Simple Resume Formats for Maximum Impact With Samples

• Sep 11, 2024
• 5 min read

• Tags: Resume Editing, Resume Writing

A resume typically attracts recruiters and hiring managers only when it is drafted in an effective and aesthetically pleasing resume format that meets industry standards. So, learning how to format a resume or selecting a free resume format from those available online is crucial if you want to get that job you have been eyeing for a while. 

This article takes you through the various aspects that make a resume format effective to help you craft a document that delivers results. 

What is a resume format?

A resume format refers to how information is presented in your resume. The structure and layout of this document define whether your experience, skills, and qualifications have been effectively portrayed. 

Many industries prefer standard resume formats that comprise a professional summary, skills, work experience, education, etc. Projects, special mentions, and achievements are also included in resumes to highlight a candidate’s competence in specific areas. 

Some common resume formats used in job markets around the world are:

• • • Chronological resume format: This format follows a reverse chronological style, where the latest job is covered first, followed by other jobs undertaken in the past. It beautifully shows your strengths and talks about your work experience in detail, creating an impact on the reader. 
    • Functional resume format: A functional resume primarily focuses on a candidate’s skills. This format is highly suitable for freshers and students. It is also useful for freelancers looking to join or rejoin the workforce. If you are someone with a gap in employment, this simple resume format can highlight your skills while reducing the adverse impact of career gaps in the document. 
    • Combination resume format: This professional resume format is a combination of chronological and functional resume formats. When you want to highlight both your skills and your professional experience, this is a great choice. 

Even though these resume formats are popular, customizing your resume format to align with the job you are applying for is highly recommended.

Find readymade templates for all three types of resumes in our article: Different Types of Resumes: Explained with Tips and Examples

Importance of a good resume format

A well-formatted resume is powerful as it can impress a potential employer. As a visual representation of your professional skills and experience, it plays a key role in determining whether you land an interview.

A good resume format offers the following benefits: 

• • • • It makes reading easy.
      • It ensures relevant information is available to recruiters.
      • Effective use of white space and proper headings makes important details visible.
      • Proper formatting helps Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) identify relevant keywords.
      • Your accomplishments sound compelling.
      • A professional format can make your resume stand out.

What is an ATS-friendly resume format?

Nowadays hiring managers at many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen applicants. An ATS is a software application that reads the resumes submitted by candidates to weed out applicants who do not meet a company’s eligibility and other specific criteria.

Due to these systems, developing an ATS-friendly resume format is necessary. If you Google “resume format examples”, you will find many ATS-friendly resume formats. Such resumes are easily parsed and understood by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). 

You can even use artificial intelligence to create an ATS-friendly resume using the right prompts. 

So, let us study some key features of an ATS-friendly resume in this section. 

• • • • A simple resume format is easily readable by an ATS. 
      • Standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, and Times New Roman are recognized by the system more easily than fancy fonts. 
      • Distinguishable headings make it easier for an application tracking system to read your document while screening. 
      • Images, graphics, and tables do not work well with ATS software.
      • A text-based layout will get better results when dealing with these systems.
      • Bullet points facilitate ATS scanning.
      • Left-aligned text can be scanned well by ATS software.
      • ATSes prefer to have information like your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile listed in your resume. 
      • Details about your qualifications, career goals, work history, and skills increase your chances of being shortlisted. 
      • Using keywords from the job description of the job you are applying for prompts the ATS software to consider your CV. Note that keyword stuffing will hamper your chances of selection.

How to format your resume?

Learning to format your resume is a skill that comes in handy, particularly when you plan to customize your resume for different jobs. Here are some quick tips and pointers on how to format your resume. 

• • • • Select a suitable font and font size that looks neat and professional.
      • Determine the margins of your document for a clean look (0.5”-1” is a standard for resumes in the US).
      • Use adequate spacing for high readability. 
      • Write information under separate section headings. 
      • Use bulleted points to highlight numbers and figures and make reading easy. 

The standard resume formats for the United States do not encourage adding the following information. This is not an exhaustive list. 

• • • • A candidate’s photo
      • Personal information (gender, date of birth, ethnicity, marital status, etc.)
      • Details about passport, driving license, etc. 
      • Professional references 
      • Hobbies 

Resume formats – Templates

Many resume format templates are available online today. You can even download free resume formats from various websites. Some of the best resume formats can be found on the official Microsoft website; you can download as many resume formats as you like in MS Word. 

Upon downloading these resume formats 2024, you can replace the content seen in the MS Word document with your information. And voila, your resume will be ready in no time! 

You can also follow this link to see some simple ATS-friendly resume templates that you can directly use to build your resume. 

What makes a resume format the best resume format?

It might be difficult to categorize a single resume format as the best resume format. Your career goals, work experience, and the job you want to determine which resume will work for you the best. 

Typically, the best resume formats are the ones that meet the following requirements: 

• • • • • Job role: The resume format you select should highlight your most relevant skills and work experiences in line with the job role you seek.
        • Easy to read: Evaluate if your job application will stand out amidst a sea of applicants. A well-organized and formatted resume will attract and retain a hiring manager’s attention. A clear structure with headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting makes it easier for them to find key information quickly.
        • ATS compatibility: These days Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have taken over the initial screening process. An ATS-friendly format can get you the job of your dreams! This means you must avoid complex layouts, graphics, or unusual fonts in your resume.
        • Show strengths: The format should emphasize your strengths. For instance, a combination format works well if you have both strong skills and a solid work history.
        • Customizing the document: A good resume format allows you to tailor your resume to a specific job or industry.
        • Professional appearance: A resume should look polished and professional to create a positive impression on employers.

A well-structured resume can get you the job you want! The formatting of your resume is as important as its content. So, the next time you plan to send your resume to a prospective employer, ensure it has been formatted well. 

If you need resume or cover letter editing services, get in touch with our team. Our editors at PaperTrue will refine your resume—both content and resume format will be taken care of! 

Need more information about resumes? Here are some other articles:

• • A Complete Guide on How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume
  • Top 10 Resume Editing Services of 2024
  • How to Edit and Expand Your Resume into a CV
  • 10 Best Free AI Resume Builders to Create the Perfect CV
  • How to Write a Cover Letter: 7 Tips from Business Editors

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Rashmi

Rashmi is a versatile writer with a passion for developing engaging long-form content. With a keen interest in both academic and business spheres, she enjoys creating comprehensive content pieces that readers find informative and interesting. She endeavors to exercise her intellectual curiosity, explore new perspectives, and consider different possibilities through her writing.