Harsh truth: your resume template doesn't matter

Harsh Truth: Your Resume Template Doesn’t Matter

Let’s face it: no one is hiring you because of your resume template. In the grand scheme of job hunting, what you put on the page matters infinitely more than the bells and whistles you decorate it with. Here's why your resume template doesn’t matter and what you should really focus on.

Two Sets of Eyes: The ATS and The Recruiter

Your resume needs to impress two very different audiences: the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and the human recruiter or hiring manager. Here's the harsh truth: a fancy template might actually hurt your chances with both.

The ATS

The ATS is like a digital gatekeeper. Its job is to scan and sort resumes, filtering out those that don’t match the job criteria. Here's what the ATS loves:

Plain Text: ATS systems can get tripped up by complex designs, fancy fonts, and intricate layouts. A plain Word document or simple template ensures your resume can be easily read and parsed.
Keywords: The ATS looks for specific keywords that match the job description. Make sure your resume includes relevant terms and phrases.
Structure: Keep it simple. Use clear headings like “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” This helps the ATS understand and categorize your information.

The Recruiter

Once past the ATS, your resume lands in the hands of a recruiter or hiring manager. They’re looking for clear, concise information that tells them why you’re the best fit for the job. They appreciate:

Clarity: A straightforward layout makes it easy to scan your resume quickly. Recruiters spend an average of six seconds on an initial resume review.
Relevance: Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. Tailor your resume to the job description.
Professionalism: While flashy designs might catch an eye, they often distract from the content. A professional, clean layout keeps the focus on your qualifications.

Why A Plain Template Works Best

1. Readability:

A plain template ensures that both the ATS and human eyes can easily read and understand your resume. Fancy fonts and graphics might look nice, but they can often make your resume harder to read.

2. Focus on Content:

The substance of your resume—your skills, experience, and achievements—is what will get you hired. A plain template puts the focus where it belongs.

3. Universally Accepted:

Plain templates are universally accepted and work well across different platforms and devices. You won’t have to worry about compatibility issues that can arise with more complex designs.

Conclusion

The harsh truth is that your resume template doesn’t matter. What matters is the content and how well it communicates your qualifications to both the ATS and the recruiter. Stick with a plain, clean template, focus on your achievements, and tailor your resume to each job you apply for. By doing this, you’ll ensure your resume not only gets seen but also makes a strong impression where it counts.