Use a template to create a resume (2024)

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See also Print it Share it FAQs
  1. Go to File > New.

  2. In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.

    Use a template to create a resume (1)

  3. Double-click the template you want to use.

  4. Replace the placeholder text with your own information.

  1. On the File menu, select New from Template.

  2. In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.

    Use a template to create a resume (2)

  3. Double-click the template you want to use.

  4. Replace the placeholder text with your own information.

See also

Create and use your own template in Office for Mac

Making a resume like this while you're online is quick and easy.

Note:This template comes with a cover letter, so you'll have everything in one document.

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Choose one of our resume templates, and open it in Word for the web to make it yours.

Tip:If you're already in Word for the web, get to the resume and cover letter templates by going to File > New, and then below the template images click More on Office.com.
Use a template to create a resume (4)
You'll be on the Templates for Word page. In the list of categories, click Resumes and Cover Letters.

As you work on the resume, you'll probably want to rename it.

The template uses a table to line everything up. If you need to add more lines for job experience or education, add rows to the table by going up to Layout under Table Tools and clicking Insert Below (or Insert Above).

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For tips on writing your resume, check out Six steps to developing a great resume.

Print it

When you're finished, print it out or share it online. You can do this with the resume still open in Word for the web. No need to save it first (that's already done for you).

To print it, press Ctrl+P, and wait for the Print dialog box.

Note:If you don't see a Print dialog box, click the link for opening a PDF version of your resume. From there, use the PDF program's Print command.

Share it

To share it online, send a link:

  1. Near the top of the screen, click Share.

  2. Under Share, click Get a Link.

    Use a template to create a resume (6)

  3. Under Choose an option, click View only.

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  4. Click Create Link.

  5. Click on the web address to select it, and then copy and paste it into an email, message, or post.

Tip:If you have a blog or website, you can embed a view of your resume there.

Use a template to create a resume (2024)

FAQs

Is it good to use a template for a resume? ›

Most templates will provide guidance on the essential sections to include and the order to present them. They are especially useful for those looking to create an effective document without the need for a professional resume writers' help.

Is it okay to use a Word template for a resume? ›

Using a template that isn't up to speed with today's resume rules can immediately make you look out of touch — and that's not the first impression you're trying to make. They may look good, but using an MS template means you'll have limited ability to adjust or customize the template.

What template should I use for my resume? ›

For the majority of job-seekers, the best resume format in 2024 is the reverse-chronological resume format. This resume format involves listing your resume information (e.g. your work experience and your education) starting with the most recent one and going backward through relevant jobs, degrees, or qualifications.

Do recruiters care about resume templates? ›

So, let's put this straight once and for all: There is nothing wrong with using resume builder in 2024 or in other years to come. For one thing, recruiters hardly ever care about how your resume looks. What rather concerns them is the content that you put in there.

Which template do most employers prefer for resumes? ›

A functional resume puts the spotlight on your skills. The hybrid resume not only focuses on your key skills but also on your work experience. Which resume format is best? Among the three resume formats, recruiters prefer that you use the hybrid resume format.

Does it matter if resume is Word or PDF? ›

Once you have a well-written resume in hand, you'll want to send it in the most professional and reliable format. Word documents may be simple to edit, but PDFs maintain their formatting across many devices and are easy to secure. In short, a PDF resume will leave the best impression on a prospective employer.

How to make an eye catching resume? ›

Keep reading to learn more about why resume formatting is important and how you can polish your resume.
  1. A unique resume stands out.
  2. Simple, readable fonts are key.
  3. A descriptive yet concise resume helps hiring managers.
  4. The right white space declutters your resume.
  5. Get a second set of eyes on your resume.
  6. Further reading.
Nov 14, 2023

Are Microsoft Word templates ATS friendly? ›

We talked about some formatting features to avoid on your resume – fancy graphics and non-traditional fonts. Those features can trip up an ATS, even if they're on a Word document or Google Docs file. However, as long as you follow the guidelines on this page, or use one of these ATS resume templates, you'll be fine.

How many pages should a resume be? ›

Your resume is your professional calling card. Learn what length it should be and how to keep it focused and impactful. Most resumes should be between one and two pages long.

Should I put my address on my resume? ›

Traditionally, including your address when you write your resume was standard practice because employers would reach out to you via physical mail. Today, most (if not all) jobs handle hiring communication through email or online portals. For that reason, listing a mailing address on your resume is no longer necessary.

How far back should a resume go? ›

Generally, experts recommend keeping about 10-15 years of work experience on your resume, but that guidance changes depending on your professional history. Your resume is one of the first things a potential employer sees about you.

Do employers care about resume design? ›

The more creative you get with your resume design, the more likely recruiters will be forced to hunt for the information they care about — and the more likely they will skip over your application altogether. Save the fancy graphs and other bells-and-whistles for your personal website (if applicable).

Is it safe to use online resume templates? ›

This isn't the first time I've said this: resume templates may be hurting your job search! While professional templates can be advantageous, they might also be widely used leading to generic-looking resumes. A resume that blends in with others might not stand out as much to hiring managers seeking something distinct.

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