Tales from the Resume Reef: Focus on Content, not Style

As someone with extensive recruiting experience, I can tell you that I have received resumes in ALL varieties of formats and paper choices over the decade. Ironically, the fanciest of paper and the most "creative" design usually were showcasing the worst resumes: typos, lack of information, lack of clarity, dates missing from employment, etc.

For resumes, substance ALWAYS triumphs over style. In the 30 seconds or so a hiring authority or recruiter looks at your resume, he/she is looking to see if you qualify for something that's currently open.

Things that employers DON'T say-
"Terrible resume, but look at how nice this paper is. I'll call him."
"Man, she spent a ton of time designing this. I have no idea what her skills are, but might as well call her to find out."

While it's admirable to want to have your resume looking sharp, what's more important is what's IN the resume.

In the past, for example, I've worked with placing graphic designers. They managed to use their creative abilities to mix their work history, skills and experience in with some graphic work: freehand sketches or some layout in the margins. However, they kept focus on CONTENT: the INFORMATION the employer needs to see to get to know you!

So, no matter how nice the paper or the layout, your CONTENT is what will drive employers to make positive decisions regarding your qualifications.

Plus, we EMAIL resumes in most cases for “first contact” with employers. That fancy paper or design means even less, then, doesn’t it?

Use your talents to put a resume together that clearly discusses your skills, education and experience. THEN, if you want to add nicer paper for print copy, you are showcasing CONTENT first.

And as far as “creative” design, my suggestion is to leave that to the graphic designers. Use examples we’ve provided or good advice on resumes you can find at helpful sites like the following:
The Riley Guide -
Secrets of the Job Hunt -

Let the content be what ‘sells’ you; it’s what employers are looking for in your resume.