Do’s and Don’ts of Using Resume Templates

Table Of Contents

Introduction—How Can I Write a Good Resume?

How to Use a Resume Template Effectively—The Do’s

Tailor the Template to the Job

What Should a Resume Have?

Use Clear and Consistent Formatting

Use Action Verbs and Quantifiable Results

Proofread and Edit

How to Make a Good Resume Using a Template—the Don’ts

Avoid Bland, Generic Wording

A resume template may include generic phrases that fail to make you stand out. Terms like "hard-working," "team player," or "detail-oriented" don’t add value because they’re basic expectations for any job. Replace them with more impactful phrases and back them up with specific examples that demonstrate those qualities. For example, “Project management pro with 10 years of experience producing high-value deliverables on time and within budget.”

Don’t Use Overly Designed Templates

As mentioned in the “Do’s,” stay away from templates with excessive graphics, images, shapes, or complex formatting. While they may be eye-catching, these elements can be difficult to edit and may not display correctly when processed by applicant tracking systems (ATS). ATS tools often struggle with tables, columns, and text boxes, and if your resume can’t be properly scanned and scored, you likely won’t be considered for the position!

Only Include Necessary Personal Information

Only your name, address (city and state only), and contact information should be included on your resume. Employers do not need personal details like a photo, marital status, or other irrelevant information. Adding details such as marital status, your specific address, or a photo is not only unnecessary, but can also introduce unintended biases. Keep the focus on the skills and experience that the company is looking for.

Don’t Get Carried Away

Don’t overload your resume with a ton of text. Keep bullet points concise—ideally no more than two lines each—and make sure there is enough white space to make the resume easy to read. The total length should be two pages. Keep in mind that a hiring manager doesn’t need every single detail about what you’ve done, just an overview that gives them enough information that they want to follow up with you. Excessive text or a cluttered layout make it difficult for them to quickly identify your key qualifications.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for help writing a resume, aren’t certain what should be on a resume, or would benefit from resume writing examples, a resume template can be a very helpful resource. However, keep in mind that it is only a starting point. It’s up to you to turn the template into a tailored resume that effectively sells you and your skills.

Our proprietary framework, the Power of 6, where a team of six professionals, including yourself, collaborate to develop a powerful resume, can significantly enhance your application. This approach ensures that your resume stands out and places you in the top 2% of candidates who are invited to the interview process.

Take the time to craft a well-structured and content-rich resume, and you will be well on your way to landing the job you desire. If you ever find yourself asking, "How can I write a good resume?" or need *help writing a resume*, consider expert advice or reviewing *resume writing examples* for inspiration. Don’t hesitate to seek help and use the right tools to ensure your resume reflects *what needs to be on a resume* and truly shines.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if a resume template is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)?

ATS‑friendly templates will use standard and clear section labels like Experience, Education, or Skills, and a single column. They won’t include graphics, other non-text items, or tables.  Dates should be aligned with job titles and locations.

If I use a popular template, what's the best way to ensure my resume still looks unique?

Customize your content with information that is tailored to the job and reflects your own unique skills and experience. 

Are the free templates included in Microsoft Word or Google Docs considered professional and safe to use?

Word and Google Docs templates are generally safe if you ensure there are no decorative elements and that there are standard headings. Replace all sample text and ensure the document outline is in a logical order. To test if your resume is ATS-friendly, copy all text into a plain text editor to ensure everything appears in the right order.

How much can I change a template's colors and fonts before it starts to look unprofessional?

A single accent color and black or very dark body text can still look professional. You can also choose from any of these professional fonts: Calibri/Cambria, Georgia, Arial, Helvetica, Garamond, Source Sans/Serif, or system‑available equivalents.  Always prioritize readability (11–12 pt body, ~14–16 pt headings) and consistent spacing over stylization.

Are paid resume templates worth the cost, or are free ones just as effective?

Paid templates aren’t required, though they can be helpful. However, free templates are just as effective if your content is strong and the layout is clean. Occasionally, paid templates can be worth it if you have a complex work history, as they can help save time. Either way, keep the focus on content quality, relevance to the posting, and measurable results.