Writing a Resume: To Template or Not To Template?

Are 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.

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. Copyright 2004 Kathi MacNaughton. All rights reserved.

---

Signs of a Healthy Work Environment

There's no denying that a healthy work environment is a top concern for most employees. Review any employee satisfaction survey and you're apt to find this issue... Read More

Seven Ways to Say You?re Fired and What to Do When It Happens to You

Today's employers scramble for creative ways to advise employees of their unexpected departures. The days of employers being loyal to their employees are long gone. We now... Read More

Why Use a Resume Writer or Resume-writing Service?

Here are some of the questions we have been asked by our clients or potential clients in the past, together with our answers to them. We hope... Read More

How to Change Careers and Still Pay the Bills - 5 Key Steps

Studies show that more than 50% of people are unhappy in their jobs yet few will actually make a career change in 2005. Why? Most people let... Read More

CDL Practice Test ? Offers Practice Tests To Prepare For The CDL Exam

As you take CDL practice test, you do become more familiar with the CDL test, and being familiar with the test will make the actual test much... Read More

So You want to be a Bodyguard?

Then let me start by helping out. The politically correct phrase these days is not "bodyguard" but personal protection specialist, executive protection specialist or close protection operative,... Read More

Dont Be Defeated - Be Empowered

Taking a job out of fear and desperation will never satisfy you for very long, nor will it last all that long either, and before you know... Read More

How to Make More Job Contacts Faster, through Viral Marketing

Are you in the job market? Sick of every blog-byte cramming down your throat that you have to get out there and network? Feel like your traditional... Read More

Losing a Career When Youre Moving for Love

Those who watched HBO's Sex and the City (SATC, now available on DVD) know the last eight episodes were less about sex and more about city. And... Read More

Unemployment Blues: Mind Over Mood

Our lives are tranquil and smooth so seldom, it seems. We have our ups-and-downs, our good days and bad days, our sunny moods and black moods. The... Read More

Your Resume Format - What Is The First Thing You Need To Do?

The first thing you need to do before you write your resume is learn how to format it. Just as if you were cooking a new dish... Read More

Energizing Synergy

Would you like to have more energy and synergy in your job and career? If you are not enjoying work the way you used to and if... Read More

So, Your Made A Mistake

Of course, mistakes are important. Two facts put those you make in perspective. One, everyone who plays the game makes mistakes. Two, that you make mistakes is... Read More

Online Resume Formats

There are several types of online resume formats that can be used when contacting potential employers. When you search for job openings online, some companies will have... Read More

5 Simple Rules for A Great Job Interview

Many years ago, when I was a young job-searching greenhorn, I ventured to New York City to take a bite out of the big apple of opportunity.When... Read More

Change Your Career, Change Your Life

Change Your Career,Change your Life!Lots of times I see and talk to people who are tired, bored and burnt out of their current jobs. I'm not sure... Read More

What To Do When A Co-Worker Turns Nasty

A friend of mine laments that work would be great if only there were no other people there! No matter where we work, we will work with... Read More

Resume Posting: Tips for Jobseekers

Recruiting firms, like most businesses today, must embrace technology in order to prosper. Part of modern recruiting is understanding the value and benefit of internet job boards.... Read More

Top 10 Resume Writing Tips to Get You the Interview

There are many reasons why you could be in the market for a new job right now. Perhaps...==> You just graduated from high school--or even better, college--and... Read More

Stripper--Turned--Waitress Cant Leave Former Job Behind

She stretches in the break room for 30 minutes before each shift. She glides around the dining room like silk wafting on the breeze. She's been known... Read More

What is Mystery Shopping, and Can You Really Get Paid to Shop?

Mystery shoppers visit businesses "disguised as normal customers," and do the things other customers do-ask questions, make a purchase, make a return-but with a twist. These undercover... Read More

Working From Home - Could You Cope?

It is a well-known fact that more and more people are choosing to work from home rather than face the daily agony that is otherwise known as... Read More

The Dog Days of Job Hunting

Does a headline like this scare you? it should because the consolidation is not over yet.Don't despair just because we are in the "dog days" of job... Read More

Offer Letter Limbo

Recently we concluded the placement of a Senior Sales Representative for a publicly traded company. The role was ripe with potential as the company products were being... Read More

Your Cover Letter MUST Ask This Question

Imagine receiving a letter from a salesman who wants to sell you an exciting new widget. The letter focuses on all the reasons why this is such... Read More

How To Type A Resume For Employers

Learning how to type a resume may feel like a daunting task. Even the most affluent writers have asked themselves, how to type a mind-blowing resume. Follow... Read More