How to create your own resume template in 7 steps

Resume templates make it easier for you to apply for jobs. A resume template is a format that you create beforehand to demonstrate your skills, experiences, and qualifications to potential employers. When you create your own resume, you stand out from the competition. A resume template also makes it easier for you to tailor your resume to the job when you are applying for multiple jobs in a short time.

Step 1: Choose a Format

Just like when you are creating a regular resume, choosing the right resume format is the first step to creating your resume template. You can choose from the chronological resume format, the functional resume format, and the combination resume format. If you have a solid working history, the chronological resume format is the best choice for you. Many job seekers who are changing careers or have multiple employment gaps choose to go with a functional resume.

Step 2: Pick the Right Font

Fonts can make a world of difference. Imagine getting rejected by a hiring manager just because you chose the wrong font for your resume! Choosing a proper font is essential when you are creating a professional-looking resume. Go for a font that is easy to read. Most job seekers select fonts such as Arial and Times New Roman. However, there are many other good fonts that you can use for your resume. You should stick to font sizes between 10 and 12 pt. Draw the reader’s attention to important information using bold text.

Step 3: Select an Appropriate Layout

The layout of your resume decides the overall readability. You should select an appropriate layout for your resume to ensure that a hiring manager can easily scan your resume in a short time. This will help you pass the six-second resume test. Improve the readability of your resume template by reducing the density of text. Break up large paragraphs into smaller sentences highlighted by bullet points. Leave ample white space to make your resume template visually appealing.

Step 4: Decide on a Color Scheme

Color is something a hiring manager will definitely notice first on a resume. Stand out among a sea of black-and-white traditional resumes by incorporating a little bit of color into your resume. The color scheme of your resume can tell a lot about your personality. Avoid going for flashy pinks and reds. Keep color to a minimum in your resume, you don’t want to cover your entire resume in color patches. Limit the number of colors to one or two and stay away from distracting hues.

Step 5: Include Relevant Information

Your resume template must mention important contact information so that a recruiter can connect with you. Ensure that you mention your name, phone number, email address, and a link to your LinkedIn profile. You should list your past work experience in reverse-chronological order on your resume template. Ensure that each job entry mentions the job title, company name, location, and relevant dates. Each job entry should come with 3-6 bullet points describing the professional accomplishments.

Step 6: Proofread and Edit

One important step to creating a good resume template is to proofread and edit your work. You can come up with a polished product when you have worked out all the kinks. Keep your eyes sharp for spelling and grammar errors on your resume template. The formatting should be consistent throughout the document. Once you have proofread and corrected your resume, ask a friend or family member to review your resume and provide feedback.

Step 7: Save and Share

This is the easiest part of the process. The hard work is all completed. All you have left to do now is to save your resume with an acceptable file name. One accepted way to name your resume is to use your first and last names accompanied by the target job title. Save it in a file format that you can easily share, such as .docx or PDF. Share your resume template with your professional network and ask them to point you in the direction of a good opportunity.