Whether you’re using an online template or customizing one you have created, it’s important to use a format that communicates your professional experience cleanly and clearly. Walls of text and crowded layouts can be difficult to read.
1. Bold graphics
The average resume gets viewed for less than 10 seconds, so it is crucial to make an impact. One way to do so is with bold graphics. It also includes a section for passions to allow freelancers to stand out and personalize their resumes. This eye-catching and one of the best resume examples can be downloaded from any one of the resume template sites.
A splash of colour can be a great addition to your resume, especially if you are applying for a position that would call for creativity. However, it is important to choose a subdued pop of colour to avoid making your resume look overly stylized.
The use of white space is also a good way to help recruiters find the information they need quickly. Remember, recruiters only spend on average 6 seconds reviewing your resume before putting it in the ‘fit or no-fit’ pile. Using a professional-looking font helps keep your resume looking clean and tidy.
2. Center-aligned layout
When trying to fit years of work experience and a laundry list of skills onto one page, things can get crowded quickly. This template solves the problem by placing the candidate’s work experience in a column to the right of their education and skill sections. This gives the section headings and titles enough space to stand out while keeping the candidate’s work history compact.
Using a centre-aligned layout can also help your resume look more professional, and it makes the content easier to read.
The default margin size in Microsoft Word is 1 inch, which is a good place to start. But remember to experiment with different settings and font sizes to find what works best for your resume and is ATS-friendly. For example, a standard 12-point font might be too small for some styles, while larger fonts might be too big for others.
3. Emphasis on the headshot photo
Stand out from the crowd with a resume that’s eye-catching, yet easy to read. This colourful template has plenty of white space and uses pops of colour to highlight key sections. The design is simple but still has a professional feel that’s ideal for recent graduates.
A headshot photo can help you stand out from other candidates and add a personal touch to your application. But it’s important to know if it’s appropriate for the job and industry. Some recruiters are concerned about discrimination and unconscious bias, while others may view a headshot as unprofessional.
4. Pops of color
Many industries appreciate a bit of visual flair in the resume format. It can help candidates stand out from the pack in a way that doesn’t detract from the important information.
Colour can signal professionalism, highlight important information and create a hierarchy within the document. But only if it’s used with care. Too much colour can overwhelm and distract a recruiter, so it’s best to stick with a small palette.
For example, blue can convey trustworthiness and competence; green can emphasize environmental sustainability; and orange can highlight creativity and productivity. Whether you opt for a bright pop of colour in your header or a subtle shade in the skills section, be sure to coordinate the hues with those of your cover letter.
Remember that recruiters scan documents for visual cues, and then follow those to get the information they need. Walls of text are a big turnoff, so consider breaking up your information with a few well-placed graphics or infographics.
