Man looking skeptical

Beware of the Resume Template

No two people are the same. No two resumes should be either.

Resume templates are extremely easy to find on the internet, and even MS Word offers a variety of resume templates in their project menu (in fact, I used one to create my first resume in college). A resume template may help you get going if you are creating a resume from scratch, however they are definitely not designed with you in mind. Resumes have evolved into so much more than a document that simply outlines when and where someone has worked. In order to be successful in today’s market, a resume must be a marketing tool that SELLS a job seeker to their next employer. A one-size-fits-all template will not achieve that for you.

When working from a template, it’s too easy to fall into the trap of making your work history fit into the template’s framework, when it should be the other way around. There are many templates out there – including the one I used – that utilize tables, columns, and other elements that are difficult to manipulate and employ outdated strategies such as objective statements and “References Available Upon Request.” Additionally, templates are often over-the-top in their design and not web-friendly. Don’t let this distract you from the most critical part of your resume – the content.

 

Job Seeker Sign In
Or, use your email address:

 

Your specific objective must drive your entire resume’s strategy and format, so it is highly unlikely that a general template will meet your exact criteria. For example, one resume format may work well for an entry-level candidate, but fail for a professional with a steady work history ready to take the next step in their career.

If you are using a resume template to create your very first resume, let it serve as a guide only. Look for strong resume examples for professionals in your field and with similar career histories. Research professional resume writing strategies and formats that best suit your background and objective. Resist the temptation to let a template do all the work if you want to land your next great opportunity.

Natalie Winzer profile picture
by: Natalie Winzer
Originally Published: February 01, 2014

Sign In or Register to access all articles and insider tips for help in your job search.

Search for iHire Jobs

RELATED JOBS
Dental Hygienist
Great Expressions Dental Centers
Dublin, OH

Dental Hygienist – Dublin, OH Full-Time & Part-Time | Flexible Schedules | Top Pay Join the team...

Sous Chef - Columbus, Ohio
Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern
Columbus, OH

RUSTY BUCKET RESTAURANT AND TAVERN is seeking a SOUS CHEF to join our team! Who are We? A Fun,...

Child and Adolescent Therapist
Southeast Healthcare
Columbus, OH

Southeast Healthcare is looking for a qualified licensed therapist with a desire to work with...

General Practice (Medical Director Veterinarian)
Tempus Veterinary Recruitment
Ashley, OH

Introduction Our client is a veterinary hospital group hiring for a Regional Medical Director to...

RN Case Manager
Computech Corporation
Columbus, OH

Description : Looking in Toledo region. Fulton, Wood, Ottawa, and Lucas Counties. Schedule:...

Find a Job »

Find the Right Job Faster

Create Your FREE Account Today to Unlock Exclusive Career Tools
  • Get personalized job matches sent to your inbox every day
  • Connect directly with employers before your competition
  • Advance your career with expert advice on interviewing, salary negotiation, and more
iHire brandmark

We value your privacy