If adding a graphic or other design element to your resume scares you, the findings recorded in the 2014 white paper produced by Career Thought Leaders Career Brainstorming Day might shake you up!
According to leading industry experts gathered to report and summarize trends in resume development and job search strategy,
“Infographics are most often used in resumes, leader biographies, one-page achievement statements, and mobile documents. Hyperlinks, charts, tables, and feature sections (i.e., project highlights) are also used, which add content visual to help documents stay put. outside.”
This means that a document that was once a simple reverse chronological list of employment and achievements is undergoing a major overhaul. If you’re considering updating your resume for job searches or using it as a networking tool, this could mean a little exploring in unfamiliar territory for you.
What kind of graphics or design elements could you consider on your resume?
A chart or graph
If your industry is sales, marketing, finance, business leadership, or innovation, this could work for you! A picture is worth a thousand words! I’ve used charts on resumes to demonstrate sales growth, money saved, and new income generated. A chart or graph quickly gets to the point and illustrates success.
an infographic
Infographics provide information quickly and look cool in the process! Is there a symbol, image or graphic element you can use to quickly convey your value?
A logo
It works just as well on nursing resumes as it does on waiter resumes. Is there a little logo or image you can include (that doesn’t infringe copyright) that could be a little differentiator on a resume? The goal is to communicate value quickly. A small image or logo can help the reader quickly associate you with your industry!
A little color!
Contrary to conservative opinion, the color is not the kiss of death summary. In fact, adding a splash of color could very well help your resume stand out in a sea of blacks and grays. While I don’t recommend drenching your resume in every color of the rainbow (unless you’re in a creative field), I will tell you that adding a little color won’t hurt.
Writer’s tip… consider matching the color your resume accents with the color the organization has chosen as part of their logo or branding! Many resume writers report success with this clever little tactic.
A personalized letterhead
If the rest of the design suggestions above seem too drastic, consider designing your name and contact information on a custom letterhead. Use this unique design on any correspondence you feel like, including your cover letter and professional reference sheet.
No matter what layout or graphic elements you try, don’t forget the first rule of resume building: “Know your audience!”
If you work in a super conservative industry, the above suggestions may not be appropriate for you. (However, I will say that I have worked with clients who were very hesitant to use them, but still dared to give it a try. They were the first to admit they were wrong after landing that first interview faster than anticipated!)
It’s time to get creative and show your value in a way that is well written and visually appealing!