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Whether the job for which you’re applying requires creativity, or you want to stand out from the rest of the papers in the pile, there are many reasons to benefit from using a creative resume template. Here are some tips to help you write the most impactful resume.

One word of caution: you can be creative and unique, but unless you’re applying for the position of a camp counselor – and even then – keep a professional tone. Always make sure that the text is clear and easily readable. Never sacrifice legibility for creativity.

1. Get Noticed

You’re not the only one applying for the position. Chances are, there are dozens upon dozens of similar resumes, black Arial font on white backgrounds listing objectives, work experience, educational background, skills, and stating references available upon request. Need an edge in?

Stand out from the crowd and make an impression with a creative resume by using images, color, and original templates.

2. Show Off Your Skills

If the prospective position involves using graphics, charts, image manipulation, or knowing how to create presentations, your resume can be an opportunity to show them what you can do. Rather than listing your talent at creating graphs or designing logos, include them on your resume and let your work speak for itself.

3. Let Your Personality Shine

Are excellent social skills and charisma a requirement for your dream job? Rather than submitting an ordinary monochromatic application and waiting for a chance interview to show your personality, present yourself on your resume. Include a photo of yourself that exudes professionalism but approachability that invites the Human Resource team to engage you.

If uniqueness and individualism are a plus in the job requirements, introduce color and bold fonts on your resume. Show that you’re ready to be different and to take the initiative.

4. Highlight Your Strengths

Perusing resume after resume is a tedious process, and after a while, one doesn’t sound much different than the next. Make it easier for your prospective employer to see why you are the right one for the position. Highlight your skills and talents that would be an asset to the job. Try using a different color or section on the page to make it stand out from the rest of your background.

5. You’re Innovative

You’re driven, motivated, a problem solver, and willing to think out of the box. Demonstrate that you dare to be different to get the job done by using creative resume templates with color, non-conventional fonts, images, graphs, and original template designs.

6. You’re Applying for a Creative Position

If you’re applying for a position that requires creativity, there’s no better way to prove your skills than with your resume. Are you a graphic designer? Include some of the best works from your portfolio. Are you a photographer? Insert some photos that will impress the boss.

7. You are Sophisticated and Professional

A creative resume doesn’t have to mean flashy colors and wild designs. You can be creative with your template while still toeing the traditional resume line. Keep it black and white, but use a modern and sophisticated font. Use a unique layout to differentiate your resume from the rest of the applicants. Consider putting your information into columns, using a sidebar to list your skills and talents, or introducing unexpected elements to the layout.

A creative resume template can also help you fit more information into the limited space of the one-page resume standard by using columns and original formatting.

8. Emphasize your Skill, Not your Work Experience

If this is your first job, or if you don’t have extensive work experience in the field, a creative resume can give you the opportunity to show your expertise. Instead of focusing on your lack of work experience, highlight your qualifications.

9. Social Media Expertise

Is social media proficiency a requirement for the job? Include your LinkedIn account, but don’t include your other social media accounts unless they solely reflect the professional work image that you want to present. Many job opportunities and jobs have been lost due to tactless comments, photos, or links that were posted to social media. If you have an online professional portfolio, include that link.

10. Show Your Presentation Skills

A video resume might be a good choice for you if you want to sell the company on your presentation and video skills. You don’t need to be a techie to create a video resume; there are websites and programs that can guide you through the process.

If you are submitting a video resume, it is recommended to submit an additional resume in document form. Many employers use software to filter out or target resumes based on keywords, and your video may fall through the cracks if it isn’t expected.

In Conclusion

Creative resume templates can help you gain the attention of prospective employers by standing out from the sea of traditional resumes. They also give you the opportunity to showcase your graphic or design skills, highlight your expertise, and portray your personality.

No matter what resume template you use, keep it professional and clear, and remember to include your contact information for a call-back.