The Pros and Cons of Using a Resume Template

When it comes to crafting a winning resume, many job seekers turn to pre-made templates for guidance. While templates can be a useful starting point, they also have their drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a resume template, and offer tips for making the most of this tool.

Pros of Using a Resume Template

1. Saves time and effort. One of the biggest advantages of using a resume template is that it can save time and effort. With a pre-made template, you don’t have to spend hours formatting your resume from scratch. Instead, you can simply plug in your information and customize the design to your liking.
2. Ensures a professional look. Templates are designed by professionals with an eye for aesthetics, which means that they offer a clean, polished look that can impress potential employers. This can be especially helpful if you’re not confident in your design skills or want to ensure that your resume looks professional.
3. Offers guidance on content. In addition to providing a professional look, templates can also offer guidance on the content of your resume. Many templates are organized by section, which can help you ensure that you include all the necessary information in a clear, logical way.

Cons of Using a Resume Template

1. Can be too generic. One of the main drawbacks of using a resume template is that it can be too generic. While templates can provide a good starting point, they don’t always take into account the unique needs and qualifications of individual job seekers. As a result, your resume may end up looking like many others.
2. Limits creativity. Another potential downside of using a resume template is that it can limit your creativity. With a pre-made template, you’re working within a defined structure, which can be restrictive if you want to deviate from the norm or highlight your unique skills and experience.
3. May not be ATS-friendly. Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. While templates may look great to the human eye, they may not be ATS-friendly, which can hurt your chances of getting noticed by potential employers.

Tips for Making the Most of a Resume Template

If you decide to use a resume template, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure that you make the most of this tool:

1. Choose a template that fits your needs. There are many different types of resume templates available, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. Consider the industry you’re applying to, as well as your level of experience and skills, when selecting a template.
2. Customize the template to your liking. While templates can save time, it’s still important to customize them to your liking. Don’t be afraid to play around with the design and layout until you’re happy with the final product.
3. Use keywords and phrases. To ensure that your resume gets noticed by ATS, it’s important to include relevant keywords and phrases throughout your resume. Review the job posting and company website for ideas on what to include.
4. Add a personal touch. Finally, don’t be afraid to add a personal touch to your resume. Even if you’re using a template, you can still highlight your unique skills and experience by customizing the content and adding a personal branding statement.

In conclusion, using a resume template can be a helpful tool for job seekers, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether it’s the right choice for you. By choosing a template that fits your needs, customizing it to your liking, and adding your own personal touch, you can create a winning resume that helps you stand out from the competition.

Product suggestion: “The Resume Writing Guide: A Step-by-Step Workbook for Writing a Winning Resume” by Lisa McGrimmon. This book provides a comprehensive guide to writing a resume, including tips on how to avoid the common mistakes of using templates. With practical exercises and examples, it helps you create a customized, compelling resume that stands out to employers. Get your copy on Amazon today to enhance your resume writing skills and increase your chances of getting hired.