resume writing format in word

How to Create a Resume in Microsoft Word (Step-by-Step Guide)

If this is your first time creating a resume in Microsoft Word, the process may seem overwhelming. Luckily, this article is here to help! In this step-by-step guide, we will cover how to create an effective resume from start to finish using Microsoft Word.

How Do I Make a Resume in Microsoft Word?

There are two primary methods for making a resume in Microsoft Word:

• ‍ From Scratch: This gives you the ultimate creative control. However, it also requires you to familiarize yourself with all of Microsoft Word’s tools and layout options. Building a resume from scratch can be more time-consuming but also more customizable.
• ‍ From a Template: Microsoft Word offers several pre-made resume templates. By using these, all the formatting and layout creation is handled for you. You simply have to fill in your own information.

To use a template, go to File > New and then select a template from the Resume and Cover Letter section.

How Should I Format My Resume in Microsoft Word?

The format you choose will depend on your experience level!

There are 3 basic resume formats to choose between:

• ‍ Reverse-Chronological: Details your most recent job and works backwards from there. This format focuses heavily on work experience. ‍
• Functional: Focuses on skills and education rather than work experience. This is a good option for recent graduates or applicants with minimal work experience. ‍
• Hybrid/Combination: Combines elements of both the Reverse-Chronological and the Functional. This is a good option for applicants with gaps in their employment history.

Choosing the best format for your needs is key. For more help on this subject, check out our guide on How to Choose the Correct Resume Format in 2021 !

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Make a Resume in Microsoft Word in 7 Easy Steps

First, let’s make sure you can navigate the Microsoft Word ribbon!

The ribbon is the toolbar found at the top of the screen.

It should look something like this:

The main parts of the ribbon you should familiarize yourself with on the Home tab are Font , Paragraph , and Styles .

These are how you will edit the appearance of your text and headers.

You should also familiarize yourself with the Layout tab .

This tab is where you will adjust your margins and add columns!

Once you have taken your time to figure out where all of your tools are, it’s time to begin building your resume!

Important Note: These steps detail how to create a resume in Microsoft Word from scratch. By using one of the program’s pre-made templates, you can bypass many of these steps and simply fill in the pre-made format.

Step 1: Create Your Layout

Let’s begin by visiting the Layout tab .

Here, you can set your margin size and decide if you want to use columns.

Here is a breakdown of these two elements:

‍ We recommend using 1-inch margins on all sides.

This will give you enough white space to keep your resume looking neat without sacrificing too much space.

It will also ensure your formatting looks good on printed versions of your resume. ‍

Columns and Sidebars:

‍ From the columns tab, you will find five options:

• The One , Two , and Three options are how you will create separate columns.
• The Left and Right options are how you will create sidebars! Sidebars are useful because they leave more room for the main text and sections.

From the Home tab , you can edit the following elements of your layout:

‍ Alignment:

‍ Choose between left, center, or right alignment.

We recommend using the left alignment.

Whichever you choose, it is a good idea to keep your alignment consistent across the board. ‍

Line Spacing:

‍ We recommend using 1.15 – 1.5 line spacing for the body text.

For section titles and headers, use 1.5 – 2.0 spacing to help them stand out from the rest of the text. ‍

‍ Use a simple and highly legible font. Try to use only 1-2 fonts throughout your resume.

We recommend the following seven fonts:

• Times New Roman

Step 2: Make Your Title Header

Your title header should contain the following information:

• Your Job Title
• Contact Information
• Professional Social Media Links

Use an H1 header to write your name at the very top.

Use the Normal style to write the rest of your information (see “How Do I Add Different Sections of the Resume on Microsoft Word” below for more information on header styles).

It should come out looking similar to this:

Copywriter Email: [email protected] Phone: (123) 456-7890 Website: Janesmith.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janesmith

Check out some of our free resume examples to see alternative ways of formatting your title header!

Step 3: Write an Objective or Summary

Following your title header will be your resume objective or summary.

This will be a short statement between 1-5 sentences detailing your desired job title, experience, and career goals.

You will want to write this statement in the Normal style .

However, you may want to use a slightly larger font than the rest of the text in other sections.

This will help your objective or summary statement to stand out.

Here is an example of how this might look with the title header example from before:

Resume Objective: I am a copywriter with over 5 years of experience. working with corporate clients. I am seeking the position of Head Copywriter at your company, bringing with me over 10 major corporate clients.

Step 4: Create Your Base Format

By creating a base format, you can save the document as a separate file to return to and fill in again and again.

This will help you to tailor your resume to fit specific jobs!

The idea of the base format is to provide outlined sections with the correct spacing and number of bullet points.

You are essentially creating a skeleton for your resume that you can edit and adjust over time.

By doing so, you ensure you have already allocated the proper amount of space on the resume for each section.

For example, this is what your base Work Experience section may look like:

Work Experience

Job Title 1 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence Job Title 2 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence ‍ Job Title 3 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence

As you gain more work experience, you can return to this base format and make changes as need be.

Because you have already outlined the section, you won’t have to worry about reformatting the entire resume to make a few simple changes.

Step 5: Determine Your Section Organization

Once you have built the base format of your resume, it’s time to determine if your sections are in the optimal location.

For instance, if you are creating a Reverse-Chronological style resume you will want your Work Experience section to come first.

Comparatively, if you are creating a Functional style resume you may want your Skills or Education section to come first.

The order and organization of your sections will impact the impression your resume makes on hiring managers.

Step 6: Fill in the Information

Now that you have created the base format of your resume and chosen the optimal organization, it’s time to fill in your information!

When filling in your information, be mindful of the following 3 factors:

• ‍ Be Concise: Always use simple sentences that clearly describe your strengths and accomplishments. Avoid complex sentences or overly complicated vocabulary and jargon. ‍
• Use Bullet-Points: In each section, use bullet points to separate each thought or idea. This will make your resume more visually appealing and easier to read. ‍
• Choose Compelling Language: Try to avoid repeating the same words or phrases over and over. Mix it up, use keywords, and find the best action verbs to make your resume sound even better!

Not sure how to make your language more compelling on your resume? Take a look at our list of 350+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume More Effective in 2021 .

Step 7: Double-Check Your Sections

Once you have completed steps 1-6, look back over your resume and make sure you have included all of the key sections.

You should also take some time to consider what additional sections you could include.

Here are the key sections every resume should have:

• A title header with your name and contact information
• An objective or summary statement
• Work experience

As we have covered, the order of these sections will vary depending on the format you have chosen.

However, each of these sections should always be included in your resume.

There are also some additional sections to consider adding.

Here is a quick list of extra sections that can add some extra flair to your resume:

• Awards and achievements
• Certifications
• Unpaid experiences, such as volunteer work or internships
• Relevant hobbies

How Do I Add Different Sections to a Resume on Microsoft Word?

The way to create different sections on your resume comes in two parts:

• Use an H2 header to create the section titles (Work Experience, Education, Skills, etc.)
• Use the Normal style to create the body of text below the H2 header

Here is a breakdown of how to use the H1, H2, H3, and Normal styles within your resume:

Select the Styles window from the Home tab .

From here, you will have options to create headers.

Your heading options are as follows:

• ‍ Heading 1: Use this heading as your largest title. This is what you will use to write your name at the top of the page. Use a bolded font between 16 to 20 pt in size. Use 1.5 to 2.0 line spacing to help the title heading stand out. ‍
• Heading 2: Use this heading to create your section titles. Use a bolded font size between 14 to 16 pt. in size. Make sure these headings are smaller than your title heading. Use 1.5 to 2.0 line spacing to help these headings stand out from the rest of the text. ‍
• Heading 3: Use this heading to create your job titles. Your job titles should be only slightly bigger than the rest of the text. Use a bolded font between 12 to 14 pt. in size. Use between 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing. ‍
• Normal: Use the Normal style to create the body text underneath the heading. Use a regular font between 11 – 12 pt. in size. Use between 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing.

What are the Pros and Cons of Using Microsoft Word to Craft Your Resume?

Microsoft Word is a handy tool to have, especially if your computer comes with the program pre-installed.

Here are 3 pros and 3 cons to using Microsoft Word to create your resume:

• ‍ Total Creative Control: When creating a resume on Microsoft Word directly from your computer, you have total control over the design and format. ‍
• More ATS Friendly: Applicant Tracking Systems are designed to read .doc files, the file format used by Microsoft Word. ‍
• Can be Edited by Recruiters: If you are using a recruitment agency, a Microsoft Word file can be easy to edit by recruiters before sending it off to employers.
• ‍ The Microsoft Word Learning Curve: If you are unfamiliar with Microsoft Word, there can be a pretty steep learning curve that can cause you frustration. ‍
• Time Consuming: Building a resume from scratch can be highly beneficial, but also highly time-consuming. This can become problematic if you need to create a resume quickly. ‍
• Temperamental Templates: Microsoft Word offers tons of free resume templates. On the surface, this is super useful. However, these templates can be tricky to use. One wrong move can mess up the formatting in a big way and be an even bigger headache to try and fix.

Why Should I Use an Online Resume Template or Resume Builder?

By using a resume template from an online provider, such as Easy Resume, you are more likely to find a template that fits your exact needs.

Plus, online resume templates and resume builders often have more design elements that are easier to use compared to Microsoft Word.

Are you interested in using our online templates or resume builder? Check out our beautifully designed resume templates to build your optimal resume!

Final Takeaways

Microsoft Word offers a lot of capabilities to help you build your ideal resume.

Here are five key takeaways for creating a resume on the program:

• Create a base skeleton for your resume that you can use again and again for different jobs.
• Use different heading styles to help your resume title and section titles to stand out.
• Use the column tool under the Layout tab to create sidebars. Sidebars are great for smaller sections, such as certifications or awards!
• Always use concise and compelling language.
• Consider using a template to build your resume faster.

At Easy Resume, we have designed our resume templates and online resume builder to fit your needs. No matter your level of experience or skill at making resumes, we have the tools to help.

Don’t forget to check out our expansive collection of FREE resume guides and examples while you’re here!

Browse more resume templates that fit your role

Ed is a co-founder of Easy Resume. His background in scaling teams at tech startups over the last decade has given him extensive experience and knowledge around how to hire top talent and build successful teams. He enjoys mentoring, coaching, and helping others reach their career goals. When he's not writing about career-related advice, he's playing with his dog, Lilo, or going on long hikes in upstate New York.

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Resume templates

Put your best qualities on display with professional, customizable resume and cv templates. no matter your line of work or length of professional history, you'll find resume and cv templates that'll help you get the gig..

Download free resume templates

Land your dream job with free, customizable resume templates. Showcase your potential to recruiters and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Whether you're applying to corporate positions or creative roles, go with a sleek design or show your creativity with bold colors .

Resumes don't need to look boring—add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. There are plenty of resume designs to choose from, like simple resume templates and modern resume templates. Each resume template is fully customizable in Microsoft Word , so you can personalize each design element and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to.

Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template for free to share digitally when applying online. These professional resume templates are perfect for any stage of life or career. Whether you're a high school student, actor, or seeking a career in nursing, you can find any format for any job type.

There are also a variety of free CV (Curriculum Vitae) templates to choose from. A CV is often longer than a resume and contains an in-depth look at your education and professional accomplishments. Like our resume templates, these CV templates are also customizable in Word.

Remember, your next job is only a template away! Once you've customized your resume, explore free cover letter templates to help you land the job.

Use a template to create a resume

If you need help creating a resume or cover letter, start with one of the dozens of professionally-designed resume and cover letter templates that are available in Word.

Go to File > New .

In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.

Double-click the template you want to use.

Replace the placeholder text with your own information.

On the File menu, select New from Template .

Create and use your own template in Office for Mac

Making a resume like this while you're online is quick and easy.

Note:  This template comes with a cover letter, so you'll have everything in one document.

Choose one of our resume templates , and open it in Word for the web to make it yours.

As you work on the resume, you'll probably want to rename it.

The template uses a table to line everything up. If you need to add more lines for job experience or education, add rows to the table by going up to Layout under Table Tools and clicking Insert Below (or Insert Above) .

For tips on writing your resume, check out Six steps to developing a great resume .

When you're finished, print it out or share it online. You can do this with the resume still open in Word for the web. No need to save it first (that's already done for you).

To print it, press Ctrl+P, and wait for the Print dialog box.

Note:  If you don't see a Print dialog box, click the link for opening a PDF version of your resume. From there, use the PDF program's Print command.

To share it online, send a link:

Near the top of the screen, click Share .

Under Share , click Get a Link .

Under Choose an option , click View only .

Click Create Link .

Click on the web address to select it, and then copy and paste it into an email, message, or post.

Tip:  If you have a blog or website, you can embed a view of your resume there.

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If you just turned in your resignation letter and are ready to  give yourself the best chance of landing the next job you’re after , you need an attractive, organized resume template . Our 28 resume templates for Word are hot out of the oven for 2024. All you have to do is download them for free and start editing them in Microsoft Word.

Trouble customizing your Word resume template ? Working with ready-made templates can be challenging, so if you’re in a time crunch or over the frustration, make a resume with us for a quick and easy time!

Word Resume Template Choices for You

Academic Word Resume Template

Why this resume template works

• Share internship or work experience as well as project experience. Projects can be academic or personal. If you’re feeling stuck on what to include here, try thinking about your hobbies and interests .
• Show off academic achievements and awards in a dedicated section in the left sidebar. Need more room than that? Try using the projects section instead!

College Word Resume Template

Why this resume works

• Companies won’t be able to resist taking a closer look at your application when you apply for their internship opportunities, as you’ll be showcasing that you’re a very well-rounded student with high aspirations!

ATS-Friendly Word Resume Template

• Need more room for work experience? Just delete some of the project experience to make a little space.

Minimalist Word Resume Template

• Clean, thin lines create division for all the necessary parts while maximizing space for you to highlight your best career achievements.

Technical Word Resume Template

• This resume is incredibly easy to follow down the page with its unique but professional design. Don’t be surprised when you start getting calls for interviews!

Acting Word Resume Template

• This template features a section where you can place your acting experience front and center, leaving the sidebar to draw the eye to your talents and attributes.

Student Word Resume Template

• Let both your personality and your background shine in this student Word resume template.

Modern Word Resume Template

• Space for all your work achievements? Check.
• Space for skills and certs? Check check.
• Space for a summary statement that attests to your successful career history? Check check check!

Functional Word Resume Template

• If that’s the boat you’re in, you’ll like what this functional Word resume template can offer you.

Simple Word Resume Template

• Dark lines keep each section separated and marked clearly for an eye-catching and simple design.
• Expound on any important details with a cover letter generator that won’t miss any details from your resume or the job description.

Professional Word Resume Template

• Detailed icons draw the eye in, so recruiters can focus on your professional history and accomplishments.

Basic Word Resume Template

• Clear headers designate each section and leave you room for extras, too, like a career objective and certifications or licenses.

Best Word Resume Template

• This aesthetically pleasing template works well when you want to format your resume in reverse-chronological order.

Harvard Word Resume Template

• There’s space to share your coursework, study abroad experience, leadership and collegiate activities, and even traditional work experience on your Harvard Word resume template.

Easy Word Resume Template

• Recruiters won’t be quick to forget your name with this soft blue contact header that keeps your info neat and tidy.
• Resume templates like this one are good choices for job seekers looking to climb the ladder because it lays your work history out in reverse-chronological order.

High School Word Resume Template

• Think about school projects or extracurricular activities that keep you busy, and use that to populate your projects section. Try to answer how you contributed and left a positive impact.
• And hey, if you do have some traditional work experience, just add that to the projects section instead!

Music Word Resume Template

• Use your experience section to highlight where you shine, whether that be in the orchestra or in the classroom instructing.
• The green sidebar gives us nice pop of color to draw attention to your music honors and awards, where you can put the spotlight on competitions, the location, and the year.

Nursing Word Resume Template

• Small and unique design elements pull the eye in strategically to your objective , skills, and licenses, telling recruiters right away that you’re qualified for the role.
• Licenses and certifications are essential, which is why there are two sections dedicated to this at the bottom of your resume. List your nursing license in the left sidebar and list any other certifications and licenses you hold beneath your experience.

Teacher of the Year Word Resume Template

• Your teacher resume can demonstrate your professional ability to teach any age group from kindergarten to high school.
• Bold blue tones emphasize wisdom, confidence, intelligence, and imagination. This type of  resume formatting  contrasts nicely with strong black empty space. It makes for an eye-catching and appealing resume.

The Arts Word Resume Template

• Usually, we advise against including a photo in your  resume template , but we can make the case for one here. It shows personality and individuality, which are, of course, important traits for an artistic, creative job. 
• Job titles that will be especially suited to your arts resume include visual artist, musician, photographer, designer, and producer.

Pretty-in-Pink Word Resume Template

• This bold, creative resume template is best suited for those working in roles where a more colorful style would be acceptable or encouraged.
• This will include many jobs in the arts and creative industries, but it’s always best to judge based on the formality of the specific company to which you apply.

Royal Blue Word Resume Template

• The dark blue is particularly good at conveying a sense of knowledge, seriousness, and security, which are appealing qualities for hiring managers seeking an advanced professional like yourself. The light blue adds contrast and is associated with compassion, an essential characteristic of good management. 
• We think you could build a killer resume with this royal blue Word resume template for roles as an account manager , team lead, regional manager, operations manager , and executive assistant .

The Trades Word Resume Template

• Remember, this doesn’t mean your resume has to look boring. Keep it interesting with contrasting colors, fonts, and letter sizes. Choosing the perfect resume template is half the battle!
• Your trades resume is ideal if you’re working trades, such as plumbing, welding, carpentry, electrical work, or machinery. Your job keeps life orderly and functional, so it’s important to reflect that in your resume design.

Doctor’s Orders Word Resume Template

• Unique sections allow you to input and highlight residency, licenses, and conferences easily. Use tasteful colors in your resume to demonstrate your personality.
• Your qualifications and skills can speak for themselves, but only great doctors are both brilliant and personable with patients. Show that you  are  that doctor!

Executive Word Resume Template

• If you’re looking to advance in the corporate world, this resume template allows room to highlight your expertise and success in a  professional resume summary .  
• Having trouble figuring out where to start? Take a peek at our  resume examples  for insight into creating a resume that lands you interviews. 

Green Technicalities Word Resume Template

• It should be easy to differentiate your hard and soft skills  and certifications on your resume, which are incredibly important for technical jobs requiring niche skills. 
• While a lot of information can fit on your resume, clean lines and contrasting colors keep it from becoming overwhelming. 

Lawyer Up Word Resume Template

• The boxing around the resume title and contrasting fonts provide sophisticated interest.
• Note the use of professional and straightforward fonts but strong visual interest from the choice of bolding.

Modern Limelight Word Resume Template

• Your Modern resume works best if you’re applying to work at a startup. Exciting, bold ideas thrive in these environments, and your lime-colored resume fits the bill. 
• Students, don’t be afraid to use the work experience section for projects or even to showcase relevant hobbies and interests that help pitch why you should be hired. 

Remember,  if you’re having trouble customizing your resume template , make sure you check out our  job-specific resume samples . We also get that working with templates in Word can be tricky, so you can try one of our Google Docs resume templates or build a resume with us instead. How about this one here?

Experienced Medical Assistant Resume

or download as PDF

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• How to Make a Resume
• Resume Tips
• Reasons for Leaving a Job

How to Make a Resume in Word ?

The best thing about building a resume in Word is that Microsoft Word comes with many resume templates you can find within the program. If none of these preloaded formats do the trick, you can search for alternate templates on the internet (probably how you found these here).

Between the templates included in Word, the options available online, our free resume templates for Google Docs , or the templates you can use in our easy resume builder , you should have no trouble finding a design that works for you.

Find free Word resume templates

Accessing resume templates on Microsoft Word is a quick, easy way to structure your document. All you have to do is take the following steps:

• Click “File,” then “New.”
• Type “Resume” into the search box at the top of the window.
• Browse the templates and double-click the one you want.
• Delete the sample text and add your personal information.

Upload your outside templates into Word

While Microsoft Word offers some excellent resume templates within the program, you can find even more options on the internet, including our  professional resume examples .

Here’s how to find online templates and upload them into Word:

• Search Google for “resume templates,” or take advantage of our  free resume templates .
• Download the resume that fits your needs.
• Open a new Word document.
• Click on “Insert” at the top of the page.
• Select “Object” from the drop-down menu.
• Find the file for the resume template in the box that appears. It’s most likely under “Downloads.”
• Click on the file for the resume template.
• Click “Insert” at the bottom-right corner of the box.

*Note: This process will upload your template, but it may be distorted, requiring you to spend some time manipulating boxes, lines, and font, which is why we recommend uploading your resumes with our  free resume tool .

When it comes to creating a fantastic resume on Word, downloading the right template is only half the battle. From there, you need to do what it takes to fill the template with the right information.

There are two keys to making the most of your Word resume template: taking advantage of Word’s available features and practicing patience as you tweak and perfect the document.

Use Word’s available features

There’s a reason Word is so popular. It comes fully loaded with useful features, many of which will be a major help as you work on your next resume. Here are six features you should consider taking advantage of if you want your document to look its best:

• Word’s editor tool will check your resume for spelling and grammar. Don’t let recruiters doubt your professionalism.
• The Track Changes feature puts a red line through deleted text rather than eliminating it. Play around with the wording on your resume to weigh your options until you get it just right.
• Word’s Resume Assistant feature is specially designed for creating a new resume. Use this feature to see how others in your field have described their work experience, giving you the inspiration to overcome pesky writer’s block.
• Word’s line spacing feature lets you tighten up text, so there’s less blank space between lines. Say more on a single page.
• The margins adjustor on Word lets you cover more of the page with text. When you’re struggling to squeeze in important information, this extra space can prove vital.
• Word lets you convert your final resume to a PDF. This makes it easy to save your resume as a file you can send digitally.

Set aside ample time to build your Word resume

A resume on Word isn’t something you can polish off in five minutes even if you’ve uploaded a template. You need the document to come out looking fantastic, and that requires meticulous attention to detail.

While you work on your Word resume, consider the following:

• How to customize your filler text
• How to set the font size and color
• Which line spacing to use
• How to make an inflexible layout work for the information you need to include
• How to  format your resume  for ATS scanners

If all this sounds like too much of a hassle, just use our simple resume builder . By typing in your details and letting our tool take care of the rest, you’ll take the guesswork and stress out of the resume creation process.

There are countless resume templates in Word, and it’s up to you to find the option that best suits your industry and personality. No matter which template you choose, the most important thing is to represent yourself well. When it comes to  writing resumes , content wins over style every time.

While a  resume outline  and template will give your document the basic structure it needs, save yourself time and frustration by opting for a complete resume builder experience instead.

Whether you want to upload and  check a resume  with our AI-powered tips or start from scratch, our tools are convenient and effective. If you’ve got your information handy, then a stylish, professional resume is just a few clicks away.

The best way to start is to choose a Word resume template for a professional outline. Word has prebuilt templates, or you can download and upload one you find online. Once your template is set, you can customize the font, colors, spacing, and columns to fit your needs. Some best practices when creating a resume in Word include keeping it on a single page, using a 12-14 point Arial or Times New Roman font for readability, and using single or 1.5 point spacing.

Try a reverse-chronological format . It tends to work best for most careers. Leading with your most recent experiences shows career growth and helps emphasize how you can help with current industry needs. For example, someone applying for a senior management role may want to show how they’ve climbed the ladder from assistant or project management roles. Alternatively, recent grads with limited experience or applicants for highly technical roles may also benefit from functional or hybrid formats that list relevant skills and accomplishments before employment history.

Word has many prebuilt resume templates you can access. To do so, click “File” then “New” and type “resume” in the search box that appears at the top right-hand corner. Then, simply choose the one that fits your needs and personality. To access a resume template for Word that you downloaded online, go to “Insert” then “Object” and choose the file from the box that appears.

To save and email the resume you created in Word, go to “File” then “Save As.” Once the box pops up, enter a file name that shows exactly what position you’re applying to, such as “First Name–Last Name–Position–2024.” Then, under the “File Format” dropdown, you should select PDF since it’s the most widely accepted file type for resumes. Lastly, you would compose your email, click attach files, and add the PDF you just saved.

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How-To Geek

How to create a professional résumé in microsoft word.

Pressing the send button when sending your résumé to a potential employer can be a nerve-racking experience.

Quick Links

What is a résumé, using a microsoft word résumé template, crafting a custom résumé in microsoft word, deciding what information to include, organizing that information.

Pressing the send button when sending your résumé to a potential employer can be a nerve-racking experience. We're here to show you how to create a résumé using Microsoft Word and provide a few tips on getting you through the résumé screening process so you can press that send button with confidence.

A résumé, often referred to as a CV (curriculum vitae), is a summary of a person's background and experience, including work experience, education, and even volunteer work, and its most common use is to send to potential employers when searching for a new career opportunity. In fact, though taking on a much different form than that of what you'd expect a résumé to look like today, Leonardo Da Vinci even did this himself, and he is often given credit as the first person to create a resume.

Of course, the résumé has undergone quite the transformation since Da Vinci's 1482 version, drastically so during the age of word processors and digital typesetting in the 1970's---40 years after résumés became an institution. Fast-forward to today and not only do you have your standard .doc or .pdf résumé, but you'll also see people uploading video résumés on YouTube and using social media platforms like LinkedIn to sell themselves to companies.

We should be thankful for these developments because now we can skip the quill and ink and jump straight into Microsoft Word.

Microsoft Word offers a bunch of résumé templates. Some are beautiful; some are not. We'll let you decide which style fits you best, but here's where you can find them.

Go ahead and open Word. As soon as you do, you'll be greeted with several different templates to choose from, ranging from a simple blank document, cover letters, résumés, or even seasonal event flyers. Click the "Resumes and Cover Letters" link under the search box to see only those types of templates.

Now, you'll see all the different resume styles Word has to offer. There are a lot of different styles and color schemes to choose one, so pick what feels right. If you scroll down the list a bit, you'll also see some plainer resume templates designed for different purposes---like an entry-level, chronological, or extended CV style.

Some of the templates are already built into Word; others are a quick, free download from Office.com (and you won't even have to leave Word to grab them). When you click to create a resume, Word will let you know the download size (if it needs to download the template). Click the "Create" button and a few seconds later, you'll be in your document and ready to edit.

That's all there is to it! But what if you didn't find a résumé you liked? Luckily, Word has a few formatting tools to help you craft the perfect résumé.

Before we start, it's important to know that each résumé should reflect a person's personal experience and education. Since everyone's experience is different, it's no surprise that their résumés will be too.

That being said, there are some general aesthetic guidelines for making a résumé that we highly recommend you follow for a professional-looking document .

Go ahead and open up a clean, blank document in Word.

The first thing we'll want to do is set our margins. Go to the "Layout" tab and click the "Margins" buttons.

The drop-down menu displays several different margin options from which to choose. If you can't find the one you're looking for, you can click "Custom Margins" at the bottom and enter your specifications. Let's go ahead and do that.

According to the experts, the best margin size is 1" for the top and bottom and 0.63" for the sides. This may seem like an oddly specific number, but the objective is to get as much (relevant) information about yourself as possible on a page without overwhelming the reader. With the above credentials, we leave enough white space on the page for the reader to not feel suffocated.

Click "OK" once you've entered the margin sizes you want.

Now that our margins are set, it's time to start inputting information.

The information you put mainly depends on what you're trying to accomplish and where you are in your professional career. If you have over two years of working experience, then detailing that information is much more valuable than which high school you graduated from or which clubs you were a part of in college. Like a cover letter, your résumé should uniquely cater to the recipient. Dress to impress.

So, which information should you put? We'll give you the overview, and you can decide which areas you should detail.

• Contact Information
• Professional Experience (It's also ok to include any volunteer work at the bottom of this section)
• Additional Skills

For all of these, tailor the information to the job. You don't need to fit irrelevant work experience in there unless not including it would create a gap in your work experience. But if you're applying for a job as an accountant, nobody cares that you delivered pizzas 12 years ago. And you do list out any additional skills, make sure they're relevant to the position for which you're applying. Your high school friend might be impressed by how high you can kick, but your future employer---not so much.

Another thing to remember is that you should always list out your experience in reverse chronological order. That is, list out your most recent experience first, and go back from there.

There're several ways to do this, but arguably the most effective way is by creating headings and then inserting a table for the content of each section. By doing so, you're not only able to move content around in groups instead of individually, which can be a headache in itself, but you're also able to give your résumé a unique touch by adding table designs. In the image below, for example, we've added a dashed border to the left side of the table to create a nice little visual element to tie the different experience elements together.

First things first, let's go ahead and find a heading that we like. In the "Styles" section of the "Home" tab, you'll find several default styles. If you can't find one you like, then Word has a feature that lets you create your own. First, click the "More" arrow on the right-hand side of the different built-in styles.

You'll see a menu with three different options. Go ahead and click "Create a Style."

The "Create New Style from Formatting" window will appear. The only thing you can do here is to name the style, so click "Modify."

Now you should see a window with many formatting options. For fonts, there's no best option. Just make sure you use something that's clean and readable. "Georgia" is a great example. A 14 pt font size is fine for headings, but make sure it's bold so that each section is easier to find for the reader.

The "Add to the Styles gallery" option will automatically be selected. It's good to leave this option selected so you'll have easy access to your heading for the other sections of your résumé. If you plan to use this heading again in future documents, you can go ahead and deselect "Only in this document," but since we only plan to use it for our résumé, we'll keep that option selected.

Click "OK."

Go ahead and type in your first heading and apply the new style to it. In this example, we'll use "Experience" first.

Now, let's use a table under our first heading so that we can keep all our content lined up correctly. Place your insertion point on the line under your new heading, switch to the "Insert" tab, and click the "Table" button.

You'll see a 10x8 grid on the drop-down menu. You can create the table size by moving your mouse over the grid and clicking when it's the size you want. For your résumé, you'll need one column and enough rows to contain the separate pieces of information you have to list. For example, if you have three prior jobs to list in the Experience section, you'll want a table that's 1x3.

And here's what it looks like after we've inserted the table into the document.

We'll remove the border lines later. First, go ahead and put in your information. You'll want the "Job Title, Company" text to be 1 or 2 pts larger than the rest of the text but be sure to keep it smaller than the heading of the section. If you want your job title to stand out, you can change the color or make it italic, but try to keep it simple.

Once that's ready, let's go ahead change the borders of our table. Select the table by placing your insertion point anywhere inside it. Switch to the "Design" tab in the "Table Tools" section of the Ribbon, and then click the "Borders" button.

If you want to keep it simple and remove all the lines of your table, select "No Border." In this example, we're going to give our table a little flavor, so we'll select "Borders and Shading."

Because we only want to customize the left border of our table, we will select "Custom" under the "Setting" section. This lets us use the "Preview" section to deselect the sides on which we don't want borders. Click the boxes surrounding the preview to turn off all the borders except for the left one.

In the "Style" list, you can select the border design, color, and width you want. Click "OK" when you're ready.

Now we should have an experience section on our résumé that's starting to shape up. A little playing with colors and maybe spacing the table rows a bit, and you should be ready to go.

Now, just repeat these steps for the rest of the sections and your professional résumé will be finished in no time!

Image Credit: fizkes /Shutterstock

31 Free Resume Templates for Microsoft Word (& How to Make Your Own)

Published: August 10, 2023

No matter what industry you work in (or your experience level in that industry), a plain, black-and-white resume written in Times New Roman font just doesn't quite cut it anymore.

But just because resumes have gotten more creative doesn't mean you need special design software to make your application stand out. On the contrary, writing your resume in good old Microsoft Word is still the perfect way to develop your personal brand, while also communicating your experience and career goals.

Read on to find the perfect template for your next resume, then learn how to create your own in Microsoft Word.

Download 12 free, editable resume templates.

Free Resume Template Downloads for Word

1. monogram header resume template.

Download this template here .

We'll start with a simple one. This is a HubSpot exclusive resume template that is simple and clean with attractive monogrammed headers to call out each section of the resume. The rest of the design relies on a simple serif font for easy reading, which is a good thing considering that hiring managers only take 7.4 seconds to evaluate a resume. You want your experience section to be easily scannable.

Recommended For: Freelancers

This resume template is best for freelancers. The project section is great for showcasing the skills that would be most applicable for the industry the applicant wants to enter.

12 Free Customizable Resume Templates

Fill out this form to access your free professionally-designed templates, available on:

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Google Slides

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

2. Maroon Sidebar Resume Template

Pulling your more text-heavy information off to the side in an attractive color-blocked sidebar, this resume lets your experience stand for itself in white space at the top. It's also easily customizable with no difficult-to-manipulate tables or formatting. The sidebars are in movable text boxes that can even be removed if you wish.

Recommended For: College Graduates

This template is best for young professionals starting their careers. This adjustable resume template can give you full customization options for your first resume.

3. Centered Bar Resume Template

This resume takes on a different look than most resumes, centered around a single bar. This makes the resume more visually striking, which could draw attention as hiring managers are evaluating candidates. It also puts emphasis on the objective with your chronological experience supporting it underneath. All of this is in an attractive serif font that is elegant and classy.

This template is great for college graduates to show their most recent accomplishments. The "Objective" section will help you showcase where you are trying to go in your career.

4. Bold Serif Resume Template

Speaking of serif fonts, this resume puts forward an element of grace and formality with its font choices. It's perfect for individuals who are looking for more organic colors than the ones more typically found in resumes, and the colors are also easily changed in Microsoft Word's theme settings. It also includes a skill-level bar, adding a nice visual touch to the template.

Recommended For: College Students

This template is great for college students to demonstrate their internship experience. The volunteering section gives a rounded viewpoint of your accomplishments if you are just leaving college.

5. Strategist Resume Template

High-level strategy demands a range of skill sets — project management, media, planning, and more. So, strategist resumes need space to hold a lot of information without overwhelming the reader.

This design is clean and pleasing to the eye. It's easy to scan and customize based on your specific experience.

Recommended For: Project Managers

The "Areas of Expertise" section stands out on this template. This gives you a chance to draw a clear connection between your professional experience and what you're capable of.

6. Modern Chronological Resume Template

This resume template is available from Microsoft itself, and it's one of many free templates the company has prepared for those who depend on Microsoft Office tools to create content. Yes, it’s written in Times New Roman — don't freak out.

Designs like this can borrow an old-school typeface and still impress recruiters with a clean layout and subtle use of color. You can also change the font if you wish (and the same goes for every template in our list).

Recommended For: Developers

The "Skills" section is perfect for candidates in the tech industry. A candidate can showcase the languages they are fluent in and show a variety of accomplishments, successfully demonstrating their capabilities as they move into a new industry.

7. Digital Marketing Resume Template

The digital marketing resume below comes from our own collection of resume templates, all of which open directly in MS Word.

Coming with two pages total, this sheet holds a wealth of information and offers the perfect amount of style while maintaining professionalism. Mid-level marketers all the way up to CMOs can find this template valuable.

Recommended For: Mid-Level Marketers

In this resume template, mid-level marketers can effectively showcase a variety of their skills, as well as their portfolio and other media pieces.

8. Black and White Resume Template

The Black and White resume template below suits professionals who prefer using color and shading to add structure to their resume.

The black banner at the top contrasts the applicant's name nicely to help make him/her more memorable to recruiters. The gray banner just below the header is perfect for a summary or career objective — it makes one's goals known but doesn't overpower the experience listed below it.

Recommended For: Graphic Designers

If you're a graphic designer, this is the resume to showcase your art. This template has a monochromatic color scheme, but if you are a designer, you can easily take it to the next level.

9. Urban Development Resume Template

The illustration on the top-left of this template shows who the designers at Hloom had in mind for this resume: civil engineers. But because it's a Word document, that graphic is easy to edit and replace with an image that represents your line of work. Are you an analytics buff? Design a clever bar or line graph icon and place it next to your name in blue (or whatever color you'd like!).

Recommended for: Civil Engineers

If you're a civil engineer who wants to display your accomplishments, this is the template to use. There's a section that lets you list all of your achievements and notable opportunities that made you grow as a civil engineer.

10. Email Marketing Resume Template

Red color never fails to stick out on a sheet of paper, especially if it's included in small amounts. This resume template for email marketers captures that balance.

In addition to the professional title in the top right-hand corner, this template also stands out with a thin sans-serif font, helping make a lot of text easier for a recruiter to digest and read through.

Recommended for: Email Marketers

If you are an email marketer who wants to highlight successes in your previous campaigns without boring the viewer with the details, this resume template is perfect for displaying bite-sized information.

11. Info Pop Resume Template

This one, also from Hloom, gives you exactly what the name suggests: ample space for the info you need, with headers that pop just enough to get your employer's attention.

Although the template fits a ton of text, its soft color palate prevents the document from seeming overwhelming.

Recommended For: Experienced Professionals

This resume gives a lot of information all at once, which is perfect for professionals with more than eight years of experience. The layout makes it easily scannable and easy for a recruiter to read.

12. Strong Resume Template

This resume template features bold sections of color that fill the page. This format is perfect for interns who don't have a lot of professional experience yet. It's also useful for roles where a portfolio or other resource is a priority for hiring managers.

Recommended For: Interns

Make the depth of your interest, knowledge, and creativity more important than how long you've been working with this template. Sections for education, learning more, and describing yourself and your brand make it easy to share what you're about.

13. Dark Resume Template

Ironically, a dark background could be just the thing to ensure your resume doesn't fall into the black hole of resumes piled on the hiring manager's desk.

Using soft, yellow font, the resume template below inverts the usual color scheme of a resume without trying too hard to be creative.

Recommended For: C-Suite Executives

If you have years of experience in an executive position, this design has a bold and unique design that will separate you from the pack. What's more, it has an area where you can list your achievements, relevant skills, and notable opportunities, allowing you to showcase your effectiveness as a leader.

14. Skilled Resume Template

This resume design by Hloom communicates a truly professional tone. The template's muted colors work well with its clean layout.

Recommended For: Professionals in All Industries

Whether you're just starting out in any industry or looking to change careers, this template is suitable to highlight your skills and qualifications to propel you to the next level.

15. Inbound Marketing Resume Template

Here's another resume template dedicated to the digital marketer. This sheet offers all the inbound marketing language you need to express your values as a passionate, brand-loyal professional.

Like a few other templates on this list, it also uses just a dash of vibrant color in the applicant's name at the top (where it matters most).

Recommended For: Communications and Marketing Candidates

This template is great for candidates moving into a communications or marketing role. Aside from its amazing visual appeal, this template creates a sense of connection with the reviewer by adding a personal touch.

16. Smart and Professional Resume Template

This is another sharp template that offers a basic but confident design for any professional. The warm-colored panel on the right-hand side is pre-formatted for a written profile, where you can write a summary of your background or a form letter to each employer.

Just be sure to personalize this messaging to each new recipient so it works for the job you're applying to. This template is available on Freesumes, and is free to users once they share the page to Facebook or Twitter.

Recommended For: Young Professionals

This resume is great for someone starting their career who needs a little guidance on how to best display notable experiences related to the job posting. Also, it's an editable template that can easily be personalized to appeal to the HR rep reading the resume.

17. Face Forward Resume Template

It's not typical to add a picture to your resume. In fact, it's actively discouraged in some industries. But for roles where your image is a selling point, this is a great choice. The photo at the top is small and subtle, but it also makes the simple design stand out.

Recommended For: Models, Actors, and Real Estate Agents

This resume template is especially useful for working professionals with a lot of experience or a range of non-traditional experiences. There's also room to highlight unique skills and qualifications.

18. Spick and Span Resume Template

There isn't a better name for the template below. The Spick and Span resume might be the cleanest-looking sheet on this list.

It uses boldface, all-caps, and gray typeface to structure various headers of the document differently and maximize the hiring manager's reading experience. And all that minimalism makes the professional headshot at the top pop off the page.

Recommended For: Creatives, Designers, and Developers

Resumes that look like this can be the work sample. If you have a background in illustration or design, making your resume stand out will be a great nod to your future employer. Get creative with your resume's design if you want to work in an illustrative industry.

19. Timeline-Style Resume Template

Similar to the Centered Bar resume earlier in the post, Hloom's Timeline template is a super simple but creative way to tell your story.

You can convey your progression through various jobs you've held on one side of the vertical line, and more static elements of your background — such as skills and education — on the other.

Recommended For: Editors and Copywriters

This template has a sleek and clean look that places the focus on the highlights of your experience rather than on the minor details. If you have a background in editing or copywriting, this resume is the perfect way to showcase your skills in a concise and effective narrative — without the fluff.

20. Content Production Resume Template

This basic resume template is suited for content producers at all career stages. By spreading out the header and "Skills" text horizontally, the resume below fits a lot of crucial information comfortably on one page (of course, it also comes with a second page if you need it).

Recommended For: Content Creators and Videographers

This resume will help content creators showcase their biggest projects and most notable accomplishments. It's great for showing how your scope of work has increased over the years, solidifying your expertise in that field.

21. Fresh Resume Template

This is perhaps the most imaginative of all the Word-based resume templates on this list — with both a skills meter and a comic headshot.

The template was designed by Venkata Naresh and comes with 12 different versions of this design. Have you created a Bitmoji of yourself? Do you think your employer would find it creative? Match the template and add it as your photo.

Recommended For: Creative Artists or Digital Marketers

If you need a resume template that will showcase your artistic skills without being too casual or informal, this is perfect for you. You can also add in notes of your accomplishments, relevant skills, and qualifications for the job.

22. CV Resume Template

The curriculum vitae-style resume below flips the typical two-column resume so the basic applicant information is listed across the right side, rather than the left.

Feel free to change the color of this sidebar in Microsoft Word if dark red isn't your thing — the template can pull off any color you wish.

Recommended For: Graduate Candidates

If you are a graduate student entering the workforce, having a CV-style resume will demonstrate the depth of your knowledge first and showcase how your continued education will contribute to your future work environment.

23. Entry-Level Resume Template

When you're early in your career, a customized resume is key. This template is simple, with a clear structure and spaces to highlight important skills, education, and experience.

The design uses accessible fonts to create a clean and professional look that you can personalize for your brand.

Recommended For: Young Professionals and Career Changes

At this stage in your career, it's essential to add useful data and examples to your resume to show hiring managers what you can bring. The easy-to-read fonts and headers in this template will help you highlight relevant details in your resume.

24. Goldenrod Resume Template

This template, also offered on Freesumes, dares to use yellow as the dominant color — but doesn't sacrifice professionalism in the process.

The document anchors the education section to a thick, bright banner across the bottom, but you can likely change this to a skills section with some simple editing in Microsoft Word.

Recommended For: Architects

This clean-cut design represents a candidate who is all about precision. This template would serve candidates who have experience in architecture or construction.

25. Resume Template With Personal Endorsements

What makes this resume unique is the space for references on the lower left-hand side. Does your field need others to vouch for your experience? This resume gives you room for three solid recommendations.

Recommended For: Brand Marketers or Personal Influencers

If you work in branding or have a large social media following, you can show your ability to create a cohesive message with this resume template. Feel free to change the color scheme to suit your brand.

26. Creative Resume Template

This one was designed by the stationery experts at MOO and is offered for download by Microsoft. Simple but vibrant, this template hugs the text with an artistic header and footer — great for recent graduates who need to fill empty space on the page.

Recommended For: Photographers and Other Creatives

If you are a photographer who does freelance work, this is a great template to showcase your experience. This will give your hiring manager or client an excellent first impression because it showcases your creative ability without sacrificing the important elements — your accomplishments.

27. Modern Resume Template

This resume embraces simplicity with a slight touch of color to make things a bit more interesting. It also nicely sections off Skills and Education notes from the Work History list.

With LiveCareer.com, you can generate a template with your basic information and then download it to add small details.

This resume gives a modern twist on the resume. It's perfect for those looking for a fresher look than the traditional resume.

28. Functional Resume Template

This NovoResume.com template is colorful and includes a place for your headshot which could make you look both interesting and confident to an employer.

Recommended For: Media Professionals

A colorful format like this one might be great for a media or advertising professional who wants to keep their job application visually memorable to prospective employers.

29. Elegant Resume Template

If you're looking for simplicity and efficiency rather than something colorful, consider this Elegant Resume Template from Jofibo.

With Jofibo, you can select this or other similar templates on the website, enter your information, and then download it quickly and easily.

Recommended For: Marketing Candidates

If you are a mid-level marketing candidate, use this fun template to showcase all of your expertise and accomplishments. It's an eye-catching template that displays your creativity and ability to engage.

30. Blue Corporate Resume Template

Because of the color and image, it's pretty memorable. But, for those who prefer a more conservative resume look, this template is fairly simple.

Recommended For: Corporate Candidates

This template is great for accomplished candidates moving into a high-rank position. This layout allows you to fit plenty of accomplishments, and the conservative look organizes the fullness of your career neatly.

31. Concept Resume

This resume is perfect for displaying a clear timeline of your career history. It's ideal for a seasoned professional who may have a lot of experience and wants to display it on one to two pages.

The template also allows you to highlight your competency level in various areas, giving the recruiter an easy way to spot your expertise.

Recommended For: Candidates in the Tech Industry

This resume is great for people in the technical space because it adds a touch of color and feels more compact, which will allow you to get right to the point about your key skills, certifications, and work experiences.

How to Make a Resume in Word

• Open Microsoft Word on your computer.
• Select either Basic Resume or Bold Resume from the template menu.
• Fill in your name and contact information at the top.
• Draft a brief summary of your experience and goals.
• Enter your school and latest education.
• Describe each job you've held using the lines prompted on the template.
• List all relevant skills.
• Describe any relevant accolades and accomplishments.

1. Open Microsoft Word on your computer.

If you have Microsoft Word installed on your computer, open the program and let it load for a moment. There will be a couple of helpful options waiting for you on the first screen, specifically for resume creation.

2. Select either "Basic Resume" or "Bold Resume" from the template menu.

Once you've launched MS Word, a window of templates will appear. Scroll down until you see the template options designed for resumes — there will be at least two of them. Double-click the one that suits your style and personal brand, but don't be too particular about design just yet — you can customize these templates quite a bit.

3. Fill in your name and contact information at the top.

When your resume template opens, you'll see placeholder text for each line of your resume, starting with your first and last name at the top. Delete this header text and enter your name, as well as any contact information by which you want the recruiter to contact you.

4. Draft a brief summary of your experience and goals.

Use the first line below your name and contact info to describe who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for in your career.

5. Enter your school and latest education.

List any relevant degrees or certificates you received through schooling. You can safely exclude secondary education if you've graduated from an accredited college.

6. Describe each job you've held using the lines prompted on the template.

Your professional experience is frequently the most important section of your resume, so feel free to rank this section above your skills and education, depending on how many jobs you previously held.

7. List all relevant skills.

If you have experience in certain software, exercises, problem-solving, or management techniques, use them to populate your skills. Your resume's "Skills" section helps reveal what all of your previous jobs or related experiences have in common, based on what they taught you and what you provided them.

8. Describe any relevant accolades and accomplishments.

Finish out your resume with any personal accomplishments or accolades you think a hiring manager in your industry would appreciate. Although this section shouldn't include a Most Improved recognition from little league, for example, it should definitely include your Marketer of the Month award from your last position.

Next, let’s talk about another easy way to create a resume in Word — templates.

Free Resumes Templates

Fill out the form to get your resume templates., how to upload external templates into word, 1. download your template., 2. double-click on your chosen template..

Your new template will open in Microsoft Word and is ready for editing.

You can also try the following series of steps if the instructions above aren't working.

• Download your template.
• Open Microsoft Word.
• Click File and scroll to Open .
• Click on the folder where you downloaded your templates.
• Open your chosen resume template and begin editing.

How to Find Resume Templates in Word

1. open microsoft word., 2. click new on the left sidebar., 3. choose one of the resume template options in word..

These templates are visually appealing and are ready-made to send with your job application.

If you already have Microsoft Word open on your computer, follow the directions below:

• Click File in the top left corner.
• Scroll to New from Template.
• Choose one of Word's resume templates.

Next, let's cover how to format your brand-new resume in Word.

How To Format a Resume in Word

Even the brightest, most beautiful resume template will need some editing to fit your goals and information. We'll go over it piece by piece.

1. Add your resume text.

Sometimes adding resume text to a template is as simple as copy and paste. Other times, this task can be an exercise in frustration.

To make sure this process goes smoothly, remove any text formatting before you paste your resume text. If you're working on a Mac, you can clear formatting with a tool like Text Editor.

2. Set the right margins and font size.

Most resumes have one-inch margins on all sides for easy printing. Most Word documents will automatically have one-inch margins, but it's best to double-check or create them yourself. Here's how to create one-inch margins for your resume:

• Click Layout in the top navigation of your Word document.
• Click Margins .
• Choose the Normal setting, where it states 1" on the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the document.

Lastly, choose an easy-to-read font size. 12 pt. fonts are standard for most resumes. But if you have a particularly long CV, you may want to choose a smaller font size to make your resume easier to scan.

3. Create headers.

You should separate each section (such as education or work experience) with a header.

If you're formatting a basic resume, you can create a header in Word by selecting Styles from the formatting options at the top of your document workspace. If you can’t see this workspace, try clicking Home at the top left.

• Try Header 1 for your first and last name at the top of the page.
• Header 2 is great for the "Education," "Work Experience," and "Skills" sections.
• Use Header 3 for employer names and job titles.
• Then, use normal text to fill in the details of your accomplishments, skills, and educational background.

You can also use this feature to adjust the headers in your template.

4. Create dividers.

If you want to visually divide your resume into different parts, you can create dividers to split up the information and make your resume more scannable.

Here's how to add dividers:

• Go to Insert .
• Click Shapes .
• Select the line icon to draw a line in your Word resume.
• Use the Format Shape menu on the right to adjust the style of your line.

Another shortcut to create dividers is pressing "=", "_", or "*" three times and hitting enter. These shortcuts will create a variety of dividers that can add dimension to your resume.

5. Add bullet points.

The truth is, no hiring manager will read a paragraph of information. So, we recommend using bullet points to list your accomplishments and responsibilities.

You can add bullets using the icons in the formatting window at the top of your document workspace. Check out bullet point styles by clicking the arrow to the right of the bullet points icon. Then, choose the style you like best.

6. Adjust spacing and indentation.

White space on a resume gives your reader visual breathing room. This helps them understand which parts of your resume are most important. To create that white space, use the spacing and indentation tools in Word.

Line spacing options will increase the space between lines in your document. This creates more white space between lines of text.

Use the formatting buttons at the top of your document workspace to add or remove indentation. Keep in mind that you may change more than one section of text if you make indentation changes.

7. Review for formatting consistency.

When you're formatting a resume, it's easy to get so involved in what the text says that you may forget how it looks. Another common pitfall is focusing your energy on how to make everything you want to say fit on a single page.

But you need consistent formatting to create a professional first impression for your resume.

Once you've finished formatting, do a quick scan of your new resume.

• First, check that all your headers, sub-headers, and text sections are the same font and the same size.
• Next, take a look at your bullet point, dash, and other styles. Make sure that sizes and styles are consistent throughout your resume.
• Finally, scan your resume to make sure that the spacing is consistent. Try squinting at your document to see if some sections have more white space or indentation than others.

These kinds of issues are often easier to notice on a physical resume, so scan a printed copy if you can.

How to Save Your Resume

Remember, once you've finished personalizing your resume, you're not ready to submit an application yet.

Let's go through the instructions you'll follow if you're saving a resume you created from a template for the first time:

1. Click File

2. scroll to save as, 3. name and save your new resume..

If you click Save instead of Save As , you'll save your new resume over the template. So, it's a good idea to use Save As if you think you may need to start over with the template. If you don't, you might end up wasting the time it takes to find and download your resume template again.

Once you're done editing your resume in Word, you may also want to save it in PDF format. This helps you make sure that your resume's format will stay the same for everyone who receives it.

Tips for Using Word Resume Templates

1. choose the right template for your industry..

Whether you're in marketing, sales, engineering, or another field, resume expectations will vary. Check out online resumes from other professionals in your field. Then, choose a template that aligns with those examples to find the right format to showcase your skills and experience.

2. Keep your formatting consistent.

Consistency is key when it comes to formatting your resume. Font styles, sizes, bullet points, and colors should be the same throughout the document. Consistent formatting gives your resume a polished and professional look.

3. Try advanced formatting features.

Experiment with styles and sections to create a unique resume that stands out. These features offer you more control and consistency as you format your resume.

4. Use headings to organize your resume.

Headings make it easy for employers to scan your resume and find the information they're looking for. Make headers stand out with a distinct font or style.

5. Experiment with advanced layouts and tables.

Try adding columns or text boxes for visually appealing sections or to highlight key details. Test out different layouts to see what gets the best results.

6. Add a visual timeline.

The hiring manager for your dream role may be more interested in your progression than your job titles. Try crafting a visual timeline using SmartArt or shapes to show your career progression. This can also be an interesting way to show your work history or educational background.

7. Personalize the template to reflect your personal brand.

Templates are an amazing starting point, but don't forget to personalize your resume to reflect your personal brand.

Add a distinct color scheme, fonts, or a personal logo to leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

Make the Most of Resume Templates in Word

Resume templates can help you unlock the power of pre-designed layouts to create a gorgeous and professional resume. This makes it easy for you to focus on compelling content for a powerful resume. With one simple download, it's easy to show employers what you're capable of and stand out with every job application.

Editor's Note: This post was originally published in 2018 but was updated in May 2020 for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to Make a Resume on Word for 2024 (7 Simple Steps)

Welcome to our ultimate guide for writing a resume using Microsoft Word! You’ll find tips for using MS Word to format your resume correctly plus all you need to know about Microsoft resume templates.

Make my resume

As seen in:

Want to create a resume in Word? You’ve come to the right place! We’ll show you some easy tips and tricks to make a good Microsoft Word resume that recruiters remember.

This step-by-step guide will teach you how to make a resume on Word that’s well-formatted, includes all the right sections and looks fantastic and industry-ready.

In this article, you will also learn:

How to make a resume on Word using a template

• Free resume templates to use in Word

How to write an MS Word resume in 7 easy steps

• How to format your MS Word resume

You could also use our Resume Builder to create a professional resume for you quickly with personalized content and customizable resume templates .

The easiest way to make a resume on Word, is to use one of its pre-existing resume templates.

Here’s what you need to do:

• 1 Open Microsoft Word.
• 2 Go to the search bar and type “resume.” Pick one of the pre-formatted resume templates that pop up.
• 3 Edit the filler text on the resume template with your professional information.
• 4 Save your document as a PDF and send it via email or submit it to an online job application form.

Although this is an easy way to write a resume, Microsoft Word is popular — meaning many people use it.

It wouldn’t be unusual for a recruiter to find dozens of applicants using the same MS Word resume templates (Microsoft only offers three free resume templates). Not a good first impression to have a resume that looks like everyone else’s.

If you want to stand out from the applicant pool, you’ll benefit from using an external template like those in our resume template library .

Free resume templates to make a resume on Word

Feel free to download these resume templates and use them to make a resume on Word.

Our free templates offer instructional content to help you fill your resume sections accurately.

It’s like having a how-to-write-a-resume guide and a free template all in one!

Chronological

Who should use a chronological resume format?

• Individuals applying for executive-level positions.
• Job seekers with 10+ years of experience in a same industry.
• Anyone who want to showcase an impressive career progression.

Who should use a functional resume format?

• Applicants with very limited work experience.
• Job seekers who prefer emphasizing skills and education.
• Individuals with noticeable employment gaps.

Combination

Who should use a combination resume format?

• Job seekers who want to focus on both their skills and experience.
• Applicants with five to eight years of experience.
• Career-changers, promotion-seekers or those returning to the workforce after a break.

If you want full control of how your resume looks, you can also write your resume in a few simple steps using Microsoft Word’s paid resume templates.

Microsoft Word offers a way to create a custom resume if you have paid the purchase fee for Microsoft Office 365.

If you’re confident you want to make a resume on a Word document, follow these steps:

Open the Microsoft Word program and create a new “Blank document file.”

Choose a simple and easy-to-read font like:

• Times New Roman

Keep the font size between 10-12 for the text and 14-16 for the section headings.

Build a header for your contact information.

Microsoft automatically formats your page, so you can type your contact info.

• Your full name
• Your phone number
• City, state and ZIP code of your residence
• Links to your portfolio, LinkedIn or relevant social media accounts (optional)

Increase the font size of your name, so it appears big and bold at the top of your resume for recruiters to immediately recognize you.

Write a resume summary or objective.

Hit the ‘Enter’ button to create a paragraph break and continue with your second resume section: the resume summary or objective statement .

This section consists of a short paragraph where you introduce yourself to a potential employer by mentioning your role and your most relevant achievements.

Resume summary versus resume objective

Resume summary.

• Best for experienced candidates.
• Four to five sentences long.
• Focuses on key skills and experiences from the job description.
• Shares more information like job title and years of experience and licenses/certifications.

Resume objective

• Ideal for applicants with little to no experience.
• Two to three sentences long.
• Focuses on goals within the role and your career
• Mentions what new skills and knowledge you can bring to the role like relevant coursework or internships.

In most cases, the resume summary is your best option because it allows you to write a robust introduction with your best qualifications.

However, if you’re a student or a recent graduate with virtually no relevant experience , you’d better opt for the resume objective.

This is how your resume summary should look on your resume:

This is how a resume objective looks like. See how they differ:

Outline your work experience.

Create another section with the heading “Work Experience,” and include a list of the jobs you’ve held throughout your career in reverse-chronological order.

What to include in your work experience section :

• Name of employer
• Location of employment
• Dates of employment
• 3-4 bullet points describing your accomplishments within each role

Unsure of what to write under your job experience? Stop racking your brain trying to find the right words and let our Resume Builder do the work for you! Choose from hundreds of work experience descriptions you can copy and paste right onto your resume.

Build my resume

Are you applying for your first job and don’t have much experience? You can minimize your work experience and put the focus instead on your accomplishments within your skills section by writing a functional resume .

List your most job-relevant skills.

For your next section, you will create a heading titled “Skills,” and include a list of six to eight professional skills.

Don’t just list the first skills that pop into your head, be strategic and choose skills relevant to the job you’re applying for.

How to choose the right skills for my resume?

Finding the right resume skills is as easy as browsing through the role’s job description. The job ad will tell you all the skills and knowledge you need to possess for a chance to get the position.

Note all the skills from the job ad you possess and add them to your resume skills section.

This is how your skills section should look:

Showcase your education to make a resume on Word.

Create a section titled “Education” and list all your academic achievements, i.e., high school diploma, bachelor’s degree, master’s or any postdoctoral degree.

Your education section must include:

• The title of your degree
• The university or institution that issued your degree
• The city and state where the university is located

Generally, you should avoid including graduation dates in your education section.

While age discrimination is forbidden in the workforce , some employers may nonetheless feel a certain way about your age, which is easily determined when you list graduation dates. Why risk being passed over by an ageist recruiter? You want to convince them you’re a stellar candidate regardless, so leave these dates off your resume.

The only exception to this is if you’re in the process of obtaining your degree and have not yet graduated. You want to share that by writing “Anticipated graduation: 2024,” for example, or the year you expect to complete your degree.

Here’s how your education section should look:

• Customize your resume with extra sections.

Once you’ve completed your five essential resume sections, you might want to include additional achievements that don’t necessarily fit into these standard resume categories.

Some common extra sections you can include in your resume are:

• Certifications
• Extracurricular Activities
• Internships
• Volunteer Experience
• Continuing Education

Wondering how to fit all your resume sections neatly into one page? Unlike Microsoft Word, our Resume Builder takes care of your resume’s formatting so you can spend more time on what matters most: your career goals and achievements.

Our Resume Builder makes writing a resume a breeze!

In just a few clicks, our builder will create a professional resume for you in minutes. Simply fill in your personal information, type in your desired role and our Resume Builder will suggest relevant pre-written content to add to your resume sections.

Resume formatting tips for making a resume on Word

Use line dividers for your sections..

Make the information on your resume stand out and look professional by adding lines that separate each resume section.

Create two columns of text for your skills section.

List your skills in two columns, rather than in one long list which creates too much wasted white space on your resume.

Include various font sizes for your resume content.

A great way to make your Word resume look legit is by using different font sizes for various parts of your document. For instance, your section headings or titles should be in the range of 14-16 in font size. The content of those resume sections should be between 10-12 font size.

Don’t go overboard with tables and graphics.

It’s best to keep your Word resume simple and not overload it with too many design elements.

Tables, graphics and images are eye-catching, but many applicant tracking systems (ATS) (the software employers use to scan resumes) have difficulty scanning them correctly, resulting in jumbled text that’s hard to follow. Sticking with horizontal lines and a pop of color in your headings is best.

Use our ready-made resume examples

Our resume examples are written by professional resume writers who know what content will catch recruiters’ attention. Use these resume examples to build your resume and pick one of our professionally designed resume templates you can easily customize for a stellar resume.

View all resume examples

Benefits of using our Resume Builder

Customizable professional templates, pre-written content for resume sections, user-friendly editing tools, automatic formatting.

Key takeaways for creating a resume in Word

• Choose a free resume template or build your resume from scratch.
• Fill in your contact information: name, phone number, email and basic location.
• Write a short summary introducing yourself with your top achievements.
• List your previous roles and outline your accomplishments.
• Showcase six to eight skills.
• Share your education but omit graduation dates to avoid hiring bias.
• Incorporate simple design elements such as easy-to-read fonts and pops of color.

More resources for you

How to Write a Cover Letter + Examples

CV vs Resume

3 File Formats to Use for a Resume

About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez • CPRW, Career Advice Expert

Gabriela Hernandez is one of LiveCareer's resident writers. She graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Journalism. Throughout her career, she has tackled copywriting, blog articles, journalistic writing, academic writing, resume writing, and even prose and verse.

Please rate this article

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*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

Word Resume Templates

Microsoft Word is a common file format for submitting a resume, 
so use our Word resume templates to create a document most employers 
can read.

• All of our templates are designed by our experts to look great in Word
• Pick a template and our Resume Builder will help you put together a polished, organized resume
• Save as many different versions of your resume you want, all in Word format

As seen in: * Foot Note

Featured Microsoft Word resume templates

Whether you want a straightforward professional template for your resume, something creative or modern , or even something more basic , we’ve got the right Microsoft Word resume templates for you. Pick one of these templates, or visit our resume templates page for dozens more options you can use for your resume.

Professional

This all-purpose Word resume layout works for almost any job, with clean lines and elegant fonts contributing to its polished appearance.

This Word resume template provides a streamlined look, topped with an attention-grabbing color header. The two-column resume layout gives you plenty of space to expand on your work history and skills.

Present yourself as a proactive, strong candidate using this Microsoft resume template, featuring bold fonts and a colorful two-column design.

“Connect the dots” of your career using this Word resume design’s unique dot graphics. Section headings are arranged on the left for quick navigation.

This Microsoft Word resume classy layout arranges sections in a tab layout for easy access, with subtle but striking fonts and colors.

This eye-catching design is laid out in quadrants, with your summary statement getting prominent placement in your Word resume template.

Charismatic

As the name suggests, this Microsoft Word resume template presents you as an attractive candidate, thanks to its dual-color combination and streamlined layout.

Distinguished

You can’t get much more polished than this Word resume template, which presents your qualifications in an uncluttered style.

Section headings are highlighted using box graphics, while the monogram design for the header adds a unique touch to this Word resume template.

Download free resume templates for Word

We’ve picked out some free downloadable Microsoft Word resume templates you can use as a foundation for your resume. Just download them and fill them out in Word.

Blue Grey Word Resume Template

• Visually striking
• Organized two-column layout
• Unusual presentation may not fit every job
• Limited space to present work history and skills
• Photo of job seeker may be inappropriate for many job applications

Modern Chronological Word Resume Template

• Streamlined layout
• Strong header with job seeker’s name prominently displayed
• Easy to get cluttered if you have a lot of information to present
• Looks a little plain compared to other layouts

Polished Word Resume Template

• Bold section headings make for quick navigation
• Color header makes for a strong statement
• Icons at bottom are a unique graphic element, but leave less room for the rest of your resume
• Black font against the header’s red background may be difficult for some to read

Columns Word Resume Template

• Unusual “homemade” look
• Each section neatly organized
• Might not be appropriate for more professional jobs
• Large header cuts down on space to feature your qualifications

Color Block Word Resume Template

• Colors jump off the page
• Summary and contact information prominently displayed
• Not much room to feature skills and work experience
• Color combination might not work for everyone

Clean Elegant Word Resume Template

• Color background helps your resume stand out
• Creative layout
• Layout lacks room for summary and complete skills section
• Using “skill level bars” may throw off readers and ATS

Minimalist Word Resume Template

• Intriguing “centered” layout
• Highlights important skills
• Unorthodox sections may confuse recruiters
• Outdated references section

Geometric Word Resume Template

• Attractive minimalist design
• Subtle but effective graphic elements
• Limited space to present your credentials
• Packing in information can lead to “unbalanced” look

Swiss Design Word Resume Template

• Highlights the summary statement
• Contact info can be difficult to find
• Skills section is deemphasized

Contemporary Word Resume Template

• Striking visual design
• Plenty of space for work experience
• Employers and ATS may be confused by “About Me” section
• Skill “ratings” may not appeal to everyone

How to create a Microsoft Word resume using our templates

Creating a resume using our Resume Builder takes only a few minutes. Just follow these steps:

Select your template.

Open our  Resume Builder  — you’ll be given the option of choosing from dozens of templates, all of which can be saved in Microsoft Word format.

Fill out your work history.

After you enter some info about your past and/or current jobs, we’ll provide you with expert suggestions on how to fill out your work history section in your Word resume template.

Complete your education and skills section.

Provide details on your education, and we’ll fill out your education section for you, followed by suggestions on the skills you should feature for your job Word resume template. Be sure to include both hard and soft skills .

Polish up your summary.

As with the other sections of your resume, we’ll give you professionally-written suggestions on what to include in your Word template resume summary . Just adapt them as needed for your own resume.

Save your resume and download it in Word.

Once you’ve completed your resume, you can save it and download it in Microsoft Word format. You can always go back and edit your document or customize its appearance if needed.

See What Job Seekers are Saying About Our Excellent Builder

5 tips for your microsoft word resume.

1. Make sure your formatting is consistent.

The easy way to check your Word template resume layout is to display all the formatting marks for your resume. Just go to the “home” tab of your Microsoft Word screen and click the paragraph icon.

Now you’ll see how tabs, spaces and paragraph returns are used in your document. Make sure your formatting is consistent throughout, and when you’re ready to save the document, click the paragraph icon again to return to normal view.

2. Stick with a straightforward layout.

You might be tempted to use special graphic elements in your Word resume template to gussy it up, but employers (and the applicant tracking systems  (ATS) they use to scan resumes) will find it easier to read your resume if you use simple lines and bullet points.

3. Give yourself some space.

What’s not in your resume can be just as important as what’s in your resume — aim to create a document that has a bit of space and is easy on the eyes. Don’t clutter up your Word resume template with too much text; use peppy bullet points and phrases, and use margins that are at least 1 inch from the edges of the document. To see how experts in your field space their resume, visit out resume examples  page.

4. Links can be handy.

If you want to point employers towards a job network profile (e.g., LinkedIn) or a professional portfolio site, be sure to link the text of your Word resume. Highlight the URL you want to link to, go to the “Insert” tab on your Word screen, and click on the “Links” icon. Then enter the link to the URL.

5. Focus on the content.

While putting together a resume that looks its best is important, what you put in your resume is just as important. Make sure you have the right resume format for your Word template (use our  resume format  guide) and make sure each section of the resume addresses exactly what the employer needs — our handy  resume-writing guide  will give you all the tips you need.

Microsoft Word Resume Template FAQ

Does microsoft word have free resume templates.

Yes, Microsoft Word provides templates to create a resume, as featured on this page. You can also use our own Microsoft Word-friendly resume templates to create your resume. Just follow the instructions above for constructing your resume using our Builder.

How do you get resume templates on Microsoft Word?

To create a resume using a Microsoft Word template, follow these steps:

Choose your template in Word.  To create your resume from scratch, click “File” in your Microsoft Word menu (you can also hit Alt+F on a PC or Command+F on a Mac). Click “More templates” to see a selection of resume layouts. You’ll notice that the following screen also has a “Resumes and Cover Letters” option — click it to see a complete set of resumes. You can also enter “resume” in the “Search for online templates” box.

Create your resume.  Once you’ve picked a resume out, click it. You should see this screen. Click “Create” to continue.

Fill out your resume.  Fill in the resume with your information.

Save your resume.  Hit Ctrl+S (or Command+S on a Mac) to save your document. If you need to save your resume in a file format other than Word, click “More options …” On the next screen, you can choose to export your resume in PDF format by clicking “Export” or save it in a different file format (e.g., RTF).

Which Word template is best for a resume?

The best template for you will depend on your particular skills, experience and needs. If you’re applying for a professional job, go for a resume template that has a neat, streamlined appearance. If you’re applying for a more creative job, look into using a template that has a bit more color and flair. You should also use a template that can be easily read by employers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). Our Microsoft resume templates are designed to be easily scanned by hiring managers and ATS. For more tips about putting together the perfect resume, visit  our resume-writing resources section .

How to add work experience in a Word resume template?

Our Word resume templates have a dedicated section for your work experience. Simply replace the filler text with your information. Use the job description to  create a targeted resume  for your Word template and combine  action verbs  with your  quantifiable achievements  to build a powerful document.

Is it bad to use Word resume templates?

Not at all. Most employers prefer to have resumes sent to them as a Microsoft Word file. Just remember to review your resume before you send it in. Make sure your information is up to date, contains skills and work experience information that addresses what the job requires, and is neatly organized. The easy way to make sure your resume looks its best is to print it out — as long as it looks good in print form, it should look fine when you submit it electronically.

What is the best free resume template?

For free templates, visit our templates section — you’ll find a host of free templates of all types you can download and use to create your own resume. Our templates are ready-made to be downloaded in Microsoft Word or other formats such as  PDF  or  plain text .

More resume tips

How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume

By Kellie Hanna, CPRW

March 21, 2024

Update Your Resume in 5 Easy Steps

By Nilda Melissa Diaz, CPRW

March 27, 2024

How to Create a Targeted Resume

February 17, 2023

Just three easy steps

• Select a template from our library of professional designs
• Build your resume with our industry-specific bullet points
• Download your resume and send!

Download your free resume template!

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Congratulations!

You've taken a big leap forward in your job search by choosing a resume template from MyPerfectResume.

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15+ Word Resume Templates with Free Download

Thought that creating a resume in Word format is passé? Not if you use one of the top Word resume templates. The best part is that they're free. So come along!

A well-designed resume is your ticket to success in today's job market. That's where a professional Word resume template comes in. Sleek, stylish, and bound to catch the eye of recruiters.

From minimalist to bold, you’ll see the best resume templates for Word to help you put your best foot forward. So, let's dive in and discover the format that will help you land your dream job!

In this article, you’ll find:

• A list of 15 free resume templates for Word you can download immediately.
• A short review of each Word resume template to help you understand their strengths.
• How to get resume templates in Word (docx format).

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.

Create your resume now

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

Is resume format in Word your only option? No, of course not! Have a look at other resume templates:

• ATS-Friendly Resume Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• LaTeX Resume Templates
• LibreOffice Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates

And if you're serious about applying, create resumes and cover letters that match:

• Free Cover Letter Templates
• Google Docs Cover Letter Templates
• Word Cover Letter Templates

The Best Free MS Word Resume Templates: Overview

Here’s the free Microsoft Word resume templates gallery:

1. Attorney Word Resume Template

Customize it in Word

Download as a DOCX

Don't assume this Word resume template suits only an attorney. It looks neat, but it sure works for a lawyer resume as it does for any other, like an architect resume . 

The best thing about that template is its resume header . Adding attention to your name will make hiring managers remember you despite hundreds of applications.

Expert hint: To make sure your application reaches a recruiter, use your email to send a resume . Or use an ATS-friendly resume template to make it past the bots.

2. Classic Food Service Word Resume Template

If a moving-on restaurant manager was looking for a replacement, that's precisely the resume they'd be looking for. Why? Because this Microsoft Word resume template brings two things to light: the resume objective and the work experience section .

So, if you're writing a restaurant resume , why not download this resume template right away?

3. Creative Sales Resume Template for Word

That template is fantastic for an elementary teacher resume . And it’s not just about the cheerful looks but about the resume layout . You’ll gain extra points in the eyes of the hiring committee if you include prominent additional activities.

Expert hint: Including extra sections in your resume can easily give you an edge over the other candidates. Find out how to present your hobbies and interests on a resume most effectively.

4. Impact MS Word Resume Template

This Word resume template is bold and, most importantly, effective. Marking 80% of the text area is a brilliant way to lead a recruiter's eye and show them what’s of the essence on your application—your best skills and professional qualifications.

We recommend this template for all types of healthcare resumes .

5. Modern Hospitality Word Resume Template

What makes this two-column modern resume template have its own spot in our gallery? The prominent resume summary section, for instance. This template is fantastic at quickly showcasing your greatest strengths. We recommend it for mid-level and senior employees.

Expert Hint: Want to learn more about creating great resume objectives and summaries? Check out our dedicated guide on writing an effective resume profile .

6. Modern UI/UX Designer Word Doc Resume Template

Now, a professional UI/UX designer knows what great design is. But what if your area of expertise isn’t designing resumes? This UX designer resume template for Word is the answer. 

A unique-colored sidebar can do wonders for your application if you do it right. It’ll add some flair but also make your work history stand out, drawing focus to your most prominent professional work achievements .

7. Modern Web Developer Word Resume Template

Single-column resumes are ideal for junior positions. They give you enough space for limited professional experience that otherwise would look like something’s missing. 

So, if you’re about to write a resume with no experience or a teen resume , go and grab this template.

8. Stylish Teaching Microsoft Word Resume Template

This resume template for Word isn’t just for teachers. The two-column layout helps you include all the relevant experience on the resume without exceeding the recommended one-page resume length . Thanks to its customizability options, try it when you must use a functional resume format or when writing a career change resume .

9. Polished Word Resume Template

me game with this polished Word template. With the resume education section taking prime real estate on this design, this is one of the best templates to use when writing an entry-level resume or a fresh-graduate resume .

Expert Hint: If you’re making your first resume ever, ensure you’ve not made any of these common resume mistakes .

10. Simple Word Doc Resume Template

This simple resume template for Word is very easy to follow. It very neatly organizes all the resume sections , leaving ample white space that doesn’t overwhelm the reader. Try this Word resume template when making a front desk resume .

11. ATS Office Manager Word Resume Template

An ATS-friendly resume template is a must in today’s job landscape. If you have a lot of job experience, you’ll likely end up with a two-page resume. Use this Word resume template when writing its namesake— office manager resume .

Expert Hint: You may not even think about it, but a readable resume font is crucial to the success of your application. All the resume templates for Word we’re showing you have clear fonts that both ATS and human recruiters can read.

12. Woodworking Word Resume Template

This Word template will get you hired real quick— knock on wood . It has a strong, professional look, with your initials acting as your personal logo. Its structure makes for a great chronological resume .

13. Restaurant Manager Word Resume Template

This is a clean-looking resume with an easy-to-read layout. It features consistent resume margins on all sides and accentuates every section with a splash of color. It’s not just great for a restaurant manager resume , but it can also fit an IT resume .

14. Modern Bold Sales Word Resume Template

This bold Word resume template does a fantastic job of highlighting your bonus resume sections. If you’ve accrued valuable certifications to add to a resume or want to highlight your volunteer experience , use this template. It works great for both newbies and professionals writing CEO resumes .

15. Geometric Word Resume Template

If you’re in a very creative industry, you might want to opt for a more creative resume . This resume emphasizes your experience and showcases your artistic nature. We recommend it for writing any kind of artist resume .

Expert Hint: When choosing a resume template in Word, find one with a matching cover letter template. Cover letters are a vital part of a successful job application , and you want the design of both your resume and cover letter to match perfectly.

Those were our 15 picks for the best free resume templates for Word. But there is something that’s important to add—

Recruiters skim resumes for 7 seconds . They'll reject it without hesitation if they can't find what they want.

That's why we built our gallery of free Word resume templates with readability and great looks in mind. You didn’t see templates with picture placeholders, tables, and extensive images for a couple of reasons.

You shouldn't put a photo on a resume by the standard US resume format rules because it can lead to unfair treatment. Also, although infographic resumes may look great, they might not be readable to ATSs. And 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS software.

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 .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

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 .

Pros & Cons of Word Resume Templates

We’ve just shown you 15 of the best free resume templates for MS Word, and that’s why you clicked on this article in the first place. But wait for just a moment longer. Consider this. Of course, a fillable blank resume template for Word looks very convenient. But—

Are you sure you won't mess up the formatting if you randomly move something a little bit? Is a fill-in-the-blanks Word resume template the best way to write a perfect resume ? There are two sides to every coin.

Resume templates for Word come with several benefits. Here are some of the pros:

• Accessibility: Word resume templates are widely accessible, as Microsoft Word is a common application.
• Ease of use: They are user-friendly, making it easy for individuals with basic computer skills to fill them out.
• Variety: There's a broad selection of pre-designed templates available, catering to various industries and design preferences.

But not all is milk and honey, we also need to consider the cons of using Word resume templates:

• Hidden formatting: When making extensive changes to a template, it's easy to disrupt the formatting, leading to an unprofessional appearance accidentally.
• Content limitations: Some templates may restrict the amount of information you can include in each section. This can be problematic if you have extensive work experience or qualifications to showcase, potentially forcing you to omit important details.
• Need for edits: The need for edits can be time-consuming, especially when adjusting sections, adding or removing content, or reformatting certain elements.

Is there a way to eliminate these cons while preserving the good sides?

Best Alternatives to Word Resume Templates 

Before you even start fiddling around in resume Word format, try a dedicated resume builder that guides you through the entire process and comes with a library of easy-to-use, customizable resume templates like these:

Our users agree that Cubic is one of the best resume templates ever. The carefully planned layout can showcase all of your achievements without appearing overcrowded.

Enfold is a professional resume format with a contrasting sidebar and an easy-to-follow resume layout . It guides the reader’s eyes straight to your key achievements. As with all our resume templates, feel free to reorder the resume sections to highlight your unique value.

Emploia, the job application muse, inspired our designers to create an elegant resume template with subtle colors. Customize the paint to create a confident, innovative resume that melts recruiters’ hearts!

Crisp is for professionals who want a clean, creative resume template . The customizable icons and the generous use of whitespace around the headings create a striking visual balance.

Shine bright among all the other job candidates with this unique resume template. Diamond is for anyone who wants to showcase selected accomplishments and abilities in a visually pleasing manner.

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 .

Do you have any questions about using free Word resume templates? We’re always happy to hear from you! Give us a shout-out in the comments below.

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 Free Resume Templates for Word

Which word resume template is the best.

When choosing the best resume template for Word, you must consider the job you’re applying for. Generally speaking, modern resume templates like Hospitality or Web Developer ones are very effective. Avoid choosing overdesigned Word resumes featuring infographics and charts.

Where to download free resume templates in Word DOCX file format?

You can download Word resume templates for free from the Microsoft website . Select Word from the application list, and choose Resumes and cover letters from the available categories. Next, click on the free resume template for Word that you like best, and then press Download.

How to make a resume in Word?

• Create a new document & choose a template.
• Fill in the resume header with your contact information.
• Write a resume profile .
• Make space for the work experience section .
• Add the education section .
• List your key skills for a resume next.
• Include additional resume sections .
• Save it as a PDF and send it.

How do you get resume templates on Microsoft Word?

• Open Microsoft Word.
• Go to File > New.
• Type “resume” into the search box or choose Resumes and Cover Letters.
• Click a resume template you want to use.
• Click Create and start writing.

Should I send my resume in a Word DOCX file?

It’s safer to send your resume as a PDF rather than a DOCX file . Whenever a file type isn’t specified, we recommend you send your application as a PDF. PDF resumes are immune to formatting changes no matter what device they were opened on. The same can’t be said about the MS Word format.

Is it OK to use a Microsoft Word template for a resume?

It’s fine to use a Microsoft Word template for your resume. Word templates have certain advantages, such as being widely available and easy to adjust with just basic editing skills. However, since MS Word resumes are popular among many job candidates, they won’t make you stand out from the crowd.

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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How to Make a Word Resume in 2024 - 7 Easy Steps

At some point or another - meaning, before online resume builders made our lives easier - most of us have had to make a resume in Word. 

Now, making a resume in Word can be tiresome. Not being entirely optimized for the task, it can give you a hard time formatting and styling your resume to your needs - and this is just one of its disadvantages. 

That being said, the use of Word is unlikely to drop only because it’s impractical. This means that knowing how to make a resume in Word is still a good skill to have. And if you’re sitting and thinking: “well, this doesn’t make matters any easier” - we hear you. 

That’s exactly why this article is here - to teach you how to make a resume in Word, in just a few easy steps. 

• Should You Make a Resume in Word?
• How to Make a Resume in Word in 7 Easy Steps
• How to Format your Resume - 3 Pro Formatting Tips

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of how to make a resume in Word, let’s go through the downsides of using it to build your resume, and what other easier alternatives you might have in more detail. 

Should You Make a Resume in Word? 

Microsoft Word might once have been a top resume-building option, but that time is long gone. Although it has ready-made templates, Word in itself was never meant to be a resume builder - this reflects on the end product, which often looks old-fashioned and dull. 

Not to mention that it offers very little space for creativity. Try to make a small change in the layout and see the format crumble in front of your eyes. 

On the other hand, if you simply use the Word template without customizing it, yours might just become another resume in the crowd that won’t even pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) - the software most companies use to filter through countless resumes they receive daily. 

Long story short, here are MS Word’s main cons as a resume builder:

Long story short, here are MS Word’s main cons as a resume builder: 

• It can be clunky and outdated - chances are, any Word template you choose to use for your resume will look old-fashioned. Technology has changed what is expected of your resume, just as it has changed job-search over the last decade.
• It is not ATS-optimized - the software that most recruiters use not to waste time looking at the resumes? Well, most Word templates are not optimized for it. This means that you can be the fittest candidate for the job and not even get invited to an interview.
• It’s time-consuming - making changes to the layout of a Word resume template is a nightmare.

Everyone knows what happens when you move an image in Word:

It’s exactly for these reasons, as well as the added efficiency, originality, and time preservation, that online resume builders are the obvious choice for creating your resume. 

Novorésumé’s online resume builder is fast, easy to use, and perfect if you want to land that interview. You can start building your resume immediately just by clicking on the link, or you can pick one of our free resume templates , according to your needs.

Step #1: Pick a Word Resume Template 

The first step in making a resume in Word is accessing its free resume templates. How you access the templates may change depending on the Microsoft Word version you’re using, but what you ultimately need to do is the following: 

Open Word. 

Select one of the Resume templates Word suggests, or simply search for “resume” and you’ll find a bunch more.

Choose the resume template that best fits your qualifications and professional profile.

Click “Create.” 

You’re good to go: the template should appear as a Word document ready to be filled with your personal information and all other relevant sections. 

Step #2: Create a Resume Header 

From this point on, things should be pretty easy to pick up. 

Start filling up your resume from the top, which is where the resume header is located. Traditionally, the header should include the following information:

• First and last name
• Phone Number
• Location (Street Address, City, State)

You may notice the lack of optional information in this resume template, such as your professional job title , your LinkedIn URL , or social media links. 

If you feel like that info will significantly improve your resume, look for a Word template that includes them, or manually add them to the template you’ve already chosen. We’ll go over some formatting techniques to improve your resume template later on in the article. 

Step #3. Include a Resume Summary or Objective

Next, you need to describe your professional experience or professional goals (in case you lack the experience) through the resume summary or objective. 

Write a resume summary or resume objective - depending on which one best fits your resume - and try to express yourself in a way that will keep the recruiter’s attention for more than the traditional 7 seconds . 

Quick recap: a resume summary is a 2-3 sentence overview of your career and is used in 90% of the cases. A resume objective is more commonly used among those with little professional experience or those who are changing careers and describes your professional goals. 

Step #4: Create a Compelling Work Experience Section

This is where things get serious. 

The work experience section is the most important part of your resume for obvious reasons and usually plays a decisive part in the recruiters’ decisions. So just filling up the gaps in the experience section of the Word template won’t be enough. You should try to make this section as compelling as possible - following some of the tips provided below. 

But first, the basics. As with any standard format, the experience section should include the following components: 

• Job title and position
• Company name and location
• Dates of employment 
• Achievements and responsibilities 

Again, how the resume looks in Word will depend on the template that you have chosen. 

Obviously, the template lets you add as many professional entries as you wish - but that doesn’t mean you should go overboard. List your experience in reverse-chronological order, meaning: start from the latest and move back in time, based on the amount of professional experience you possess. 

There are, of course, a couple of pro tips that you should follow even as you use the Word templates to make your experience section more compelling. 

Pro Tip #1 - List achievements over responsibilities

Notice the example above.

Instead of responsibilities, we have opted to list achievements. Listing achievements over responsibilities whenever possible is one of the best ways to stand out in the eyes of recruiters. That’s because responsibilities are similar for one type of job, while achievements show exactly what you can contribute to the position . 

Pro Tip #2 - Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for.

Another good practice is tailoring your resume to the job you are applying for. This can help you go through the ATS and land your resume right on the recruiters’ tables. 

If you want to know exactly what information to include in your resume, how and when to list achievements over responsibilities, and how to tailor your resume to your job, head over to our complete guide on how to write a resume .

Step #5: Add Your Educational Background 

Things should get quite easy after you get your professional experience section out of the way.

The education section of your resume should include the following: 

• University name and location 
• Years attended
• Program name / Degree obtained 

Optionally, you can include your GPA, Minor degrees, or any special award or academic achievement. Our advice is to include them only if you are a recent graduate or entry-level professional with not much else to include in your resume, or if your education history is truly outstanding. 

Step #6: Make Sure to Include Your Skills

At this point, you can consider most of the work done! 

Now that you have reached the skills section, things get even easier. Make a bullet or numbered list of your hard and soft skills and you’re good to go. 

Hard skills are usually measured through experience levels - you can place your experience level (usually categorized into Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced or Expert ) into brackets, so you don’t take up too much space within the resume. 

Pro Tip #3 - Tailor the skills and qualifications on your resume to the job

Take a look at the essential skills required on the job ad and see if you can incorporate them into your list of skills. 

Step #7: Include Optional Resume Sections 

Congrats - you can finally stretch your legs and even allow yourself a little pat on the back. 

The additional sections are not mandatory in a resume, so if you’ve reached your resume space limit, you can just call it a day and save your resume. 

They are, however, a great way to show off additional assets such as languages, hobbies and interests, and even volunteering experience on your resume ! 

• Remember to also determine your language knowledge levels. Those are Native , Fluent , Proficient , Intermediate , and Basic.  

In the off chance that you still have some space left - considering resumes should be 1-2 pages at most and that Word templates are not as good at saving space as online resume builders - you can include the following optional sections: 

• Certifications and Awards
• Publications 

Follow the same practice as with the skills section, and you’re good to go!

How to Format Your Word Resume 

With all the essentials covered, let’s go over some formatting tips such as fonts, line spacing, and headings so that your Word resume looks as uniform and clean-cut as possible. 

Best Resume Fonts in Word 

We cannot repeat this enough - the resume font you use, matters. It matters just as much as first appearances matter and we all know they do, a lot. 

The font that you decide to use will impact your resume readability whether you like it or not, so you should use a font that will help you stand out, but not in a bad way. What’s a bad way? Comic Sans and other similarly-looking comic fonts. 

The usual Times New Roman, point-12, formula, on the other hand, will just blend you with the crowd. 

Instead, consider using one of the following recruiter-friendly fonts which will complement your resume both on-screen and in printed form, according to Business News Daily :  

• Book Antiqua
• Trebuchet MS

Optimal Line Spacing for a Word Resume  

The good thing about the Word resume template is that it usually has fonts and line spacing covered for you, yet it’s still good to know that the best line spacing for resumes is 1 or 1.15 between text and double lines after headings.

Feel free, however, to play around with line spacing when it comes to adjusting your resume layout.

Headings in a Word Resume

Again, Word templates do a good job of making the headings stand out. As a rule of thumb - and as is noticeable in the above examples - headings should be bigger than the rest of the text. So, if you’re using a 12 pt text, consider adjusting the headings between 14-16 pt. 

You can also underline or bold each resume section heading, or even use a different font, but as we always advise: don’t go overboard and try to maintain the style of the Word resume template that you have chosen.

And by now, you should have a complete resume in Word that looks like this:

Key Takeaways 

Well, here you have it - your nicely tailored resume in Word, ready to land you that job interview. 

Although not the easiest task, we are convinced this article has given you all the necessary information on how to make a resume in Word and the confidence to do so easily. 

Here’s what’s good to remember: 

• Order your resume sections properly, usually in reverse-chronological order. 
• Make sure that your section headings stand out from the rest of the text, by usually using a larger font size.
• Check if your chosen font, line spacing, and margins are aligned, readable, and professional-looking. 
• Opt for an online resume builder such as the one Novorésumé provides for a more modern, time-saving, and HR-friendly resume. 

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How to Make a Professional Resume Using Microsoft Word

by Hailey Brophy | Career Advice Expert

Published on: February 23, 2024

Table of contents

Pros and cons of using a Word resume template

How to make a resume on word in just 6 steps, how to format a resume on word, key takeaways, faq from job seekers.

When it’s time to write a resume, there are a few popular tools at your disposal. Microsoft Word is one of the most popular text editors for resume-writing thanks to its customizability and the universal popularity of the Word file format.

But if the process of writing a resume on Word feels daunting to you, don’t worry! Our guide will help you through the process. And, if a Word resume isn’t for you after all, we’ll give you alternate options to make your resume.

Our guide will walk you through:

• Pros and cons of using Word to build your resume.
• Other available options for resume building.
• How to make a resume in Word that showcases your career journey.
• How to properly format a Word resume.
• Key takeaways to keep in mind as you get started on your resume.

Intimidated by the formatting side of things? Our Resume Builder is perfect for the job seeker who wants a clean and polished resume without fussing over formatting. This tool will even provide auto-generated text to help you describe your job’s responsibilities in stylish templates that you can export into your chosen file type.

Microsoft Word is a fairly global tool for resume-writing and building all sorts of documents. To understand whether a Word resume is the right choice for you, let’s go over some of the pros that have made Word such a popular choice, and the cons that make other options better for some job seekers.

Pros of making a Word resume:

• Word documents are a popular file format accepted by most employers.
• Word’s robust interface offers endless possibilities for customization.
• Word includes a ton of free resume template options, and you can even import Microsoft Word templates from elsewhere if the available templates aren’t a good fit.

Cons of making a Word resume:

• Many beginner and intermediate users find that formatting documents in Word can be tedious and difficult.
• Word templates don’t allow too much space for creativity or personalization unless you’re highly skilled at editing Word docs.
• Unlike PDF files, Word documents are not static. This means that when you send a Word doc to a potential employer, they may be able to make changes or delete text from your document.

If after examining the pros and cons, you feel that writing a resume in Word is no longer the way to go, you have a few alternatives.

Other tools for building a resume

The most obvious alternative would be Google Docs . This is Word’s biggest competitor, offering free resume and cover letter templates in an easy-to-use interface. Many users swear that Google Docs is easier to work with, especially when it comes to formatting, so it’s a worthy option to consider.

If you want to build your resume without any hassle and in just a few minutes, then it might be time to shop for a resume builder that meets your needs. As technology advances, resume builders using AI continue to become more available and easier to use.

If you’d rather try your hand at making your resume in Word after all, then read on for step-by-step help building out each section and formatting your document.

Now that you’ve weighed the pros and cons, you’re ready to dive into writing a resume in Word. But how exactly do you build a Word resume? We’ll take you on a step-by-step walkthrough of how to make a resume on Word that allows your career highlights to shine the way they deserve to. Let’s dig in!

Step 1: Strategize your resume layout

Before you’ve even put words on the page, building a resume should start with a strategy. That’s where selecting your resume layout comes into play.

There are three layouts to choose from, depending on your experience level:

• Entry-level resumes benefit from focusing on a well-rounded set of skills. For this, you may want to use a functional resume format .
• Seasoned candidates benefit from resume structures that focus more on job history. The chronological format is a great option for showcasing experience.
• For midcareer candidates looking for a balanced compromise, the combination resume format gives experience and skills equal weight.

Step 2: Choose a Word resume template

When you open Word, you’ll find suggested resume templates . The first suggestions are just a few of the available options in Word. If you search for “Word resume templates,” you’ll find many more available to use.

If you’re new to making a resume in Word, I’d recommend sticking with a template because templates offer formatting shortcuts that can save you a lot of hassle.

If you do want to make a Word resume from scratch, start by looking at some resume examples for inspiration. Stick to the basics and start off with a simple layout for a Word resume that’s clean and professional.

Step 3: Write your resume profile

Now that you’ve got the strategy and the style down, it’s time to dig into your resume’s content. Start with a resume profile that introduces you as a professional and touches on your main qualifications for the role you’re seeking.

Seasoned professionals should write a professional summary that uses this space to highlight your experience. For early career candidates, a resume objective that focuses on your aspirations and development is usually a better fit.

Step 4: Build a strong skills section

Now it’s time to show off the skills that make you a strong candidate. Your skills section should feature soft skills like communication, leadership or flexibility. These are innate interpersonal abilities that are developed rather than taught.

Your soft skills should be balanced with more tangible hard skills related to your intended role, such as color theory, branding and typography if you’re a graphic designer.

Pro tip: Don’t limit the skills on your resume to your skills section. Use this section to give extra attention to your most important skills, but make sure that relevant hard and soft skills are peppered throughout your other resume sections.

Step 5: Detail your experience and education

Once your skills are fleshed out, it’s time to showcase how you put them into practice. Your experience section should consist of a list of previous roles with bullet points describing your responsibilities and achievements in each one.

Keep each bullet point brief and to the point, only including relevant information that showcases your qualifications and using active language to describe your experience and achievements.

Your work experience section and your education section should work in harmony to show off your expertise and tell the story of your career so far. List your degrees and any other education or training that’s relevant to the role you’re seeking.

Pro tip: If you’re fresh out of college and don’t have much experience, you can demonstrate expertise by describing some of your coursework and academic accomplishments under your education section. As your career progresses, this will become less necessary as your work experience will become more plentiful and impressive.

Step 6: Spotlight unique qualifications

If you want to build a basic resume in Word with the typical expected sections, then congratulations! You’re finished! But if you have any additional qualifications that don’t fit into the other sections, don’t be afraid to expand on them. You can list languages spoken, awards and honors received and even volunteer work for a resume that’s personalized to tell your story.

You may be thinking “Wait a minute! These are just the steps to write a resume in general. What’s specific to Word?” I’m glad you asked!

No matter what tools you use to build your resume, a truly great resume will be made of roughly the same components. Word resumes are no different. What is different is the unique formatting challenges that come with using Word.

Let’s look at some tips to help you format your Word resume for success:

Use a professional-looking font

Times New Roman, Arial and Calibri are safe choices, but Word offers many other fonts that may be resume-appropriate. Use your best judgment and remember that legibility is essential.

Adjust your font size and line spacing

Make sure your font sizes and line spacing are consistent. We recommend a 10- or 12-point font for readability, with a larger font for headings to ensure they stand out, and line spacing that’s either single space or 1.15.

Keep an eye on your margins

Inconsistent margins can make your document look unprofessional. We recommend 1-inch margins all around, but whatever you do, keep it consistent. Adjust your Word margins by clicking “Layout” and then “Margins” in the Microsoft Word interface.

Add horizontal lines

You don’t need horizontal lines for every resume style, but they’re a common styling element that beginners sometimes struggle with in Word. To make a horizontal line on a Word resume, you can either:

• Select the “Borders” icon and choose “Horizontal Line.”
• Press the shift key and the hyphen key to make an underscore and hold it until you achieve the length you’re looking for.

Follow these formatting tips, and you’ll have a Word resume that’s professional, looks good and shows recruiters you’re exactly who they’ve been waiting for.

Before we wrap up, let’s review what we’ve discussed so you’re ready to put your best foot forward on your resume-writing journey!

Consider all options

Word is a great format for a resume if you want something that’s very customizable, but the effort required to build a creative resume in Word can be high. Look into the pros and cons of using Word to build your resume and consider your other options. There are many resume builders out there that allow you to export your resume in the Word file format without the hassle of making the document from scratch.

Choose a template

One of the best things about making a resume in Word is the availability of free templates. You can choose one of the many templates that Word supplies or you can import a Word resume template from another source. If you’re a beginner to Word or to resume-building, we recommend starting with a template to get used to the process.

Write your resume content

A Word resume is no different from any other resume when it comes to content. Once you’ve settled on a template, strategize how you can build a resume profile, skills section, experience section and education section that highlights the best of what you have to offer. Don’t be afraid to add additional sections as needed to encapsulate your unique qualifications.

Be careful with formatting

Wonky formatting can be the Achilles’ heel of an otherwise excellent resume. Familiarize yourself with Word and make sure you understand the formatting tools at your disposal before you submit your resume. Pay special attention to consistency in areas like font size and style, margins and decorative elements.

• How do I list references on a resume?
• How important is font size on a resume?
• What are computer skills and why are they important?
• How do I list technical skills on my resume?
• What are core competencies and how do I list them on a resume?

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Hailey Brophy

Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.

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• Resume Help

Best Resume Templates for Word to Download in 2024

Our customers have been hired by:

If you want your resume to look great, you need a professional resume template. But with so much choice, how do you know which ones are suitable? Don’t worry—I spent hours browsing through free Word resume templates to pick the best options for you.

This guide will show you:

• A collection of resume templates for Word that you can download & personalize.
• How to benefit from using Word resume templates you can find online.
• Best alternatives to Microsoft Word resume templates.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

Create your resume now

Sample resume made with our builder— See more resume examples here .

Best Word Resume Templates With Free Download

See a collection of 15 resume templates for Word that are a great choice for most professional positions : 

1. Organized Modern Resume

This minimalist Word resume template emphasizes the candidate’s resume profile . That makes it a great choice for a career-change resume as well as a resume for entry-level applicants who explain their motivation in a resume objective . The subtle addition of color makes this resume stand out from classic black-and-white designs. 

Download it here . 

2. Polished Resume by MOO

Bored of classic designs? This modern resume template for Word includes a bold choice of color and a dramatic contrast of white space and text. It’s perfect for confident job applicants who want to highlight their leadership skills . Great choice for a real estate resume or a business owner resume .

3. Soft Suite Resume

Need a creative resume template that you can format in Word with additional space for your headshot? This one is an excellent choice to make you stand out from the crowd. Show your creative thinking along with your qualifications. Great for an artist’s resume or a resume for performing arts .

Download it here .

4. Resume (Chronological)

Simple doesn’t equal basic. This free resume template for Word proves that. It’s a black-and-white design that uses capital letters to highlight the resume sections . A great choice for candidates who want their work experience to speak for itself. Perfect for a customer success manager resume or for a sales manager resume .

5. Modern Initials Resume

Want to make a bold statement with your resume? This is a great choice. The strong contrast immediately catches the reader’s attention, and the initials in the resume header will make them remember your name. Great for job applicants who want to highlight their confidence, for example, on a resume for a brand ambassador or a fashion stylist resume .

6. Sticky Note Resume

If black-and-white Word resume templates make you yawn, this can be a great choice. This unique resume design features multiple colors and a space for your headshot. Use it if you’re in a creative field. Perfect for a video editor resume or a model resume .

7. Bold Nursing Resume

This free Word resume template allows you to show your professional skills without appearing dull. The name of this Word template suggests it’s designed with a nursing resume in mind. However, professionals from other industries are also welcome to try it out! It’s a good choice for candidates who prefer the combination resume format . 

8. Modern Bold Sales Resume

This classy design fits any profession. It’s a great one-page resume template for Word, suitable for job applicants who don’t want flashy colors to overshadow their qualifications. As the name suggests, it’s a great Word resume format for a resume for sales , but it’s also perfect for an assistant manager resume or a resume for an accountant .

9. Crisp and Clean Resume by MOO

If you’re a fan of modern design and infographic resumes , this Word resume template can match your taste. The bright colors of this template evoke positive emotions and provide a great backdrop for your qualifications. The best resume format in Word for a product manager resume .

10. Clean Elegant Resume

Do you believe that modern problems require modern solutions? Then this is the perfect free Word resume template for you. It has a contemporary look thanks to a bold addition of color, the progress bars in the key skill sections , and a very original layout. Yet, it still follows the preferred reverse-chronological resume format . A suitable choice for a creative director’s resume .

11. Simple UI/UX Designer Resume

This template for Word uses a two-column resume design to organize all information neatly. Thanks to capitalized headings and horizontal lines, each section is clearly separated and easy to spot. A simple resume format in Word for jobs that value organizational skills . Maybe try it for an inventory manager resume or, as suggested in the name, for an UX/UI resume ?

12. Creative Resume Designed by MOO

Need a creative resume idea ? Then this resume template for Word can be a good fit for you. It stands out from the rest, thanks to modern resume icons and the visually appealing header and footer. Great Word resume format for a copywriter resume .

13. Playful Business Resume

Applying to a company with a laid-back environment? You can show your fun side with this Word resume template. It features a colorful sidebar and resume icons as well as a placeholder for your professional resume photo . Great choice for a business resume when you’re applying to startups.

14. Swiss Design Resume

It’s not easy to find a minimalist resume template that’s actually eye catching. But this resume format in Word certainly is. It has a very modern vibe, yet it includes all the key parts of a resume . It can work nicely as a resume for a creative writer .

15. ATS Bold Accounting Resume

Microsoft promises that this Word resume template is ATS compatible . It’s an important factor when you’re choosing a template. If an ATS checker can’t read your resume format, your application will be rejected. This free resume template for Word combines functionality with a crisp minimalist layout. As the name suggests, it’s a good choice for a finance resume or a resume for accounting jobs .

Want to learn more about ATS? Check here: Best Resume Format for ATS Checkers

Tips for Maximizing the Potential of Free Word Resume Templates

Word offers multiple free templates for you to choose from . But given their easy access, you won’t be the only one using them, so it’ll be challenging to stand out. Thanks to their customizable designs, though, you will be able to personalize the template. 

Here are 5 great tips for using Microsoft Office resume templates:

1. Pick a Template That Suits Your Career

Some professions are more conservative than others. Make sure that the Word resume format you’ve picked matches the overall environment of the company you’re applying to. For example, if you’re a lawyer or an accountant, go for traditional layouts rather than very creative ones.

2. Organize Your Resume

A free Word resume template is just the starting point. You still need to make sure that your application uses the resume format that matches your career , and that it shows the right information in the proper order. Use headings to mark each section of your resume, and experiment with various font styles and sizes to make parts of the text more distinct.

3. Customize Your Microsoft Resume

You can personalize your MS Word resume template with different fonts and colors, add icons, place your initials at the top, and so on. Even if you choose a very basic and conventional resume format in Word, you can add some flavor and make it more unique to reflect your personality.

4. Make the Style of Your Resume Consistent

When it comes to formatting, harmony is better than chaos. Use maximum two different fonts and two colors, unless you work in a creative field, and you know how to mix and match various visual elements.

5. Use Editing Tools

Microsoft Word features a spell and grammar checker that will help you ensure your resume is free of errors. 

Our rating for Microsoft Word Resume Templates is 3.5/5.

Learn more about making a professional resume in Word here: How to Format a Resume in Microsoft Word

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Best Alternatives to Microsoft Word Resume Templates

Zety resume builder offers resume templates that are easy for you to play with, ready-made content suggestions for your profession, and a worry-free spell checker. Each of our templates is compatible with the Applicant Tracking Software, and you can download it in the Word file format.

Cubic is a professional resume template for Word that pairs traditional resume elements with a modern, minimalist layout. It’s nicely divided into three sections, each of which is of a different color. The progress bars will keep the recruiters reading till the end.

Good for: Accounting Resume

This resume template incorporates a timeline that makes it easier for the reader to follow your professional experience. The resume icons catch the attention of the reader. And you can easily edit the color palette of this resume template in our builder.

Good for: Contractor Resume

Crisp is one of our two-column resume templates for Word. Its elegant look will work great for both creative and more traditional roles. No matter how much information you want to add, our builder will help you fit it all on one page.

Good for: Graphic Designer Resume

This resume template is a good choice for candidates who prefer the combination resume format . The sections are clearly visible and easy to skim.

Good for: Business Resume

Whether you’re working in a traditional or creative role doesn't matter. This is one of our resume templates for Microsoft Word that will work great in every imaginable scenario. The resume summary area at the top will help the recruiter quickly learn your stronger traits.

Good for: Student Teacher Resume

This resume template is very easy to scan, and as such, it’s suitable for anyone pursuing a corporate position that attracts numerous candidates. The resume header , which is easy on the eye, will let the recruiters quickly see your great hire potential.

Good for: Database Developer

This modern-looking and elegant Microsoft Word resume template is a good choice for a managerial resume in more traditional industries. Its one-column layout is perfect for including a longer description of your work experience.

Good for: Operations Manager Resume

This minimalistic resume template will be just as suitable for an academic CV as a more formal executive resume . It’s predominantly focused on the content, with a subtle addition of bar graphs to illustrate your proficiency in various skills.

Good for: Graduate Resume

This modern resume template includes visual elements that make it stand out from the rest and yet don’t distract the reader from the document’s content. Thanks to its two-column layout, it can hold much information without looking cluttered.

Good for: Event Manager Resume

The visual addition of your initials makes this Word template for a resume look different from the rest. The template also incorporates a skill grading scale and a set of icons to make your abilities and contact details clearly visible.

Good for: Starbucks Resume

This resume template blends professionalism and simplicity. The section titles are accentuated with small ribbon-shaped icons right next to them. This design emphasizes the header, so it’s worth creating an effective resume summary or a career objective !

Good for: Hotel Front Desk Resume

Nanica is one of our resume templates for Microsoft Word that’s perfect for a two-page resume or an academic CV. Thanks to its simple formatting, the resume sections can smoothly extend into page two and beyond if necessary.

Good for: Computer Engineering Resume

This Word .doc resume template has a two-column layout that lets you include all your relevant experience and key skills. You’ll still have plenty of room to add extra resume information , such as computer skills or language proficiency .

Good for: IT Project Manager Resume

Another one of our professional resume templates for Word that’s perfect for a longer document. It’s suitable for seasoned executives and distinguished academics alike.

Good for: Law School Application Resume

Thanks to its two-column layout, this simple resume template for Word is perfect for experienced candidates who want to present their professional side on a single page.

Good for: Maintenance Technician Resume

Valera is a creative resume template for Word that combines youthful energy with pure professionalism. Also, it’s perfectly usable as a two-page resume template.

Good for: Entry-Level Marketing Resume

This resume template for Word mixes simplicity with modernity. The icons draw the recruiter’s eye right to the section titles, and the white space gives it an elegant, professional look.

Good for: Public Relations Resume

Cascade is a very universal resume template for Word. It’s suitable for entry-level candidates and executives alike. Its two-column layout will let you include a lot of information without cluttering the document.

Good for: Nursing Student Resume

And that was the last one of them! Use one of the above templates to create your own resume. And once you finish, download the document as a Word file. The result? Great-looking, immaculately formatted, and still editable resume.

Curious about other types of resume templates, not just the ones for Word? Check these collections:

• Best Resume Templates
• Apple Pages Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• Blank Resume Templates
• Unique Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

This is it! How do you like our selection of resume templates for Word? Would you like to share your opinion with us? Leave us a comment below! We’re always happy to hear from you.

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Free Resume Templates in Microsoft Word 

Is there a resume template in microsoft word .

Follow these steps for easy access to resume templates in Microsoft Word:

• Launch Microsoft Word.
• Start creating a new document.
• Click on Resume and Cover Letter, or type “resume” into the search bar.
• Select the Word resume template you like.
• Click Create and start editing the template in Word.
• Or you can go straight to Microsoft's templates page and browse through designs.

But remember, you won’t get the support you’ll need to make a resume , which you would after selecting a great resume builder . 

Which MS Word template is the best? 

Choosing the best MS Word template depends on the job you're applying for. I recommend selecting a modern resume template that combines a sleek design with functionality. For example, Polished Resume and Clean Elegant resume templates from MS Word feature a minimalist look that’s great for many professions. 

How to make a resume template in MS Word? 

Creating a resume template in Microsoft Word doesn’t require special Microsoft Office skills . 

Simply follow these steps:

• Open the Microsoft Word app and start a new document. 
• Click on Resume and Cover Letter under the text box, or type "resume" in the search bar. 
• Choose the resume template you like and start editing!

If you want to learn how to make a resume for a specific job, have a look at more than 500 resume examples that will help you understand what skills to use on your resume . 

Should I send my resume in Word format? 

Unless specified in the job ad, you shouldn’t send your resume in Word format. Most job applications require a resume in PDF , as it helps you keep the formatting just how you intended it to be. But most importantly, today’s ATS systems can read them just as well as Word resumes.

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180+ Free Resume Templates for Word to Download

An ever-growing collection of downloadable resume templates to make your job search less of a drag. Browse our new templates by resume design, resume format and resume style to find the best match!

Modern Resume Templates

Our editorial collection of free modern resume templates for Microsoft Word features stylish, crisp and fresh resume designs that are meant to help you command more attention during the ‘lavish’ 6 seconds your average recruiter gives to your resume.

• Crafted with great attention to details
• Designed for easy readability and skimming
• Highlight the key information you want to get across

This is a very high performing set of templates that are working well for those seeking IT and tech-based jobs, as well as employment in startups and dynamic companies.

Simple and Basic Resume Templates

Sometimes all you need is a classic style resume template that is clean, clear and straight to the point. That’s exactly the kind of resume templates you can find in this category!

• Applicant tracking software-friendly designs
• Very easy to customize
• Simple and effective resume layout to get your message across

Professional Resume Templates

Select one of our professional resume templates if you have plenty of work experience under your belt. Clean-cut and straight to the point, these free templates help you place your significant work experience in the limelight.

• Strategic layout, maximizing how much details you can fit in a page.
• No frills, professional resume style that works for all companies
• “Sells” you as a strong candidate

Creative Resume Templates

Each one of our creative resumes offers a perfectly balanced mix of personality, professionalism and a touch of unique style. Set your resume apart from others by using our punchy templates!

• Memorable personal branding
• Communicate a unique personal vibe
• Pack a lot of information without overwhelming the reader

Remember: these free resume templates work best for creatives who want to be noticed. Most resume templates in this category will work best for jobs in architecture, design, advertising, marketing, and entertainment among others.

So if you are, for instance, an accountant seeking a corporate position with a big name firm, scroll back to the professional or simple resume design collection instead!

Free CV Templates

Looking for an impactful CV template with the correct formatting? We’ve got you covered here too. Browse our special edition of professional CV templates, perfectly suited for academic and federal in the US, plus any type of job applications in the EU.

Save Time with our Popular Resume Examples

Get done with writing faster by downloading a pre-filled resume template for your position. Take advantage of the pointers and sample texts, created by a professional team of resume writers.

Our remarkable set of role-based resume templates includes the optimal visual layout, paired with written text snippets you can use to model your own resume.

• Examples of convincing resume bullet heads for the work experience section
• Actionable examples of resume summaries and professional bios
• Polished-to-perfection resume skills section with swipeable samples
• Crisply formatted educational section for degree and no-degree candidates

Google Docs Resume Templates

Don’t have Microsoft Word installed? Fret not. We’ve also created a separate set of resume templates, optimized for Google docs. Download and edit your new resume design in the cloud and share it with others in one click!

The ultimate goal of a resume is not to land you the job – it’s to prompt the hiring manager to initiate an interview based on what he or she has read. A quality resume is best viewed as a tool that articulates your “story,” from which you can present yourself as the most qualified candidate.

Claire Briggs Career Consultant, CPCC, CPRW LinkedIn

So, which resume template is the right for you?

At Freesumes our goal is to create universally appealing resume templates — such that suit professionals across various niches with different experience levels (entry-level to senior candidates).

That is why we’ve created the four specific resume templates categories. Every one of them includes a variety of resume templates, made by professional designers and vetted by career experts.

Essential Tips for Using Your Resume Template

When you have decided on which resume template to use, you should download it and save a copy to your computer. You can then start to personalize the template content to make it your own .

Let’s take a look at some tips for personalizing your template so it becomes unique to you:

1. First things first, keep things simple

Your resume template has been professionally designed for the right balance of style and content. All our templates are easily editable with Microsoft Word so all you have to do is just type in your information in the sections provided for you.

2. Don’t overload your resume

Your resume isn’t a record of your whole life. You don’t need to add in absolutely everything you have ever done. Remember that a recruiter will be skimming over your resume looking for their preferred keywords and your relevant information and work experience for the job at hand. Give them the information they are looking for as quickly and as easily as possible. Read our blog post about Powerful Words to use in your Resume .

3. Unique file name

Our resume templates are delivered with the generic (and frankly not so creative) name “resume.doc”. Before emailing or uploading your resume, take a second and give it a file name that is easily recognizable, such as your first name initial and your surname. This way it will be easy to spot and open by the recruiter.

4. Proofread and proofread again

Proofreading your resume is so important. You want to create the right first impression so check over your resume again for errors or spelling mistakes. Get someone else to proofread it for you before you send it off or make use of a grammar and spelling checker.

5. Convert it to PDF

Chances are your resume makes use of custom fonts, has a special layout or design elements that may break or look bad once opened on a different computer because the custom fonts are missing, the MS Word version is older or whatever. So, once you have done editing your document and double checked that you haven’t missed any of the above points, we recommend saving your document as a PDF file to make sure that the recruiters will see the same thing as you do.

The 3 Resume Formats To Choose From

Before you go on with choosing one of the different resume templates, you should decide on the optimal resume format – the one that will highlight your strengths as a candidate and mellow the flaws in your job history.

Tailor the resume to the position you are seeking. As you read through the job description, highlight and focus on key words and phrases that are most important to the hiring team. Integrate those words and phrases into your resume.

Debi Douma-Herren HR Consultant & Career Strategist LinkedIn

The 3 most popular resume formats are:

• Chronological resume organizes the information the way LinkedIn does – from the latest position to the first one, with education, interests and additional info listed later.
• Functional resume keeps the focus on your skills and experience, rather than employment history. It’s the go-to choice for candidates with employment gaps and those without much hands-on work experience.
• Combination resume takes the best of both worlds and allows you to spice up your “dry” employment history with some juicy details about your skill set and achievements.  

Each resume format suits better when applying for certain positions. Chronological resumes tend to be the most preferable format with traditional employers, while startups and edgier companies will likely fall for a combination resume.

To learn more about styling your resume, check out our detailed guide to resume formats with tips and detailed explanations.

Now that you have an awesome resume template, you don’t need to stare at a blank page. All you need to do is “fill in the gaps” in that template. But considering how important a resume is, you may be completely at lost what information to put and how to format it.

For this, we wrote a very detailed guide explaining all the facets of writing, styling and formatting your resume . Below you’ll find a quick recap to help you get started with resume writing.

Every resume should include the next key sections:

• Header: list your contact information and add a headshot (if you opted for a template featuring a photo).
• Professional title
• Quick resume summary/objective or career statement. This can be also replaced with a professional bio or “About me”.
• Work Experience
• Optional: hobbies, interests, languages, volunteering experience.

Start with brainstorming a compelling resume objective – a quick paragraph communicating your career narrative and summarizing your goals. To create a quick one, just apply the following formula:

Education or Experience  +  Skill  +  Goal

Family lawyer with ten years of trial experiences, specializing in child custody and estate probate cases, looking for a senior partner position in a legal company.

Organize your work experience. List your employers in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include employment date, job title, company name and key responsibilities/achievements listed in bullet format.

Sprinkle in your skills. Include general industry skills (you can find those in the job posting), tools and technology you are familiar with, certifications, a few general personal skills.

Wrap it up with education. Unless you are a recent graduate, don’t dwell on this section too much. Simply list all your degrees (highest to lowest), the name of your educational institution and graduation date.

Still feeling stuck with a blank page and can’t get your thoughts together? Consider reading a few resume examples to get a better grip of what a stellar application looks like.

Free Resume Templates in Word .

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Basic resume templates.

Simplify your job application process with our minimalist yet effective resume templates , tailored for those seeking a straightforward and professional approach. Our free CV templates ensure that your qualifications shine through, making it easy for employers to focus on your accomplishments.

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Step into the future of job hunting with our sleek and contemporary resume templates. Designed for the modern professional, these templates boast cutting-edge design elements and innovative layouts that grab attention and leave a lasting impression. Showcase your skills and expertise in style with our modern resume templates and stay ahead of the curve in today’s competitive job market.

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Ignite your creativity with our collection of dynamic art resume templates, available for free in Word format! Crafted with precision for visual artists, illustrators, and graphic designers alike. Get your free creative template today and secure a job in the creative industry tomorrow!

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Dancer Creative Resume

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Skriva CV Template

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Entry-level Resume Templates

Embark on your professional journey with confidence using our specialized college resume templates. Whether you’re a recent graduate or still pursuing your degree, our templates are crafted to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and internship experiences, positioning you as a top candidate for entry-level positions and internships in your field.

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All of our Google Docs resume templates are available for free download . By using Docs, you can always pick up where you left off, anytime, anywhere. Download your free resume template now for Google Drive!

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Europass CV Format

Navigate the European job market seamlessly with our Europass-compatible resume templates . Aligned with the standardized format preferred by employers across Europe, our templates ensure that your qualifications and skills are presented in a clear and concise manner, enhancing your chances of securing employment opportunities within the European Union and beyond.

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Resume Templates by Profession

Tailored to meet the unique needs of various professions, our specialized resume templates cater to a wide range of industries and career paths . Whether you’re in healthcare, technology, finance, or any other field, our profession-specific templates are designed to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments, helping you land your dream job with ease.

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Why download our resume templates?

Resume Formats and Letter Templates completely free. Modify them to your taste with your preferred color and font.

+100 Formats and Examples

More than 100 Resume Templates to download and edit for free. Cover letter examples included.

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Download your Resume Template in different formats: Word, PDF, Powerpoint, for Mac, Open Office, and Google Docs.

How to download our free resume templates

Go to the page of your chosen template and click free download . Your download will start after a few seconds.

Open your resume template in Word and customize it with your work experience, education, skills, etc.

Export your Word document as PDF .

Resume Examples by Profession

Download our free professional resume examples. All of our examples have been designed and created by our career experts. Choose your professional profile and start creating your free resume in Microsoft Word now!

• Administrative Assistant
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Resume Templates ideal for any file type

There are four types of templates suitable for resumes. Sometimes the job description will indicate which format or file the resume should be in. But if this information is not available, you can find all our resumes in different formats below for free download .

Word Basic Resume Formats

Microsoft Word is one of the best formats to edit your resume quickly and professionally. Find over 100 Resume Templates in Word for free.

PDF Resume Templates

All our resumes can be downloaded and saved in PDF format. This type of format has a small file size and is compatible with any device.

Professional Resume Templates

Resume Formats in Google Docs

Resumes in Google Docs are a good option to easily download and edit the document. You can also securely share it with recruiters.

Everything you need to create a good resume in 2024

Create your resume in minutes using one of our free resume templates.

We have designed and compiled the best CV templates so that you don’t have to stress if you don’t happen to be a design guru (don’t worry, not many of us actually are). 

With four categories to choose from, and over 100 free resume templates available, you will have no issues finding the one that works for you, while laying out your qualities in a way that will turn your future employer’s attention towards you.

Whether you are a student , engineer , project manager or nurse , you will have no trouble finding the right resume template for you . We also share tips in our blog for enhancing your writing to be able to confidently highlight your own strengths and areas of expertise. Free downloadable resume templates!

Why is a resume important?

Your resume is the first impression you make to a recruiter. With possibly hundreds of other candidates applying for the same position, you want to be sure that yours is unique and stands out. For that to become a reality, your resume has to be both well written, and well structured .

As a job seeker, you already have one goal in mind, and that is to secure an interview with a recruiter. This will be your chance to elaborate on your experiences and exhibit your communication skills, and it is more likely to happen using a resume template that helps you highlight all your special skills from the start. 

Luckily, you will find all types of free resume examples here that will surely fit your style and help you get started. 

What type of resume do I need?

Depending on your line of work, you want a resume template that fits. That’s why we have grouped them into four types . You can search for your resume template by career type, or choose between modern , basic , or creative templates. After you’ve downloaded the free template, you can easily add your information, customize it with your style, export it as PDF and print it or send it to your recruiter, or both!

What is the best format for sending a resume in 2024?

We believe that sending a resume in both Word and PDF formats makes it easy for automated resume checkers to read the file and scan it for relative keywords that match with the position you are applying for. 

It also simplifies the editing process for you and allows you to change the font and text color to fit your personal style, so that you can be rest assured that your CV reflects you professionally and personally if you find yourself hesitating to hit that “send” button.

Where do I start when editing one of these resume templates?

A good place to start editing would be by filling in your name and job search title, making sure that it matches the position you are applying for . Then you can move on to filling in your work experience while emphasizing the achievements you have made that added to the growth of your previous companies or clients. 

The last step to the process should be adding your career objective statement , explaining briefly what your aspirations are for your future role in the company and how your previous experience has prepared you to take up the position you are seeking. Browse through 10 examples of career objectives for a resume to help you get inspired to write your own!

Our experts have also provided you with further tips that have proven to enhance the chances of getting that interview call . Check out our blog post on how to make a resume to help guide you through this process.

What skills should I include on my resume?

It can be a little bit overwhelming when it comes down to figuring out what skills and work experience are the most relevant to the position you are applying for. That’s why here you can also find a selection of the top skills to put on a resume that are relevant to all types of job positions and can be included on all types of CVs. 

Listed below are a collection of soft-skills that you can add now to your free resume template and get it out of the way.

• Communication
• Customer service
• Active listening
• Computer proficiency
• Time management
• Emotional intelligence
• Project management
• Negotiation

How long should a resume be?

Ideally, an effective resume is 1-2 pages . You have to make sure you showcase all your best professional qualities and experiences in a clear and concise manner. This will help match you with a position when your CV is scanned by ATS or even through a job recruiter. It also helps to make sure that you cut out all the added fluff or irrelevant experience from your resume to help target your CV for a specific job application.

What is the difference between a CV and resume?

While the terms “CV” (Curriculum Vitae) and “resume” are often used interchangeably, they differ in several key aspects.

• A CV is typically longer, extending to multiple pages , and provides a comprehensive overview of one’s academic and professional experiences, including detailed information about research, publications, presentations, and specific responsibilities in each role.
• The format of a CV is usually more structured, following a chronological order of education and work history . CVs are commonly utilized in academic and research settings, as well as for international job applications. On the other hand, a resume is shorter, typically limited to one or two pages , and focuses on key skills, relevant work experience, and accomplishments tailored to the specific job application.
• Resumes offer a more flexible format and are commonly used in the business world , especially in the United States and Canada, though they may also be used in other regions and industries where brevity and relevance are prioritized. It is crucial to understand the expectations in your industry and region to appropriately prepare either a CV or a resume for job applications.

Add these skills to your free professional resume template now!

Job search tips

Create your Europass CV

The Europass CV builder makes it easy to create your CV online. You can use it to apply for a job, education or training opportunities as well as volunteering.

The best-known CV format in Europe

The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions.

You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few clicks. Just select which information you want to include, pick your favourite design and Europass will do the rest. 

You can create, store and share CVs in 31 languages . You can download your Europass CV, store it in your Europass Library share it with employers, with  EURES  or other job boards.

How to create a good CV

Remember that your CV is your first opportunity to communicate your skills and experiences to a future employer. It is a snapshot of who you are, your skills, your educational background, work experiences and other achievements.

Present your experience clearly

Highlight examples of your skills and experiences matching the job you are applying for. Pay close attention to the details published in the vacancy notice.

Tailor your CV

Make sure you update the ‘About Me’ section to highlight why you are the best person for the job. Do not include a full detailed history. Focus on facts and main points that match the job you have in mind.

Make it readable

Make sure your CV is easy to read. Use clear and simple language.  Use strong verbs (e.g. ‘managed’, ‘developed’, ‘increased’).

Use reverse chronological order

Always list the most recent experience on the top followed by previous ones. In case of long gaps in working or learning, include an explanation.

Polish and fine-tune

Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, provide a professional e-mail address, and add a professional photograph of yourself.

Your Europass profile

Your Europass profile is the place to keep a record of all your skills, qualifications and experiences. If you keep your Europass profile up-to-date then you will always have all the information you need to create tailored CVs and job applications quickly.

Good luck with your applications!

Find support through EU services

Eures the european job mobility portal, working abroad in other eu countries, education and training in other eu countries, you may be interested to read.

Create your Europass Cover Letter

Develop your skills through volunteering

Managing your personal information in Europass

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Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Administrative Resumes
• Customer Success Resume Guide & Examples

Customer Success Manager Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Jump to a template:

• Customer Success Manager
• Client Services Manager
• Customer Experience Manager
• Client Relationship Manager
• Customer Support Manager

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Jump to a resource:

• Customer Success Manager Resume Tips

Customer Success Manager Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., customer success manager resume sample.

Since CS is still an emerging specialty, little distinguishes a Customer Success Manager (CSM) from a Customer Success Operations Manager (CS Ops) Manager. Nonetheless, a CSM's primary role is to guide customers through the sales process focusing on value proposition. Customers contact the CSM when they have issues with a product. Consequently, the CSM must have a thorough understanding of the consumer's needs and share this with the product, sales, and marketing teams. This is generally a senior role, so hiring managers focus on experience and achievements. Demonstrate your expertise in working with customers and any notable achievements.

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Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your customer success manager resume in 2024,    show you are a strategic planner.

Top CSMs teach customers how to use a company's products to achieve both short- and long-term goals. Not all products are used similarly, and customer usage depends on their unique needs. Identify your customers’ bigger goals and share with them ideas on how your products can help them achieve those goals.

   Project Management skills

CSMs work with many clients simultaneously. Knowing how to handle several projects at once is a desired qualification. Customers don't know each other, so missing a deadline because you were on another project won't really hold with them. Staying on top of your deadlines is non-negotiable.

Client Services Manager Resume Sample

Customer experience manager resume sample, client relationship manager resume sample, customer support manager resume sample.

We spoke with hiring managers at leading companies like HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zendesk to understand what they look for in Customer Success Manager resumes. Based on their insights and our analysis of successful resumes, we've compiled the following tips to help you create a strong resume that will capture the attention of employers and land you an interview.

   Highlight your experience building relationships with customers

Hiring managers want to see that you have a track record of successfully managing customer relationships and driving customer success. Use specific examples to showcase your ability to build strong relationships with customers:

• Built and maintained relationships with 50+ enterprise customers, resulting in a 95% retention rate and $2M in upsell revenue
• Developed a customer onboarding program that increased product adoption by 30% and reduced churn by 15%

Avoid using vague statements that don't provide any context or results:

• Managed customer relationships
• Responsible for customer success

   Showcase your problem-solving skills

Customer Success Managers are often the first point of contact for customers when they encounter issues or challenges. Employers want to see that you have strong problem-solving skills and can effectively resolve customer issues.

Provide specific examples of how you've helped customers overcome challenges:

• Resolved 200+ customer issues per month, achieving a 98% customer satisfaction rating
• Collaborated with product team to implement feature requests based on customer feedback, resulting in a 20% increase in product usage

   Demonstrate your ability to drive customer success metrics

Ultimately, the success of a Customer Success Manager is measured by their ability to drive key customer success metrics like retention, upsell, and product adoption. Use data and metrics to showcase your impact in these areas.

Grew customer base from 100 to 500+ accounts, increasing ARR by 150% and achieving a net retention rate of 120%

Don't just list your responsibilities without any context or results:

• Responsible for customer retention and upsell
• Managed customer success metrics

   Tailor your resume to the specific role and company

Every company has different needs and priorities when it comes to customer success. Research the company and the specific role you're applying for, and tailor your resume accordingly.

For example, if the company emphasizes a particular customer success methodology or framework, highlight your experience with that approach:

• Implemented a customer success playbook based on the TSIA LAER model, resulting in a 25% increase in product adoption and a 10% reduction in churn

   Include relevant certifications and training

While not always required, certifications and training in customer success can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Consider including relevant certifications like:

• Certified Customer Success Manager (CCSM)
• Gainsight Certified Administrator
• HubSpot Inbound Certification

You can also highlight any relevant training or professional development you've completed, such as attending industry conferences or workshops.

   Emphasize your communication and collaboration skills

Customer Success Managers need to be excellent communicators and collaborators, both with customers and internal teams. Use your resume to showcase your skills in these areas.

For example, you might highlight your experience collaborating with cross-functional teams:

• Partnered with sales, product, and marketing teams to develop and execute customer success strategies, resulting in a 20% increase in upsell revenue and a 15% improvement in customer satisfaction scores

Avoid using generic statements that don't provide any context or results:

• Strong communication skills
• Team player

Writing Your Customer Success Manager Resume: Section By Section

  experience.

The work experience section is the heart of your resume as a customer success manager. It's where you show the impact you've had in previous roles, and demonstrate your ability to drive customer satisfaction, retention, and growth. Use this section to highlight your most relevant and impressive achievements, and to show how you've progressed in your career.

1. Showcase your impact with metrics

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with hard numbers. This helps hiring managers understand the scale and impact of your work. For example:

• Increased customer retention rate by 15% through implementing a new onboarding program and regular check-ins with at-risk accounts
• Achieved a Net Promoter Score of 85, surpassing the company target by 10 points
• Managed a portfolio of 50+ enterprise accounts, with an average contract value of $100,000

If you don't have access to specific metrics, you can still provide context for your achievements:

• Responsible for customer retention
• Helped improve NPS score

2. Highlight your progression and leadership

Show how you've grown in your career by highlighting promotions, increased responsibilities, and leadership roles. This demonstrates your ability to succeed and take on more complex challenges.

For example:

• Promoted to Senior Customer Success Manager after 18 months, managing a team of 5 CSMs and overseeing our largest enterprise accounts
• Selected to lead a cross-functional project to develop a new customer health scoring system, resulting in a 20% increase in at-risk account identification

Avoid simply listing your responsibilities without showing growth:

Customer Success Manager Acme Inc. | 2018-2022 - Managed a portfolio of 50 accounts - Conducted quarterly business reviews - Collaborated with sales and product teams

3. Use strong, customer-centric action verbs

Start each bullet point with a strong action verb that demonstrates your customer success skills and mindset. Some examples:

• Collaborated, partnered, consulted
• Onboarded, trained, educated
• Retained, grew, expanded
• Analyzed, identified, solved
• Communicated, presented, facilitated

Avoid weak or vague verbs like:

• Helped, assisted
• Worked on, participated in
• Was responsible for

4. Demonstrate your technical and industry expertise

Showcase your knowledge of relevant tools, technologies, and industry trends. This could include:

• CRM and customer success platforms (e.g. Salesforce, Gainsight, ChurnZero)
• Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g. SQL, Tableau, Looker)
• Industry-specific software or methodologies (e.g. ITIL for IT service management, HIPAA for healthcare)

Implemented Gainsight across the organization, leading to a 25% increase in CSM efficiency and a 10% improvement in customer health scores

Avoid simply listing tools without context:

• Proficient in Salesforce, Gainsight, and Tableau

  Education

Your education section is a key part of your customer success manager resume. It shows hiring managers that you have the knowledge and training to excel in the role. Here are some tips to make your education section stand out.

1. Include relevant coursework for entry-level roles

If you're a recent graduate applying for your first customer success manager job, your education is one of your biggest selling points. In addition to listing your degree, school, and graduation year, consider including relevant coursework that showcases skills applicable to the role, such as:

• Business Communication
• Marketing Analytics
• Customer Relationship Management

This helps demonstrate your readiness for the position even if you don't have direct professional experience yet.

2. Streamline your education section for senior roles

When you reach the mid to senior level as a customer success manager, your professional experience should take center stage on your resume. Streamline your education section to just the essentials:

• Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Michigan

Omitting the graduation year can help avoid potential age bias. There's no need to list coursework at this career stage.

In contrast, avoid taking up too much space with extraneous details:

Bachelor of Business Administration, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI Graduated: May 2010 Relevant Coursework: Intro to Marketing, Business Statistics, Organizational Behavior, Operations Management, Financial Accounting

3. Incorporate CSM certifications

Customer success manager certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. If you have completed any CSM certification programs, include them in your education section:

• Certified Customer Success Manager (CCSM), Customer Success Association, 2022
• Salesforce Certified Administrator, Salesforce, 2021

Listing certifications along with your degree creates a robust education section that will catch a hiring manager's eye.

Skills For Customer Success Manager Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Customer Success Manager job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Salesforce.com
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Strategic Partnerships
• Customer Engagement
• Software as a Service (SaaS)
• Enterprise Software
• Customer Support

Skills Word Cloud For Customer Success Manager Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Customer Success Manager job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

Similar resume templates, customer service.

Customer Success

Sales Associate

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Resume Guide: Detailed Insights From Recruiters

• Customer Success Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

Improve your Customer Success Manager resume, instantly.

Use our free resume checker to get expert feedback on your resume. You will:

•  Get a resume score compared to other Customer Success Manager resumes in your industry.

•  Fix all your resume's mistakes.

•  Find the Customer Success Manager skills your resume is missing.

•  Get rid of hidden red flags the hiring managers and resume screeners look for.

It's instant, free and trusted by 1+ million job seekers globally. Get a better resume, guaranteed .

Customer Success Manager Resumes

• Template #1: Customer Success Manager
• Template #2: Customer Success Manager
• Template #3: Client Services Manager
• Template #4: Customer Experience Manager
• Template #5: Client Relationship Manager
• Template #6: Customer Support Manager
• Skills for Customer Success Manager Resumes
• Free Customer Success Manager Resume Review
• Other Administrative Resumes
• Customer Success Manager Interview Guide
• Customer Success Manager Sample Cover Letters
• Alternative Careers to a Manager Of Customer Success
• All Resumes
• Resume Action Verbs

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10 Best Resume Builders to Create A Great Resume – 2024 Guide

A re you exhausted from investing endless hours into creating an impeccable CV? This article introduces the top resume builders that will revolutionize your job application approach. Bid farewell to monotonous formatting and greet a remarkable resume that distinguishes itself from the rivalry. Prepare yourself to secure your dream job with self-assurance effortlessly!

>> Unlock Your Career Potential With Super Star Resume

10 Best Resume Writing Services

• Super Star Resume - Best overall
• ZipJob - Best for guarantees
• Resumeble - Best with custom bundles
• Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best for range of career service
• ResumeSpice - Best for job seekers of any level
• TopResume - Best customer service
• Resume Writing Services - Best for affordability
• Craft Resumes - Best for quick turnaround
• Resume Companion - Best value resume writing service
• Resume.com - Best free service

When creating this compilation, we considered different elements such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the privacy policies of the companies involved, and more. The highest-rated services offer advice, templates, and tools and allow you to consult with experts who can help you craft an impressive resume highlighting your strengths to potential employers.

Our collection comprises free services and those that make use of professional writers’ skills. Some options require a subscription or one-time payment.

>> Secure Your Dream Job With Super Star Resume

Super Star Resume - Best Resume Builder Overall

Star Rating: 4.9/5

Super Star Resume is an innovative resume builder that completely transforms creating professional resumes. By offering a user-friendly interface and a range of powerful features, Super Star Resume enables individuals to produce exceptional resumes that effectively showcase their abilities, accomplishments, and work history.

• Skilled and seasoned writers
• Customized strategy aligned with unique career objectives
• Timely delivery of resumes
• More significant expense compared to certain other resume writing services
• Restricted selection of additional services
• Availability may be restricted depending on demand and geographic location
• Intuitive resume builder: An intuitive interface that simplifies the resume creation process, offering modern templates for a professional look.
• Customization choices: Users can personalize their resumes by selecting from various font styles, colors, layouts, and sections to align with their unique style.
• Comprehensive content suggestions: Access to a collection of expertly curated bullet points, action verbs, and industry-specific phrases to craft impactful resume content.
• Real-time previews and editing: Real-time previewing and editing capabilities ensure a visually appealing and error-free final resume.
• Integration with professional networking platforms: Integration with LinkedIn allows users to maintain consistency between their online presence and resume.
• Tailored resumes for different job applications: The duplication feature facilitates the creation of multiple resume versions, each customized for specific job applications or industries.
• Resume analytics and tracking: Users can monitor the views and downloads of their resumes, gaining valuable insights to optimize their job search strategies.
• Professional Resume : $169
• Resume With Cover Letter : $199
• All-Included : $199

>> Use Super Star Resume to Secure Your Dream Job

ZipJob - Best Resume Builder for Guarantees

Star Rating: 4.7/5

ZipJob is widely regarded as an excellent option for resume creation, especially for those who value guarantees. Their impressive 60-day assurance ensures that individuals searching for employment will experience a surge in interview invitations within this period.

If this desired outcome cannot materialize, ZipJob proactively offers a complimentary review and revision of your resume. This guarantee highlights their commitment to client contentment and showcases their unwavering belief in the superior quality of their resume writing services.

• The starting package is cost-effective
• Complimentary ATS check included
• 60-day interview assurance with higher-tier packages
• The design and layout made it challenging to read the resume
• The summary section was overly lengthy and filled with clichés
• The formatting of the education and training sections was subpar
• Expert resume writers: ZipJob provides access to a team of expert resume writers with the skills and knowledge to review, evaluate, and optimize your resume for compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
• ATS optimization: Meaning they ensure your resume is structured and formatted to navigate and succeed in ATS filters effectively. Employers commonly use these filters to assess and rank resumes during the initial screening process.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder online offered by ZipJob assists you in identifying and integrating pertinent keywords and industry-specific terminology. This practice heightens the visibility of your resume, making it more likely to capture the attention of hiring managers.
• Job-specific content suggestions: ZipJob provides valuable advice regarding the most relevant and influential content to include in your resume for different job titles and industries. This guidance is invaluable in customizing your resume for specific roles.
• Cover letter writing assistance: ZipJob supports the creation of impactful cover letters that complement your resume, strengthening your overall job application.
• Unlimited revisions: One noteworthy feature of ZipJob is the option for unlimited revisions and updates to your resume. This ensures that your resume not only meets but continues to meet your specific requirements and mirrors your professional growth.
• Collaboration with resume writers: the platform facilitates direct collaboration with the resume writers, enabling you to share additional information, discuss specific requirements, and seek clarifications at any stage of the resume creation process.
• Launch Package: $139 (or $48/mo)
• Fast Track Package: $189 (or $65/mo)
• Premium Package: $299 (or $27/mo)

>> Use ZipJob to Secure Your Dream Job

Resumeble - Best Resume Builder With Custom Bundles

Star Rating: 4.3/5

Resumeble is a highly efficient and user-friendly resume builder that empowers individuals to create professional and compelling resumes. With Resumeble, crafting a standout resume becomes a streamlined process thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive range of customizable templates.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to change careers, Resumeble caters to all needs and skill sets. It offers helpful suggestions and expert advice to ensure your resume showcases your unique qualifications and achievements in the best possible light.

• A 60-day interview guarantee is included
• Budget-friendly package deals are available
• It’s more established than some other websites
• Keyword optimization: This feature helps optimize your resume by suggesting relevant keywords aligned with your target industry or job, enhancing your visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruiters.
• Content import: Resumeble allows you to import your existing resume or LinkedIn profile, saving you the time and effort of manual data entry.
• Real-time editing: You have the convenience of editing and modifying your resume in real time, providing the flexibility to experiment with various formats, sections, and content.
• ATS compatibility: Resumeble ensures your resume is ATS-compatible, essential for better visibility and a higher chance of being shortlisted by employers using Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Download options: The platform offers various download formats, including PDF, Word, and plain text, ensuring compatibility with diverse application processes.
• Cover letter builder: Resumeble features an integrated cover letter builder, streamlining the creation of professional and personalized cover letters that complement your resume.
• Career Pro Package : $159.00
• Professional Package : $299.00
• Premium Package : $399.00

>> Use Resumeble to Secure Your Dream Job

Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best Resume Builder for Range of Career Service

Star Rating: 4/5

Let’s Eat, Grandma is an inventive and progressive tool for creating impressive resumes. The platform streamlines the resume-building process, making it easier for job seekers to craft exceptional resumes. With Let’s Eat, Grandma, individuals can create unique resumes that catch the eye of employers and set them apart from the competition.

This user-friendly platform offers a range of customizable templates that allow users to tailor their resumes to showcase their specific skills and experiences. Let’s Eat, Grandma also provides expert advice and recommendations to help ensure that your qualifications and achievements are effectively highlighted in your resume.

• Complimentary resume evaluation
• Choices available for individuals from entry-level to executive-level positions
• Extensive collaboration opportunities
• Not specialized in academic CVs or federal resumes
• Relatively higher pricing compared to some other services
• Potential for a longer turnaround time compared to competing services
• Expert choice: You can save your resume in multiple formats (PDF, Word, plain text) or easily share it with potential employers via email or a link, simplifying the distribution of your resume.
• Error highlighting: The builder can identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or missing information within your resume and provide suggestions or alerts for improvement.
• Section prompts: Pre-written prompts for various resume sections (e.g., work experience, education, skills) can help you structure your resume effectively and ensure you include essential details in each area.
• Customizable sections: You can add, remove, or rearrange sections to tailor your resume to emphasize your strengths and relevant experiences.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder can recommend industry-specific keywords based on the job description, enhancing your resume’s chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and grabbing the attention of hiring managers.
• Starter Package : Priced at $439, but there is an anti-inflation sale price of $389.
• Accelerated Package : $549.
• The premium Package : $689, but the anti-inflation sale price is $614.
• Executive Concierge Service : $1,899 or as low as $119/month.

>> Use Let’s Eat, Grandma to Secure Your Dream Job

ResumeSpice - Best Resume Builder for Job Seekers of Any Level

Star Rating: 3.8/5

ResumeSpice , a renowned online resume builder, streamlines crafting professional resumes. This platform provides job seekers with a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of templates, enabling them to create impressive resumes that align with their career objectives.

With ResumeSpice’s seamless experience, users are guided through each resume section effortlessly while receiving valuable tips throughout the process. From personal details and work history to skills and accomplishments, this platform ensures that all crucial aspects of a resume are comprehensively addressed.

• Additional assistance
• Timely service
• ATS optimization
• Guaranteed interviews
• Restricted revisions
• Insufficient customization options
• Restricted refund policy
• User-friendly interface: ResumeSpice boasts an intuitive and user-friendly platform, simplifying the resume creation process and offering a seamless experience to users.
• Extensive template library: The platform offers a vast selection of professionally designed templates tailored to various industries and job positions. Users can explore different styles and layouts to find the perfect match for their needs.
• Import and export options: ResumeSpice enables users to import their existing resumes in formats like PDF or Word for easy editing and updates. Users can conveniently export their finalized resumes in multiple formats, facilitating sharing with employers or uploading to job portals.
• Mobile-friendly design: ResumeSpice is optimized for mobile devices, allowing users to create and modify their resumes using smartphones or tablets.
• Cloud storage: The platform provides secure cloud storage for users’ resumes, ensuring accessibility and updates from any device with an internet connection.
• Resume tracking: ResumeSpice includes tools for tracking the performance of submitted resumes, such as monitoring views, downloads, and application outcomes. These features empower users to evaluate their progress and make data-driven enhancements to their job search strategies.
• Entry Level Resume : $479
• Professional Resume : $589
• Executive Resume : $699

>> Use ResumeSpice to Secure Your Dream Job

TopResume - Best Resume Builder for Customer Service

Star Rating: 3.6/5

TopResume is an outstanding resume builder explicitly tailored for customer service professionals. It offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, enabling users to create exceptional resumes effortlessly. The platform goes beyond just providing a basic resume template, offering valuable suggestions and tips to optimize the content.

This ensures that each resume created on TopResume is unique and attention-grabbing in the highly competitive job market.

Besides its user-friendly interface, TopResume provides expert review services. These services allow skilled professionals to provide personalized feedback on resumes, helping enhance their overall quality further. By leveraging this feedback and incorporating attention to detail, customer service professionals can create compelling resumes that effectively capture the attention of potential employers.

• Streamlined registration process
• Well-designed and formatted one-page resume
• The summary and Job Scope sections were overly extended
• The training section needed to have prominence
• Skill-based sections: The resume builder features dedicated sections highlighting essential customer service skills, including communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
• Expert review services: TopResume provides expert review services where experienced professionals offer personalized feedback and recommendations to enhance the overall quality of your resume.
• ATS compatibility: The platform ensures that the resumes created are compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which employers commonly use for scanning and filtering resumes.
• Download and sharing options: Users can download their resumes in various formats, such as PDF or Word, and easily share them with potential employers or upload them to job portals.
• Industry-Specific Tips: TopResume offers industry-specific tips and guidance to assist users in tailoring their resumes to the customer service field, helping them stand out among competitors.
• Cover letter builder: Besides resume building, TopResume provides a builder that empowers users to craft professional and compelling cover letters customized for customer service roles.
• Mobile accessibility: The platform is mobile-friendly, allowing users to create, edit, and update their resumes while on the go, using their smartphones or tablets.
• Entry level : Up to 200$.
• Professional level : Up to 200$-400$.
• Executive level : Up to $350-$700.

>> Use TopResume to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Writing Services - Best Resume Builder for Affordability

Star Rating: 3.3/5

While Resumewritingservices.org may be a different size than its competitors, it stands out due to its team of talented and experienced resume writers. The website is user-friendly and provides exceptional service. However, this service’s true strength lies in its writers’ expertise.

Resumewritingservices.org sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive consultation process and goes beyond expectations by providing unlimited calls with its resume writers. This personalized approach distinguishes them from other companies and guarantees each client receives individual attention and support.

• Experienced resume writers of the highest caliber
• Unlimited phone consultations and revisions
• More expensive than rival services
• A limited range of products
• Skilled and experienced resume writers: Resumewritingservices.org takes pride in its team of highly trained and professional resume writers who possess a deep understanding of crafting effective resumes.
• Personalized service: Resumewritingservices.org offers a personal touch by providing unlimited calls with their resume writers. This unique feature allows clients to engage in direct communication and close collaboration with the writers throughout the resume creation process.
• Competitive job market expertise: The writers at Resumewritingservices.org have knowledge of current job market trends. This ensures that the resumes they create are optimized to excel in today’s fiercely competitive job market.
• Quality Assurance: The service maintains a rigorous quality assurance process to guarantee that the resumes delivered to clients meet the highest standards and align with their expectations.
• Timely delivery: Resumewritingservices.org is committed to delivering resumes within the agreed-upon timeframe, ensuring clients receive their documents promptly.
• Client satisfaction guarantee: Resumewritingservices.org offers a client satisfaction guarantee, assuring clients are fully content with the final resume. The service is ready to provide revisions if necessary.
• Affordable pricing: Resumewritingservices.org provides pricing options that are competitive and transparent, making professional resume writing accessible to a wide range of job seekers.

Resumewritingservices.org employs a pricing system that is clear and easy to understand for their resume-building services. The initial package begins at $270 , including a comprehensive consultation with a skilled resume writer and developing an individualized resume.

They offer extra options that enable customers to personalize their packages based on their unique preferences. This adaptable pricing strategy guarantees that clients can choose the services that align with their requirements and financial constraints.

>> Use Resume Writing Services to Secure Your Dream Job

Craft Resumes - Best Resume Builder for Quick-Turnaround

Star Rating: 3/5

Craft Resumes stand out as a well-established writing and editing service known for its ability to deliver effective outcomes. Our dedication to providing a 24-hour turnaround guarantees you’ll receive the initial version of your resume promptly.

Navigating our user-friendly website is effortless, making it easy to use our services. At Craft Resumes, we specialize in crafting customized resumes to match your skills, qualifications, and aspirations for your career.

• Speedy completion
• Customized CVs
• Intuitive site
• Insufficient details
• Absence of assurances
• Quick turnaround: Craft Resumes commits to delivering the initial draft of your resume within 24 hours, ensuring a speedy and efficient service.
• Expert Writers: Craft Resumes prides itself on its team of experienced writers who possess expertise across various industries and stay up-to-date with current hiring trends. They’re dedicated to making your resume stand out and catch the attention of potential employers.
• Unlimited revisions: We provide unlimited revisions to guarantee your complete satisfaction. If you have specific changes or additions in mind, our team will collaborate with you closely to implement the modifications.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: At Craft Resumes, we prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of your personal information. You can trust that your data will be handled securely and with the utmost discretion.
• Tailored resumes: We specialize in tailoring resumes to align with your career objectives, industry, and job requirements. Each resume is personalized to accentuate your unique strengths and qualifications.
• Resume Writing : $229.00
• Basic : $279.99
• Optimal : $339.99
• All-In-One : $499.99

>> Use Craft Resumes to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Companion - Best Value Resume Builder

Star Rating: 2.8/5

Resume Companion is a virtual platform and service that specializes in aiding individuals in creating resumes that are professional and impactful. It offers an array of resources and tools to assist job seekers in crafting interesting resumes that effectively showcase their skills, experiences, and qualifications.

A prominent feature of Resume Companion is its user-friendly resume builder. This tool allows users to select from various professionally designed templates and personalize them based on their specific requirements.

Users can effortlessly incorporate their personal information, employment history, educational background, skill set, and other pertinent details to produce a customized resume tailored to their needs.

• Intuitive user interface
• High-quality templates
• Efficiency-boosting functions
• Cost-effective choice
• Restricted editing features without subscription
• Absence of extensive customization options
• Limited availability of extra services
• Cover letter builder: Resume Companion goes beyond resumes and provides users with a tool for crafting customized cover letters tailored to specific job applications. This feature guides users through the process, helping them effectively present their qualifications and make a compelling case to prospective employers.
• ATS optimization: In today’s job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Resume Companion helps users ensure their resumes are ATS-friendly. The platform offers valuable tips and insights on incorporating relevant keywords, formatting the document correctly, and increasing the likelihood of passing through the ATS screening process.
• Educational resources: Resume Companion extends its services by offering an informative blog and educational materials that cover various aspects of resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and career development guidance. These resources provide users with valuable insights and advice to help them create impressive resumes and enhance their job search efforts.
• Download and sharing options: Upon completing their resumes, users can conveniently download their documents in multiple formats, including PDF and Word. Resume Companion also makes it easy for users to share their resumes online or print them offline.
• Customer support: Resume Companion values user satisfaction and offers customer support to assist with users’ questions or concerns while utilizing the platform. Users can access support through email or the platform’s contact form.

Resume Companion provides a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking an all-inclusive service. It’s vital to remember subscription renewal is required to access future editing services. In summary, Resume Companion offers a wallet-friendly option for those who desire a user-friendly resume-building experience without needing advanced writing abilities.

>> Use Resume Companion to Secure Your Dream Job

Our Ranking Methodology for Best Resume Writing Services

To comprehensively and objectively rank the top resume writing services, it is essential to have a thorough methodology. The first step in this process was conducting extensive research and analysis. This involved gathering a comprehensive list of reputable resume-writing services from multiple sources such as online searches, customer reviews, industry directories, and personal recommendations.

• Feature analysis: Evaluate the functionalities provided by each resume builder, considering elements like template variety and quality, customization flexibility, user-friendly editing and formatting options, import/export capabilities, spell check and grammar tools, and integration with job search platforms and professional networks.
• Template collection: Examine the assortment and quality of templates. Look for a wide range that suits various industries, job levels, and design preferences, considering these templates’ aesthetics, readability, and contemporary design.
• Editing and customization: Scrutinize the adaptability and user-friendliness of the editing and customization tools each resume builder provides. Assess the capacity to add or modify sections, reorganize content, and tailor resumes to specific job requirements.
• User interface and experience: Analyze the user interface and the overall user experience each resume builder offers. Evaluate the ease of navigation, instruction clarity, guidance or prompts, and the platform’s responsiveness.
• Integration with job search platforms: Determine whether resume builders offer seamless integration with popular job search platforms and professional networks like LinkedIn or ATS systems. Consider how well the resumes can be transferred and their compatibility with these platforms.
• Additional resources: Evaluate if the resume builders provide extra resources such as sample resumes, tools for creating cover letters, interview tips, or career advice. Consider the breadth and practicality of these supplementary resources.
• Mobile-friendliness: Gauge the mobile-friendliness and responsiveness of the resume builders, recognizing the growing trend of mobile job searching and application processes.
• Customer support: Reflect on the accessibility and quality of customer support services, encompassing options like live chat, email support, or knowledge bases. Assess the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support team.
• Pricing and value for money: Appraise the pricing plans presented by the resume builders in terms of the value they offer based on features, usability, and overall service quality.
• Industry reputation: Consider the standing and trustworthiness of the resume builders, considering factors such as awards, recognition, partnerships, and user feedback from reputable sources.

Buyer’s Guide: Why Use a Resume Builder?

Crafting a well-crafted CV comes naturally to particular job seekers. However, even the most seasoned experts may need help in resume writing. If you find yourself in need of help with creating a compelling resume, here are several ways in which the best online resume builder can be beneficial:

Resume builders provide users with pre-designed templates and helpful tips, streamlining the process of writing a resume and alleviating stress.

Offers Writing Tips

Promoting oneself requires considerable effort. Only some people possess writing skills, even if they enjoy self-promotion. To showcase one’s experience and knowledge effectively, a resume builder can help select the most appropriate words and phrases.

Improves Design

In every field, there are unique standards for an impressive resume. If you need to gain knowledge in design or the tools, resume builders can provide free templates to enhance your resume’s visual appeal and quality.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Recruiters often use ATS systems to scan resumes. A good resume builder will help with formatting to ensure that your resume is easy for these systems to read.

What’s the Best Resume Builder?

The ideal resume builder for each individual may differ according to their specific requirements. If you prefer a tool that offers step-by-step guidance in creating your resume, we suggest using a builder that provides helpful tips and recommendations. If you prefer a resume builder that auto-generates a summary, we recommend using a tool that extracts information from your LinkedIn profile.

For those who enjoy having creative control over their resumes, we suggest using a platform with features. By selecting the resume builder that aligns with your needs and suits your industry and personal style, you’ll significantly increase your chances of capturing the attention of hiring managers.

Resume Builder vs. Resume Writing Service: What Matters for You

When it comes to crafting a resume, there are three options available. You can opt to create it independently, use a resume builder tool, or enlist the services of a professional resume writer. Your best choice will depend on your writing abilities, available time, and financial resources.

Do-It-Yourself

You have the choice to construct a resume entirely by yourself. The benefit of this option is that it costs nothing but requires a significant amount of effort. Along with composing all the information, you must possess graphic design skills.

This approach works well if you have these abilities, but with them, your options for creating a resume are unlimited. To overcome this limitation, you can use a resume builder or enlist the help of a resume writing service.

Resume Builder

A tool for creating resumes allows you to input your details into a template, resulting in an original appearance and layout with no design work. The top resume building tools also offer suggestions on enhancing your resume and tailoring it to match the specific job you are applying for.

While you are still responsible for writing the content, once it is written, you can quickly transfer that information into any other template with just a few simple clicks. Some of these services are free and many like to promote themselves as such, but most require a small payment to download your finished resume.

Professional Resume Writing Service

Professional resume writing services are expensive, but they offer the convenience of handling all the work for you. An experienced writer will gather relevant information about your background and transform it into a unique and engaging resume.

The process typically takes a few days, and the level of originality in the outcome largely relies on your choice of company and writer. However, we will not delve into these services further in this guide.

Are Resume Builders Worth It?

Definitely, without a doubt. An effective resume creator will guarantee that your CV is formatted correctly to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems and ultimately reach the hands of recruiters.

Is It Unprofessional to Use a Microsoft Word Resume Template?

Relying on a template will not set you apart, and there is a high likelihood that your application will be dismissed because your resume is identical to those of other job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right resume builder is crucial in today’s competitive job market. Creating a professional and impactful resume that stands out from the crowd can significantly impact your job search. With the right tool, you can save time, improve your chances of landing an interview, and ultimately secure your dream job.

When selecting a resume builder, consider your specific needs and priorities. Look for features like customizable templates, industry-specific examples, and the ability to export your resume in different formats. Consider user reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a reputable and reliable platform.

Remember, an exceptional tool for crafting resumes should give you the power to present your skills, experience, and accomplishments effectively. It should simplify and expedite creating a resume without hassle. Investing in a reliable resume builder is investing in your professional future.

Therefore, explore the different options available for resume builders. Test out their free trials or demos and choose the best fit for your objectives. Our top recommendation is Super Star Resume . This meticulously designed resume can open doors to exciting career prospects and be a dependable companion on your journey toward success.

Ahad Waseem is a business, blockchain, and cybersecurity writer who often takes on art, politics, and economics too. As a linguistic engineer who writes to solve problems, he’s written for various tech and business publications. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on horseback, caring for his houseplants, or training Bonsai trees. He can be reached at [email protected] . McClatchy’s newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

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