Free Resume Template: What Makes a Good One?

You can drown in the "free resume examples," "free resume templates," and "free resume samples" on the web.

In my opinion, a single thing makes one free resume template different from another: results.

Find a free resume template that will help you create a resume that'll win you a job.

That means several things have to be true about this template you're considering.

First, it has to be able to produce a jaw-dropping summary at the top of page one. If it'll only let you plug in an objective statement, even if it's a good one, you won't necessarily be able to produce the resume you want to. At least not the kind I'd recommend.

Second, it has to be flexible. If you can't rearrange things easily, or change fonts and formatting, you'll be too locked in. It'll be like a Soviet all-you-eat buffet. They give you a small plate of food and say, "There. That's all you can eat."

Third, it has to have a professional, attractive layout. You want to STAND out, not STICK out. Go for a professional, probably more traditional look. The layout should include ample white space, simply because it "sells" better.

Fourth, it has to be in Word format. If you're dealing with software, it has to allow you to save or export to Word format. This is the industry standard. If you deliver something to a recruiter in electronic form, and it isn't Word, you'll be lucky if he contacts you to tell you to send a Word document. More likely, he'll pass you by.

If a free resume template (or one you're considering buying) meets those criteria, it's probably worth using. It's a pretty short list.

Notice that I didn't say anything about fancy fonts, or software, or any bells and whistles at all.

Those can be nice, maybe even helpful. They're NOT necessary. Fire up Microsoft Word, load up your template, if necessary change the font to 11-point Times New Roman (a standard, atractive, and "safe" font), and start typing!

A free resume template isn't going to do the work for you. It simply might save you time on the more mundane tasks, like formatting the document.

The job-winning content is all up to you.

Copyright 2005 by Roy Miller

An article by Roy Miller, creator of http://www.Job-Search-Guidepost.com. He recently developed a simple, powerful, job-winning resume template package. You can get your FREE copy here: free resume template. And if you liked this article, be sure to sign up for Roy's free weekly newsletter.

This article may be reprinted for use in newsletters and on websites provided that this information box is kept intact. Email notice of intent to publish is appreciated but not required: roy@job-search-guidepost.com.



Career Success Through Self-Marketing

Marketing shouldn't be limited to advertising companies. Finding a job... Read More

How to Get Paid More Without Being Pretty or Good Looking

Guess what. The results are out they are ugly. Pretty... Read More

Telecommuting Cover Letters

Question: How do I market myself online?Answer: With a stellar... Read More

Talented People

I was asked last week for an article about employment,... Read More

Assess Your Transferable Skills

One of the most important parts of a job... Read More

The 6 Stages of Modern Career Development

Career experts say that people will change careers (not jobs)... Read More

You Should Interview the Interviewer, Too

I know what you are thinking. You're thinking, "Wait a... Read More

Bartending School Online- Earn Your Bartender Training From Home

Many young adults flock to bars, lounges and clubs on... Read More

Ebook Review: Winning a Job is Easier with Job Secrets Revealed

IntroductionThere are literally thousands, if not tens of thousands of... Read More

Beat the Crowd with Winning Resume Cover Letters

Far too many people underestimate the importance of resume cover... Read More

Becoming A Home Inspector: What the Home Inspection Schools Dont Want You To Know

Chances are if you're reading this you've thought about becoming... Read More

Jobseekers! Look For Smoke, Not Fire

"If you always do what you've always done, you will... Read More

How To Prepare For A Telephone Interview

It is important to prepare thoroughly for your telephone interview.Begin... Read More

Day Trading ? The Ultimate Work-From-Home Job?

Ever dreamt of giving up the daily grind? Want to... Read More

Updating Your Plum Job Now That Youre a Parent

It's startling to discover how having kids changes the way... Read More

TMI: The Resume Destroyer

"They say my résumé should be only one page long.... Read More

Freelance Work: The Changing Face of Employment

The world sure is changing, and if you look at... Read More

Marketing You and Your Career

Imagine if a business invested years into the research, design,... Read More

5 Ways to Combat Job Burnout

Job burnout happens when the stress or prolonged frustration of... Read More

Passing The Police Test Just Became Easier

You've taken the police officer selection test or law enforcement... Read More

How to Write a Better CV (UK), or Resume (USA and elsewhere)

The first point to make is that the terms "CV"... Read More

Why Employers Want an Employee with a Degree

You wake up in the morning, head to work, and... Read More

The Top Ten Ways to Jump Start Your Career

1. Do What You Love.Have you ever noticed we usually... Read More

Driver Team Solo Positions: The Nitty Gritty On Truck Driving Jobs

Trucks and truck drivers are a constant presence on US... Read More

Four Important Questions to Ask Your Interviewer; Do You Really Want to Work for This Person?

Many job seekers miss a golden opportunity when they are... Read More

If you'd like to keep up-to-date,
please complete the form below and we'll put you on the mailing list
to receive our twice-yearly newsletter for supporters

* Your email address:
* choes your language: