“Do you guys have a template I can use to start my resume?”

This is one of the most common resume questions we get, and I will admit that we can be pretty obstinate about it. Resume templates are usually Word documents that are pre-formatted so you can plug in your content. They save you the time of deciding on a design, and the aggravation of getting all of your content aligned properly.  Ultimately, templates can be good or bad depending on how you use them. Here are some pointers for choosing an effective template, and making it your own.

We have good reasons for being skeptical about templates. Resume templates CAN be a bad choice for a few reasons:

• There are some truly bad templates online. The bad ones can be unattractive, list inappropriate sections, or structure content in the wrong place.
• Templates can be inflexible. Sometimes the formatting and tables are locked in and make it difficult for you to make changes. This causes even more headaches.
• Most templates are unoriginal. If you are using one, chances are someone else is too. And as we just pointed out, making changes to personalize them can be very difficult.

As better designs emerge online, templates have become a more attractive option. Here are some things to look for:

• Templates should look good. There should be a neat, clean layout that is easy to read.
• Templates should be malleable. Look for templates that do NOT include charts, tables and hidden formatting. These make it very difficult to make changes.
• Templates should be industry-appropriate. If you find a two-pager, something with content in strange corners or a required Objective section, it’s probably not the template for you.
• Templates should be customizable. Think about the template you choose as a framework you can use to launch. Making small changes like adapting font or colors can help ensure that your resume is not identical to your competition’s.

This site includes a few great templates you can download and customize. Once you’ve started and want some pointers, come in for Resume Spot Checks in the Portfolio Center, Tuesday through Thursday from 2 – 4 pm in 623 S Wabash, Room 307.