist’s simple layout and design make it suitable for a wide range of positions. Plus, its lack of visual complexity makes it easy to format.

The “Minimalist” template is a great choice for the following kinds of resumes in particular:

• Education resume
• Receptionist resume
• Administrative resume
• Customer service resume

Format and styling details:

Major Features

• Colored name header, contact icons, and skill meters
• Left-hand column with sections for contact info, education, skills, and awards
• Bottom – 0″
• Left – .35″
• Right – .35″

Text Details

• Name/Header Font: Raleway
• Content Font: Calibri
• Name Font Size: 35pt
• Header Font Size: 12pt
• Job Description Font Size: 11pt

How to access this template

Resume builder.

Use our software and create a resume with a premade template. Let the Genius resume builder help you make your resume fast.

The “Cosmopolitan” resume template features a sophisticated header with pastel color options. Stylish and clean.

Cosmopolitan

Professional and sleek, this template can be adapted to suit positions in all kinds of industries, from art to education to sales.

The following resumes would work nicely with the “Cosmopolitan” template:

• Human resources (HR) resume
• Teacher resume
• Theater resume
• Entry-level sales resume
• Two-column layout
• White space balanced between neat color blocks
• Bottom – 1 cm
• Left – 1 cm
• Right – 1 cm
• Name Font: Raleway
• Content Font: Proza Libre Light
• Name Font Size: 28pt
• Job Description Font Size: 11pt

Perfect for managers, the “Executive” template’s timeline graphic highlights your experience section above all.

The “Executive” is for anyone who wants to impress their potential employers with a crisp and well-laid out format.

This favorite of veteran professionals is perfect for the following kinds of resumes:

• Executive resume
• Hotel general manager resume
• Project manager resume
• Supervisor resume

Format and Styling Details

• Contact details imprinted in white into a black bar
• Headings featured on the left side of the resume with a vertical double bar for separation
• Font: Roboto
• Job Description Font Size: 10pt

The "Everest" template's dark-and-light color scheme makes a bold impression, and neatly breaks up each section.

• Personal trainer resume
• Physical therapy resume
• Paramedic resume
• Firefighter resume
• Colored name header, contact icons, and horizontal lines
• Font: Catamaran
• Job Description Font Size: 10pt

Modern Templates

With fun color pairings and a modern borderless design, the "Tech" template is perfect for applying to startups.

• Information technology (IT) resume
• Technical support resume
• Internship resume
• UI developer resume

Format and styling details

• Borderless design, with non-traditional vertical headers
• Bar graph for your skills section
• Heading Font: Lato
• Content Font: Inter
• Name Font Size: 30pt
• Content Font Size: 10pt

The "Clean" resume template features a color bar on the left that still leaves room for your experience to take center stage.

• Certified nursing assistant (CNA) resume
• Secretary resume
• Business development resume
• Architecture resume
• Sidebar that effectively organizes multiple sections, allowing for a more in-depth work experience section
• Subdued header allows for the main content of your resume to take the spotlight
• Heading Font: Nunito Sans
• Content Font: Catamaran
• Name Font Size: 24pt
• Content Font Size: 11pt

The "Two Column" resume template uses borders to split the template in half, providing equal weight to each section.

• Graphic design resume
• Acting resume
• Colorful designer-friendly background
• Clearly divided resume section that presents a clean, organized look
• Heading Font: Raleway
• Content Font: PT Sans

Color helps highlights your contact information and skills sections on the “Advanced” resume template.

• Software engineer resume
• Financial analyst resume
• Bookkeeper resume
• Data scientist resume
• Highlighted skills section that is prominently featured
• Colorful bar that accentuates the candidate’s name and contact information
• Heading Font: Poppins
• Content Font: Open Sans

Creative Templates

The "Windsor" template applies headings to great effect, helping you quickly highlight your experience and skill set.

• College student resume
• Arts administrator resume
• Sections for detailing relevant education, skills, and certifications
• Simple lines that frame each section and guide readers’ natural eye movement
• Top – .5 cm
• Bottom – 0 cm
• Left – .5 cm
• Right – .5 cm
• Heading Font: Abel
• Content Font: Open Sans
• Header Font Size: 35pt

Style effects applied to the “Fashionable” resume template make it a flashy choice for job seekers in creative industries.

Fashionable

• Model resume
• Art director resume
• Colorful fading behind the experience section
• A nice balance of vertical and horizontal elements, creating a pleasant aesthetic balance
• Content Font: Arima
• Header Font Size: 30 pt
• Job Description Font Size: 10 pt

The "Visual" template uses strong visual elements to make your professional skills the central focus of your resume.

• UX designer resume
• Photographer resume
• Front-end developer resume
• Soft skills donut chart that makes your abilities jump off the page
• Technical skills bars set up similar to what you’d see on a soundboard
• Work experience timeline on the bottom to clearly showcase your career progression
• Header Font Size: 26 pt

Colorful backgrounds on our “Pretty” templates will help hiring managers more easily remember your resume.

• Dance resume
• Fully shaded background and colorful elements
• A lighter-colored section at the top to highlight contact details
• Heading Font: Roboto
• Content Font: Roboto
• Job Description Font Size: 10.5 pt

Simple Templates

Formal but not stuffy, our “Classic” resume template is well-organized, suitable for any industry, and lets your content shine.

• Legal assistant resume
• Dental assistant resume
• Business analyst resume
• Account manager resume
• Simply formatted resume designed for maximum clarity and readability
• Header font spaced by 2.2pt creates an interesting aesthetic effect
• Compatible resume template for google docs
• Name Font Size: 22pt
• Header Font Size: 10pt

The “Chicago” resume template embraces simplicity with matching colored headers and horizontal lines to break up sections.

• Sales resume
• Data analyst resume
• Nursing student resume
• Business administration resume
• Page-length underlines used to separate resume sections
• Right-aligned city, state, and employment dates
• Bottom – 0.5 cm
• Font: STIX Two Text
• Name Font Size: 24pt
• Header Font Size: 11pt

On an otherwise minimalistic design, the colored header of the “Connery” resume template makes your name visible and memorable to the reader.

• Retail manager resume
• Engineer resume
• Federal resume
• Bold name bar-style header to grab hiring managers’ attention
• Bolded and capitalized headings that visually break up sections
• Font: PT Serif
• Name Font Size: 19pt

Our "White House" resume template’s two-column format left-aligns your headers, leaving space to feature your experience.

White House

• Healthcare resume
• Payroll specialist resume
• Left-aligned headers for easy navigation
• Larger professional experience and education sections
• Bottom – .5″
• Left – .94″
• Right – .93″
• Font: Arimo
• Name Font Size: 18pt
• Header Font Size: 10pt

Picture Templates

With vibrant color choices and a memorable header, the “Cute” resume template ensures your resume gets noticed by centering your professional experience.

• Graphic designer resume
• Social media marketing resume
• Striking skills and education sections
• Subtle color gradient
• Heading Font: Quicksand

A healthy dose of color and clearly-defined sections make the “Fresh” resume template an excellent fit for those who want their application to stand out.

• Dance teacher resume
• Skill bars to effectively illustrate your level of proficiency
• Clearly defined resume sections
• Heading Font: Inter

The “Fun” resume template features a large experience section, a two-tone color scheme, and a circular picture that’s great for a headshot or logo.

• Sorority resume
• Brand ambassador resume
• Photograph in the middle of the header
• Large experience section
• Heading Font: Bitter
• Content Font: Bitter
• Content Font Size: 11pt

The “Headshot” resume template uses playful colors on an otherwise simple background to draw attention to your skills and photo.

• Two-color design
• Round headshot contrasted by a colorful bubble
• Name Font Size: 28
• Content Font Size: 10

Google Docs Templates

What’s unique about this template?

Who should use it?

The Swiss resume template features a longer education section and a special awards section, making it perfect for recent graduates looking to emphasize their academic accomplishments.

• Orange text adds flair and highlights a candidate’s title and contact information
• Content aligned in a single column using a standard resume format
• Content Font: Lato
• Name Font Size: 24

This template works well for job seekers who are looking for a simple design that shines a spotlight on their skill set.

• Coral-colored headings that make each section stand out
• Distinctive fonts that add visual interest to the page
• Heading Font: Playfair Display
• Name Font Size: 14

This template draws attention to a candidate’s work experience, making it perfect for seasoned professionals who want to showcase the detail and depth of their experience.

• A large header that will make your name stand out to employers
• Centered headings that draw the eye down the page
• Heading Font: Lora
• Content Font: Arimo
• Name Font Size: 40

With its distinctive style, this template is well-suited to applicants looking for work in modern creative industries like marketing or technology.

• Colorful headers that draw attention to each section
• Geometric shapes that center and frame the content
• Name Font Size: 20
• Content Font Size: 11

CV Templates

With tasteful color options and a simple design, the “Graduate” CV template puts your education and teaching experience right at the top so it’s easy for hiring managers to see your most relevant qualifications.

Why it’s called the “Graduate CV Template”

The “Graduate” CV template is the ideal choice for scholars writing an academic CV because the design showcases education above all else. However, it’s still a great pick for anyone who’d like a refreshing new design for their CV — no matter what level of experience they have — due to its fresh, modern design.

Use our software and create a CV with a premade template. Let the Genius CV builder help you make your CV fast.

With a unique vertical contact information bar and well-designed sections for publications and research, the “Writer” CV template is great for showing off your published works.

Why it’s called the “Writer CV Template”

If you’ve published online content as a freelance writer or articles for academic journals as an aspiring professor or researcher, the “Writer” CV template can help you showcase those writing accolades on your CV.

The “Research” CV template emphasizes a range of qualifications with centered header bars that visually represent each section's equal importance.

Why it’s called the “Research CV Template”

Our “Research” CV template highlights publications and research, two vital sections in CVs for scientists and other research-focused academics. With abundant space to provide more context on these areas of your background, this CV template makes it easy to outline the depth of your professional knowledge and describe your achievements.

Published professionals, professors with a strong research background, or anyone who’s published academic papers or made contributions to research are advised to use the Research CV template. It’s structured for such an audience, and lets them best highlight their professional background.

The “Harvard” CV template was designed to impress. With colored headers that draw attention to content sections and institutions, it’s perfect for name-dropping a prestigious university.

Why it’s called the “Harvard CV Template”

The “Harvard” CV template is the perfect choice for candidates who want a formal, contemporary look for their CV while emphasizing their teaching experience. It’s also ideal for medical school and graduate school applicants because it focuses on your academic achievements.

Microsoft Word Templates

With bright red section headers, this template will help you stand out.

This MS Word resume template takes a bold approach, with its vibrant colors and thick section headers. However, the rest of the template’s design is pretty traditional, making it appropriate for various jobs.

The “Polished” resume template’s bold design suits candidates in middle management or sales.

• Bright red headers draws attention
• Spot in the header for your initials or a headshot
• Heading Font: Franklin Gothic Demi
• Content Font: Rockwell
• Name Font Size: 25

This colorful template for Google adds some personality to your job application.

This colorful resume template for Microsoft Word is the perfect choice for anyone looking to inject some personality and originality into their resume.

The “Playful” template for Word features bright graphics and a spot for a headshot, making it appropriate for graphic designers or photographers.

• Large icons for your contact information
• Bright, colorful design
• Heading Font: Calibri
• Content Font: Calibri
• Name Font Size: 26

A full-color background makes this resume template a good choice for designers.

A full-color background makes this resume template immediately stand out. With its bright color and simple, bold headers, the template pulls inspiration from modern Scandinavian design principles.

The Swiss resume template is ideal if you’re applying for jobs in design or advertising because of its modern appearance.

• Yellow background grabs attention
• Simple, easy-to-read layout

Simple and modern, this template gives your job application some pop.

Crisp and Clean

The Swiss template leaves ample white space on the left side, making section headings stand out and keeping the content aligned in a single striking column.

• Heading Font: Univers
• Content Font: Univers
• Name Font Size: 36
• Content Font Size: 9

Examples of Different Resume Formats

Chronological.

A chronological resume organizes a candidate’s work history with examples of their most recent jobs at the top.

Combination

A combination resume example features a full experience section with an equally long skills section.

Functional resume samples focus on skills rather than work history, making them best if you’re changing careers.

Infographic

An infographic resume example uses visual elements to highlight a candidate’s creative qualifications.

Most qualified jobseekers have one-page resumes. Do you know how to fit all of your details onto one page?

A two-page resume is long by necessity, and only includes relevant examples of skills and work experience.

Presenting your qualifications on TikTok is a great way to grab attention and show off your social media prowess.

Video resumes can make your job application more memorable, and also let you highlight your software skills.

Free Copy-Paste Resume Template

How to use our free templates, additional templates (by file type).

Using a resume template makes it easy to create a professional application that follows standard resume formatting . Plus, templates are pre-formatted so you can quickly edit the content with your personal information. This is especially helpful when making multiple resumes to target a range of different job openings.

Text Template

Learning exactly how to make a resume will improve your chances of getting interviews in 2024 and beyond. Copy, paste, and fill in our blank resume template below to learn the fundamentals of writing your own resume so you’ll never be far from your next job offer.

FIRST AND LAST NAME

Email: [email protected] Phone: 123 456 7890 Location: City, State, Zip Code Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/yourprofile

Resume Objective

Motivated [industry name] professional with [# of years] years of on-the-job experience. Looking to apply my industry knowledge and relevant skill-set at [Company Name] as your newest [job title you’re applying for]. Capable employee comfortable with [relevant skill #1] and [relevant skill #2], aiming to help [Company Name] grow and reach its business objectives now and into the future.

Work Experience

• Write out a bulleted list of your accomplishments
• Use action verbs to start each bullet (like “organized” or “managed”)
• Add numbers to any bullet points you can to show your positive impact on the job
• List relevant accomplishments from an earlier job (usually whatever job you had before your most recent job)
• Use past tense verbs to describe your achievements and duties in the role if you don’t work here anymore

Educational Background

Skills and Certifications

• List skills and certifications related to the job you’re applying for
• Include hard skills (like languages, computer software, etc.) first
• Include soft skills (like team player or communication) only if you have space

Hobbies and Interests

• Interested in anything related to the job you want? Have any related hobbies? List them here
• These final details highlight your potential culture fit, may make you seem more interesting, and might be brought up during an interview

More of a visual learner? Watch the video below for an explanation of how to download and fill out all of the above resume templates for free:

Video Walkthrough

Looking for a different kind of resume template? We also have blank resume templates you can copy and fill in with your own information.

Additionally, we provide resume templates for a variety of specific software, such as:

• LibreOffice resume templates
• Resume templates for Apple Pages
• Resume templates for LaTeX

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Resume Templates in Action

Want to see what our various resume templates look like filled out? Check out our resume examples. Find samples in your industry to determine what template styles best suit the job you've got your eye on.

Career & Life Situations

Not sure hot to make a resume for your specific background? Our career and life-situation resume templates include downloadable examples and writing instructions to guide you every step of the way.

Examples By Job Type

Below you’ll find some of our most popular industry-specific resume examples, which you can download for free and use as a template when creating your own resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have a professional template for your resume, we’ll answer some related questions and provide essential resume tips for how to put together a job-winning application.

Why should I use a resume template for my job application?

Why shouldn’t i use a resume template, should i use a resume template with a photo, what’s the best resume template, how should a resume look in 2024, what should i include on my resume.

• Contact information
• Resume introduction
• Resume education section
• Work experience
• Relevant resume skills & certifications

How long should a resume be?

How do i format my resume.

• Left-align the content (even if headers are centered)
• Use 1″ margins
• Keep your resume to 1 page (except in special circumstances)
• Select a professional font
• Use 10-12 point font for the body content
• Make sure each section has a header
• Use bullet points to give more info about your work experience
• Don’t use first-person pronouns
• Use present tense to describe a position you currently hold and past tense to describe previously-held positions

More questions? Visit our FAQ library.

Related Articles

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Conrad Benz

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• Modern Resume Templates

Modern, creative resumes are sure to wow recruiters. To get started, click an image below and simply replace the template text with your own. It’s really that easy!

An elegant design featuring a visually pleasing layout and easy-to-read format that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments.

Perfect for creating a one-page resume, highlighting your skills and projects. Great for software engineers and developers.

Double Column

A popular choice for many roles, including customer support, programming and marketing.

The top template for positions such as upper management, project managers, and product owners in 2023.

A visually striking template that highlights your header and entices recruiters to continue reading. Suitable for any industry.

A one-page resume template tailored for professionals with a lot of experience in upper-management roles.

In This Guide:

Understanding the modern resume template, when and why to use a modern resume, elements of a modern resume, five job positions where a modern resume shines.

The modern resume template provides you with a way to communicate your experience in a more visually engaging way with design elements and different layouts. This format allows you to highlight key information with:

• Backgrounds

The modern resume’s minimalist design ultimately enhances the content with various elements (e.g. sidebars, graphs, etc.), thus showing your suitability for the role.

Using a professional modern resume template can help you:

• to stand out amongst candidates;в
• hint at your personality and understanding of design;
• use visual storytelling to highlight your experience ;

The aim of the modern resume format is to strike the right balance (in your professional presentation) between your self-expression and recruiters' expectations.

The modern resume template provides professionals with a double-column layout (one being a sidebar). The goal is to fit your experience into no more than a single page.

The modern resume layout's main emphasis is on the top one-third, allowing plenty of space to personalize your:

• Header - the design could include a full-width one;
• Summary - providing a snapshot of your expertise and role alignment;
• Skills and Achievements - your strengths become at the forefront of recruiters' focus.

One vital thing that stands out about the modern resume template format is that it fits enough relevant information and is easy to scan. The reason is that the modern resume includes:

• concise, essential information - targeted to the role you're applying for;
• white spaces - to clear away any clutter, highlight distinct sections, and make your resume more readable;
• typography formatting - bold and italicized for keywords/skills, etc.

The best modern resume templates have a clean look and feel, and provide space for creativity like with a “My Time” section that you can find on Enhancv resumes.

Different design elements are used to cleverly emphasize relevant information. Check out some Enhancv best practices below:

• Use icons for resume sections like achievements and strengths to help recruiters pinpoint your unique professional value;
• Illustrate your skills (and language ) competencies with progress bars/ sliders and charts to give a better idea of your proficiency level;

Visual elements need to enhance and balance the design, not take away from what matters most - your experience and skills.

Modern resumes vs traditional resumes

Let's compare how the modern resume template differentiates from the traditional one.

We'll focus on three main elements.

1. Modern Design template vs traditional one

The modern resume template has a stylish and sleek design with ample white spaces.

On the other hand, the traditional resume design is more formal and conservative.

2. Length of a modern resume vs a traditional one

Modern resumes are more concise to prioritize key achievements / essential information.

Traditional resumes can be up to two pages long to detail more responsibilities and achievements.

3. The top-one-third of the modern resume vs a traditional one

Modern resume templates prioritize the top-one-third of the resume via headlines , links to portfolios, and summary .

Traditional resumes opt for a more simplified resume top-one-third. Where LinkedIn or portfolio links aren’t a must and an objectives section (or personal statements) is included.

Read on and learn how to write a modern resume.

Before we dive into the best-case scenarios of when you should be using a modern resume template, let's look at six reasons why.

You should use a modern resume layout to:

• Reflect your aesthetic as fresh and innovative while highlighting what matters most (key skills and accomplishments);
• Match the brand - below we'll detail which companies/ industries suit the modern resume template;
• Stand out with a bold, contemporary layout;
• Increase the chances your resume will be reviewed by a human as this layout is Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS - or the software used to assess applicants) compatible;
• Make a positive first impression by demonstrating an array of soft skills (e.g. up-to-date with design trends and standards; presentation);
• Save time - Enhancv's tools allow you to easily customize your resume by curating the sections that best fit your experience and selecting from plenty of exciting color combinations.

Find the modern resume layout that best suits your personality and fits the role you're applying for.

This next part will examine when it's a good idea to use a professional, modern resume template.

Use the modern resume template to become synonymous with innovation

It’s especially useful for those of you who:

• think you are a visionary;
• want to work for a contemporary company;
• come from a creative or technical background;
• have developed a unique personal brand;
• deem it relevant to stand out.

This resume format is a sure way to signal to potential employers that you are on the same page as them.

Use the modern resume template to align with the industry you’re working in.

The modern resume template is beneficial for all industries that call for a bold approach.

The two most popular innovative fields are:

• The creative industry (graphic design, marketing, advertising, media, etc.). Roles within the profession value visual presentation, design skills, and outside-the-box thinking.
• Technology or IT-related (software development, web design, data analysis, IT project management). The modern resume template shows recruiters you are well aware of current design trends and technologies.

The modern resume format isn't a good call for more conservative industries like academia, where a more standard approach is called for.

Use the modern resume template to tailor your profile to the company you’re applying at.

Applying to a company (or startup ) that uses any of the following adjectives as part of their description - “youthful”, “hip”, and/or “cutting-edge” (imagine the likes of Google, Tesla, Shopify, Facebook, and Spotify)?

Your ability to embrace change, new approaches, and technological innovations is what will resonate the most with these types of organizations.

That's why the sleek, modern resume template is the right choice for you. It'd help you align your profile to the brand's culture.

Use the modern resume template to match the role you’re applying for.

The modern resume template could be appropriate if you apply for any position and at any level of the hierarchy.

Let's use entry-level professionals as an example.

They could use this format to compensate for their lack of extensive experience .

And thus shift the focus in a visually appealing and succinct manner to:

• skills and achievements;
• education and relevant projects;
• portfolio/ social media and personal interests.

These sections may not be entirely related to official job experience, but it’s a trick to turn a problem into an opportunity.

As a result, your resume will look complete and will show some advantages that might otherwise remain hidden.

Use the modern resume template to stand out with a bold and contemporary look.

The modern resume's striking layout makes a great first impression on recruiters.

Add some flavor to your resume by using vivid colors to highlight the section headings. Just make sure to use no more than three colors.

This personalized design could help you attain a more professional look and feel.

Modern resume layout

​​Enhancv's modern resume layout allows you to present your expertise and skills in either a single or double-column format.

We recommend using the second option (where you have a sidebar on either the left or right side). The two columns make critical information more presentable and show you made an effort to organize your resume.

Other vital sections that could make up your modern resume layout include

• Summary - describing your biggest successes and values (as a professional) in two-to-three sentences;
• Job experience - roles in reverse chronological order with achievements, presented via bullet points;
• Education - include more information about courses, only if they're relevant to the job;

On how long your resume should be, expect an additional page for every 10 years of work experience.

Additional sections to make your modern resume even more complete and show who you really are:

Ensure that content is always relevant and not just taking up space. And always make sure to use active language and strong action verbs - to show your character.

Using the modern resume space strategically

Now that we've covered the layout, let's discuss the white spaces and lines .

These crucial modern resume elements:

• increase the readability of your profile, thus making it more easily skimmable;
• clear the clutter to allow for breathing room between important skills and achievements.

Color and color combinations for a modern resume

Want to show just how creative you are with your profile?

Then, add some colors to your modern resume with Enhancv's builder. You could custom-pick the hues for:

• Primary information (e.g. your name, jobs, degrees, skills, etc.)
• Secondary information (e.g. header, companies, icons, universities, etc.)

And the choice is entirely up to you!

You could go for a more subtle palette - the standard black text and gray highlights, on a white background. Thus creating contrast with different shades.

Or, selecting brighter and more vivid colors for your modern resume, like orange and blue or green and pink.

Experiment with the tone of your resume sidebar - to reflect the secondary color of your choice.

One final heads up - select no more than three hues to match the standard, white background.

Want to go above and beyond with your modern resume design?

At Enhancv, we've updated our design elements with a colorful background - to suit even the most creative professionals.

Modern resume fonts and typography

When selecting the typography of your resume, you don't need to go all out with the trendiest fonts.

Instead, you can use time-tested and readable ones to help your resume stand out.

Enhancv users' favorites include bold and light fonts, such as Rubik, Lato, Montserrat, and Raleway. You can also use Arial, Inter, and Roboto if you’re doing your modern resume in Google Docs or Word.

Want to make key information stand out even further and more scannable? Elements within the top one-third of your resume (like your name, headline, or key achievements) can be bolded.

Unique design elements of modern resumes

The modern resume template allows you to get creative with unique design elements like

• icons to highlight different sections, such as Achievements or Skills;
• sidebars in different colors to focus attention on job requirements you match;
• background visuals (with 3D elements and colors) to stand out.

You could also further quantify your industry expertise; hard , soft , and language skills with sliders.

Want to shift the resume focus toward your hobbies?

Illustrate how you spend your time via a pie chart with up to seven slices, or add the covers of the books that inspire you.

Using graphics and icons is a strong advantage of modern resumes, but make sure to use them in moderation. Otherwise, you risk looking immature.

Digital Marketing Specialist

The world of marketing is cutting-edge, to say the least. Professionals have to always be one step ahead of consumers with ideas, creativity, and know-how.

Especially within the online space - where users' attention span is mere seconds.

And what better way to show your forward-facing vision than a modern resume template?

Where you have space to demonstrate that you don't merely understand and apply current trends, thanks to your experience .

But show within the achievements section how you've leveraged market insights to attain higher engagements.

And, also, how you've stayed ahead of the curve and set groundbreaking trends with the projects resume section.

Here’s an example from a digital marketing specialist with over five years of experience in SEO, PPC, and Content Writing.

UX/UI Designer

If you're looking for a role in UX/UI, you've realized just how important visual presentation is.

The look and feel of your digital project can boost the user experience and make it a memorable one.

Having this in mind, consider just how user-friendly your resume is (for recruiters or the ATS ).

The modern resume template offers you the perfect platform to show your understanding of design while staying professional.

With a contemporary, minimalistic aesthetic - you have the freedom to enjoy experimenting with colors and graphic elements.

Putting your experience at the forefront of design trends.

Notice just precisely how this UX/UI designer uses the two-column format to highlight key skills and achievements.

Data Scientist

The secret formula to becoming the best data scientist out there?

Your ability to take big sets of data and information and transform those into manageable (and easy to comprehend) assets.

That's exactly what the modern resume format would do for you.

Restructuring your complex experience: projects , frameworks, and structures into a clean, easy-to-scan (and understand) resume.

What is more, you could apply a multitude of design principles to appear as a more innovative professional.

This in terms would allow even the most non-technical recruiters to comprehend precisely how you're able to assess information to help maintain organizations' positive ROI.

Discover just how to apply the modern resume template to your experience below.

Product Manager in a Tech Startup

Innovation, bold ideas, and forward-thinking vision are what flow through startups ' veins.

And product managers are tasked with building precisely that vision - from the ground up by:

• strategizing and creating customer journey roadmaps;
• developing and launching products;
• understanding the ideal customer profile.

Why not go for a modern resume layout?

It's the perfect choice to showcase all the above responsibilities.

While highlighting your application as an on-trend, outside-the-box-thinking, compassionate (and empathetic) candidate.

Use this template to help recruiters understand why they should hire you:

Social Media Manager

Whether we're talking about META, TikTok, or even LinkedIn - social media remains perhaps one of the most faced-paced and dynamic environments out there.

Social media managers’ responsibilities are to constantly:

• predict consumer behavior;
• stay on trend with platform algorithms;
• ensure high engagement.

Consider your resume as a piece of content you're curating for clients - what would make it stand out ?

The modern resume format's contemporary twist and aesthetic allow you to bring creativity to the forefront of your application.

And also remind recruiters just how excellent you are at staying updated with the latest trends and developments.

Get ready for a resume with a clear, yet very contemporary look and feel - the perfect choice for social media roles.

Frequently asked questions about modern resume templates

How do you write a modern resume.

The modern resume is all about focusing on relevant content that is emphasized by vivid colors , bold fonts, a two-column layout (in some cases), and a lot of white space . It is also characterized by a strong top one-third, with action verbs packed in the Summary section and accents in the Achievements and Skills sections.

Should your resume have color?

Yes. Bright and vivid colors are used as accents on the sections' headings . The colors give a modern look and feel to the resume.

Is a modern resume template better than a traditional one?

Is it unprofessional to use a modern resume template, can a modern resume be two pages.

When it comes down to your resume, remember this rule of thumb: its page length depends on the amount of relevant experience you have. You can definitely go for a two-page format if you happen to have over 10 years of relevant experience. Otherwise, keep it short and simple with the one-page format .

How many columns should a modern resume have?

It could have either one or two columns . Use the two-column layout to spotlight your skills and achievements via a sidebar, which could be in a more vivid color.

What tone of voice to use on a modern resume?

The language of the modern resume should be active. Use plenty of action verbs , and always make sure to demonstrate just how you’ve achieved your success.

What are the best resume templates for a modern resume?

At Enhancv, we have plenty of choices to create an aesthetically pleasing, contemporary resume - we offer various templates depending on industries and jobs (e.g. IT, Sales, Arts), years of experience, and layouts.

• Resume Examples

15+ Words to Describe Yourself on Resume: Examples & Tips

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Find the Best Resume Format for You in 2024

To help you choose the best resume format, let’s first understand the differences between the three main resume formats. See the examples and make an informed choice.

I understand your struggle: Which resume format is best for me in my particular situation? How do I highlight my skills and experience for this job I’m applying for? Or even, what is the best way to customize my resume so it’s both visually appealing AND professional? 

This guide will give you all the answers because you’ll get:

• Detailed descriptions of the three main resume formats (reverse chronological, functional, and combination).
• Examples of their most suitable application based on the relevance to your circumstances.
• A table comparison of their pros and cons.
• A way to choose the best resume format for you using a helpful decision tree.
• Resume formatting rules so you fear rejection from recruiters and ATS bots never again.
• And a few samples of pre-formatted resume templates that you can use in the builder.

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

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What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

The 3 Main Resume Formats and What They Look Like

The three main resume formats to choose from are:

• Reverse chronological resume format —Highlights work experience and career progression.
• Functional resume format —Emphasizes transferable skills.
• Combination resume format —Pins skills to each of your job entries.

Based on an analysis of over 500,000 resumes created in our builder, we found out that*:

- Median creation time for a resume on ResumeLab is just 21.3 minutes.  - Our users create 2.4 documents on average.  - Problem-Solving, Teamwork, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Multitasking are the most popular skills overall.  - Cascade, Primo, and Cubic are our most popular resume templates.  * The data comes from the last 12 months (August 2023-August 2024).

Now, see the details about all three main resume formats:

Reverse Chronological Resume Format

The reverse chronological resume format is the most common and widely accepted resume style . It presents your work experience in reverse chronological order, which means you should list your most recent job first and work backwards through your employment history. This resume format is like telling your professional story using a reversed timeline that starts with the present and goes back in time.

Its main advantage is that it’s familiar to employers and hiring managers. They see it most frequently, so they know exactly where to find the information they need. This format excels at highlighting your career progression and growth over time.

Here’s what a reverse chronological resume format looks like:

And here are two resume samples presenting a reverse chronological resume format (pay special attention to the structure!):

Reverse Chronological Resume Format Example #1

Christopher Panattoni

281-951-6550

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/panattonichris

Dedicated bartender with over 5 years of experience creating memorable experiences for patrons in high-paced establishments. Managed busy bars with an average nightly volume of 200 customers, consistently exceeding sales targets. Adept at fostering a positive and energetic atmosphere, contributing to a 25% increase in repeat business. Seeking to bring proven mixology skills and a commitment to excellence to a dynamic team at Spirited Haven.

Cheers & Chill Lounge

Houston, TX

August 2019–Present

• Skillfully crafted a variety of cocktails and drinks, catering to diverse customer preferences.
• Managed a high-volume bar, serving an average of 150 customers nightly, ensuring prompt and accurate orders.
• Created and maintained a welcoming atmosphere, resulting in a 20% increase in repeat customers.
• Collaborated with the kitchen staff to ensure seamless coordination between food and beverage service.
• Implemented upselling techniques, contributing to a 15% increase in beverage sales.

Sip & Savor Bar

May 2017–August 2019

• Assisted in preparing and serving a wide range of beverages, including cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Maintained cleanliness and organization behind the bar, adhering to health and safety regulations.
• Engaged with customers to understand their preferences and provided personalized drink recommendations.
• Supported the bartender in managing inventory and restocking supplies, contributing to efficient operations.

Willowridge High School, Houston, TX

Graduated in 2014

• Mixology and cocktail crafting
• Customer service excellence
• High-volume order management
• Knowledge of various spirits and beverages
• Inventory management
• Up-selling techniques
• Team collaboration
• Excellent communication skills
• Spanish—Bilingual
• Italian—ACTFL Advanced High

Reverse Chronological Resume Format Example #2

Sophia Rodriguez

Junior Data Analyst

Phone: (555) 123-4567

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophiarodriguez

Analytical and detail-oriented Junior Data Analyst with a solid statistical analysis and data interpretation foundation. Proficient in extracting, cleaning, and transforming data to provide valuable insights for informed decision-making. Possesses strong skills in data visualization and a commitment to accuracy. Eager to contribute to forecasting and analysis projects at Just Data.

Bachelor of Science in Data Science

University of Maine, Orono, ME

September 2019–May 2023

• Relevant Coursework: Statistical Methods in Data Science, Machine Learning, Predictive Modeling, Big Data Analytics
• Completed projects on Sales Forecasting Models and Customer Segmentation Analysis

Data Analyst Intern

ABC Tech Solutions, Orono, ME

January 2023–Current

• Assisted in data collection, cleaning, and analysis for client projects.
• Enhanced data cleaning processes, reducing data errors by 7%.
• Automated weekly reports using Python scripts, saving an average of 15 hours per month for the analytics team.

Research Assistant

Department of Statistics, University of Maine, Orono, ME

September 2020 – May 2022

• Contributed to three published research papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Assisted in data collection and interpretation.
• Contributed to the successful acquisition of research grants totaling $50,000 for ongoing projects.
• Data Analysis
• Statistical Modeling
• Data Cleaning and Transformation
• Python (Pandas, NumPy)
• Excel (VLOOKUP, PivotTables)
• Data Visualization (Tableau, Power BI)
• Problem-Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Team Collaboration

Certifications

• Data Science MicroMasters Certification, edX, September 2022
• SQL for Data Science Certification, Codecademy, March 2021

Let me give you some great tips on top of the above samples to make your reverse-chronological resume stand out :

• To show the importance of your skills, don’t just list them in a resume skills section . Weave them into your work experience bullet points as part of your job achievements, too.
• Make sure you include specific resume keywords while doing so. By adding keywords that match those in the job description, you'll increase your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Additional sections on your resume can really make a difference. Consider adding one or two. Some of the best are certifications, known languages, publications, or volunteering experience .
• If you’re listing multiple degrees in your resume education section , use the reverse chronological format. Simply start with the most recent degree and work backward.

And for who does the reverse chronological resume format work best? Literally, anyone. It’s very easily customizable, and you can tailor it so that each section works to your advantage while still keeping the format intact for recruiters and software to parse it correctly. 

Check out our most popular guides using reverse chronological resume format examples:

1. IT Resume

Do you remember when I said that reverse chronological format is perfect for highlighting career progression and so continuous learning? Fantastic! That’s why, in the technology sector, you’d really want to try it with your resume. It’ll help you emphasize your recent experience, up-to-date skills, and advancement, which are so important in today’s tech world.

2. Nursing Resume

I also mentioned the bonus sections making the cut. For nurses, the reverse chronological format should work perfectly since you really need ongoing educational achievements and training to keep your license. Not to mention certifications that will serve as the most tangible proof of your qualifications.

3. Teacher Resume

In this case, the carefully crafted bullet points with job achievements should do the job (and get you one). With reverse chronological resumes, your accomplishments are better exposed to the reader, and it’s easier for them to align your successes in the field with the qualities and skills they look for.

Expert hint : If you’re looking for a job outside the USA or in a scholarly field, you might have to apply using different documents. If that’s the case, check out our guides on how to write a CV and how to create a biodata format .

Functional Resume Format 

The functional resume format focuses on your transferrable skills rather than your work history. Also known as a skill-based resume format , it's handy when you have employment gaps, are changing careers, or have a diverse set of skills that may not be evident in a chronological list.

In this type of resume , your work history is mentioned but in a condensed way. It emphasizes the skills used or acquired in each position rather than the timeline itself. The functional format can be particularly beneficial for people with non-linear career paths or those who have taken career breaks, such as parents returning to the workforce.

Let me show you what a functional resume format looks like:

Now, here are two functional resume format examples you can use as inspiration:

Functional Resume Format Example #1

John Anderson

(123) 456-7890

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/johnanderson

Resume Summary

Results-driven accountant with extensive experience in financial management and compliance. Proven track record of optimizing accounting processes for efficiency and accuracy. Seeking to contribute expertise to Financial Dynamics Inc. Reduced financial discrepancies by 15% through meticulous auditing at XYZ Corporation. Managed end-to-end financial reporting for 10+ projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Skills Summary

Financial Management

• Streamlined financial processes at ABC Ltd., resulting in a 20% reduction in reporting time.
• Oversaw budgeting and forecasting activities, contributing to a 10% increase in overall cost efficiency.

Audit and Compliance

• Conducted thorough financial audits, identifying and rectifying discrepancies, leading to a 15% improvement in accuracy.
• Ensured compliance with accounting standards and legal requirements, preventing potential financial risks.
• Project Accounting
• Managed financial aspects of 10+ projects, from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines.
• Implemented effective project accounting procedures, resulting in streamlined financial tracking and reporting.

Work History

Senior Accountant

XYZ Corporation, Belforest, AL

March 2018–Present

Staff Accountant

ABC Ltd., Mobile, AL

June 2015–February 2017

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL

September 2011–June 2015

• Financial Reporting
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Auditing and Compliance
• Microsoft Office Suite

Certification

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), CPA Institute, July 2015
• Running a financial blog and contributing to forums

Functional Resume Format Example #2

Emily Carter

Creative Event Planner

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/emilycarterevents

Dynamic event planner with a passion for creating memorable experiences. Proven success in managing events from concept to execution. Seeking a challenging role at Dream Events Inc. Orchestrated 15+ successful events, exceeding client expectations. Implemented efficient vendor management strategies, reducing event costs by 10%.

• Event Coordination
• Planned and executed 15+ events, ensuring seamless logistics and exceeding client expectations.
• Collaborated with vendors to negotiate contracts, resulting in a 10% reduction in event costs.
• Client Relations
• Built strong client relationships, understanding their visions and translating them into successful events.
• Conducted pre-event consultations to align strategies and expectations, resulting in high client satisfaction.
• Budget Management
• Developed and managed event budgets, ensuring financial efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Implemented cost-saving measures, contributing to a 10% reduction in overall event expenses.

Senior Event Planner

Elite Events Management, Lafayette, LA

March 2020–Present

Event Coordinator

Perfect Occasions, Lakeshore, LA

June 2015–February 2018

Bachelor of Arts in Event Management

University of Louisiana, Monroe, LA

Graduated June 2020

Publications

• "Crafting Memorable Moments: A Comprehensive Guide to Event Planning Success." EventPro Journal, August 2020.
• “Strategic Vendor Management: Enhancing Efficiency in Event Execution.” Event Insights Magazine, November 2018.
• "Client-Centric Event Planning: Building Lasting Relationships in the Industry." Event Professional Quarterly, March 2017.
• Vendor Negotiation
• Event Design

If you’re considering using the functional resume format, here are my tips to improve your resume :

• Pick up to 5 soft and hard skills that are crucial for the job you’re trying to get. You can easily find them in the job ad under requirements and nice-to-haves. Explain them in detail, giving examples of when you used them to great effect.
• Think about adding relevant coursework to your education section. These classes you’ve taken will prove your skills further.
• Don’t focus on your work experience. You don’t need to think of what strong resume bullet points to add to your job description. Just mention where you worked, as who, and provide a timeframe.
• Include links to sites that can prove your skills, such as a personal blog or online portfolio, right in your resume header. This is where you should introduce most of your personal details.

Is the functional resume format a good or bad idea? It’s definitely a good one if you fall into one of the two categories:

1. Recent Graduate Resume

You may have relevant experience, but you will most probably not have enough, and the functional format will help you emphasize skills, qualities, and abilities over short-term and unrelated experience. Have you ever done a project that required a variety of skills you can now transfer to other areas? Be it an internship or volunteer work, type that away.

2. Resume With Employment Gaps

You took a break from work until today, when you were trying to get back into the workforce. That’s fantastic! Suppose you’re worried about the employment gaps in your work history. In that case, the functional resume format will help you deemphasize them and minimize their impact by focusing more on your strengths and potential rather than a perfect work history timeline. 

Expert hint : While writing, keep an eye out for these common resume mistakes . Don’t let them mess up the content and formatting of your resume.

Combination Resume Format 

The combination resume format is often called the hybrid or chrono-functional resume . It blends elements of both previously mentioned resume formats. This format allows you to highlight your skills and qualifications from the start while detailing your work history.

The combination resume format benefits candidates with diverse skills and experience who want to emphasize their qualifications for a specific job or are changing career paths.

A finished combination resume will look like this:

See the combination resume format in action based on the following two samples:

Combination Resume Format Example #1

Randy A. Mitchell

Senior Software Engineer

[email protected]

555-789-1234

linkedin.com/in/randymitchell

Professional Profile

Results-driven Senior Software Engineer with over 8 years of experience in full-stack software development. Proficient in designing, implementing, testing, and maintaining complex systems. Led a cross-functional team in the development of a scalable e-commerce platform at TechSolutions, resulting in a 30% increase in sales and improved user experience. Excited to contribute technical expertise and leadership skills to elevate software engineering initiatives at TechnoGen.

Software Development

• Led the development of a robust e-commerce platform, increasing sales by 30% and enhancing user experience.
• Collaborated with a team of engineers to design and implement scalable and maintainable software solutions.
• Spearheaded the migration of legacy systems to modern technologies, improving system efficiency by 25%.

Technical Leadership

• Directed a cross-functional team of developers, ensuring timely project delivery and adherence to coding standards.
• Mentored junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative development environment.
• Implemented agile methodologies, resulting in a 20% increase in project delivery efficiency.

Full-Stack Proficiency

• Developed and maintained backend services using technologies such as Java, Spring Boot, and Node.js.
• Designed and implemented responsive front-end interfaces using React.js, contributing to a seamless user experience.
• Integrated third-party APIs and services, enhancing overall system functionality.

Additional Skills

• RESTful APIs
• Microservices Architecture

Work Experience

TechSolutions, Sacramento, CA

July 2018–Present

• Led a cross-functional team in developing a scalable e-commerce platform, resulting in a 30% increase in sales.
• Implemented DevOps practices, improving deployment frequency and reducing time to market by 20%.
• Conducted code reviews and implemented best practices, ensuring high-quality code and system stability.

Software Engineer

CodeCrafters, Eugene, OR

January 2014–July 2018

• Collaborated with product managers and designers to implement new features and improvements.
• Participated in the design and architecture of software solutions, contributing to the overall system scalability.
• Resolved complex technical issues and bugs, ensuring the reliability and performance of software applications.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

University of Oregon, Eugene, OR

September 2010–June 2014

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate, Amazon Web Services, July 2015
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) - Scrum Alliance, August 2013

Combination Resume Format Example #2

Linda Reynolds

Construction Project Manager

[email protected]

555-987-6543

linkedin.com/in/lindareynolds

Dedicated Construction Project Manager with over 10 years of experience overseeing complex construction projects. Adept at managing project timelines, budgets, and resources while ensuring high-quality workmanship. Led to the successful completion of a major commercial development project, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction. Eager to bring strong leadership and project management skills to advance construction initiatives at Dynamic Builders.

Project Management

• Successfully managed the full lifecycle of construction projects from planning and design to completion.
• Oversaw project budgets ranging from $5 million to $20 million, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
• Implemented project management methodologies, resulting in on-time and within-budget project deliveries.

Team Leadership

• Led cross-functional construction teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring efficient project execution.
• Conducted regular project meetings, providing clear communication and maintaining team morale.
• Trained and mentored construction teams, resulting in increased productivity and skill development.
• Coordinated with subcontractors, architects, and vendors, ensuring seamless project coordination.

Quality Assurance

• Implemented rigorous quality control measures, resulting in a 10% reduction in rework and project delays.
• Conducted regular site inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards and construction specifications.
• Collaborated with quality assurance teams to develop and implement construction best practices.

Construction Expertise

• Managed the construction of commercial buildings, including office complexes, retail spaces, and industrial facilities.
• Oversaw the construction of residential projects, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
• Coordinated with architects and engineers to address design modifications and ensure project feasibility.
• Construction Scheduling Software
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Dynamic Builders, Boulder City, NV

July 2016–Present

• Managed the successful completion of a major commercial development project, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction.
• Oversaw project budgets, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation and adherence to financial constraints.
• Coordinated with subcontractors, suppliers, and construction teams to ensure project milestones were met.

Project Manager

Solid Structures, Reno, NV

January 2013–June 2016

• Assisted in the planning and execution of construction projects, ensuring compliance with project specifications.
• Conducted regular site visits to monitor progress and address any construction-related issues.
• Coordinated with project stakeholders, including architects and subcontractors, to facilitate smooth project execution.

Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

University of Nevada, Reno, NV

September 2006–June 2010

If you’re set on using this hybrid resume format, here are my tips to make it work:

• Maintain a balance between your skills and work history sections. Your skills should reflect the job's requirements, and your work history should showcase your professional accomplishments .
• Begin your resume with a compelling summary of qualifications . This section should clearly demonstrate how your skills align with the job.
• The skills section is the heart of a combination resume. Customize it for each job application by selecting skills that match the specific job requirements. Be concise and prioritize relevant skills.
• Quantify achievements whenever possible. Utilize power words and action words to strengthen your qualifications.

When is the combination resume format the most effective? Here are a couple of scenarios where it works wonders:

1. Career Change Resume

Trying something new is already a challenge, so to ease the transition, work with the functional resume format to create the narrative that will help you connect the dots between your experience and transferable skills to what you’re aspiring to. That format works wonders when the background sets the grounds for future possibilities, also in terms of information organization and presentation.

2. Military to Civilian Resume

The combination resume format is definitely the longest one to write, but here, it’s a good thing. You’ll need enough space to translate your military responsibilities and used skill set to civilian terms, making it more accessible to hiring managers. You should also use both your skills and achievements to give yourself multiple opportunities to provide a well-rounded and appealing profile. 

Expert hint : A summary of qualifications pairs well with a resume headline . Try it out to instantly draw attention to your application.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

Table Comparison of The Main Resume Formats

Now that you know all the deets about the three main resume formats, it’ll be easier to discuss their pros and cons in a table. So here it is:

Now that you’ve considered it all, it’s time to decide.

Which Resume Format Is the Best for You? A Decision Tree

Most of the time, you’ll want to use the reverse-chronological resume format. It’s regarded as the best format for a resume and is preferred by most recruiters, HR professionals, and career experts such as myself.

But “most of the time” doesn’t mean “always,” and choosing the appropriate resume format is yours to make. I made a handy decision tree to help you with this process:

Expert hint : The perfect resume needs to be accompanied by an equally perfect cover letter. Since cover letters are necessary for most jobs, learn how to write a cover letter and unlock your job application’s full potential.

General Formatting Rules to Stop Fearing Rejection From Applicant Tracking Software

Outside the specific characteristics of each of the mentioned resume formats, there are general formatting rules that are pretty much universal. They’ll help you personalize your resume in a way that’s readable to recruiters and ATS alike.

• Use a clean and professional resume font .
• Organize content with clear headings.
• Set one-inch margins on all sides of the resume .
• Include adequate spacing for readability.
• Keep the resume length appropriate (up to a two-page resume ).
• Use bullet points to list achievements.
• Include contact information at the top, but don’t include photos on your resume unless it’s a bona fide occupational qualification .
• Use a professional email address.
• Proofread for grammar and spelling.
• Save the resume as a PDF rather than DOC unless specified otherwise.
• Avoid using excessive jargon or abbreviations.
• Ensure that dates and details are accurate and consistently formatted.

Pre-Formatted Resume Templates From ResumeLab’s Builder

Seems like a lot of points to remember, those above! Fortunately, you can help yourself by using pre-formatted resume templates that our online resume builder prepares for you beforehand. You can focus on writing great descriptions of your experience and skills while it takes care of the entire formatting. Trust me, it saves a lot of time. Here is a sample of 5 out of over 25 available:

Cubic is a modern resume format designed for confident professionals who aren’t afraid to showcase their achievements. It’s neat, organized, and can hold a ton of information without looking crowded or overwhelming.

Modern uses subtle color accents to guide the reader’s eye straight to the key sections. This is what a great resume looks like . It's perfect for creative and professional, office based fields. No wonder this professional resume format is so popular among our users, and it's my personal favorite as well.

You just can’t go wrong with Nanica! This simple resume format is like a Zen garden: it creates a minimalist, lightweight look with lots of white space. This is one of the best resume formats for professionals who prefer sleek, distraction-free resumes.

If you want a simple resume template that oozes confidence and authority, try Squares. It’s the ideal resume format for business jobs because it gives your resume a calm yet assertive look. As a nice bonus, you also get a personal logo with your initials.

Some things never go out of style. The Vintage resume template is one of them—this professional resume format is as timeless as a power suit. It relies on subtle accents to create structure and highlight what’s important.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

Here’s a recap of what is the best resume format:

• The best resume format is the reverse-chronological resume format.
• It works best for experienced employees but also benefits entry-level candidates.
• This format showcases your experience from the most recent one and going backward.
• The reverse chronological format is preferred by recruiters and easily parsable by the ATS.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The  editorial team  of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with  editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning  recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Formats

What is an ats-friendly resume format.

An ATS-friendly resume format is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems software. This resume layout ensures that your application can be easily parsed by ATS. Things like images and infographics drastically reduce ATS compliance, while using resume keywords increases your chances.

Which resume format is the most ATS-friendly?

The reverse-chronological resume format is the most ATS-friendly. Its clear structure, focusing on work history and experience , aligns well with ATS systems. Make sure to use standard resume fonts , section headings, and bullet points for optimal ATS compatibility.

What is the best resume format for a resume with no experience?

A reverse-chronological resume is the best choice when writing a resume without experience . It highlights your relevant experience , even if it's limited. This can include internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work . And if you have zero experience, you can allow your education section and bonus resume sections to be your selling point.

What resume format do employers prefer?

Employers typically prefer the reverse-chronological resume format . It's the most common and familiar format, making it easy for recruiters to find the information they need. It also allows them to see your career progression, the relevance of your experience, and how up-to-date your skills are.

Can I use a creative resume format?

Although tempting, many creative resume formats are overdesigned. This makes a lot of them confusing for both ATS scans and human recruiters. But if you’re applying for a job in the creative field, you may opt for an unorthodox resume design, such as an infographic resume .

Is a simple resume format a good choice?

Yes, a simple resume format is often the best choice. It offers a clean and easy-to-read layout, which can make a positive impression. This format is particularly suitable for those in traditional industries or roles, where a straightforward and professional appearance is preferred.

Is a resume template the same thing as a resume format?

A resume template and a resume format are related but not the same. A resume format refers to the overall structure and organization of your resume. Meanwhile, a blank resume template is a pre-designed document to help you create a resume in a specific format more easily.

Is there a special resume format for students?

The reverse-chronological format is best for a student's resume . Just put the education section of your resume above the work experience section . But if you’re applying for an academic position or writing a grad school resume , forget what you’ve just read. Instead, go with an academic CV rather than a job resume.

How do I format a resume in Word or Google Docs?

If you want to make a resume from scratch without relying on resume templates for Word or resume templates for Google Docs , these are the resume formatting rules to follow:

• Set the page margins to 1” on all sides.
• Pick a classic resume font in 11–12 pts.
• Create the following resume sections: header, profile, work experience, education, skills, and additional sections.
• Leave lots of white space between the resume sections.
• Follow the best practices for resume length .

What is the best resume format for freshers?

The best resume format for freshers  is the reverse-chronological resume format , but with a few changes. Instead of using a resume summary , start with a resume objective . On top of that, put your education section above your work history section (if you have any work experience at all.)

What is the best resume format for remote workers?

The best resume format for remote workers is still the reverse-chronological format . To enhance it, consider emphasizing your remote work skills like self-motivation and communication skills . Remember to tailor your resume's content to showcase your ability to excel in a remote work environment.

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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Best Resume Format 2024 (+free examples)

Reverse chronological format

Functional resume format, combination resume format, formatting a resume for a remote position, the best resume format for freelancers in 2024, how to highlight specialized knowledge on a resume, the best resume format for recent grads 2024, what is a resume format.

The phrase “resume format” is often a confusing one, since different sources use this term to refer to different/multiple things. 

In the most basic sense, a resume format is the type of structure your resume has depending on the order in which resume sections are presented, how the employment history section is written, and which sections are given the most emphasis. 

For example, in one type of resume format, the skills section may be overly emphasized, while in another, your work history will take center stage.

3 main types of resume formats

Luckily when it comes to choosing a resume format, your choices are already narrowed down to three main types:

• Reverse chronological
• Combination

Each one offers unique advantages and there are no best resume templates. You may even want to create a version of your resume in each format depending on the job title , the company, or even the country in which you are applying. An online resume builder can make it much easier to quickly switch around sections and go from one format to another without much fuss. 

The old standard, the reverse chronological format has probably been around nearly as long as resumes. And it’s not without good reason. A chronological format is still the best way to showcase employment history , especially in traditional industries where climbing the corporate ladder is the most commonly accepted route. All the best resume templates will focus on this logical approach.

“Reverse” refers to the fact that this format begins with your most current (or most recent) place of employment and works backward until you’ve listed all your relevant experiences of the past ten years. While you don’t need to include everything you’ve done in that timeframe (for example, you’ll want to leave off your server experience on an architect resume ) you do want to pay attention to any gaps in employment history as the chronological format can quickly make them stand out to the hiring manager.

• Use a chronological format if your work experience is your key selling point.
• Pick a chronological format just because you think you have to even if it doesn’t match your experience.

For jobs where specialized skills count for more than employment history, the functional resume can be a lifesaver. This format allows you to highlight your expertise right from the top of your resume in a section often called “Experience.” Whereas a chronological resume format shows an employer what you’ve accomplished in the past, a functional resume format is more focused on the skills and specialized knowledge you can offer right now.

Since a functional resume format is more flexible than a chronological one, it’s a great choice for a variety of job situations. Skilled tradespeople, freelancers, gig workers, students , and even recent grads can all benefit from highlighting their strengths without having to categorically organize them under previous positions which may be too numerous or repetitive.

• Choose a functional format if your skills are the most important aspect of your job.
• Create a functional resume just because you lack work experience in a field that traditionally requires a chronological resume.

A combined format sometimes called a combination format, is exactly what it sounds like: the perfect fusion of the chronological and functional formats. The need for a combined resume format is often dictated by the candidate’s job search . For example, a freelancer looking to apply to a full-time position may want to begin the resume with top skills before following up with an Employment History section to show their ability to work in environments similar to the prospective employer’s.

Many professional resume writers will write in a combination style while still calling it reverse chronological. Highlighting your key skills at the top is a genuinely smart move for many roles. The work experience section isn't so far behind and you can normally still fit the two most recent roles on page one .

The advantage of the combined resume is that it allows the job seeker to first draw the hiring manager’s attention to their strengths , while also providing the employment history information that many traditional companies still expect. For candidates whose experience best fits a functional resume but aren’t sure how well it will be received, a combined resume is the right choice.

Here's a video that can help you choose between a combination or chronological resume format.

• Create a combined resume if you want to take an innovative approach, highlight key abilities or you are making a career transition.
• Confuse a hiring manager by burying or hiding certain sections that you know they will expect.

Best format for freshers

If you have recently graduated or you are due to graduate soon, you may be wondering about the best resume format for freshers . You may not have a lot of experience, so you will want to focus on your education and what you have learned through your studies.

With your qualifications, you should go into some detail about what you did and what modules you covered. This will give the hiring manager a better overall feel for who you are and what you know. The most valuable aspects of your coursework should be highlighted and pay attention to how these are transferable to the role. Keep your resume format for freshers clear and concise, there is no need for the graduate resume to be any more than one page.

Choosing the best resume format (top 5 tips)

Here are our top 5 tips for choosing a resume format and finishing it inside a resume builder :

• Choose a resume format that is aligned with the tone and branding of your prospective employer
• When in doubt, a simpler , more traditional template is a safer choice than a more eccentric one
• Your template should contain a healthy balance of white space to text so as not to overwhelm the reader with information
• Decide which resume sections are most important for your experience and choose a resume format that is designed to focus on those
• Don’t be afraid to move around the sections or try out a different format to see which version of your resume works best.

If you spent at least some portion of your career believing that there was only one correct way to format a resume, we’d understand. Most people are familiar with the reverse chronological resume format which dictates that you begin your resume with your most recent position and work backwards from there. 

Although chronological may still be the most common format, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Many candidates find that selecting a different resume format better allows them to highlight their diverse experiences and unique skills. It is one way of standing out, but only if it allows you to make your case in the most effective way.

Likewise, many forward-thinking hiring managers are no longer looking for cookie-cutter employees. They want applicants to showcase an entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to adapt to the workplace of the future. While the chronological format may still work best for communicating previous positions, adding elements of a functional format to create a combined one can quickly set apart an innovative candidate.

In the chapters below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect resume formats including:

• The three main types of resume formats and the differences between them
• Which format to pick in 2024 based on current trends in hiring
• Top tips for choosing a resume template to help you get started

Many hiring managers can spend less than 30 seconds reviewing a resume. Clean formatting without spelling or grammatical errors is one of the first things they take in, according to Mashable .

Ready to craft a resume that catches the attention of recruiters? A Google doc resume template can give you a head start. Keep reading and we’ll help you decide whether it’s your best bet for success.

Which resume format should you use in 2024

Ultimately, no resume format is more correct than another. It all comes down to your experience, industry, and potential employer. When choosing a resume format for 2024, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine which resume format is right for you.

If you answer YES to any of the following questions, you may want to consider switching from a chronological format to a functional or combined one:

• Do I have a rare skill set I want the employer to notice right away?
• Am I switching to a different career or job function where I have no previous work experience?
• Have I learned a variety of important skills in only one or two positions?
• Will my prospective employer appreciate a fresh and direct approach to resume formatting?

While combined resumes will be on the rise in the coming years, that doesn’t mean a nontraditional format is for everyone. Here are some situations in which a chronological format is likely the best choice:

• Your knowledge from previous workplaces is more important than standalone skills
• You are applying to a large company which has a traditional structure
• Your competition likely has traditional career paths with impressive employers
• You have a sizeable amount of work history directly related to your prospective position
• You’ve worked at other companies comparable to your prospective employer

We also have made a chart to see which resume format is the best for you:

How 2024 job trends influence resume formatting choices

It’s no surprise that in 2024 the way we work is changing – big time. And that affects everything from the methods of conducting your job search to formatting your resume. With more companies favoring remote teams, flexible hours, and specialized candidates, there is a lot to adapt to when it comes to finding a new position or even starting a career from scratch. Your resume should show that, at a time of change, you have what it takes.

In this chapter, we’ll discuss some of the major trends for work in 2024 and how you can adjust your resume formatting choices to increase your chances of landing your dream job . Here’s what’s ahead:

• Work from home: a blessing or a curse?
• Freelancers’ role in the market
• Specialized workers lead the way
• Breaking into the workforce in 2024
• How modern technology is shifting hiring practices

For many, remote work may be an entirely new experience but that doesn’t mean it’s going anywhere anytime soon. Companies have seen the advantages of working from home in increased productivity, employee morale and a reduction in overhead costs. According to NPR , many of America’s largest companies are planning to free their employees from the walls of the office for the foreseeable future.

According to researchers at MIT, more than half of the American workforce is currently working remotely. Good luck finding a new chair for the home office!

Which resume format you choose for a remote position largely depends on the type of work you do. There are many industries where the fact that you’re working from home won’t mean you should jump ship on a chronological resume. However, if there are other factors in play, for example, you are looking for part-time creative work while still holding another job, you may consider a combined resume format to paint a clearer picture of what you do. Just make sure to label remote positions as such so that a potential employer sees that you are comfortable in a digitally connected environment.

After having long struggled in a work world designed for traditional employees, in 2024 freelancers are finally ahead of the game. According to CNBC , the freelance market is booming, with more than one-third of Americans turning to freelance work this year and employers looking to hire them, especially in the fields of e-commerce, web, and mobile design.

So for freelancers looking to have their day in the sun, what’s the best resume format? It depends on your objectives. For freelancers looking to remain in their current situation, a functional resume might serve as a great way to show clients what they are capable of. 

A combined resume can be a great choice if your skills are your selling point but you also have some impressive previous employers that can’t be missed. Finally, if you are transitioning to full-time work, a chronological resume may be the right choice.

According to McKinsey , specialization is the way of the future. Employees who can handle one task well are likely to fare better than generalists in the long run. Low-wage jobs will be replaced with employees who have superior knowledge of products and the market (think “super agents” instead of just call center workers.) Many people will need to learn new skills and focus on career development in order to have the best chances of future advancement.

So what do these changes mean for your resume formatting? For one, companies want to know what you can bring to the table. A combined resume format can help you highlight specialized knowledge without appearing like you don’t have much industry experience to show. If you complete any training or certifications this year, you may also want to format your resume to include an additional section to showcase them.

1 in 16 workers will need to change occupations by 2030, according to the McKinsey report . If a career switch is in the cards, your resume format may help give you a fighting chance against more established candidates. Consider a functional format if you have no experience in the new field and a combined format if you have 1-3 related positions to show.

Recent graduates are facing a tough moment to enter the job market as companies shrink the number of entry-level hires and interns they are willing to take on. However, it’s not all bad news. Although many companies have a temporary hiring freeze, they are expecting to reach pre-pandemic hiring levels by summer 2024, according to Forbes .

When it comes to the best resume format for recent grads in 2024, flexibility and skills are everything. That doesn’t mean you should jump straight to a functional resume format. Hiring managers are wary of grads who try to cover a lack of work experience by focusing only on skills. If you have some previous internship experience , it can be enough to create a chronological resume format or a combined one if that’s a better choice for your industry.

Great news for recent grads – it’s becoming easier to find a job with less experience. According to Forbes , more than 70 percent of roles today have fewer requirements than one year ago.

Formatting your resume to pass the ATS

Did you know that two-thirds of the resumes submitted for a single position never make it to the hiring manager’s desk? That’s because a human HR rep is no longer the first gatekeeper when it comes to making new hires. A large percentage of today’s workplaces are employing ATS – Applicant Tracking Systems – to help filter out candidates, saving the hiring manager a lot of time and energy.

The ATS algorithms scan resumes for keywords and rank them against the other applicants. Only a top selection moves on to be read by a human hiring manager. You may have all the right experience and skills but if you don’t format them correctly, there’s a big chance you’ll miss out on the opportunity for an interview. 

When it comes to formatting your resume to pass the ATS , here’s what we recommend:

• Choose a format that is well-organized and easy for the ATS to scan
• Label your sections with standard headings like “Employment History” or “ Education ” instead of more creative names which may confuse the ATS
• Make sure your resume is free of spelling errors since the ATS won’t understand even obvious typos
• Download your resume in a format that’s easy for the ATS to read, Docx or PDF are two of the most common
• Avoid graphic elements or pictures containing important text since the ATS will not be able to isolate it

Key takeaways plus top 5 resume format tips

We hope this guide to resume formats has prepared you to make the best choice for your own experience and career goals in the ever-changing landscape of 2024. Here are our top 5 resume format tips to remember:

• The reverse chronological resume format remains the most common one and the best pick for traditional companies where work experience is the most important factor
• Functional resumes allow you to focus on specialized knowledge or skills but shouldn’t be used just to cover gaps in work history
• Combined formatting is increasing in popularity since it draws attention to specialization while still offering the employment history section most hiring managers expect
• In a tough economy, job seekers need to be in tune with the needs of their prospective employer and deliver the right type of resume format, even if it means innovating
• The ATS will be the first test of your resume format, so make sure you’ve optimized correctly

The easiest way to create a clean resume format – or to easily switch between two different types – is with a resume template. Resume templates allow you to be sure that your formatting is precise, attractive and optimized for the ATS, all without having to spend hours fighting with graphic design software. Check also our blog about: '' How to write a resume ''.

Resume Templates

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Choose a [Free] Resume Template

Pick one of our professional resume templates to get started on your job application. Just fill out your favorite resume template to create a flawless, ATS-friendly resume in under 5 minutes. Try out one of our 8+ free resume templates to make an impressive resume and land your dream job in no time!

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Why Novorésumé?

Free AND Premium

We offer both free and premium resume templates, so whatever your budget might be, you can still take advantage of our resume builder.

Creative & Professional Resume Templates

Whether you’re a creative advertiser looking for an outside-the-box creative resume template, or a banker seeking a more professional resume template, we’ve got a template for you!

NO Hidden Fees

If you’ve tried other resume builders, you’ve probably experienced this: You spend hours creating a resume, and when you click “download,” you get hit with a paywall asking you to subscribe.

At Novorésumé, we don’t do that . We have NO hidden fees - upgrade to Premium ONLY if you LOVE our resumes!

ATS Friendly

All Novorésumé resume templates are built with the most popular Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) in mind. What this means for YOU is that whichever job you apply for, the CV filtering software they use will be able to read your resume (and NOT automatically discard it).

Expert Reviews

Oana Vintila

Career Counselor

For over 10 years now, I've been on both sides of the fence, career counseling, and recruitment, and let me tell you, the writer's block hits hard when it comes to drafting your resume.

Novorésumé not only offers you a smart and modern template for you to fill in, but their team has also crafted a winning combo of aesthetics and functionality that will inspire you to apply for the job you thought was out of your league. Give it a try!

Biron Clark

Former Executive Recruiter

Novorésumé is one of the few resume builders that I recommend online. Their resume templates are modern and eye-catching, and will grab an employer's attention. As a former Recruiter, if a candidate sent me a resume built with one of these templates, I would take notice and be impressed.

The software also makes it easy to enter your info and handles all of the formatting for you, so you can get your resume ready to send out as quickly as possible. I recommend these templates whether you're a recent graduate or experienced candidate.

Gabriela Tardea

Career Strategist, Coach & Trainer

When I consult people on resume writing, the most common question that I am asked it is about the content and what components to add or avoid, when they have less than 5 years of work experience.

On this platform, you not only have access to many options, but you get guidance on what to choose and why. When the work experience is less than 5 years, the other components such as languages, projects, volunteering experiences, hobbies etc, make a huge difference.

Resume Resources

What is a resume.

A resume is a brief summary of personal and professional experiences, skills, and education history. Its main purpose is to show off your best self to potential employers.

When applying for a job, you’re (in most cases) going to be asked for a resume accompanied by a cover letter.

If you manage to create a “good” resume, you’re going to 2x your chances of getting hired . Want to learn how? Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume .

How to Write a Resume With No Experience?

The process of writing a resume might seem super scary to you. After all, most resume examples you see on the web are 80% about work experience. So, what the heck can you include in your resume if you have none?

Well, here’s some good news. If you’re applying for an entry-level job or an internship, no one expects you to have ANY work experience.

Instead, you should focus on what you DO have: education, projects, volunteering experience, hobbies & interests.

For a complete guide on how to make a resume with no work experience stand out, check out our article.

What to Put on a Resume?

The most common sections on a resume are:

Contact information

Resume summary or objective

Work experience

If you want to personalize your resume a bit more, you can also include the following sections:

Volunteering experience

Hobbies & interests

For more information on how to place these sections on your resume, check out our article on what to put on a resume .

How to Format a Resume?

Here are the three most popular resume formats:

Reverse-Chronological Resume

Functional Resume

Combination Resume

In 99% of the cases, you’ll want to go with the reverse chronological resume format . That’s the format most resumes you’ve seen follow - its main focus is your work experience, written down in reverse-chronological order.

So, unless you’re a student with no professional experience or a career changer, we’d recommend sticking with this format.

If you want to learn more about three resume formats , check out our comparison guide.

How to Write a Resume For a Student?

A good student resume takes advantage of the education section to highlight the candidate’s skills and qualifications.

So, the first thing you should do is talk about all your academic achievements, including any classes you’ve taken that are relevant to the position.

As a student, hiring managers don’t expect you to have extensive professional experience, so you don’t have to worry about the work experience section missing from your resume. Instead, you can focus on highlighting your extracurricular activities , any volunteering you’ve done, and your awards or certifications.

This student resume guide has all the information you need to perfect your resume and land your first real job.

How to Write a Resume For My First Job?

If you’re applying for your first job, chances are you don’t have substantial work experience. That’s fine - hiring managers expect that from entry-level positions.

First things first, go for the reverse-chronological format. Instead of writing a resume summary, use a resume objective to highlight your skills and career aspirations. If you have any work experience, do include it on your resume.

If not, you should put more focus on the following sections:

Internships , where you should focus on what you learned and achieved

Extracurricular activities , where you should highlight your role, responsibilities, and achievements.

Volunteering experiences , where you should mention the organization name, and relevant tasks and achievements.

Projects , where you talk about any personal projects you’ve worked on (that are also somehow relevant to the job you’re applying for).

Check out this guide on writing a resume with no experience to learn more about the topic and get inspired by real-life examples.

How Long Should a Resume Be?

Short answer: one page. If you're a seasoned professional with a lot of work experience that's relevant to the position, you can create a 2-page long resume MAX.

Long answer: check out our guide on how long should a resume be .

P.S. all of our templates are one page long , so you shouldn’t have a lot of trouble sticking to the one-page limit!

How to Write a Resume Summary?

Your resume summary is a “hook” that goes on top of your resume. Think of it as an introduction to the rest of your resume. It should, in 2-4 sentences, explain what your background is, and why it’s relevant for the position you’re applying for.

To learn more about how to create a resume summary that stands out, check out our guide.

How to List Work Experience on a Resume?

Work experience on a resume is one of those things that’s easy to learn but hard to master.

Each work experience entry should contain the following information:

Company name/description/location

Achievements or responsibilities

Dates employed

Now, if you want to create a work experience section that stands out, you want to make your achievements quantifiable. What this means is, instead of creating a responsibility-focused entry, like:

“Carried out sales operations.”

You list your achievements:

“Hit and exceeded monthly sales KPIs for 5 months in a row.”

This shows the employer that you’re not just a random candidate, you’re an A-player! To learn more about how to list achievements in your work experience (and land the job), check out our article.

How to List Skills on a Resume?

Simply create a ”skills” section on your Novorésumé resume template, and list your top skills. We usually recommend going for a mix of hard and soft skills .

Not sure what skills to include in your resume? Check out these 101 essential skills for any resume .

How to Make a Cover Letter for a Resume?

You should always submit a cover letter along with your resume for any job you apply to. Here are some of our top cover letter tips on how to do this right:

Tailor your cover letter to the employer. The more personalized it is, the more likely it is for the recruiter to like you.

Outline your general background (work experience, profession, etc.) and mention your top 2-3 achievements to show off your skills.

If you really want to stand out, create a cover letter that matches your resume template. To do this, you can use one of our cover letter templates here .

If you want to learn more about how to write a convincing cover letter, check out our comprehensive guide.

What Is the Best Resume Template?

There’s no such thing as “the best resume template” - every recruiter/employer has their own personal preference. Our general recommendation is to do your research on the company and its values.

For example, if you’re applying for a position at a bank, you’d want a more traditional resume template. Or, if you want a job in a startup where they value innovation more, you could opt for a creative resume template .

Alternatively, if you want your experience and skills to do all the talking, you can pick one of these minimalist resume templates .

Finally, if you’re still not sure which type of template is right for the job you’re applying for, you can just use a simple resume template just to be safe.

Do I Need to Include a Photo on my Resume?

No, you don’t need to include your photo together with your other contact details. Companies hire based on merit, which means your physical appearance shouldn’t matter to the hiring manager.

Instead, in your contact information section, make sure to include the following:

Professional title

Valid phone number

Email address

Location/where you’re based

Link to website/ LinkedIn /online portfolio, etc.

What’s the Difference Between a Resume and a CV?

In most cases, when people are talking about a CV or a resume, they are referring to the same thing! The only difference is that it's called a resume in the US and a CV in Europe (and most other countries around the world).

Now, in the US, a CV is a very in-depth document that describes your career journey step-by-step, including all sorts of personal information . Depending on your amount of experience, a CV can range between 2 to 8 pages and it’s typically used when you’re applying for jobs in academia.

Check out our guide for a more comprehensive run-down of the differences between a CV and a resume .

6 Tips for Creating a US Resume (That’ll Land You the Job)

Looking to get hired in the US? Check out our tips for creating a US resume below!

Keep your resume between 1-3 pages . A one-page resume is preferable unless you’re a seasoned professional. In such a case, you can go for two or even three, if your experience is really relevant.

Use Standard American English . So, for example, write “color” instead of the UK version, which is “colour.”

Leave out personal information , such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin. They can be grounds for discrimination.

Don’t include references , unless the employer specifically asks you to.

Don’t list English as a foreign language.

Don’t list your GPA, SAT, TOEFL, or ACT scores on your US resume unless otherwise stated. Hiring managers usually don’t care.

Check out this guide for the full list of resume tips and tricks !

Get Inspired with Our Resume Examples

Resume templates faq, how to make a resume with novorésumé.

Follow these simple steps:

Choose one of our top resume templates above

Follow the tips & tricks built-in our resume builder

Fill in your work history and other experiences

Hit download and start applying to jobs!

What If I Am a Student?

All of our resume samples are student-friendly! If you’re looking for something a bit more tailored, we’d recommend picking the “college resume template”

Or, if you want to learn how to create a convincing student resume , check out our guide.

Do I Really Need a Resume?

Yes, you definitely need a resume!

Practically every job out there requires that candidates submit a resume and a cover letter, so if you want your application to be considered by the hiring manager, you definitely need a resume .

Are These Resume Templates Free?

Yep, all of the templates listed above are free resume templates.

However, our resume builder comes with a ton of premium features. So if you want to personalize your resume and make it truly yours, you can upgrade!

Who Created These Resume Samples?

At Novorésumé, we put extensive care in creating each resume template.

We interviewed recruiters and analyzed applicant tracking systems to create resume samples that will maximize your chances of getting hired.

Then, our professional graphic designer worked his magic to make the resume samples compelling, well-designed, and easy to read!

Which Template Do Most Employers Prefer for Resumes?

Typically, employers prefer simple, professional-looking resume templates that follow the reverse-chronological format and don’t surpass two pages MAX in length.

All the Novoresume templates above meet these requirements, so rest assured hiring managers will dig whichever one you choose.

Are These Resume Templates ATS-Friendly?

Yes! All Novorésumé templates are ATS-friendly .

Keep in mind, though, that using the right template is step #1. You should also optimize your resume content for applicant tracking systems. For more on that, check out our guide to creating an ATS-friendly resume .

Do You Offer One-Page Resume Templates?

Yep. All the templates you see above are one-page resume templates. They are, however, pretty flexible, so if you decide to go for 2 pages, our templates will get the job done!

Should I Download My New Resume In PDF or Word?

You should always download and save your resume as a PDF .

Here’s why:

PDF formatting never gets messed up.

It’s compatible with practically any system or device.

PDF documents look cleaner and are overall more professional.

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No matter how good the contents of your resume are if your resume lacks a professional and organized format, the chances of the recruiters reading it is quite less.

And since 75% of recruiters use the Application Tracking System (ATS) to select the most qualified resumes, your resume template must be ATS-friendly and rank high in the ATS for it to get shortlisted.

Additionally, studies show that 55% of first impressions are made through visuals.

Therefore the importance of selecting a suitable template for your resume.

But, what makes a good resume template after all?

Read on to get insight into resume templates and get clarity on the following related FAQs:

• What are single-column & double-column resume templates?
• What are the different types of resume templates?
• What are some free resume templates available on Hiration?
• What are the best basic resume templates?
• Which are the best modern resume templates on Hiration?

You can directly go to our famed resume builder for trying out all these templates, and more! We provide a multitude of different designs which you can additionally customize as per your own requirements. Who knew making a resume was fun?

Additionally, our resume builder allows you to download resume templates into pdf - which means that the design aspect is taken care of so you can focus exclusively on the content.

Single-column & Double-column Resume Templates

Broadly speaking, a resume template can be either

Single-column : A standard resume template that can cater to diverse professionals, this resume template includes all your sections arranged in a single-column format. For people with extensive professional experience, this resume template can suffice since it allows greater space.

Double-column : For entry-level professionals or resumes for internships, you’d be better suited with a double-column resume. This resume template becomes even more relevant when the professional experience is minimal but there are additional sections pertaining to Extracurricular activities, Internships, Training, Languages, etc.

Let's take it a step further and discuss the various kinds of resume templates.

Also Read: How to choose the best resume template in 2023?

Types of Resume Templates

The following can be the different kinds of resume templates as per the industry norms prevalent in 2020.

Simple Resume Templates

These simple resume templates come with a compact design and even the most traditional ATS can parse them.

These templates employ very few colors (mostly grayscale) and are suitable for jobs across wildly divergent industries, from internship vacancies to the government sector.

The best part is that they're completely free on our Resume Builder! Check it out!

Simple Black Resume Template

The Simple Black Template is a part of Simple Resume Templates and uses only shades of gray across the entire template.

It's ideal for professionals who are looking for a no-nonsense resume with minimal formatting, icons, or images.

This resume template is specifically designed for people who want an ATS-optimized, high-quality resume but cannot afford to pay for the same.

It's ideal for students who can use this template to create a job-winning resume! It'll only take a few minutes and you're done! Check it out here .

Free : You can create your resume on this template for free and have the option of downloading it an unlimited number of times.

Structure : The sections in this template are available in a single-column format for you to edit. The sections are - Professional Summary, Key Skills, Professional Experience, Education, Internships, and Miscellaneous

Design : This resume template employs a 3-color scheme with a professional shade of blue for the main header and sectional headings. It uses white color in the Resume header and gray for the descriptive text of the document.

Typography : Open Sans with just the right amount of white spaces to make even content-heavy resumes easy to read.

Basic Resume Templates

It's easy to scan for all the information on a basic resume template. They are ATS-friendly and are designed in a way that emphasizes content over anything else.

The only difference between basic resume templates & simple resume templates is that the former uses a few colors to highlight important keywords and headings.

It's more suited to modern industries and can be used by students & entry-level professionals who are trying to figure out a way to highlight their achievements.

Additionally, this template provides an option to use both single-column and double-column formats.

Global Citizen Red

Its key features are:

Premium : The Global Citizen Red Resume Template is a premium template on Hiration's Resume Builder.

Structure : With a resume-wide header containing the name, job title, and contact details, the left column of this double-column resume occupies one-third of the width. This allows a user to highlight multiple aspects of the resume in addition to professional experience. You can use this template if you want to showcase numerous key things across multiple domains.

Design : Both the primary color and background color for this resume template is red, which is also used in the resume body to highlight headings and sub-headings. Additionally, headings have been underlined to make the beginning of each section more prominent to the reader.

Typography : Open Sans and high-line spacing make the text easy to read.

You can find the Global Citizen Red Basic Resume Template here and get started with making your resume within seconds!

Global Citizen Green

The features are:

Premium : The Global Citizen Green Resume Template is a premium template on Hiration's Resume Builder.

Structure : The structure is similar to the Global Citizen Red template, with the exception of the primary color, which is green in this case.

Design : The background and primary color of this resume template use green, along with the resume body for highlighting headings & sub-headings. The underlined headings make the section beginnings more prominent.

Typography : Open Sans along with high line spacing has been employed to make the text easy to read.

You can find this template on our resume builder here .

Also Read: How to make a stellar resume in 2023?

Modern Resume Templates

Modern Resume Templates have been designed for today's professionals who excel in up-and-coming industries and need to pay equal attention to both design & content.

Professionals across domains like Software Development, Analytics, digital marketing, product/project management, etc. can use our modern resume templates to completely revamp their resumes.

These templates will highly increase your chances of getting shortlisted. Modern templates work best for both ATS and human recruiters alike.

Some of the most popular modern resume templates on our online resume builder are:

California Design

The California resume template is one of our best sellers in the Modern Resume Templates pack.

It employs a gradient scheme between orange and pink colors to give your resume the modern look it deserves. Moreover, you have the option to change the primary and secondary colors as per your preferences.

The California resume template has an image and gradient backgrounds and borders to give your resume a clean and modern look.

Check out this template on our resume builder to revamp your resume within minutes!

Diamond Timeline

The Diamond Timeline resume template showcases the resume in the form of a timeline with diamond-shaped milestones. Revamp your resume right now!

Check out this template on our resume builder to access it within minutes!

The Boxed Navy Resume template utilizes boxes to separate the sections on your resume. There's also a provision for incorporating an image to your resume to add a touch of that modern look.

Check out this resume template on our resume builder to get done with your resume before you can even blink!

Modern Teal

This resume template provides a very modern look to your resume by employing a blend of colors such as teal and shades of grey. It is a two-column template with a special bar highlighting the professional title in the resume.

Check out this resume template on our resume builder to revamp your resume now!

Signature Timeline

The signature timeline resume template depicts your entire resume with a visual timeline. Moreover, it has icons and images which give a modern yet professional look to your resume.

Check out this resume template on our resume builder to add a touch of madness to your resume!

Round Timeline

This resume template depicts a timeline with your actual accomplishments as various milestones on the timeline. It is certainly a novel way to get noticed and presents a clear professional picture to recruiters and hiring managers in a visual manner.

Check out this resume template on our resume builder now!

Professional Resume Templates

Our Professional Resume Templates have been designed with a focus to bring out your achievements in front of the recruiter.

Iconography and other design elements have been used in a very minimalistic manner, whereas the colors are restricted to 2 in order to add a more professional look.

The best thing about these Professional Resume Templates is that they are suitable for all professionals across all industries, as they are designed on the basis of industry standards used over the years.

Some of our popular Professional Resume Templates are:

Traditional Blue

A single-column resume template and a best seller in the Professional Resume Templates pack, this template is suitable for mid-senior level professionals with a lot of information in their resumes.

While the primary color of the template is blue, you can go ahead and customize the same by choosing primary/secondary colors of your choice.

Key features of this template are:

Premium Template : The Traditional Blue template is one of the highest-rated templates on Hiration's Resume Builder. This template is highly ATS compliant and also receives an amazing response from human recruiters. No wonder it's one of our best sellers!

Structure : This resume template has been created for professionals who have a lot to present in terms of their experience and achievements. Hence, it is a single-column template that can carry a lot of text and information.

This template is ideal for mid-senior level executives who need that extra bit of professionalism in their resume, without compromising the look and feel of modern resume templates.

Design : As the name suggests, the template plays on very professional and sober shades of blue, with different versions being used to highlight various aspects such as headings, names, designations, titles, etc. A darker shade of gray has been used for the descriptive text of the document.

Typography : Since this template is for professionals with a lot of valuable content to write, the use of white spacing has been done very cleverly to give a spacious feel to the resume.

The great thing is that you'll be able to write all your content in the resume, without cramping it! The text/line spacing option allows you to uniformly increase or decrease the margins across the entire document. Formatting a resume will be a breeze!

You can check out this template on our resume builder here .

Traditional Maroon

Ideal for professionals in traditional industries at mid-senior levels, it's a single-column template that has consistently delivered stupendous results for its users.

Similar to Traditional Blue with the exception of the primary color, the key features of this template are:

Premium : An analog of the traditional blue template, with the primary color being maroon. This template performs extremely well with all Applicant Tracking Systems and is a Hiration Best Seller!

Structure : A single-column template, this has solid maroon lines as separators for different sections and is able to carry a lot of text. This resume template will present your resume as a highly professional document in front of the recruiters. Senior professionals from traditional industries like Sales, Marketing, and Operations can use this template to really bring out their achievements.

Design : This resume template primarily uses maroon and lighter shades to provide a highly professional resume. A darker shade of gray has been used for the descriptive text of the document.

Typography : The typography has been set to include ample white space in the resume to facilitate readability for the recruiter. The headings specifically become the highlight of this resume and help you to convey specific messages to the recruiters. The font of choice is Open Sans, but you have the option to only change the font and primary color, but also uniformly increase/decrease the margin across the document.

Check out this resume template here!

Uniform Brown

This resume template is a double-column template with uniform width. It is appropriate for fresh graduates or early-mid-level professionals who want to highlight their overall achievements in addition to their professional experience.

Premium : The Uniform Brown Template is a premium template on Hiration's Resume Builder.

Structure : This resume template is a 2-column template with each column occupying equal width in the document. Consequently, it's highly suitable for early to mid-level professionals who have as much experience to show for in their jobs as they have in other aspects of their life. Each column can accommodate a lot of information- Professional Experience, Internships, Education, Key Skills, Summary, etc.

Design : The Brown color and the dotted borders and separator are the highlights of this resume. This gives the resume a very contemporary feel while keeping the document highly professional.

Typography : Everything in this template, ranging from the header to the summary and the resume body itself, has a uniform spacing and look. Icons have been used in various places to highlight dates and contact information.

Check it out if you wish to use this template for your own resume!

Professional Blue

A 2-column resume template with complementary colors in each column will go a long way if you want to impress the recruiter by sending a digital copy. And as with all of our templates, this is also ATS compliant.

Premium : The Professional Blue Template is a premium template on Hiration's Resume Builder.

Structure : This resume template is a 2-column template, with one column occupying roughly one-third of the resume width on the left and the other occupying two-thirds. The left column highlights the smaller resume sections such as key skills, summary, small projects, and additional information. This provides an opportunity to highlight multiple things apart from your professional experience. This resume template should be used by anyone who wants to exhibit multiple facets of their career on their resume.

Design : The left column of this resume template is a darker shade of blue with the overlaying text in white. The exact complementary arrangement has been used in the right column. Dashed separators have been used in time-dependent sections (Education, Professional Experience, etc.) to separate sub-sections.

Typography : Open Sans has been used along with uniform line spacing to provide a highly professional look to the document.\

To build your resume using this template, check it out!

Material Color

This single-column template uses the blue from Google's Material color theme. It has a signature section in the resume header which you can sign with your initials! The template also has ample white spaces to ensure easy readability.

Premium : The Material Color Template is a premium template on Hiration's Resume Builder.

Structure : A single-column resume template with a ton of contemporary features to provide a professional as well as a modern look, it also carries a resume signature in the header, which you can use to sign the resume with your initials. The intersection spacing is a bit high to enhance the readability of the document. Bars in the resume header and footer give it a signature look, and the focus on headings is sure to get you noticed! This resume template is for somebody who is struggling to find content in their resume - a fresh graduate, an entry-level professional, an experienced professional entering a new industry, etc.

Design : A contemporary blue from Google's Material template is used for the resume headings. The sub-headings in the dated resume sections are arranged in two lines with the company and dates in the first line and the designation and location in the second line. This professional template is aesthetically pleasing and is ATS compliant.

Check it out if you want your resume in this template!

Professional Black This 2-column Professional black template allows you to deliver a stellar resume. It's ideal for professionals who want to balance their professional experience with complementary information without cluttering their resume too much.

Premium : The Professional Black Template is one of our oldest and most trusted templates. It is a premium template on our Resume Builder - check it out and you'll find out why!

Structure : This 2-column resume template allows you to highlight multiple aspects of your resume. The dated sections such as Professional Experience and Education are present on the right and are wider. The miscellaneous sections along with the Summary and Key Skills sections are in the smaller, left column which helps you highlight multiple aspects of your resume at the same time.

Design : This resume design comprises various shades of gray including black and white to clearly highlight different parts of your resume. Moreover, the use of dashed borders has been done to highlight intra-section separation

Typography : Only a single font, i.e. Open Sans has been used in the resume with just the right amount of white spaces to make even content-heavy resumes easy to read.

Check it out here ! You won't regret it!

Creative Resume Templates

The Creative Resume Templates pack is a set of amazing resume templates that you can use to jazz up your resume. They carry a variety of graphical and other novel elements to make your resume stand out from the competition.

Our team has conducted in-depth research to incorporate timelines, icons, and colors into these templates to ensure that any recruiter looking at a resume in one of these templates, is sure to continue reading it.

Some of our popular Creative Resume Templates are:

Gradient Green

This template employs a gradient color scheme to help you deliver an outstanding resume. Every recruiter will read your resume if this is in their inbox. Get ready to receive a lot of interview calls!

Trendy Design

This resume template, loaded with all modern design elements such as icons, vibrant colors, and section borders, is sure to get you noticed by Hiring Managers and recruiters.

The Trendy Design Resume Template employs various design aspects such as the intensive use of Icons and colors to deliver the resume that will make you stand out from the rest.

Just like New York, this resume template has everything - your image, icons, boxes to separate sections, and a highly professional color theme.

The New York Resume Template is a single-column template that makes use of boxes to separate sections. It is the perfect combination of creativity and professionalism.

Want to see your name on this template? Check it out here!

Orange Twist

This resume template might come in handy if you're applying to a position that requires you to differentiate from the crowd. This uses a bold color with prominent design elements to make sure that you stand out from the competition.

The Orange Twist resume template from the Creative Resume Templates pack uses a bright color along with other unique design elements.

Build your resume using this template!

Also Read: What are some of the best resume formats?

Key Takeaways

Can’t figure out which one would be the best resume template for someone with your professional experience?

Don't worry! Hiration's Resume Builder allows you to try out multiple designs while retaining the content in its entirety. Why wrack your brains to zero in on one template when can try out all our designs and see the final outcome for yourself?

Do remember to go through the industry requirements and specific clauses around your target profile (you'll find them in the relevant Job Description) before zeroing in on a resume template.

Still have more doubts about resume templates or resume writing? Give us a shout-out in the comments and our Resume Experts will come to your aid within 24 hours!

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7 Application Support Analyst Resume Examples for 2024

Creating a strong resume is key for any application support analyst. This article provides real resume examples and strategic advice on skills and keywords to include. Learn how to highlight your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience with software. Follow our guidelines to boost your job prospects in this critical IT role.

• 01 Sep 2024 - 5 new sections, including 'Where to list your education', added
• 01 Sep 2024 - 5 new resume templates, including Transitioning to Application Support Analyst from Customer Service, added
• 30 Aug 2024 - Article published

  Next update scheduled for 09 Sep 2024

Here's what we see in the best resumes for application support analysts.

Show Impact With Numbers : The best resumes show impact using numbers like reducing customer support issues by 40% , cutting response times by 30% , increasing uptime by 10% , or handling 50 tickets per week .

Include Relevant Skills : Include skills on your resume that you have and are mentioned on the job description. Some popular ones are SQL , Java , SAP , JIRA , and data analysis . But don't include all of them, choose the ones you have and are mentioned in the JD.

Show Technical Proficiency : Using phrases like bug fixing , code review , or system troubleshooting shows you have the technical skills for the job.

use this maybe to have a resume upload button widget 1: yellow Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 1 day, go to a lower altitude if you can. Try to go around 300 to 1,000 metres lower.

widget 2: red / but not serious Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 1 day, go to a lower altitude if you can. Try to go around 300 to 1,000 metres lower.

helpful blue / but not serious Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include. Here's a short quick tip / warning for people to include.

Application Support Analyst Resume Sample

Find out how good your resume is.

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Want to know if your resume stands out for application support analyst roles? Our resume scoring tool gives you a clear picture of where you stand. It checks your resume against key criteria that recruiters in IT support look for.

Upload your resume now. You'll get a free, unbiased assessment that shows your strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback helps you make your resume stronger for your next job application.

Where to list your education

As you prepare your resume for an application support analyst role, think about where your education section will go. If you are fresh out of school or have recently completed relevant coursework, such as a degree in computer science or information technology, this should come first on your resume. Highlight this education upfront to immediately show your qualification for the technical aspects of the job.

If you have been in the workforce for a while and have practical experience supporting software applications, then your work experience should take precedence. Place your education section after your professional experience, since your hands-on skills will be most relevant for solving real-world issues. In either case, always ensure the highest degree or most relevant certification stands out to align with the needs of an application support analyst.

Highlight technical proficiencies

As an application support analyst, make sure to list the software and tools you are proficient in. Mention specific systems you've worked with like SQL, Linux, or SaaS platforms.

Including your technical certifications can also strengthen your resume. Certifications show that you have validated skills in specific technologies relevant to the job.

Junior Application Support Analyst Resume Sample

Ideal resume length.

Your resume as an application support analyst should be concise. If you have less than 10 years of relevant experience, aim to keep it to one page. This helps you stay on point and shows you can organize information well. Focus on recent work and key skills that match the job you want. For those more experienced, up to two pages is acceptable. This gives you space to detail your breadth of knowledge and key projects.

Remember, a shorter resume does not mean you're less skilled. It shows you value the hiring manager's time by highlighting what matters most. Ensure your most important experiences and skills are on the first page, as it gets the most attention. Keep your resume clean and readable with standard fonts and margins. Focus on clarity over cramming in too much detail.

Senior Application Support Analyst Resume Sample

Show problem-solving skills.

Employers in this field look for strong problem-solving skills. Give examples of how you identified and resolved issues in past projects.

Use bullet points to mention successful troubleshooting or support tasks you've handled. This shows your practical experience and capability to manage complex applications.

Application Support Analyst specialized in Financial Systems Resume Sample

Transitioning to application support analyst from customer service resume sample.

•   Supply Chain Analyst Resume Examples
•   Business System Analyst Resume Examples
•   Logistics Analyst Resume Examples
•   Systems Analyst Resume Examples
•   Salesforce Business Analyst Resume Examples
•   Cyber Security Analyst Resume Examples
•   Financial Data Analyst Resume Examples
•   Investment Banking Analyst Resume Examples

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Event Smart

online event registration ticketing and ticket sales

How To Make An Event Planner Resume

August 16, 2024 by kimiko Leave a Comment

The events industry is a lucrative and in-demand industry. Today, people who love the thrill that comes with events can experience creating events as a job and get paid for it. If event planning has always been your dream and you’re finally ready to take action, this article will help you gain the best practices and principles in creating an event planning resume that stands out. 

Starting an event planner resume from scratch? Don’t worry, because this article lists everything you need to include plus some event planner resume examples you can study.

Key Sections of an Event Planner Resume

Contact information .

Provide your name, email address, location, and phone number for easy access. If you have certifications or titles, you can also add them to your name. Examples are Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), and Certified Meeting Manager (CMM). 

Professional Summary or Objective

In the event planner resume summary, provide a concise overview of your experience, skills, and career aspirations. This section should highlight your most relevant qualifications and showcase what you bring to the table as an event planner. For the objective, clearly state your career goals and how they align with the role you’re applying for, emphasizing your enthusiasm and dedication to contributing to the organization.

Skills Section

Highlight both hard and soft skills that clients look for in event planners. The ability to remain calm, budgeting skills, project management, creativity, client relations, and event technology proficiency are just some of the things you can add to your resume.

Examples of Event Planner Skills

• Event Coordination and Management
• Budget Management
• Vendor and Supplier Negotiation
• Client and Relationship Management
• Event Logistics and Operations Management
• Marketing and Promotion
• Creativity and Innovation
• Attention to Detail
• Problem-solving and Decision-making
• Time management
• Communication and Interpersonal skills
• Team leadership and Collaboration Skills
• Technical Skills
• Adaptability adn Flexibility
• Networking and Relationship Building
• Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
• Fundraising and Sponsorship
• Corporate Event Planning
• Wedding and Social Event Planning
• Emotional Intelligence
• Negotiation Skills
• Customer Service Orientation

Work Experience

Tailor your resume to highlight the experience you have related to the job opening you are applying for. If you don’t have any experience yet, you can start with volunteer experience or internship. Use bullet points to detail specific tasks you managed, such as coordinating events, negotiating with vendors, or managing budgets, and quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact. 

For example, mention if you organized corporate events for over 200 attendees, increased event attendance by a certain percentage, or managed a budget of a specific amount.

Education and Certifications

To get an event planning role, you usually do not require a degree in events management but having certifications will help you gain credibility. You can start by applying for an event planning certification or program that fits you best. 

Another strong addition to your event planner resume is the industry membership you are a part of. It is a way of showcasing your commitment to professional growth and staying updated on the latest event industry trends. 

Your event planner resume can give a link or attachment to your event planning portfolio. Including a portfolio allows potential employers or clients to see real examples of the planner’s work, such as photos of decorated venues, planning documents, event timelines, and budget breakdowns. It also demonstrates the planner’s ability to manage various aspects of event planning, from logistics and vendor coordination to design and execution.

• Testimonials

Ask for testimonials from the people you’ve worked with or your previous employers. To get a compelling review, ask them specific questions that can talk about the impact of your work on them. Ask questions like in what area did the event planner exceed their expectations, comment on the responsiveness rate of the event planner during the planning process, etc.

Event Planner Resume Examples

Event planners display their resumes on different platforms like their own website, LinkedIn, social media platforms, and job boards, among others. 

Event Planner Resume – Personal Website

JoveMeyer is an event planner who showcases his portfolio on his website. His website is very minimalistic with bright, clean, and attractive photos from his different events. When event planners have their website, they have the creative freedom to build their branding and message for their event planning business. 

When it comes to choosing a website, we highly recommend you use WordPress for better flexibility and features. 

Event Planner Resume via LinkedIn

LinkedIn as a platform has existing questions that the event planner can answer. The sections that one fills up on LinkedIn are the About section, Experience, Education, Licenses and Certifications, Skills, and Recommendations. 

For every job experience, you can add details about your event planning experience. Optimize it for SEO by adding keywords that hiring managers and clients are looking for in event planners. Use action verbs and specific metrics to showcase your achievements. For example, “Coordinated a charity event for 100 attendees, raising $5,000 for a local nonprofit.”

Optimizing your profile on LinkedIn is worth the effort because of its convenient features like the “Request Service” button where potential employers can give you their project details and request for your service.

Event Planner Resume via Instagram

Event planners can also reach clients by building a brand via Instagram. Unlike LinkedIn, Instagram can be more heavy on the visuals. Reels, hashtags, and carousels are strategies that event planners use to reach new audiences and gain new clients. 

Maximize the features of Instagram and view your profile as your event planning resume. Record videos to post on your stories and highlights as your event planning portfolio. Engage with other accounts similar in your industry. Collaborate a post with your clients. 

Event Planner Resume via Physical Print

The traditional route is to have your event planner’s resume printed and handed to hiring agencies.  Ensure your resume is free of typos and grammatical errors. Consistency in formatting and font style is crucial for a polished look. Print your resume on high-quality paper to make a strong impression.

Event Planner Resume Example Template

[Your Name]

[Street Address] | [City, State, Zip Code]

[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile]

Professional Summary Recent graduate with a degree in Event Management and hands-on experience coordinating university events and internships. Strong organizational skills and a passion for creating memorable experiences. Seeking an entry-level event planner position to utilize my planning and coordination skills in a dynamic environment.

• Event Coordination
• Vendor Management
• Budget Planning
• Time Management
• Customer Service
• Social Media Promotion
• Multitasking

Education Bachelor of Science in Event Management [University Name], [City, State] Graduated: [Month, Year]

Relevant Coursework : Event Planning & Production, Hospitality Management, Marketing for Events, Event Technology.

Event Planning Intern [Company Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Assisted in the planning and execution of corporate and social events, including meetings, weddings, and fundraising events.
• Coordinated with vendors to secure contracts, negotiate rates, and arrange logistics.
• Helped manage event budgets and tracked expenses to ensure events were delivered within budget constraints.
• Supported on-site event execution, including setup, registration, and guest coordination.

Student Event Coordinator [University Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Led a team of 5 students to plan and execute on-campus events for over 200 attendees.
• Developed event proposals, budgets, and marketing plans.
• Coordinated logistics, including vendor negotiations, venue setup, and event flow.

Certifications

• Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWEP) – [Organization Name], [Year]
• First Aid and CPR Certified – [Organization Name], [Year]

Portfolio Available upon request. Includes photos and descriptions of planned events, client testimonials, and detailed event timelines.

“[Your Name] consistently delivers exceptional results and is a leader in event management innovation.” – [Client Name, CEO, Company]

“An invaluable asset to our team, [Your Name] has transformed our events into unforgettable experiences.” – [Client Name, Director of Marketing, Organization]

Best Practices For Event Planner Resume

Research the job description

Understand what the role you are applying for entails and what the employees are looking for. Even if you don’t have direct experience related to the job, you can talk about the skills you have gained from a previous job experience you had.  

For example, if the job description emphasizes budget management, think about a time when you successfully managed a budget in a different context, such as a previous role in retail management or as a volunteer coordinator for a non-profit organization.

When reading a job description, check if they have indicated the relevant skills they are looking for. You can also look for repeated keywords or phrases because these often indicate the most important skills for the position. 

Additionally, you can also network with other industry professionals in the industries to gain insights into the expectations and skills the role entails. 

Customize for Different Roles

Tailor your resume to different types of event planning roles such as corporate events, weddings, non-profit events, and large-scale events. If you’re applying for a corporate event planning position, highlight experiences where you successfully coordinated with multiple departments adhered to strict budgets, and met tight deadlines. For organizing a wedding, demonstrate your experience to plan a memorable and creative event. 

Make your resume easy to read

Avoid overcomplicating your resume by adding unnecessary information. Be clear and direct about what you include in your resume. For visuals, make it clean and easy to follow by using a light background over dark text.

Optimize for Application Tracking Systems (ATS)

These systems are used by many employers to screen resumes for specific keywords and phrases before they even reach a human recruiter. To ensure your resume gets through the ATS, include relevant keywords that align with the job description, such as “event coordination,” “vendor management,” “budget planning,” and “client relations.” Additionally, use a simple, clean layout without complex formatting or graphics that might confuse the ATS. 

Use action verbs and quantifiable tips

Consistently use action verbs to demonstrate your accomplishments. Examples are “negotiated with 10 vendors and reduced cost by 10% from discounts”, “Implemented a marketing campaign that resulted in a 10% increase in attendance versus previous year”, etc. 

Display Attractive Visuals

If your resume is hosted on your own website, you have the creative freedom to reflect a vibe and mood on your website. Use bright and clear photos to showcase your events. Add photos of the crowd and other event details like decor, venue, and giveaways.

Cover Letter Tips

Start strong.

Your client or employer will be reading a stack of these event planner resumes and cover letters. To stand out, you have to make a good first impression on them even just from reading the first paragraph. Talk about your track record of running successful events and how your relevant skills can be what they are looking for.

Focus on the future

An article from Harvard Business Review discusses how the event planner’s resume talks about an event planner’s experience while the cover letter talks about the future and what they can contribute to the client/ company.

Keep it short

Focus on the most important information and try to keep your cover letter under one page. Experts say that the rule is 3 paragraphs max, 5-7 sentences each.

Show a positive attitude

Try to communicate your enthusiasm and energy in the way you write your cover letter. Use upbeat language and a confident tone to demonstrate that you are eager to bring your energy, creativity, and proactive mindset to the team.

Customize your cover letter

Avoid submitting a generic cover letter to all potential employers. Instead, research the specific needs and values of the company you are applying to, and tailor your letter to address those requirements. Demonstrating that you’ve done your homework can leave a strong first impression and show that you are genuinely interested and serious about the job.

Choose an Event Registration That Event Planners Trust

Event registration will always be a part of an event planner’s job. Whatever the type of event, event registration is a process that will make an impression on the attendees. Event planners have been using Event Smart for their event website. 

Unlike other ticketing systems, Event Smart does not charge any commission fees for an unlimited number of events. It’s just a simple flat fee that gives you the ability to customize your event registration forms, accept payments, etc. 

Check out our 14-day free trial now as you start your event planning.

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