Why Using Resume Templates Is A No-No

It seems like a convenient tool, right? Why would Microsoft Office Word provide a resume template if you shouldn’t use it? I honestly don’t know. What I do know is that using a template to write your resume is pretty much the kiss of death.

Employers and recruiters view resumes written from templates as examples of a lack of initiative and interest in the position they’re offering. It basically looks like the person writing the resume was too lazy to start from scratch. It may seem kind of harsh, but it’s really not.

While starting with a blank word document when writing a resume seems kind of daunting, you shouldn’t worry. There’s a basic format that most resumes should be in. (There are a couple of different ways to write a resume, but for the general student population looking for entry-level positions, a basic chronological resume will do). We have a Job & Internship Resource Guide that has great examples of student-written resumes that you can refer to. You can find the guide in our office and on our website.

Another reason why resume templates are kinda whack is because they deviate from what a basic resume should look like. The template might throw in a couple of horizontal lines, move your name around “artistically,” and automatically include sections on your resume that are unnecessary, like a “Profile” section. If you think that nobody will be able to tell because you worked on it a lot, swing by during our Drop-In sessions and show it to a counselor to make sure. I strongly recommend it.

Have an awesome weekend!

Seghel