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Like new clothes you may have busted your
So, how do you know when you need to use a designer resume? When should you stick with the tried-and-true classic template?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Visual Impact: Stands out and is memorable to recruiters. | Software Compatibility: May not work well with all ATS. |
| Personality Showcase: Expresses creativity and uniqueness. | Overwhelming Design: This can be distracting or confusing. |
| Industry Relevance: Great for creative and tech fields. | Professionalism: May not be suitable for conservative fields. |
| Easy Scanning: Highlights important info effectively. | Time-Consuming: Takes longer to create and update. |
| Multi-Media Links: These can include digital portfolios. | Cost: Quality design tools or services may be expensive. |
When to AVOID Getting Creative
In some cases, it’s essential to present a specific resume. As an example, when applying for jobs with the Federal Government, you will almost always need a special resume. Government employers aren’t interested in a fancy resume. They don’t want to be distracted from the information that’s on
“You’ve probably been told that your resume is the most important document in your job search (and it is). But if you want to stand out from the competition, you need more than a great-looking resume. In the end, only qualified candidates will get called for an interview, and only those that know how to interview will get the job.” – The Best Resume Does Not Always Mean You Will Get the Job
Although you can research exactly how to create this kind of resume on the Internet, it might be in your best interest to seek a pro who specializes in creating resumes for federal jobs (such as CareerProPlus). Professionals know all the nuisances involved and can help ensure you’re meeting the very strict requirements when applying for such a position.
In short, if you’re applying for a government job, it’s a safe bet you won’t need a designer resume.
When to Get Creative
When you’re in the creative industry, you should get creative with
But beware, if you’re applying for a management position in the creative industry, steer clear of a designer resume with all the bells and whistles. The point is to present your experience and credentials. They’re not going to hire you because of your design skills, but rather your professionalism.
Private Sector Jobs Offer Some Leeway
But how about those of us looking for jobs in the private sector but not in the creative industry? Will a designer resume make
Some hiring managers and H.R. execs simply see a designer resume as distracting and desperate. “Resumes should be clear, clean, and to the point,” says Sue Karlin, President of Suka Creative.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t add some creativity in
The Bottom Line
Obviously, consider your industry and the job for which you are applying. You need to walk a thin line between setting yourself apart from the sea of other applicants and branding yourself as overreaching and desperate.
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