Should I Use a Resume Template?

Every job candidate wants to make a good first impression on hiring managers.

However, it can be challenging to build a resume that will serve this objective. All the information and elements you have to include can be quite overwhelming.

How should I write my resume and go about it? 

The simple answer is to use a resume template.

By using a resume template, you’ll be able to build a well-organized and professional resume with all the information you need in less time.

In this article, you’ll learn more about resume templates, their advantage and disadvantages, and how to simplify your resume writing process by using a resume builder with templates.

 

Is using a resume template a good or a bad idea?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Resume templates may not be effective for a person with diverse talents, experiences, or goals. Someone else might land a job with the right template while another person may ace an interview with a highly customized document. In using a template, you will need to consider the job, the circumstances, and above all else, how you will use it.

Why resume templates would be a bad idea:

1. You’ll blend in with the crowd.

Some job seekers use resume samples that they find online, and then simply replace the information. Recruiters see a lot of these every day. In short, if you don’t customize your resume, you won’t stand out as an industry leader.

 

2. A template is limited in design and layout. 

A lot of resume templates could not let you experiment with mixing or matching different sections or elements. Some template layouts cannot be changed since that will ruin the whole thing.

3. Templates make you sell yourself short. 

Generally, templates are designed to fit all job applications in the same way, regardless of the requirements, so they are basic. Templates simply are not designed to fit one particular job. Consequently, they do not focus on the job you are applying for and don’t contain the essential information like data-driven metrics and accomplishments.

4. Resume templates don’t make it past ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). 

Templates often use formatting, such as font or text boxes and dual columns, along with headers and footers which cannot be read by ATS.

 

5. The template may be outdated.

Over time, resume formats change, for example, Microsoft Word resumes are outdated. That’s why a professional resume writer must stay current on what hiring managers are looking for. So it’s critical that job seekers must use a resume template that’s up-to-date for their job search.

Do resume templates matter?

We’ve talked about some of the downsides of resume templates, but there are also advantages to using them. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best benefits you should consider before choosing whether or not to use a resume template in your job search.

1. Helps you organize your resume

A resume template helps you organize your information and ensures that every element is filled in the appropriate places. It helps you remember details that should be on your resume so that nothing is overlooked. A complete, well-organized, and professional resume will make a good impression on hiring managers.

2. Doesn’t require experience

Most people have no idea how to type or build a resume from scratch.

With templates, you can create a resume even if you have no experience. It is relatively easy to fill out templates, and if you are not satisfied with the format, you can change it to best suit your needs as a job candidate.

It is easier to keep things simple with a resume template if you’re like one of those people who needs to make sure they enter every critical detail correctly in a job application.

3. Creates a great first impression

Your resume gives employers their first impression of you.

It outlines your skills, level of experience, and any related information that would be useful to decide whether or not you’re a good fit for a given position.

When one resume is poorly written or constructed, a person may not be considered for the job or given the chance to demonstrate his worth.

By using a creative resume template, you can showcase your abilities and skills to a hiring manager.

4. Saves Time

Creating a resume from scratch can be time-consuming and stressful. Even if you spend a lot of time and effort on it, you might still not come up with the best results, especially if you are unfamiliar with resume-building tools or apps.

You can save time by using creative resume templates and demonstrate to your potential employer that you have the skills to do the job.

Using a resume template also saves you time when you’re applying for multiple jobs. You might need different skills and abilities for each job title and company, so you cannot use the same resume format.

With a template, you can easily customize your resume to produce several versions, each tailored for a different job industry standard.

 

5. Wide Array of Choices

Several themes and features are available so that you can tailor your resume to your personality,  career level, and target job. You can mix and match elements in some resume builders so you can tailor your resume to your needs instead of a generic resume.

 

Is it ok to use a resume builder?

There are many free resume builder sites, templates, and apps available online. They can be helpful for giving you resume ideas and aiding you with the writing process.

For most job candidates, they’ve been effective in helping them land their dream job or an interview to further their application.

Using a template has many benefits, such as saving time and making a great first impression.

Resume Seed is a resume builder that can help you achieve those and personalize your resume and cover letter.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few takeaways you can use when you use a template and a resume builder:

• Saves you time and allows you to submit more applications in a shorter period of time. But they can sometimes limit your creativity and will not help you stand out.
• Makes sure you remember important sections to include that you didn’t miss anything. It keeps your information organized and complete.
• Provides content suggestions and tips on how to develop a visually appealing design. They’re also easy to use and can often be customized.