How to Make a Resume Template in Word

Want a professional resume but don't want to pay someone to write it? You can totally make your own using Microsoft Word! This guide will show you how to create a resume template that gets noticed. We'll cover everything from setting it up to making it look great. Plus, we'll help you dodge common resume mistakes. Let's get you that interview!

Why Use Microsoft Word for Your Resume?

Word is a great choice for your resume. Here's why:

• Everyone has it: Most people can get to Microsoft Word easily.
• You can change anything: Word lets you make your resume just right for each job.
• Ready-made designs: Word has resume templates you can start with.
• Easy to use: Lots of people already know how Word works.
• Works everywhere: You can print your resume or send it online as a PDF.

Let's Start: Open Word and Pick a Template

First, open Microsoft Word. You can start with a blank page or use a template.

Option 1: Start From Scratch

A blank page means you control everything. But, it takes more time.

1. Open Word.
2. Click "Blank Document."
3. Set the edges: Go to "Layout" > "Margins." Pick "Normal" or "Narrow."
4. Pick a font: Use a font that's easy to read. Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman are good. Keep it between 10 and 12 points. Make headings a little bigger.

Option 2: Use a Template

Templates save time. Word has lots to choose from.

1. Open Word.
2. Type "resume" in the search bar.
3. Look at the templates. Pick one you like.
4. Click "Create."

Make It Your Own

Template or blank page, you need to make it your resume. Here's how to fix up each part:

1. Your Info

This is super important! Make sure it's all correct.

• Name: Make it a little bigger and bold.
• Phone Number: Have a professional voicemail.
• Email Address: Use a normal email like "[email protected]."
• LinkedIn: Add your LinkedIn if it's up-to-date.
• Address: Just your city and state are fine.

2. Short Intro

This is a quick look at your skills. Use a "summary" if you have lots of experience. Use an "objective" if you're new or changing jobs.

Resume Summary

A summary is a few sentences about your skills. Keep it short.

Example: Marketing pro with 5+ years in social media. Good at getting people interested and making brands known. Looking for a job where I can help a company grow.

Resume Objective

An objective says what you want to do. Good for new people or career changers.

Example: Just finished a Computer Science degree. Want a job as a software developer. Excited to learn new things and help with projects.

3. Your Jobs

Tell about your past jobs. Start with the newest one first.

For each job, add:

• Job Title: What you were called.
• Company Name: The full name.
• Dates: Month and year.
• What You Did: Use bullet points. Show what you did well. Numbers help! ("Increased sales by 15%")

Example:

Marketing Manager
ABC Company, New York, NY
June 2018 – Now

• Made marketing plans that got 20% more people to the website.
• Ran social media and got 30% more followers.
• Made good content for the website and social media.
• Worked with the sales team to get more customers.

4. Your School

List your degrees and schools. Start with the newest.

For each one, add:

• Degree: (Like "Bachelor of Science in Computer Science")
• Major: (Like "Computer Science")
• School Name: (Like "University of California, Berkeley")
• Graduation Date:
• GPA: (If it's good, like above 3.5)
• Classes: (If you're new to the job world)

Example:

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of California, Berkeley
May 2020
GPA: 3.8

5. Your Skills

List skills that fit the job. Like computer skills, people skills, and languages.

• Computer Skills: Python, Java, Microsoft Office.
• People Skills: Talking to people, teamwork, solving problems.
• Languages: How well you know them (fluent, good, basic).

6. Awards (Optional)

Any awards or honors? Add them here!

7. Volunteering (Optional)

If you've volunteered, put it here. It shows you care.

8. Projects (Optional)

Did you do any cool projects? Add them, especially if you're new to the job.

Making It Look Good

How your resume looks matters. Here are some tips:

• Pick a font: Easy to read. Not too fancy.
• Font Size: 10-12 points. Bigger for headings.
• Edges: Normal or narrow.
• Empty Space: Makes it easier to read.
• Bullet Points: For your jobs.
• Bold and Italics: Use them to show important stuff.
• Same Look: Keep the look the same all over the resume.
• Save as PDF: So it looks the same on every computer.

Making It Really Stand Out

Keep it simple, but you can add a few things to make it pop.

• Color: Use it a little. Not too bright.
• Lines: To separate parts.
• Icons: Small pictures for your skills.
• Charts: If you have numbers to show. Keep them simple.

ATS - What's That?

Lots of companies use computers to read resumes. It's called an "Applicant Tracking System" or ATS. Make your resume easy for them:

• Use words from the job ad: Put them in your resume.
• Simple Look: No fancy stuff.
• PDF: Save it as a PDF, but make sure it's text, not a picture.
• Normal Headings: "Work Experience," "Education."
• No Headers or Footers: The computer might not read them.
• Check for Mistakes: Spelling and grammar matter!

Don't Do These Things!

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Spelling mistakes: Check it!
• Stuff that doesn't matter: Only add what's needed for the job.
• No numbers: Show what you did well with numbers.
• Same resume for every job: Change it for each job.
• Bad look: Make it easy to read.
• Too long: One page is best, if you have less than 10 years of experience.
• Silly email: Use a normal one.
• Lying: Be honest!

Last Tips!

• Learn about the company: Before you write your resume.
• Change it for each job: Show them you're the right fit.
• Check it again: For mistakes.
• Get help: Ask someone to read it.
• Keep it up-to-date: Add new skills as you learn them.

You Got This!

Making a resume in Word is easy! Follow these tips, and you'll have a resume that shows off your skills. Remember to change it for each job and check for mistakes. Good luck getting your dream job!

By mastering how to resume template using Microsoft Word, You are taking a proactive step in your job applications. Remember that effective resume design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about clearly communicating your value to potential employers.