How To Create Resume Template In Word 2010

A resume template can help you create a document that will impress every employer, whether you're writing your first resume or revising your current one. Microsoft Word has resume templates available for users. All you have to do is find one you like, click on it, and start writing.

Even though it's easy to use a template, carefully customize your resume. Taking the time to match your experience to the job will give you the best chance of getting chosen for an interview.

Why Use a Resume Template?

Screenshot of an online resume template from Microsoft

A template can serve as a useful guide when creating or revising your resume. A template provides the basic structure for a resume. All you have to do is simply edit the document to include your personal information.

By using a template, you get a sense of what information to include in your resume and how to arrange it. You also get a sense of what information you do not need to include.

Using a template can reduce the amount of time you have to spend formatting your document, which allows you to focus on adding content and polishing up your resume so it's perfect.

Free Microsoft Word Resume Templates

Download a free resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) to use to write your resume.

More Microsoft Resume Templates

More free Microsoft resume templates are available as a download for Microsoft Word users to use to create their resumes. Microsoft also has templates for cover letters, curriculum vitae, and more career-related correspondence.

Microsoft Word resume options include:

Basic resumes
Job-specific resumes (sales manager, computer programmer, etc.)
Career-specific resumes (career change, entry-level, etc.),
Resumes labeled by format (chronological resume, functional resume, etc.).

To access these resume templates from your computer:

Screenshots showing how to find a template in Word

Open Microsoft Word and go to File > New.
Type resume into the search box.
Click a resume template that you want to use.
Click Create to open the resume template in MS Word.

To access the Microsoft resume templates online:

Screenshots showing how to find free Word templates online from Microsoft's website

Visit Microsoft's templates and themes page.
Click Resumes and Cover Letters.
Choose a resume from the list.
Click Download to save the resume template to your computer, or click Edit in Browser to open the template in Microsoft Word Online.

Tips for Using a Resume Template

Once you have downloaded or opened a resume template file, type over the text in the document to create your own, personalized resume:

Keep It Simple

When picking out a template to use, choose a simple template that's easy to edit and format. Fancy formatting and fonts may get lost when you upload or email your resume document. A basic resume is also easier for the hiring manager to read.

Keep It Concise

Your resume doesn't need to include everything you ever did. If you have a lengthy employment history, you don't need to include it all. Employers typically don't expect to see more than 10-15 years of work experience on a resume.

Try to keep the resume no longer than one page, especially if you are applying for an entry-level job. However, more experienced candidates might make a longer resume.

Make the Document Unique to You and the Job

Be sure to change all of the information in the template so that the finished document is specific to you and your skills. It should include:

You may also want to include a profile and a headline, though these sections are options.

Also, make sure to tailor the document to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to be a teacher, include any work or volunteer experiences that involved teaching others or leading a group of people. Include keywords from the job application in your document, as well. This is another way to connect your resume to a specific job.

Choose a File Format

The employer may request your resume in a specific file format. Typical options are Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) or a PDF file.

Give It a Unique File Name

Save your resume with your name as the file name. This way, employers will know whom it belongs to. For example, save it as firstname.lastname.doc or lastnameresume.doc.

Check the Details

When you're typing or copying and pasting over the content of a template, be sure that you have replaced all the information in it with your contact information, experience, and education. Double-check to make sure that everything on the final version of the resume is about you.

Proofread

Along with checking the details, take the time to carefully proofread your resume before you click upload or send. A polished resume will impress an employer.

Microsoft Resume Assistant

Office 365 users can use LinkedIn data to review resume examples, customize their resumes, get professional assistance, and connect with recruiters. Here's information on how Resume Assistant works.

Resume Assistant uses profiles from LinkedIn as examples for creating a new resume. If you want to keep your profile information from being shown in Word, here's how to adjust your privacy settings.

Related: Best Resume Writing Services