Welcome to Resume Writing
Resume Career Objective Article
. For a permanent link to this article, or to bookmark it for further reading, click here.
Writing a Resume: To Template or Not to Template?
from: Kathi MacNaughtonAre free resume templates a viable answer to preparing a killer resume?
It’s a fact that if your resume doesn’t stand out--both in terms of content AND appearance--you’ll find it very difficult to get the job you seek.
Hiring managers get hundreds of resumes for every open position, but usually have time to interview only a handful of applicants. So, they’ll scan through the resumes as quickly as they can, looking for candidates to "jump out" at them. At best, your resume has mere seconds to make
an impression.
The best way to raise instant interest is with an eye- catching and clean design that enhances your content. Some people, such as those with experience in graphic design or desktop publishing, may be able to produce a great-looking resume on their own.
But most people need a little help. If you don’t have the innate talent or desire to play around with resume design, you have 2 basic choices:
* Use a resume template
* Hire a professional resume writer
Let’s start with the second option. It’s a great one, if you can afford it. Pick the right resume writer or writing service and you’ll get help not only with design, but also with your content. Plus, a professional can help you zero in on a well-focused resume for your desired career path,
given your skills and experience. It’s a great way to go, but it can be pricey.
If you can’t afford to spend the money right now for a professional writer (no matter how much value it may be worth) OR you’re one of those "do-it-yourselfers," then a resume template is
another way to go. You can buy resume template software, but it’s not necessary.
If you know how to use Microsoft Word, then you can whip up a striking resume!
Many experts warn against using MS Word resume templates. They argue that your resume will look like many others that were also prepared using Word. But what they’re really referring to with those comments are the 3 standard Word formats that come with the program. It’s true, they’re not
particularly inspiring in appearance.
However, here’s another option. Use an MS Word template that is different from the standard ones. There’s nothing inherently wrong with using free resume templates. The key is to find unique templates. Here are some of the benefits of using templates:
* They guide you in the correct format and organization, with the right headings and sections in the right order.
* They come preset with fonts, formatting, and white space for a pleasing and sophisticated design.
* They’re easy to use. Just type in your personal information, save and go. Also, if you want, it’s easy enough to change fonts or almost anything else to get a more unique design--if you wish.
Of course, the key is to spend enough time to find high quality free resume templates. There are many sites that offer sample resumes that they call templates, but you’d have to cut and paste them into Word to use them. Other sites, such as www.Powerful-Sample-Resume-Formats.com, provide
true "click and type" templates that are all set up for you to start filling in the content.
Ultimately, how you prepare your resume is a personal decision. But, if you’re looking for an economical solution that still gives you a measure of control, think about free resume templates. If you choose the template wisely, it’s still possible to have a standout resume that is uniquely yours.
About the Author
Kathi MacNaughton, a freelance writer and editor, has years of management and recruitment experience. For unique, eye-catching MS Word free resume templates that are truly “click and type” and that include tips and advice on content, see http://www.powerful-sample-resume-formats.com or email: kathi@powerful-sample-resume-formats.com. Copyright 2004 Kathi MacNaughton. All rights reserved.
Resume Career Objective News
Three Surefire Ways to Get Your Resume Read by Employers According to Jobfox
MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- It is increasingly difficult to find ways to set your resume apart from the ever-growing sea of job seekers. Jobfox , a leading online job site, and their team ...
Read more...Sixel: This résumé can fill gaps
Sixel: This résumé can fill gaps Houston Chronicle Copyright 2012 Houston Chronicle. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Updated 12:44 p.m., Friday, February 3, 2012 [...] how could he craft his résumé to downplay the fact he had taken time off for family reasons and helped to make ends meet by working at a grocery store? A functional ...
Read more...Highlighted strengths on resumes get noticed
Two weeks ago, I wrote an article saying to add some humanity to your resume. My advice was this: If you have an interesting career progression, tell your story in a way that seizes an employer's attention.
Read more...Job Hunting: When Parents Run the Show
As 20-somethings struggle in a tough economy, their moms and dads are writing their resumes, tracking them on LinkedIn, and even going along for the job interview.
Read more...Making sure your resume gets to the top of the pile
Scott Kirsner spent last week talking to chief executives and human resources executives about how resume-sifting works at Massachusetts companies.
Read more...Creative ways to improve your resume
Career experts are unanimous on the importance of customizing our resumes for each new job we apply for.
Read more...Local experts give tips on getting a better job
Even though experts say the economy is improving, many millions of Americans are still looking for work.
Read more...