Resume Design Tips: How to Be Creative Without Breaking the Rules

A strong resume is vital to making a great first impression. Striking the right balance between creativity and professionalism can make you more attractive to recruiters and set you apart from the competition. Check out the tips below to learn how to craft an eye-catching resume aligned with industry standards to ensure you make the right “first impression” when it matters most.

Resume Design Tips

1. Understand the Basics

Before diving into creative elements, ensure your resume includes essential information: contact details, work experience, education, and skills. A well-structured resume ensures that the reader can easily find the information they need, which is especially important given the limited time recruiters spend on each resume.

2. Use Design Elements Wisely

Incorporate color, typography, and layout to enhance readability. For example, a consistent color scheme can highlight different sections, while a clean, modern font can improve legibility. According to a study by TheLadders, recruiters spend an average of 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume, so clarity is critical. Avoid overly complex layouts that might distract from the content. Instead, use design elements to guide the reader's eye and emphasize important information. We recommend that you do not use pictures or a headshot on your resume.

3. Tailor Your Design to the Industry

Creative resumes are more acceptable in marketing, design, and media. However, a subtle approach is advisable in more traditional industries, such as finance or law. We suggest researching the industry norms to ensure your resume aligns with expectations. For instance, a graphic designer might use bold colors and unique layouts, while an accountant might opt for a more conservative design with minimal color and straightforward formatting.

4. Leverage Technology

Utilize tools like Canva or Adobe Spark to create visually appealing resumes. These user-friendly platforms offer templates that can help you maintain a professional look while adding creative flair. We suggest experimenting with various customization options and designs until you find one that best represents your personal brand.

5. Keep It ATS-Friendly

Most companies today use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. This can be a massive hindrance when adding more “flowery” elements, so always prioritize what you need to say above how you want to say it. AKA: Don’t put looks above substance! You can ensure your creative resume is ATS-compatible by using standard fonts and avoiding graphics that might restrict machine readability. Stick to simple, appealing layouts and include keywords from the job description to increase your chances of passing through the initial screening process. For more tips and best practices about making a resume that’s “ATS Friendly,” check out this great article.

Show Your Creativity in a Portfolio

While there are subtle ways to make your resume look nicer while optimizing it for ATS screenings, we generally recommend keeping a tried-and-true, professional, and elegant resume without going overboard on creative aspects. Focus your efforts on perfecting your content for the ATS. 

That’s not to say there aren’t ways to show your creativity and stand out. Creating a professional portfolio is a great way to highlight your creativity and personality while letting your work speak for itself. Free and accessible tools like Wix and Squarespace can be used to easily create an online portfolio.

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Crafting a creative resume doesn't mean sacrificing clarity or professionalism. By understanding the basics, using design elements wisely, tailoring your design to the industry, leveraging technology, and keeping it ATS-friendly, you can create a resume that stands out for all the right reasons.

At TalentAlly, we understand the importance of a standout resume and are here to help! Check out our career resources for more tips and best practices. Once you’re done, visit our events schedule to connect with potential employers and showcase your creative resume at one of our in-person, hybrid, or virtual career fairs.