Resume templates

Put your best qualities on display with professional, customizable resume and cv templates. no matter your line of work or length of professional history, you'll find resume and cv templates that'll help you get the gig..

Resume template surrounded by 3D design elements

Download free resume templates

Land your dream job with free, customizable resume templates. Showcase your potential to recruiters and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Whether you're applying to corporate positions or creative roles, go with a sleek design or show your creativity with bold colors .

Resumes don't need to look boring—add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. There are plenty of resume designs to choose from, like simple resume templates and modern resume templates. Each resume template is fully customizable in Microsoft Word , so you can personalize each design element and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to.

Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template for free to share digitally when applying online. These professional resume templates are perfect for any stage of life or career. Whether you're a high school student, actor, or seeking a career in nursing, you can find any format for any job type.

There are also a variety of free CV (Curriculum Vitae) templates to choose from. A CV is often longer than a resume and contains an in-depth look at your education and professional accomplishments. Like our resume templates, these CV templates are also customizable in Word.

Remember, your next job is only a template away! Once you've customized your resume, explore free cover letter templates to help you land the job.

Online Resume Builder

  • ResumeBuild
  • Chronological Resume Templates

Chronological Resume Templates & Writing Tips

Choose from our best chronological resume templates.

Simple Resume Template

Blending a classic single column layout with helpful color accents and dividers for ease of reading, the Simple resume template is a balanced choice.

Professional Resume Template

Professional

If you’re looking for a design that is subtle, elegant, and combines the best of the old and new, the Professional resume template is the perfect choice.

Cool Resume Template

For a resume that’s a bit more creative and fun, the Cool resume template uses a twin column design and eye-catching icons to differentiate sections.

Modern Resume Template

This resume template gives you clearly defined sections while keeping an understated black and white color scheme.

Contemporary Resume Template

Contemporary

With slim but bold lines and a classic single column design, the Contemporary resume template has presence and impact sure to leave an impression.

Creative Resume Template

For a balance between lighthearted creative and serious profesional, the Creative resume template offers visualizations and a functional two column design.

Why You Should Use the Chronological Resume Templates

Chronological resume templates are one of the most popular styles, and for good reason. They put your most important qualifications front and center, showing at a glance the job positions and responsibilities you’ve held. Many businesses value real-world experience highly, so making this factor stand out on the page is a smart idea. If you've worked for well-known companies, the chronological resume format really shows it off.

When you apply for a management position, potential employers often look for similar experience in past jobs. For example, someone with experience coordinating projects usually should have the skills and personality to handle other leadership responsibilities. The closer your career trajectory matches the qualifications the company is looking for, the better your chances of getting hired. Chronological resume templates are a great fit in any industry, from construction and manufacturing to health care and marketing.

4 Chronological Resume Templates FAQs

Which is the best resume template to use.

The resume you choose makes a statement about your personality and about how you view the position you're applying for. There's no one "right" answer. You want the resume to leave recruiters with a great impression from the moment they see it.

Bold design elements and colors can be excellent for job positions where creativity and initiative are valued, such as marketing. Selecting a traditional layout can transmit an air of professionalism appropriate for weighty responsibilities. Your goal is to stand out in a positive way.

With a chronological resume, single-column layouts draw immediate attention to your most important work experience. A double-column format feels modern and lets you include additional information without crowding the page.

Is the chronological resume template free?

You can create a chronological resume template for free on a trial basis. This can help you get started customizing your resume and choosing the look and feel that fits your goals.

Do you want to work with even more resume templates, professional resources, and amazing resume-building tips? Signing up gives you access to all of those things and more, including a powerful resume builder for putting your personal touch on things.

How should I format the chronological resume template?

Chronological resume templates are always formatted with your current job (or most recent) at the top. List other job positions in reverse-chronological order, going from most recent to least recent. You don't have to include every job you've had, only the ones that highlight your most important qualifications.

Under each job position, list a few bullet points with your responsibilities or accomplishments. Keep sentences short, powerful, and clear with action verbs.

What if holding a degree is essential for the job? In that case, you may want to put educational qualifications first, followed by work experience.

Does the Chronological resume template work with Microsoft Word?

Creating an eye-catching chronological resume template is a breeze with the resume builder. The simple and friendly interface guides you through the process, showing you exactly what to do. Along the way, HR-approved layouts and expert tips help you avoid common mistakes and create a resume that makes an amazing first impression.

Include some of the professionally written job description bullet points to give the resume extra flair. You can customize headers, fonts, sizes, and layouts to make the template completely unique. Afterward, download the finished chronological resume in Word format (.docx) and make any additional changes you want.

More Resume Templates Like This

Contemporary

Using color and a two column design, the Awesome resume template gets a lot of information across with an air of creativity.

Beautiful

Chronological resume

A chronological resume is probably the most common and most recognizable resume template.

What is a chronological resume?

When to use a chronological resume, chronological resume format, download a free template (word).

This is a classic resume style that features work experience first. Your jobs are listed in “reverse chronological” order, meaning your current or most recent job is listed first with the rest following in order from most recent to most distant.

If you have work experience directly related to the position you’re applying for, this is a highly recommended format. Employers like seeing what you’ve accomplished in previous positions, so it’s beneficial to highlight all of your relevant experiences and accomplishments.

If you have little to no work experience – or if your only work experience is completely unrelated to your future career – then you probably want to consider another option.

Because your work experience is the focus of a chronological resume, it should be the first section after your personal information. The only exception is if you’re currently in school, in which case your education should be listed first then your work experience.

Within work experience, your current or most recent job should be listed first. Then, any previous jobs should follow in reverse chronological order.

Additional sections like trainings, volunteer activities, or skills, are encouraged if they apply to your profile. Just remember that your resume should always be a maximum of two pages.

A free to use and direct downloadable resume template for a chronologic resume. This template was created by a certified resume expert and can be used with Microsoft Word.

Download resume-template-chronological.docx 18 KB

License Terms: The following license terms and conditions apply when you download any of our free templates:

  • The templates are for a personal use only.
  • You are not allowed to sub-license, transfer, resell or share any of the templates even for free.

Need some help writing your resume? Take a look at our guide for writing a perfect resume

Author

As a professional recruiter, I have over 10 years of experience helping candidates find work with businesses that match their skills, personalities and goals. Here on Resume Supply, I share some of the key things I have learned over my career to help job seekers with resumes, applications and interviews.

Free Professional Resume Templates

Jobscan’s free Microsoft Word compatible resume templates feature sleek, minimalist designs and are formatted for the applicant tracking systems that virtually all major companies use.

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Classic Format Resume Templates

White resume on big screen

Chronological

Original resume on big screen

These are the three standard resume formats : chronological, hybrid, and functional.

The chronological resume template offers a classic, no frills format. Consider this template if you work in a formal industry or want to bring attention to the impressive companies on your resume. Hybrid resume templates are versatile and the most popular format in today’s job search. Functional resume templates are popular for people changing careers or masking holes in their resume. Jobscan doesn’t typically recommend the functional resume format because recruiters may be suspicious of them .

Fill out your resume faster with our resume builder

Write your resume the free and easy way with the only resume builder designed specifically with ATS-compliant resume templates.

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Senior Level and Executive Resume Templates

White resume on big screen

Once you begin applying to senior level positions, a greater emphasis is placed on the results your organizations have achieved and executive soft skills like leadership , innovation, and entrepreneurial drive. At the executive level, technical skills aren’t as important as they were earlier in your career. Fill out your executive resume template with accomplishments , measurable results, and examples of leadership .

Management Resume Templates

White resume on big screen

When it comes to writing a management-level resume, try to demonstrate a trajectory of growth along with a combination of deep industry knowledge and interpersonal skills. You need to prove that you’re an expert in your field who is able to delegate tasks and lead your team.

Mid-Career Resume Templates

White resume on big screen

When you’re no longer entry-level but still working as an independent contributor (vs a manager), your resume needs to focus on your ability to execute. A strong emphasis should be on the hard skills found in the job description. Back these skills up with context to demonstrate your level of expertise.

Recent Grad Resume Templates

White resume on big screen

When you’re looking for an entry-level job right out of college, your resume is going to look a little different. Your education section is moved up above your work experience and you’re expected to expand upon your college experience. Go into detail with honors, clubs, coursework, etc.

The Importance of ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

If you’re uploading your resume into an online form as part of your job application, it is critical for your resume template to be compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS) . An expertly written resume complete with a sleek design and optimized resume keywords and action verbs could still fall short if the formatting isn’t ATS compliant.

When you upload your resume , applicant tracking systems parse out the text to make it searchable for a recruiter. They may also transfer the information from our resume to a uniform digital candidate profile. Even if you’re perfectly qualified for the job, your chances of getting a job interview are much lower if an ATS can’t accurately parse your resume.

ATS-friendly resumes are often similar to minimalist resume templates but go a step further to account for ATS algorithms and behaviors. Among other considerations, ATS-friendly resume templates account for the fact that:

  • Many ATS can’t handle tables or images.
  • Parsing accuracy is dependent on heading names and correctly sequencing your work experience information.
  • Certain resume fonts might not be displayed properly in all ATS.
  • PDF and docx file types work better than others.

Find out if your resume is ATS-optimized with Jobscan’s resume optimization tool . It will help you write the perfect resume so that you stand out from the competition.

How to Use a Resume Template

Be Selective

Finding the right resume template for you is the first step. Select a template that is ATS-friendly and includes space for all the elements you need to tell your story.

Customize Your Template

Not finding the perfect resume template? Select the best one and make some adjustments. For example, you can remove a hobbies section if you need more room for your work history, add a space for key certifications that don’t fit in the template or add a skills section to better highlight your technical skills.

Resume templates are meant to be a guide to a better resume, not an unbreakable set of rules.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job Every Time

Recruiters and hiring managers are more likely to respond to a resume that is carefully tailored for the specific position .

This means using the job description to focus on the skills and keywords that are most important to the job. Showing that you are results-oriented is another great way to show you are the best candidate. Including relevant measurable results and accomplishments on your resume help demonstrate that you understand what is most important to the company’s success.

After you’ve tailored your resume information within the template, run it through Jobscan’s resume optimization tool to see how well it matches the job. In fact, more than 1 million job seekers have used our tool to help them find the next step in their career—see how it can help you!

Are you still tracking jobs in Excel or Google Sheets? Track and manage your job applications and interviews all in one place with Job Tracker . With the click of a button add a job to Job Tracker. From there you can organize your resumes and job descriptions, keep track of important interview dates and details, and manage multiple job opportunities in one place.

Resume Template FAQs

What is the best resume template for me?

The best resume template is the one that provides room for you to showcase your relevant skills and tell the complete story of your relevant work experience. If you are an entry-level or mid-career applicant, look for a template that highlights your hard skills. For executive-level applicants, a template that focuses on your executive summary and work experience will be best.

Which resume format is best?

Recruiters prefer chronological or hybrid formatted resumes. All of the templates above are great choices! We do not recommend using a functional template, which focuses primarily on skills and downplays work history.

Read more: Why Recruiters Hate the Functional Resume Format

What is the difference between a resume template and a resume builder?

A resume builder is a tool that prompts you to enter your information into input fields and formats a resume for you. Resume templates are typically editable Microsoft Word files that are already formatted. Prefer the ease of a builder? Jobscan’s resume builder is 100% free!

More Resume Resources

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Google Docs Resume Templates

ATS Resume Templates

Simple Resume Templates

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Resume Builder

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What jobscan customers are saying.

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Word Resume Templates

Direct, on-page, download links to free-to-use Microsoft Word Docx Resume Templates. Freely editable, useable for, you, the jobseeker!

Simple, the best, classic, modern or designed, we have the resume template for you. Just click and download yours.

Microsoft Word Resume Template Downloads

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Chronological

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Resume Blues

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Formal Long Profile

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Microsoft word's resume templates.

The free Word resume formats by Microsoft . They are freely editable to your liking. These formats work best in the newer versions of Word. Most of these templates are fully editable to your liking. Color, format and all the content, edit to make your own stunning resume! For free, with direct downloads.

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Classic Casey

Clean Green Resume

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Professional word resumes templates.

The free resume templates made in Word are easily adjustable to your needs and personal situation.

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Green & Green

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Grey Resume

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Creative Word Resume Templates

In this word there are many wonderful things. So are our free creative resume’s. Only for personal use.

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Mint Resume

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Purple Resume

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Stolzl Resume

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Red-Blue Resume

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Resume Blue

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Montserrat Resume

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Bodoni Resume

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You can make your resume easier.

Getting tired of Microsoft Word, and it’s design formatting? Use the resume tool, which is the ideal help to spin out 18 different resume designs with a one-click download. Edit at any time. Perfectly scalable. Downloads in Word & PDF.

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  • Resume Templates
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Free Resume Templates

Download in Word, Google Docs, PDF 

Today is a great day to level up your resume.  Free resume templates in every style, format, and design you can imagine. 

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Discover 180+ Resume Templates

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Professional Resume Templates

professional resume template

Professional resume templates for job seekers with ample work experience. Showcase your skills and qualifications. Browse our best free resume templates to give your resume the glow-up it deserves. 

  • Sleek, functional layout 
  • “Sells” you as a strong candidate
  • Suitable for all job titles 

Modern Resume Templates

free resume template design

Modern resume templates for Microsoft Word provide stylish, crisp, fresh design elements that will help you grab a recruiter’s attention in just six seconds. The right resume template for candidates in the tech and startup industry. 

  • Chronological resume templates
  • Made for readability and skimming
  • Instant, free download

Simple and Basic Resume Templates

Classic Resume Template Sleek and Simple

Uncluttered editable resume template with minimal styling. Choose a time-tested basic resume design to avoid any faux pas with employers or applicant screening software. 

  • Editable and printable resume design 
  • Easy customization in Word 
  • Suitable for all resume formats

Creative Resume Templates

The Vintage Rose Resume Template

Don’t want a bland, blank resume template? These creative resume templates offer a perfectly balanced mix of personality, professionalism, and playfulness to make a strong first impression. 

  • Free editable resume templates
  • Unique personal branding
  • Creative layout and formatting

Free CV Templates

free cv template Achiever

Professional CV templates, perfectly suited for academic and federal jobs in the US and any type of job application in Europe. An impactful selection of the best CV templates with proper layout and formatting. 

  • Full CV layout and formatting
  • User-friendly design 
  • Instant download CV templates 

ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

Job Jive ATS Resume Template

Clean and compelling resume design that sits well with applicant tracking software and hiring managers alike. Optimized fonts, clear formatting syntax, and optimal layout for readability.  

  • Compatible with popular ATSs 
  • One-column layout 
  • Suitable for all experience levels 

Resume Templates With Photo

A la mode Resume Template

Put a face behind the name to make a memorable first impression. Resume templates with photos to land a dream job in acting, modeling, or creative professions. 

  • Editable headshot space
  • Optimized section layout 
  • Brandable styles 

How to Choose The Best  Resume Template? 

Not sure which resume design works for your profession? Go with a professional resume template if you’re an experienced worker applying via email. Or download a basic resume template if the company uses an ATS — this way, your resume won’t get filtered out. 

Gunning up for a job in a creative industry or a hip startup? Try out one of the modern resume templates or a creative resume design to give your job application a unique, brandable flair. Resume templates with photos also work great! 

Or better yet, test-drive several free resume templates to see which one gets you the most positive responses! 

Resume Templates for Different File Formats

Get a free editable resume template in your preferred format — Microsoft Word (.doc), PDF, or Google Docs. 

Free Word Resume Templates 

The best resume templates for Microsoft Word. Our most downloaded and top-rated designs in .doc and .docx format are the ones you have seen on this page until here, so make sure to scroll back to the top if MS Word format is what you are looking for.

Google Docs Resume Templates 

Discover attention-grabbing resume templates for Google Docs. Download and edit your new resume design in the cloud, then share it with others with one click. 

resume template for google docs

Free Resume in PDF 

Use our free tool to make a resume online in PDF format. Write your resume faster with contextual tips and instantly generate a PDF copy for free. No account is required. 

Check our free resume builder

Resume Templates By Professions 

Get done with writing faster by downloading a pre-filled resume template for your position. Take advantage of the pointers and sample texts created by a professional team of resume writers.

Our remarkable set of role-based resume templates includes the optimal visual layout paired with text snippets you can use to model your own resume.

Resume Template with No College Degree

How to Use Your Free Editable Resume Template 

  • Select a design you fancy and download a free copy to your computer. 
  • Open the template in Microsoft Word or Google Docs to personalize. 
  • Fill in the blanks using your personal details. Refer to relevant resume examples for ideas and tips. 
  • Review and edit your resume. Include strong verbs and adjectives to add persuasion. 
  • Save and name your document: Resume – First name and Surname. 
  • Create a PDF resume version to send via email. PDFs help avoid formatting issues. 

How To Write A Resume

A resume template is the best cure for the blank page syndrome. You’re halfway done — all that’s left is to fill in the blanks in the resume template and hit save. 

Select The Right Resume Format 

The 3 most popular resume formats are chronological, functional, and combination resumes. 

  • Chronological resume organizes the information like LinkedIn does – from the latest position to the first one, with education, interests, and additional info listed later. It’s the most popular resume format, preferred for recruiters. Go for it unless you’re entry-level or changing careers. 
  • Functional resume keeps the focus on your skills and experience, rather than employment history. It’s the go-to choice for candidates with employment gaps and those without much hands-on work experience.
  • Combination resume takes the best of both worlds and allows you to spice up your “dry” employment history with some juicy details about your skill set and achievements. Startups and edgier companies may prefer this. 

Create a Compelling Summary 

A resume summary is a two-sentence statement highlighting your key qualifications, skills, and value proposition for the role. It sits in the header area, right after your name and contact details. Think of it as a teaser to a movie — you should put your most marketable skills upfront to immediately capture the hiring manager’s attention and get them interested in reading the full copy. 

Add Work History 

List your employers in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include the employment date, job title, company name, key responsibilities, and achievements listed in bullet format . Include 3 to 5 bullet points for each position. Don’t get long-winded — your resume must fit into one page. 

Include Marketable Resume Skills 

With skills-based hiring on the rise, you must demonstrate specific competencies rather than just tenure and educational credentials. Showcase your best hard and soft skills in a featured sidebar section, plus your resume summary and work experience entries.

Check the following posts for ideas:

  • Business acumen skills for resume
  • Critical thinking skills for a resume 
  • Conceptual skills for a resume
  • Leadership skills for a resume 
  • Organizational skills for a resume 
  • Technical skills for a resume  
  • Childcare skills for resume 
  • Nursing skills for a resume 
  • Transferable skills for a resume 
  • Retail skills for a resume  

List Education 

Unless you are a recent graduate, don’t dwell on this section too much. Simply list all your degrees (highest to lowest), the name of your educational institution, and your graduation date. But if you’re still in college, you can also add your GPA , dean’s list , or research .  

Learn more from our ultimate guide to writing, styling, and formatting a resume . 

FAQs about Resume Templates 

Your popular Qs about our free resume templates answered. 

How can I format my resume for free?

Download a free pre-formatted resume template from Freesumes.com in your preferred format (Word or Google Docs). Open a copy in the word processing software and edit the blank sections with personal details. Click save, and you’ll have a professionally formatted resume in no time.

Is there a truly free resume builder?

Yes, Freesumes resume builder is 100% free to use. No account registration is required. Using our free generator, you can make a resume in PDF using one of the six free templates and contextual writing prompts created by expert writers.

What is the most popular resume template?

The most popular resume templates are chronological resume templates. You can find several dozen popular, professional resume templates on Freesumes in Word and Google Doc formats. Our templates have been downloaded over 4 million times! 

How to get a free resume template?

Head to freesumes.com and check our collection of 180+ fabulously free resume templates in different styles and formats. Select a design you like and click the download button to get an instant free copy in .docx format without any account registration. 

Do employers not like resume templates?

Employers don’t mind resume templates as long as they are professionally made and properly formatted. A sloppy or too vivid design, however, will make you look amateurish. Choose a simple, well-structured resume template in neutral colors, and you’ll always get a positive impression from a prospective employer. 

Is it better to make your own resume or use a template?

This totally depends on you. If you have an eye for design and know information architecture best practices, you can make a stellar resume on your own. Otherwise, you can save heaps of time by using a premade professional resume template to avoid any mishaps with layout or font selection.

All Formats

  • Graphic Design

29+ Chronological Resume Template in InDesign | Illustrator | Word | Apple Pages | PSD | Publisher

By definition, a chronological sample resume is a type of resume wherein the events of a candidate’s professional life are recounted in sequential order. Also, such a kind of resume is known to follow a systematic simple order—a hierarchy of sections in which different details about education, profession, and others are mentioned. Chronological resume templates are easily available to help you design one for yourself. The formats are completely editable and user-friendly. Any person can create a chronological resume using a chronologic resume template. A chronological resume template is a Word document that acts as a readymade document for all those people who may not be clear about framing such resumes on their own. You’ll find layout sample outline templates a resume for a marketing manager, modern nursing, high school beginner, fresher internship, college engineer, fresh graduate, accountant, traditional business, and more.

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Chronological Resume Cover Letter

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  • Google Docs
  • Apple Pages

College Student Resume

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High School Resume

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  • Illustrator

Internship Resume

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Engineer Resume

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Free Chronological Resume Template

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Free Chronological Resume Template Layout

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Chronological Resume Template

Free college student chronological resume template.

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High School Chronological CV Resume

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Sample Chronological Resume CV Template

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Teacher Education Student Chronological Resume

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Free Fresher / Beginner Chronological Resume

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File Formats

Word templates, google docs templates, excel templates, powerpoint templates, google sheets templates, google slides templates, pdf templates, publisher templates, psd templates, indesign templates, illustrator templates, pages templates, keynote templates, numbers templates, outlook templates.

  • Sample Resumes

FREE 9+ Sample Chronological Resume Templates in MS Word | PDF

Aside from rehearsing an upcoming interview, looking for the right outfit, and calming down the application-induced jitters, you’re most likely thinking about how you’re going to present your resume as well. If you’ve been in the industry for quite some time and aims for a major career shift or vying for a more advanced opportunity, a chronological resume is a right format for you. It highlights relevant experiences that can vouch for your skill and competence. It easily presents what tasks you’ve undertaken in the past and how your learned skills will help you become an asset to your prospective company.

Chronological Resumes

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basic chronological resume

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A chronological resume is a type of resume that places emphasis on a person’s professional background. It lists an applicant’s job experiences with the latest at the top down to the very first employment. It is an ideal resume format to use when you’ve worked for several years or have various experiences in a specific field.

According to The Balance Careers, chronological resumes are highly preferred because they’re direct and easy to assess.  The benefits of using this resume format  include its clear depiction of an applicant’s career timeline. Recruiters are interested in your experiences because they often determine your level of expertise and skill in the area. Because it’s a common resume layout, it’s also easier to review.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a chronological resume:

When you have more than ten years of job experience under your belt and have been working with different companies during that period, it’s a pride to present all of them on your professional resume . However, unless you’ve been consistently in the same industry on the same line of profession and are planning to remain there, there are job titles that you need to exclude. Choose only those that are relevant to the opportunity you’re trying to get into. If you’re applying for a marketing position with a mixed professional background, opt to include experiences that would support your endeavor. 

The same with your job experiences, prospective employers would not care for skills that are not proportionate to the position you’re aiming for. Your skills can pile up high with your years in different companies and add weight to your resume’s appeal. Again, select only those that match your desired position. Including unnecessary details on your basic resume won’t bump up your application. Your resume should work towards your goal, and that is to win the slot. Doing this also makes the recruitment team assess your application better and raise your chances of getting hired because your proficiency fits their job description well.

Aside from creating coherent content, your resume’s visual layout is important as well. It shows your personal brand and will add a certain appeal to your application to catch the recruitment team’s attention. Consider the type of industry you’re applying for. If you’re hoping for a position in the creative industry, you can opt to submit a creative resume. Otherwise, a business resume should fit other professions. Whatever resume look you’re going for, make the entire document pleasing to the eye by using colors that won’t distract the reader from your resume’s content.

This is why you should only include details that directly relate to your desired position. Prioritize content brevity and aim to have a single-page resume. Employers highly prefer one-page resumes because they’re focused and easier to evaluate than lengthy ones. According to a study conducted by The Ladders,  recruiters only take 7.4 seconds when looking at applications . After a few blinks, your fate is sealed. The shorter your resume is, the more you’ll be able to sift out the most necessary details. Longer resumes don’t spice your background and earn you the position. As long as the recruiters see that you ticked off all the qualification items on their list, you’re well on your way.

Here are significant details should be in a chronological resume:

  • Name and contact details
  • Education and relevant training
  • Related Skills
  • Volunteer activities

The other resume formats are functional resume and a combination resume.

You shouldn’t use a chronological resume when:

  • You’re an entry-level applicant with little to no experience
  • You’re changing your career field
  • You have significant career gaps
  • You don’t stay in the same field for a long time

The key to a career shift lies in your resume’s presentation. Your experiences are your strength. They’re the testimonies of the things you’ve learned and mastered through your professional journey. A chronological resume format can best present them for you. Check our resume templates and download yours now!

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40 Free Resume Templates for Microsoft Word (& How to Make Your Own)

Braden Becker

Published: April 17, 2024

No matter what industry you work in (or your experience level in that industry), a plain, black-and-white resume written in Times New Roman font just doesn't quite cut it anymore.

free resume templates for microsoft word

But just because resumes have gotten more creative doesn't mean you need special design software to make your application stand out — some of the best Word resume templates allow you to develop your personal brand while also communicating your experience and career goals. 

→ Download Now: 12 Resume Templates [Free Download]

Read on to find the perfect template for your next resume, then learn how to write and create your own resume in Microsoft Word.

free editable resume pdf template

Download 12 free, editable resume templates.

Free Resume Template Downloads for Word

1. monogram header resume template.

File Type: .docx

resume templates for word:  Monogram Header Resume

Download this template here .

We'll start with a simple one. This is a HubSpot exclusive resume template that is simple and clean with attractive monogrammed headers to call out each section of the resume. The rest of the design relies on a simple serif font for easy reading, which is a good thing considering that hiring managers only take 7.4 seconds to evaluate a resume. You want your experience section to be easily scannable.

Recommended For: Freelancers

This resume template is best for freelancers. The project section is great for showcasing the skills that would be most applicable for the industry the applicant wants to enter.

chronological resume template word download

12 Free Customizable Resume Templates

Fill out this form to access your free professionally-designed templates, available on:

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2. Maroon Sidebar Resume Template

resume templates for word:  Maroon Sidebar Resume

Pulling your more text-heavy information off to the side in an attractive color-blocked sidebar, this resume lets your experience stand for itself in white space at the top. It's also easily customizable with no difficult-to-manipulate tables or formatting. The sidebars are in movable text boxes that can even be removed if you wish.

Recommended For: College Graduates

This template is best for young professionals starting their careers. This adjustable resume template can give you full customization options for your first resume.

3. Centered Bar Resume Template

resume templates for word: Centered Bar Resume

This resume takes on a different look than most resumes, centered around a single bar. This makes the resume more visually striking, which could draw attention as hiring managers are evaluating candidates. It also puts emphasis on the objective with your chronological experience supporting it underneath. All of this is in an attractive serif font that is elegant and classy.

This template is great for college graduates to show their most recent accomplishments. The "Objective" section will help you showcase where you are trying to go in your career.

4. Modern Initials Resume

modern initials resume tempalte

Download this template here

The modern initial resume template organizes your experience, education, and skills in a simple, easy-to-digest layout. You can download it as a .docx file. 

Recommended For: Early-state professionals

I like this resume template for early-stage professionals (3-5 years of experience) because it lets you call attention to the key aspects of your experience and briefly summarize the skills that make you a qualified candidate. 

5. Bold Serif Resume Template

resume templates for word: Bold Serif Resume

Speaking of serif fonts — this resume puts forward an element of grace and formality with its font choices. It's perfect for individuals who are looking for more organic colors than the ones more typically found in resumes, and the colors are also easily changed in Microsoft Word's theme settings. It also includes a skill-level bar, adding a nice visual touch to the template.

Recommended For: College Students

This template is great for college students to demonstrate their internship experience. The volunteering section gives a rounded viewpoint of your accomplishments if you are just leaving college.

6. Strategist Resume Template

Resume templates, Word, Strategist

High-level strategy demands a range of skill sets — project management, media, planning, and more. So, strategist resumes need space to hold a lot of information without overwhelming the reader.

This design is clean and pleasing to the eye. It's easy to scan and customize based on your specific experience.

Recommended For: Project Managers

The "Areas of Expertise" section stands out on this template. This gives you a chance to draw a clear connection between your professional experience and what you're capable of.

7. Modern Chronological Resume Template

resume templates for word:  Modern chronological resume template

This resume template is available from Microsoft itself, and it's one of many free templates the company has prepared for those who depend on Microsoft Office tools to create content. Yes, it’s written in Times New Roman — don't freak out.

Designs like this can borrow an old-school typeface and still impress recruiters with a clean layout and subtle use of color. You can also change the font if you wish (and the same goes for every template in our list).

Recommended For: Developers

The "Skills" section is perfect for candidates in the tech industry. A candidate can showcase the languages they are fluent in and show a variety of accomplishments, successfully demonstrating their capabilities as they move into a new industry.

8. Digital Marketing Resume Template

resume templates for word: Digital marketing resume template

The digital marketing resume below comes from our own collection of resume templates, all of which open directly in MS Word.

Coming with two pages total, this sheet holds a wealth of information and offers the perfect amount of style while maintaining professionalism. Mid-level marketers all the way up to CMOs can find this template valuable.

Recommended For: Mid-Level Marketers

In this resume template, mid-level marketers can effectively showcase a variety of their skills, as well as their portfolio and other media pieces.

9. Black and White Resume Template

Black and white resume template

The Black and White resume template below suits professionals who prefer using color and shading to add structure to their resume.

The black banner at the top contrasts the applicant's name nicely to help make him/her more memorable to recruiters. The gray banner just below the header is perfect for a summary or career objective — it makes one's goals known but doesn't overpower the experience listed below it.

Recommended For: Graphic Designers

If you're a graphic designer, this is the resume to showcase your art. This template has a monochromatic color scheme, but if you are a designer, you can easily take it to the next level.

10. Modern Design Resume Template

This simple but effective resume template covers everything you want to share in your applications. The basic color choice also helps you stand out. 

Recommended for: College students or interns 

This template lets you outline your objective, skills, and abilities, making it an excellent option for interns and college students who might still need to gain significant working experience but have a skillset they want to call attention to. 

11. Simple Chronological Resume

simple chronological resume template

This no-frills, chronological resume template places section headers on one side and relevant information on the other, giving you ample space to highlight your experience and expertise. 

Recommended for: Working professionals

If references are relevant to the job you’re applying for, you can keep the section in. Otherwise, you can remove it and use the extra space to add more information about your experience. 

12. Urban Development Resume Template

resume templates for word: Civil engineer's resume template

The illustration on the top-left of this template shows who the designers at Hloom had in mind for this resume: civil engineers. But because it's a Word document, that graphic is easy to edit and replace with an image that represents your line of work. Are you an analytics buff? Design a clever bar or line graph icon and place it next to your name in blue (or whatever color you'd like!).

Recommended for: Civil Engineers

If you're a civil engineer who wants to display your accomplishments, this is the template to use. There's a section that lets you list all of your achievements and notable opportunities that made you grow as a civil engineer.

13. Mandy Resume Template

mandy resume template

Download this template here . 

This resume template stands out because of its simplicity. Sections are clearly laid out and scannable, and the subtle color choice adds a unique flair. 

Recommended for: Industry professionals

I like this resume template for anyone in a unique industry because you’ll be able to summarize your experience right off the bat, making it easy to display your qualifications.

14. Email Marketing Resume Template

resume templates for word: Email marketing resume template with red header text

Red color never fails to stick out on a sheet of paper, especially if it's included in small amounts. This resume template for email marketers captures that balance.

In addition to the professional title in the top right-hand corner, this template also stands out with a thin sans-serif font, helping make a lot of text easier for a recruiter to digest and read through.

Recommended for: Email Marketers

If you are an email marketer who wants to highlight successes in your previous campaigns without boring the viewer with the details, this resume template is perfect for displaying bite-sized information.

15. Teaching Resume Template

File type: .docx

creative-teaching-resume

This simple resume template lets educators outline their goals as instructors, key teaching skills, and highlight the important experience that makes you the best fit for the role. 

Recommended For: Teachers or educators

I like this template for teachers or educators because the additional sections for communication and leadership summaries let you expand on how you demonstrate the key expected qualities of any effective instructor.

16. Info Pop Resume Template

resume templates for word: Info Pop resume template

This one, also from Hloom, gives you exactly what the name suggests: ample space for the info you need, with headers that pop just enough to get your employer's attention.

Although the template fits a ton of text, its soft color palate prevents the document from seeming overwhelming.

Recommended For: Experienced Professionals

This resume gives a lot of information all at once, which is perfect for professionals with more than eight years of experience. The layout makes it easily scannable and easy for a recruiter to read.

17. Strong Resume Template

Resume templates, Word, Strong resume template

This resume template features bold sections of color that fill the page. This format is perfect for interns who don't have a lot of professional experience yet. It's also useful for roles where a portfolio or other resource is a priority for hiring managers.

Recommended For: Interns

Make the depth of your interest, knowledge, and creativity more important than how long you've been working with this template. Sections for education, learning more, and describing yourself and your brand make it easy to share what you're about.

18. Dark Resume Template

resume templates for word: Dark resume template with black background and yellow font

Ironically, a dark background could be just the thing to ensure your resume doesn't fall into the black hole of resumes piled on the hiring manager's desk.

Using soft, yellow font, the resume template below inverts the usual color scheme of a resume without trying too hard to be creative.

Recommended For: C-Suite Executives

If you have years of experience in an executive position, this design has a bold and unique design that will separate you from the pack. What's more, it has an area where you can list your achievements, relevant skills, and notable opportunities, allowing you to showcase your effectiveness as a leader.

19. Skilled Resume Template

skilled resume template for microsoft word

This resume design by Hloom communicates a truly professional tone. The template's muted colors work well with its clean layout.

Recommended For: Professionals in All Industries

Whether you're just starting out in any industry or looking to change careers, this template is suitable to highlight your skills and qualifications to propel you to the next level.

20. Inbound Marketing Resume Template

resume templates for word: Inbound marketing template for interns and marketers

Here's another resume template dedicated to the digital marketer. This sheet offers all the inbound marketing language you need to express your values as a passionate, brand-loyal professional.

Like a few other templates on this list, it also uses just a dash of vibrant color in the applicant's name at the top (where it matters most).

Recommended For: Communications and Marketing Candidates

This template is great for candidates moving into a communications or marketing role. Aside from its amazing visual appeal, this template creates a sense of connection with the reviewer by adding a personal touch.

21. Smart and Professional Resume Template

resume templates for word: Smart and Professional resume template

This is another sharp template that offers a basic but confident design for any professional. The warm-colored panel on the right-hand side is pre-formatted for a written profile, where you can write a summary of your background or a form letter to each employer.

Just be sure to personalize this messaging to each new recipient so it works for the job you're applying to. This template is available on Freesumes, and is free to users once they share the page to Facebook or Twitter.

Recommended For: Young Professionals

This resume is great for someone starting their career who needs a little guidance on how to best display notable experiences related to the job posting. Also, it's an editable template that can easily be personalized to appeal to the HR rep reading the resume.

22. Face Forward Resume Template

Resume templates, Word, Face forward

It's not typical to add a picture to your resume. In fact, it's actively discouraged in some industries. But for roles where your image is a selling point, this is a great choice. The photo at the top is small and subtle, but it also makes the simple design stand out.

Recommended For: Models, Actors, and Real Estate Agents

This resume template is especially useful for working professionals with a lot of experience or a range of non-traditional experiences. There's also room to highlight unique skills and qualifications.

23. Spick and Span Resume Template

resume templates for word: Spick and Span resume template with clean, bold typeface and professional headshot

There isn't a better name for the template below. The Spick and Span resume might be the cleanest-looking sheet on this list.

It uses boldface, all-caps, and gray typeface to structure various headers of the document differently and maximize the hiring manager's reading experience. And all that minimalism makes the professional headshot at the top pop off the page.

Recommended For: Creatives, Designers, and Developers

Resumes that look like this can be the work sample. If you have a background in illustration or design, making your resume stand out will be a great nod to your future employer. Get creative with your resume's design if you want to work in an illustrative industry.

24. Timeline-Style Resume Template

resume templates for word: Timeline-style resume template

Similar to the Centered Bar resume earlier in the post, Hloom's Timeline template is a super simple but creative way to tell your story.

You can convey your progression through various jobs you've held on one side of the vertical line, and more static elements of your background — such as skills and education — on the other.

Recommended For: Editors and Copywriters

This template has a sleek and clean look that places the focus on the highlights of your experience rather than on the minor details. If you have a background in editing or copywriting, this resume is the perfect way to showcase your skills in a concise and effective narrative — without the fluff.

25. Florist Resume Template

florist resume template

Despite being labeled as a Florist resume, this basic template is easily customizable and suitable for anyone entering the job market. 

Recommended For: New graduates or early-stage professionals 

Even If you have little experience, this resume lets you showcase the unique skills and abilities that set you apart.

26. Content Production Resume Template

resume templates for word: Content production resume template

This basic resume template is suited for content producers at all career stages. By spreading out the header and "Skills" text horizontally, the resume below fits a lot of crucial information comfortably on one page (of course, it also comes with a second page if you need it).

Recommended For: Content Creators and Videographers

This resume will help content creators showcase their biggest projects and most notable accomplishments. It's great for showing how your scope of work has increased over the years, solidifying your expertise in that field.

27. Fresh Resume Template

resume templates for word: fresh resume template

This is perhaps the most imaginative of all the Word-based resume templates on this list — with both a skills meter and a comic headshot.

The template was designed by Venkata Naresh and comes with 12 different versions of this design. Have you created a Bitmoji of yourself? Do you think your employer would find it creative? Match the template and add it as your photo.

Recommended For: Creative Artists or Digital Marketers

If you need a resume template that will showcase your artistic skills without being too casual or informal, this is perfect for you. You can also add in notes of your accomplishments, relevant skills, and qualifications for the job.

28. CV Resume Template

resume templates for word: Reverse two-column resume template

The curriculum vitae-style resume below flips the typical two-column resume so the basic applicant information is listed across the right side, rather than the left.

Feel free to change the color of this sidebar in Microsoft Word if dark red isn't your thing — the template can pull off any color you wish.

Recommended For: Graduate Candidates

If you are a graduate student entering the workforce, having a CV-style resume will demonstrate the depth of your knowledge first and showcase how your continued education will contribute to your future work environment.

29. Management Resume Template

File type : .docx

management resume

Recommended For: Managers or leaders 

I like this resume template for managers or leaders because the unique format lets you call attention to your key career goals and give a timeline of the experience leading to you being a well-qualified leader.

30. Entry-Level Resume Template

Resume templates, Word, Entry-level

When you're early in your career, a customized resume is key. This template is simple, with a clear structure and spaces to highlight important skills, education, and experience.

The design uses accessible fonts to create a clean and professional look that you can personalize for your brand.

Recommended For: Young Professionals and Career Changes

At this stage in your career, it's essential to add useful data and examples to your resume to show hiring managers what you can bring. The easy-to-read fonts and headers in this template will help you highlight relevant details in your resume.

31. Goldenrod Resume Template

resume templates for word: Goldenrod yellow resume template

This template, also offered on Freesumes, dares to use yellow as the dominant color — but doesn't sacrifice professionalism in the process.

The document anchors the education section to a thick, bright banner across the bottom, but you can likely change this to a skills section with some simple editing in Microsoft Word.

Recommended For: Architects

This clean-cut design represents a candidate who is all about precision. This template would serve candidates who have experience in architecture or construction.

32. Resume Template With Personal Endorsements

resume template for word example: personal endorsement resume

What makes this resume unique is the space for references on the lower left-hand side. Does your field need others to vouch for your experience? This resume gives you room for three solid recommendations.

Recommended For: Brand Marketers or Personal Influencers

If you work in branding or have a large social media following, you can show your ability to create a cohesive message with this resume template. Feel free to change the color scheme to suit your brand.

33. Creative Resume Template

resume templates for word: creative resume template

This one was designed by the stationery experts at MOO and is offered for download by Microsoft. Simple but vibrant, this template hugs the text with an artistic header and footer — great for recent graduates who need to fill empty space on the page.

Recommended For: Photographers and Other Creatives

If you are a photographer who does freelance work, this is a great template to showcase your experience. This will give your hiring manager or client an excellent first impression because it showcases your creative ability without sacrificing the important elements — your accomplishments.

34. Modern Resume Template

resume templates for word: Modern Resume Template

This resume embraces simplicity with a slight touch of color to make things a bit more interesting. It also nicely sections off Skills and Education notes from the Work History list.

With LiveCareer.com, you can generate a template with your basic information and then download it to add small details.

This resume gives a modern twist on the resume. It's perfect for those looking for a fresher look than the traditional resume.

35. Functional Resume Template

This NovoResume.com template is colorful and includes a place for your headshot which could make you look both interesting and confident to an employer.

Recommended For: Media Professionals

A colorful format like this one might be great for a media or advertising professional who wants to keep their job application visually memorable to prospective employers.

36. Elegant Resume Template

If you're looking for simplicity and efficiency rather than something colorful, consider this Elegant Resume Template from Jofibo.

With Jofibo, you can select this or other similar templates on the website, enter your information, and then download it quickly and easily.

Recommended For: Marketing Candidates

If you are a mid-level marketing candidate, use this fun template to showcase all of your expertise and accomplishments. It's an eye-catching template that displays your creativity and ability to engage.

37. Blue Corporate Resume Template

Because of the color and image, it's pretty memorable. But, for those who prefer a more conservative resume look, this template is fairly simple.

Recommended For: Corporate Candidates

This template is great for accomplished candidates moving into a high-rank position. This layout allows you to fit plenty of accomplishments, and the conservative look organizes the fullness of your career neatly.

38. Concept Resume

resume templates for word: Concept Resume Template

This resume is perfect for displaying a clear timeline of your career history. It's ideal for a seasoned professional who may have a lot of experience and wants to display it on one to two pages.

The template also allows you to highlight your competency level in various areas, giving the recruiter an easy way to spot your expertise.

Recommended For: Candidates in the Tech Industry

This resume is great for people in the technical space because it adds a touch of color and feels more compact, which will allow you to get right to the point about your key skills, certifications, and work experiences.

How to Make a Resume in Word

  • Open Microsoft Word on your computer.
  • Select either Basic Resume or Bold Resume from the template menu.
  • Fill in your name and contact information at the top.
  • Draft a brief summary of your experience and goals.
  • Enter your school and latest education.
  • Describe each job you've held using the lines prompted on the template.
  • List all relevant skills.
  • Describe any relevant accolades and accomplishments.

1. Open Microsoft Word on your computer.

If you have Microsoft Word installed on your computer, open the program and let it load for a moment. There will be a couple of helpful options waiting for you on the first screen, specifically for resume creation.

2. Select either "Basic Resume" or "Bold Resume" from the template menu.

Once you've launched MS Word, a window of templates will appear. Scroll down until you see the template options designed for resumes — there will be at least two of them. Double-click the one that suits your style and personal brand, but don't be too particular about design just yet — you can customize these templates quite a bit.

3. Fill in your name and contact information at the top.

When your resume template opens, you'll see placeholder text for each line of your resume, starting with your first and last name at the top. Delete this header text and enter your name, as well as any contact information by which you want the recruiter to contact you.

4. Draft a brief summary of your experience and goals.

Use the first line below your name and contact info to describe who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for in your career.

My Recommended Reading:

  • How to Write About Your Professional Background

27 of the Best Professional Bio Examples I've Ever Seen [+ Templates]

5. enter your school and latest education..

List any relevant degrees or certificates you received through schooling. You can safely exclude secondary education if you've graduated from an accredited college.

6. Describe each job you've held using the lines prompted on the template.

Your professional experience is frequently the most important section of your resume, so feel free to rank this section above your skills and education, depending on how many jobs you previously held.

  • Resume Tips to Get You The Job You Want, Straight from Recruiters

How to Write a Simple, Effective Resume (+20 Examples)

7. list all relevant skills..

If you have experience in certain software, exercises, problem-solving, or management techniques, use them to populate your skills. Your resume's "Skills" section helps reveal what all of your previous jobs or related experiences have in common, based on what they taught you and what you provided them.

My Recommended Reading: 

  • 17 Recruiter-Approved Skills for Your Resume That'll Help You Get the Job

8. Describe any relevant accolades and accomplishments.

Finish out your resume with any personal accomplishments or accolades you think a hiring manager in your industry would appreciate. Although this section shouldn't include a Most Improved recognition from little league, for example, it should definitely include your Marketer of the Month award from your last position.

Next, let’s talk about another easy way to create a resume in Word — templates.

Free Resumes Templates

Fill out the form to get your resume templates., how to upload external templates into word, 1. download your template., 2. double-click on your chosen template..

Your new template will open in Microsoft Word and is ready for editing.

You can also try the following series of steps if the instructions above aren't working.

  • Download your template.
  • Open Microsoft Word.
  • Click File and scroll to Open .
  • Click on the folder where you downloaded your templates.
  • Open your chosen resume template and begin editing.

How to Find Resume Templates in Word

1. open microsoft word., 2. click new on the left sidebar., 3. choose one of the resume template options in word..

These templates are visually appealing and are ready-made to send with your job application.

If you already have Microsoft Word open on your computer, follow the directions below:

  • Click File in the top left corner.
  • Scroll to New from Template.
  • Choose one of Word's resume templates.

Next, let's cover how to format your brand-new resume in Word.

How To Format a Resume in Word

Even the brightest, most beautiful resume template will need some editing to fit your goals and information. We'll go over it piece by piece.

1. Add your resume text.

Sometimes adding resume text to a template is as simple as copy and paste. Other times, this task can be an exercise in frustration.

To make sure this process goes smoothly, remove any text formatting before you paste your resume text. If you're working on a Mac, you can clear formatting with a tool like Text Editor.

2. Set the right margins and font size.

Most resumes have one-inch margins on all sides for easy printing. Most Word documents will automatically have one-inch margins, but it's best to double-check or create them yourself. Here's how to create one-inch margins for your resume:

  • Click Layout in the top navigation of your Word document.
  • Click Margins .
  • Choose the Normal setting, where it states 1" on the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the document.

Lastly, choose an easy-to-read font size. 12 pt. fonts are standard for most resumes. But if you have a particularly long CV, you may want to choose a smaller font size to make your resume easier to scan.

3. Create headers.

You should separate each section (such as education or work experience) with a header.

If you're formatting a basic resume, you can create a header in Word by selecting Styles from the formatting options at the top of your document workspace. If you can’t see this workspace, try clicking Home at the top left.

  • Try Header 1 for your first and last name at the top of the page.
  • Header 2 is great for the "Education," "Work Experience," and "Skills" sections.
  • Use Header 3 for employer names and job titles.
  • Then, use normal text to fill in the details of your accomplishments, skills, and educational background.

You can also use this feature to adjust the headers in your template.

4. Create dividers.

If you want to visually divide your resume into different parts, you can create dividers to split up the information and make your resume more scannable.

Here's how to add dividers:

  • Go to Insert .
  • Click Shapes .
  • Select the line icon to draw a line in your Word resume.
  • Use the Format Shape menu on the right to adjust the style of your line.

Another shortcut to create dividers is pressing "=", "_", or "*" three times and hitting enter. These shortcuts will create a variety of dividers that can add dimension to your resume.

5. Add bullet points.

The truth is, no hiring manager will read a paragraph of information. So, we recommend using bullet points to list your accomplishments and responsibilities.

You can add bullets using the icons in the formatting window at the top of your document workspace. Check out bullet point styles by clicking the arrow to the right of the bullet points icon. Then, choose the style you like best.

6. Adjust spacing and indentation.

White space on a resume gives your reader visual breathing room. This helps them understand which parts of your resume are most important. To create that white space, use the spacing and indentation tools in Word.

Line spacing options will increase the space between lines in your document. This creates more white space between lines of text.

Use the formatting buttons at the top of your document workspace to add or remove indentation. Keep in mind that you may change more than one section of text if you make indentation changes.

7. Review for formatting consistency.

When you're formatting a resume, it's easy to get so involved in what the text says that you may forget how it looks. Another common pitfall is focusing your energy on how to make everything you want to say fit on a single page.

But you need consistent formatting to create a professional first impression for your resume.

Once you've finished formatting, do a quick scan of your new resume.

  • First, check that all your headers, sub-headers, and text sections are the same font and the same size.
  • Next, take a look at your bullet point, dash, and other styles. Make sure that sizes and styles are consistent throughout your resume.
  • Finally, scan your resume to make sure that the spacing is consistent. Try squinting at your document to see if some sections have more white space or indentation than others.

These kinds of issues are often easier to notice on a physical resume, so scan a printed copy if you can.

How to Save Your Resume

Remember, once you've finished personalizing your resume, you're not ready to submit an application yet.

Let's go through the instructions you'll follow if you're saving a resume you created from a template for the first time:

1. Click File

2. scroll to save as, 3. name and save your new resume..

If you click Save instead of Save As , you'll save your new resume over the template. So, it's a good idea to use Save As if you think you may need to start over with the template. If you don't, you might end up wasting the time it takes to find and download your resume template again.

Once you're done editing your resume in Word, you may also want to save it in PDF format. This helps you make sure that your resume's format will stay the same for everyone who receives it.

Tips for Using Word Resume Templates

1. choose the right template for your industry..

Whether you're in marketing, sales, engineering, or another field, resume expectations will vary. Check out online resumes from other professionals in your field. Then, choose a template that aligns with those examples to find the right format to showcase your skills and experience.

2. Keep your formatting consistent.

Consistency is key when it comes to formatting your resume. Font styles, sizes, bullet points, and colors should be the same throughout the document. Consistent formatting gives your resume a polished and professional look.

  • Exploring the Best Resume Formats — The Complete Guide

3. Try advanced formatting features.

Experiment with styles and sections to create a unique resume that stands out. These features offer you more control and consistency as you format your resume.

4. Use headings to organize your resume.

Headings make it easy for employers to scan your resume and find the information they're looking for. Make headers stand out with a distinct font or style.

5. Experiment with advanced layouts and tables.

Try adding columns or text boxes for visually appealing sections or to highlight key details. Test out different layouts to see what gets the best results.

6. Add a visual timeline.

The hiring manager for your dream role may be more interested in your progression than your job titles. Try crafting a visual timeline using SmartArt or shapes to show your career progression. This can also be an interesting way to show your work history or educational background.

7. Personalize the template to reflect your personal brand.

Templates are an amazing starting point, but don't forget to personalize your resume to reflect your personal brand.

Add a distinct color scheme, fonts, or a personal logo to leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

Make the Most of Resume Templates in Word

Resume templates can help you unlock the power of pre-designed layouts to create a gorgeous and professional resume. This makes it easy for you to focus on compelling content for a powerful resume. With one simple download, it's easy to show employers what you're capable of and stand out with every job application.

Editor's Note: This post was originally published in 2018 but was updated in May 2020 for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

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Resume templates to create a killer resume for your job application.

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20+ Free Word Resume Templates for 2024 [Download Now]

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Are you looking to create a new resume but don’t want to go through the painstaking process of creating one from scratch, section by section?

To save a lot of time, you can use a Microsoft Word resume template instead.

Why would you want to do that?

For one, MS-Word comes with a lot of pre-built resume templates that can have you up and running with a fully customized resume in a matter of minutes.

There’s quite a lot of variety as well. So, you can really pick a resume template that both you and the HR manager will love.

Are you a marketer or a designer? Pick a creative resume and show off your imagination!

Applying for a finance position in a bank ? One of the conservative, black & white word resume templates will work for you.

Word comes with a number of free templates, and there are other hand-crafted premium options available online.

Do you want a winning Word template that’ll have the HR manager glued to your beautiful resume?

Here’s what you need to know:

How to Use Word Resume Templates

10+ free word resume templates, 10+ premium word resume templates, how to make a resume the easy way.

There are two ways you can get your hands on a Word resume template.

You can either go with a pre-customized Word template that comes with the software, or you can use an external template made by designers and career experts for Word specifically.

Let’s start with the resume templates that come with the software.

In-Build Microsoft Word Resume Templates

To access these templates, here’s what you do:

  • Open MS word
  • Click file from the menu bar on top of the screen
  • From there, you can select a number of different formats ( resumes, flyers, cards, cover letters , and more)

In this case, we’re focusing on resume templates , so you can type that in the search bar to see the different kinds of templates available.

As you can see, there’s plenty of choice here and a lot of different design options.

word resume templates

From there on, you find the one you like, and just fill it in to your liking!

Each of the templates come with a brief description as well, based on the theme and what kind of impression you want to leave with that specific template.

Here’s what you’d be getting with the free Pink floral resume :

Present your resume with this easily customizable template. Edit your experience and information with this and know that you’ll be making a statement with the design choice. This template also includes information on how to build an effective resume:

word resume template

Not sure what to put on your resume? We feel you! Picking the right template is only the first step. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume and you’ll be an expert in no time!. 

The best things in life are free, right?

Let’s see if the best free Word resume templates also stack up.

Functional Resume (Simple Design)

functional word resume simple design

Who's it for: Any entry-level position

Creator: Microsoft

Where to find it: Microsoft Templates

Want something super simple for free?

Microsoft Word comes with a number of ready-to-go resume templates that are one click away. 

All you have to do is go to Microsoft Templates , where you’ll find a number of different templates for resumes, cover letter, newsletters, and more. 

There, you’ll find a number of good starting resume templates, like this functional resume by Microsoft.

When to Use This Template

Depending on your achievements and background, you’ll want to list your qualifications in a specific order. With this functional resume, you can list your objective, professional achievements , skills, and work history - in that specific order.

You can use this resume if you’re switching jobs to a different career , or as your no experience resume .

With just a bit of color to stand out and clear sections within the layout, you can’t go wrong with this template.

It’s a simple, and effective starting point for most job-seekers .

Though, the design might be all too common and easy to blend in with other candidates applying for the same job.

job search masterclass novoresume

Modern Chronological Resume

word modern resume

Who's it for: Mid-level job-seekers

Most resume formats you find are going to be in chronological order. 

That is, starting from your most recent job experience, going down to your previous jobs.

You can’t go wrong with this format, and if you want something that’s professional, but also has a bit of flair to it, check out the Modern chronological resume by Microsoft:

The standard way to list your work experience is in chronological order. With this modern resume, you can start with your latest job experience to help the HR manager easily find what they’re looking for.  

This is a very straightforward approach, and it also has a color scheme and a design that can help you stand out from other candidates.

Just because it’s professional, doesn’t mean it has to be boring.

Though, if you want to take a more creative approach with your resume, you could use the...

Infographic Word Resume

infographic word resume

Who's it for: Marketers and social media experts

Are you applying for a marketing or a design job where you’ll be creating a lot of web content?

Then you can make your resume a part of your portfolio with the infographic resume.

Use this infographic resume to list your qualifications in a way that’s easy to follow. The icons highlight your skills and the sections follow a clear direction.

This is a good example of custom tailoring your resume to the job.

It goes without saying that the content inside the resume has to be up to par as well. 

But as far as standing out goes, this infographic resume is guaranteed to attract eyes from a stack of resumes.

FREE Resume Template by Fernando Báez

office resume example 2

Who's it for: Graphic and web designers

Creator: Fernando Báez

Where to find it: Behance

What could be better than a free resume template that has already been tried and tested?

After using and getting a few jobs with the very same template as a freelance UI/UX designer, Fernando is now giving away his secrets in the form of a free template.

In the resume pack, you’ll find your resume template in .ai format (Adobe Illustrator), all resume fonts used in the design, and a free icon set by Brankic. In it, you can customize the infographics to help represent your specialties , knowledge , language skills , or hobbies .

(Need help with any of those sections? Read our guide on what to put on a resume .)

Whether or not you’re a designer, you can customize the above template to truly represent you and make it uniquely yours.

There’s nothing wrong with using a template - it’s not plagiarism .

It’s inside the resume what matters, which is going to be unique each time ( at least it should be ).

Bold Monogram Resume

Bold monogram office resume

Who's it for: Any general-level position

A resume objective is a short 1-2 sentence elevator pitch that provides an overview of your experience , skills , and motivations . 

In it, you explain why you’re the right person for the job.

With this Bold monogram resume, your resume objective is guaranteed to stand out and be one of the first things the HR manager will notice. 

Present your qualifications in a stylish way that’s also professional and guaranteed to stand out. This template includes an editable color scheme, and instructions on how to build an effective resume.

While the focus is definitely on the resume objective , the rest of the resume follows a smooth flow in an order that makes sense.

Need some inspiration on your resume objective? Check out our real-life resume objective examples guide.

Simple and Clean Resume Template 

simple word resume template

Who's it for: Creative directors

Creator: ZokiDesign

Where to find it: ZokiDesign

This simple and minimalistic resume template has a clean aesthetic, is easy to format and covers a lot of sections. 

You can show off your work experience as well as your background (resume summary or objective), education , skills , and even your hobbies .

Though you can change the color scheme, the format and the layout makes this resume ideal for creative roles. 

With a clean and modern aesthetic, this resume is a great way to quickly sum up your qualifications and also stand out from other resumes with its design. It has a minimal look to it, and still contain a lot of information while staying under 1 page. If needed, it can also be converted into a cover letter.

In short, the above resume covers just about everything you’ll need in a template and more.

The best part about it, like with most Word templates, is its customizability.

So, if you’re applying to a more conservative job, you can change the colors into a calmer tone - like black and white .

Creative Resume, Designed by MOO

creative word resume template

Who's it for: Anyone in a creative role

Created with a neutral color scheme, this creative resume template by MOO was made to show off your creativity.

Yet, it won’t distract the viewers from the actual content within it.

So, depending on the company you’re applying to and your experience, you can draw eyes with this template.

This accessible resume template is for job seekers who want to show off their creative side and stand out from other candidates. It has all the important sections you’ll need and an editable color scheme. 

If you don’t necessarily have a lot of work experience, you can go with a creative template approach to stand out from other candidates and stay memorable.

In that case, you have to make sure your resume objective , skills , and other sections clearly display your motivation for the role.

Fully Editable Creative Resume Template by Omer Korkmaz

word creative resume template

Who's it for: Senior graphic, UI/UX Designers

Creator: Omer Korkmaz

If you’re a graphic designer and know you’re way around AI, this fully editable creative resume template by Omer Korkmaz might be for you.

This template has everything you’d need applying for a graphic design role:

  • A place for your contact information
  • Work experience (with plenty of space)
  • Certifications  
  • And some extra space for other optional sections

This resume template is fully editable, and ideal for graphic designers . The free download includes a PowerPoint and Adobe Illustrator format, and the Open Sans font - everything you’ll ever need .

Because of the format versions that come with the template, you can really fine-tune the resume to perfection. You can change the design, the color schemes, and any other detail within Adobe Illustrator.

So, if you’re applying for a senior UX/UI designer role, you can really make sure that your resume reflects your qualifications with this creative template.

Minimal Resume - Free by Sovon Halder

minimal word resume template

Who's it for: Web developers and designers

Creator: Sovon Halder

This minimal resume template has an interesting color scheme and a font system to it that can make you stand out easily.

It stays just under one page, with all the necessary sections intact.

The resume also comes with Adobe Photoshop , Illustrator and PDF formats .

So, formatting shouldn’t be a problem as you can just edit it and quickly send it to an employer .

Minimal design, A4 Size, print ready, and editable. The template focuses primarily on your work experience, and your soft and hard skills. And you can always edit it based on your qualifications. Once you’re done editing, the resume is already print ready, so, all you have to do is customize the resume based on the job you’re applying to.

Despite its minimalistic approach, there’s a lot going on in the resume and you can easily summarize yourself in one page.

There’s plenty of white space as well.

So, in short, it’s easy on the eyes and the readability within the layout is on point as well. Now, what matters is what actually goes within it.

Resume for Recent College Graduate

graduate word resume template

Who's it for: Recent college graduates

Finally, we’ve covered just about every type of resume scenarios, except this one.

This Word template for recent college graduates prioritizes your objective , education , skills , and ends with experience (which you can include if you have any).

The design and the layout is fairly simple, and most of the resume is already filled in with examples. All you have to do is modify it based on your background - 

This resume was made with college graduates in mind. If you don’t have a lot of work experience, you can use this template to prioritize other sections (e.g. your education, skills, abilities, experience).

It’s simple and straightforward. 

And sometimes, that’s what it takes to get your foot in the door when you’re a recent college grad with not a lot of experience.

Still confused on how to structure your resume when you don’t have a lot of experience?

See our full guide for student and graduate resumes for a detailed guide on what you can include.

Now, the other side of the coin is actually paying for your resume template.

You might be thinking - the reason I’m looking for a job in the first place is to make money, why would I pay for a resume template?

A couple of reasons.

First , most premium resume templates only go up to around $15-20 at most.

And if you do find one that too perfect to pass up on - $15 is a relatively small price to pay for investing in your future.

You can then customize and re-edit your template for any future jobs, too.

After all, if it worked once, it’s probably going to work again, right?

Another advantage premium resume templates offer is that they also tend to come with extra features and/or files within.

Let’s take a look at what that might look like:

Clean Resume Template by HalfCircle

clean word resume templates

Who’s it for: Graphic and web designers

Creator: HalfCircle

Where to find it: CreativeMarket

This clean resume template by HalfCircle comes with a DOCX MS Word file and an Adobe Photoshop File for easy customization.

It also includes three different color schemes , a cover letter , all the fonts used, and it’s also ready-to-print.

The resume includes a clean layout with an easy-to-read font choice. The colors, along with the rest of the resume, are customizable and you can edit everything in even more detail with the Photoshop PSD file. The cover letter section, meanwhile, includes plenty of space for your text and has a contact information section as well.

The best thing about this template is how clearly the sections are separated.

Nothing in it feels too close to each other and it’s just as easy for the HR manager to find or jump to any specific section they’re looking for.

There’s not much else to say about this resume other than that it’s very straightforward and simple - living up to its name clean resume template name.

Professional Resume / CV Template by Classic Design

professional word resume cv template

Who’s it for: Web and graphic designers

Creator: Classic Design

Looking for something more professional?

The professional resume template by Classic Design might be what you’re looking for.

The colors aren’t as vibrant here but the colors and the typography suggest that it’s more for a senior job role in a more traditional working environment.

This professional resume template has a more faded gray color scheme to it, and a font style that’s easy to follow. The template comes with Word, Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator formats, and a cover letter - all of which are easy to customize.

Though the default resume text is suited for a design role, you can easily to your career field and it won’t be out of place due to its design.

The template has all the sections you’d ever need, for both a creative and a more traditional job, and the HR manager will have an easy time following it top to bottom.

Professional Resume Template

professional word resume template

Who’s it for: Marketers and bloggers

Creator: Mukhlasur Rahman

Price: $8.47

Want your resume to be personally tailored to your personality and job role?

This professional resume template by Mukhlasur Rahman might be for you then.

The Word template follows a consistent color scheme and layout that’s been specifically designed for designers and bloggers .

This professional and creative resume template has been tailor made for designers and online bloggers. It includes a contact section, social media , education, skills, profile, work experience, and awards. The template also comes with a separate cover letter, a reference page , and a free icon set.

If you’re going to be working closely with social media and other relevant online channels, you might want to include a whole section for it on your resume.

In it, you can include the following sections, depending on how relevant they are to you:

  • Personal site or blog
  • Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram

If the job requires you to be a social media expert, this might also be the perfect place to mention how you managed to grow your social media channel 0 to 10K.

Resume Template & Cover Letter by Opu;ent Studio

word resume template by opuent studio

Who’s it for: Any senior role

Creator: Opu;’ent

If you’re applying for a more senior role this Word resume template & cover letter by Opu;ent Studio might be more up your alley.

The template is easy to edit in Adobe InDesign and Microsoft Word, and covers the following sections:

  • Biography (though you can edit this for resume summary or objective)
  • Work experience
  • Technical Skills
  • Contact information
  • Cover letter

With a clean and unique look to the resume, this template is more suited for professionals and senior-level positions. There is a lot of space for work experience, and you can just as easily transform the biography section into a resume summary.

And if you think the template looks short, don’t worry. Everything you can’t mention in it goes in the cover letter .

Look at the cover letter as a one-page document that briefly summarizes your background.

A good cover letter is a supplement to your resume and can get the HR manager to call you back.

Wondering if you should also include your picture on the resume like in the above template? That may depend on your location.

Check out our guide to see if you should include a picture on your resume or CV .

Clean Resume/CV + Cover letter by Tamzid Hasan

clean word resume template

Who’s it for: Web, IT developer

Creator: Tamzid Hasan

If you are indeed looking for a more professional resume, this clean resume/ CV combo by Tamzid Hasan might work great.

Clean one page resume that also comes with a cover letter and a reference template. It follows a professional black and white color scheme and a layout that focuses on work experience. Main features include:

  • A4 & US Letter size
  • Clean & professional design
  • Microsoft Word (Docx) files
  • CV/Resume + Cover Letter + References
  • 1 & 2 page version
  • Paragraph style

Of course, ideally, your resume should fit within one page . But if you have 5+ years of experience, you can break that rule and go with the two page version the template comes with.

If you are indeed going to go over the one page rule, since you’ll have more space in your overall resume, you can also include:

  • Hard skills
  • Soft skills
  • Certifications

One page is ideal, but depending on the job role and your experience, you can also include some extra sections to back up your background.

Modern Resume Template for Microsoft Word by ResumeCoverPro

modern microsoft word resume template

Who's it for: Any professional and creative role

Creator: ResumeCoverPro

Where to find it: Etsy

Looking for something that’s modern and professional?

Check out the professional resume package by ResumeCoverPro which includes - resume and cover letter templates , an icon pack , free fonts , effective customer support and more.

This template focuses on the main categories: education, profile, skills, work experience, and awards. You can edit each section to customize it but for the most part, it follows a very straightforward layout and color scheme. All you have to do is edit in the blanks and send it in.

This template wasn’t designed with any one specific job role in mind, so, it’s a great general-purpose approach with its design and layout.

As long as you have Word (or Google Docs), you can customize it to make it truly yours.

And if for some reason you need further help, the template comes with additional instructions and even customer support.

Optimized 1-page Edition Resume by TheResumeCoach

one page word resume template

Who's it for: PR, Marketers

Creator: TheResumeCoach

This optimized 1-page edition resume is an attempt at perfecting the resume layout with the bare essentials.

For most jobs, regardless of the seniority level or the career field, this template will allow you to get all of your qualifications on paper, in a classic A4 one page format.

This template allows you to highlight your key skills and qualifications, all in one page. No need to worry about going overboard with this as this has been specifically designed for a 1-page approach.

This is a clear attempt at optimizing for the 1-page resume format.

If you’re looking for something that’s professional and you can use for multiple scenarios - the above template might be the way to go.

It’s easy-to-use and will look good for most people.

All you have to do is fill in the blanks and you’ll have a fully customized resume that’s guaranteed to stand out and attract eyes.

Elegant Resume by Horea Nicodin

elegant word resume template

Who's it for: Pretty much anyone

Creator: Horea Nicodin

Where to find it: Dribble

Everything about this elegant resume template screams fanciness and it’s guaranteed to get a second look from the HR manager - which is your chance to really draw them in.

If your background is half as good as how the resume looks, you’re guaranteed to get a call back (if not for an interview, just for them to compliment your resume).

This template is ideal if you want to leave a lasting impression. It’s functional as well as elegant - definitely the best of both worlds .

Fortunately, it doesn’t actually come with a cursive font, as that would just make the recruiter’s job harder.

Though, the resume template (and the cover letter) do come with any file format you’ll ever need - Word , Photoshop , Illustrator , and InDesign .

This one-page resume template is ideal for those who want to keep their resumes concise, with just the right amount of flair.

2-page Resume/CV Combo by Resume Templates

2 page word resume template

Who's it for: UX/UI Designers

Creator: ResumeTemplates

If you’re going to be breaking the 1-page resume rule, you better have a good reason for it (i.e. a lot of experience).

And if that’s the case, then you could use the 2-page resume/CV package by ResumeTemplates.

When to Use This Template 

Clean, modern and professional Resume with Letterhead design. Fully customizable, and easy to use and replace the color & text.

This 2-pager Word template also comes with a cover letter, 100% scalable files (Photoshop, Illustrator, Word), and is ready to print.

It follows a reverse-chronological order and even has a references section. 

So, if you’re going to be using this template, make sure you have enough experience to fill it in with.

Modern Resume Template Package by ResumeFoundry

modern microsoft word resume template example

Who's it for: Online marketers

Creator: ResumeFoundry

Last but not least, this is another take on the modern creative resume package by Resume Foundry.

The package follows an all-in-one approach and the feature of being able to customize it based on your experience.

This template comes with just about everything you’ll ever need, regardless of your experience level.This includes a 1-3 page template, a cover letter, references, instructions, and a ready-to-help customer support.

Everything you see on the template is editable, and you also have the freedom to continue over the 2nd page (if needed).

Though, if you’re going to take the one-page approach, you’ll find that it has all the sections you’d need for most jobs. And the design won’t be out of place for just about any career field either.

So, essentially, you’re getting everything you’d need for $15, all that’s left to do is edit them accordingly.

how to make a resume easy way

That’s a lot of choice for a Word resume template.

While they might look good on paper, one common issue with building your resume with Word is that it can be super hard to format.

What do we mean by this?

Well, essentially, if you wanted to edit one specific part of your template (e.g. margin, design), there’s a chance that the whole formatting might break and spill over onto the 2nd page.

Sounds familiar? It happens to the best of us.

The reason this happens is because while Word is a powerful software on its own, it will always move your sections to the next page if the formatting isn’t just right.

Details matter to Word, sometimes a bit too much.

Do you want to simplify your resume building process down to its core?

Novorésumé template builder allows you to work and format your resume without having to worry about space, margins and other tiny details.

Everything is formatted based on the layout you choose and you won’t have to worry about your sections seemingly disappearing like in Word.

All this and more - for FREE .

Key Takeaways

So, to recap, here’s everything you need to know about using Microsoft Word resume template:

  • You can use preloaded templates in Word by clicking File from the menu bar on top of the screen, then New , and from there, search for a “ resume template ” from the prompted search bar.
  • The templates Word comes with are free , and you can also use premium templates, which you can find online.
  • Though the premium templates cost money, the difference is noticeable as in most cases, they’ve been designed by career experts and artists all over the world.
  • Once you find an ideal template that fits your qualifications , you can simply download it and edit it within Word.
  • Though, if you’re looking for a smoother experience, you can simply use a powerful online resume builder for free , to represent your skills and qualifications based on how you want it .

Discover More Resume Templates

  • Google Docs Resume Templates
  • Chronological Resume Templates
  • Combination Resume Templates
  • Creative Resume Templates
  • One Page Resume Templates
  • 2 Page Resume Templates
  • High School Resume Templates

Suggested reading:

  • How to Write a Resume & Land That Job [99+ Real-Life Examples]
  • CV vs. Resume - What are the Differences & Definitions [+ Examples]
  • 40+ Real-Life Resume Objective Examples [+How-to Guide]

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Microsoft Word Resume Templates

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In This Guide:

How to use ms word resume templates, free ms word resume templates, premium ms word resume templates.

Resume image 1

Writing a resume is always tough.

You need to include the best out of your work experience and your skillset .

And never skip on your education , and any certifications you have.

But how to structure all that in an easy-to-read way for the hiring manager to notice you?

A simple solution to that problem is using a resume template.

And, if you are using Microsoft Word as your text editor, you might be really lucky.

There are plenty of MS Word templates for you to pick from right there in the program.

In this article, we are going to show you just how to do that.

Furthermore, we are going to present you with the best templates for you to choose from.

If you are uncertain about what to include in your resume sections , we can show you how to make your resume stand out .

But if you are ready to pick the best MS Word resume template, stick around.

Upload & Check Your Resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

As we said, with MS Word you have all the templates you need right there in the text editor.

But how to find them?

Don’t worry, we got you covered.

We are going to provide you with all the steps you need to do to get to the templates.

Here are the steps you need to complete:

  • Go to File > New
  • In the search box, type Resume

Once you do that, you will have all resume templates that are offered by MS Word.

Look around all your options, and when you pick one, just double-click it.

And that’s it, you have your resume template generated.

All you need to do from there on is just replace the placeholders with your own information.

Now that you know where to find the MS Word resume templates, we are going to show you the most popular ones.

Take your pick among them, or spend some more time browsing through all your options.

Modern chronological resume

You can’t go wrong with a modern resume template.

It is a great way to stand out in front of all other candidates, who are using outdated formats.

The modern resume template follows the industry’s best practices.

Its goal to be eye-catching for the hiring managers, but at the same time it is easy-to-read.

But how can you make it even better?

You can apply to it the reverse chronological resume format .

And MS Word has just the right template for you.

If you want to check it out now, you can do so in your browser right here – MS Word Modern Chronological Resume Template .

But don’t pick a modern resume template just for the sake of it.

A problem that occurs with modern resumes is that they don’t always pass the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

That means that some of them never get to be seen by the hiring managers.

However, a well-formatted modern resume is a great choice for any job situation, regardless of experience, or area of work.

If you feel like the modern chronological resume is the right fit for you, download it here – MS Word Resume Template .

Polished resume, designed by MOO

MS Word can also offer you great designs that you can’t find anywhere else.

A great example of that is the Polished Resume, designed by MOO.

What can be more eye-catching than a design, that is created by a design company?

You can take the advantage to check out the product of Microsoft and the digital print and design company MOO.

If you want to check it out now, you can do so in your browser right here – MS Word Polished Resume, designed by MOO Template .

Don’t misunderstand though.

It is still great with showcasing all your expertise and skills.

It just has the great benefit of eye-catching design.

If you want to make it a little more personal, you can always change the color scheme in the design tab of the ribbon.

It is fully customizable according to your needs.

If you feel like the Polished resume, designed by MOO is the right fit for you, download it here – MS Word Resume Template .

Simple resume

Sometimes it’s good to go back to the basics.

That does not exclude your resume.

The beauty of a simple resume template is that it is universal.

It can fit each and any industry and job position .

Furthermore, you would not have any reason to worry if the hiring manager would have some difficulty finding information.

And MS Word can offer you one of the best simple resume templates.

If you want to check it out now, you can do so in your browser right here – MS Word Simple Resume Template .

Nobody would throw your resume just because it lacks any extra flavors in its design.

Keep the focus where it should be – on your expertise and skillset.

That’s what would really make that resume template work at its best.

If you go a little deeper in your resume template browsing, you might find that MS Word offers even more templates than you thought.

Some MS Word resume templates out there is premium.

That means that you need to pay some extra cash to have the right to use them.

But what are a few extra bucks, if you can have a great resume template to get you started?

Check out our selection of great premium MS Word resume templates.

blue grey resume

The blue-grey resume is a great combination of a modern resume and simplicity.

As the name suggests, it only uses two colors .

But the simplicity stops there, as there are some great design features for you to take advantage of.

Furthermore, unlike most resume templates, this one has a space for you to add your photo.

You can customize everything about it, and make it a little more personal and fitted to your needs.

You can check it out, and decide if it is the one for you here – MS Word Blue Grey Resume Template .

Modern resume with QR code

The modern resume design is always a great choice.

And even though you have the option of the free template, your premium one has some great features.

Along with all other great features, the MS Word Resume Template also allows you to add your own QR code right there in the resume.

It is a great feature if you want to create an easy link anywhere.

It can lead to your portfolio, personal website, or wherever else you would like it to be.

You can also customize almost everything about your modern resume template, and make it your own.

You can check it out, and decide if it is the one for you here – MS Word Modern resume with QR code Template .

Organized modern resume

The last premium MS Word resume template we want to show you is one more variation of the modern resume template.

This one not only uses a modern design, but it uses a clean and easy-to-read structure.

The organized modern resume template is the perfect way to showcase your skills and experience in the best possible way.

It organizes your professional experience by objective, experience, and it shows you as the perfect candidate.

If you want to really impress the hiring manager, check this template here – MS Word Organized Modern Resume Template .

We are all done.

Now you have all the best MS Word templates on a silver platter.

You are now ready to get the hiring manager’s attention and make them spend more time on your application.

Don’t forget – don’t limit yourself, and browse through the great variety of templates in MS Word.

Check out our best picks from the selection and make your resume get you your next interview in no time.

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WTO / Human Resource / Resumes / Reverse Chronological Resume Explained (Free Templates)

Reverse Chronological Resume Explained (Free Templates)

Your resume should grab an employer’s attention when you are looking for work and make it easy for them to scan through the most important details. A reverse chronological resume is an effective way to present a candidate’s work history in a clear and concise format, making it easier for employers to assess their qualifications and make hiring decisions.

However, if you decide to use this format, you must learn how to create it correctly. This article will provide information about the following:

  • What is the reverse chronological format?
  • Key sections of the resume
  • Pros and cons of using this resume format

What is the Reverse Chronological Resume Format?

A reverse chronological format displays your academic and professional experiences in reverse-chronological order. It indicates that the document lists all of your previous jobs in chronological order, beginning with the most recent one you held.

The last entry on the list will be your first job. This format has become very popular and is the most common type of resume people use, and people in hiring departments are used to this format.

Besides that, employers can easily see someone’s professional development or career progression, as it provides a clear timeline. This format is more contextual to the position you are applying for, which makes a great impression on recruiters.

When Should I Use this Format?

Even though you can use the chronological resume in different situations, there are some scenarios when you should choose another option.

When to use chronological resume:

  • When you have many years of professional experience in different companies.
  • When you have a stable career progression with a steady path.
  • If you do not have gaps in your career.
  • When you want to highlight your current position.

When to avoid chronological resume:

  • When you have no or little work experience.
  • If you want to highlight some of the earlier positions and experiences in your career.
  • When you have any gaps in your work experience.

Essential Sections of a Chronological Resume

The information you add to your resume is the most critical aspect of the document, which is why this article will cover all the main sections of a resume .

You can also add additional information, but here is the structure that should be the core of your document:

Your full name and current job title

The first part of any document is the header, which should include your full name and current job title. Although there are many differing opinions on the subject, writing the title of the position you are applying for will only make you appear overconfident.

Contact information 

You must add basic contact information underneath the heading, including an address, email, phone number, or social media links. Ensure all the information is professional and current so that the hiring manager can easily contact you and discuss the position. 

Personal statement

The personal statement is an introduction that gives recruiters a glimpse into your best qualities and suitability for the job opening. A personal statement can either be a summary or an objective statement. A resume summary showcases previous experience, making it great for people with at least two years of experience. On the other hand, a resume objective focuses on skills, making it ideal for people without work experience.  

Work experience section

This section is the core of a chronological resume . It should contain detailed information about the positions you held in a structured and chronological manner.

Here are some of the rules you should follow when writing about your work experience :

  • Only include professional experience relevant to the position you are applying for.
  • Start with your latest (current) position and continue by listing your previous positions in reverse chronological order.
  • Include the job title, company name, dates of employment, and other relevant information for each position.
  • Make the section easy to read and use bullet points. Use an average of five bullets per position.
  • Include action verbs in your bullet points, like managed, organized, led, aligned, hired, cultivated, directed, etc.
  • Focus primarily on duties and achievements instead of responsibilities.
  •  Demonstrate the impact of your work.

Education section

Like the work experience section, you should start with the latest educational achievements. Depending on your level of work experience, your education section can be longer or shorter.

If you have more than a couple of years of work experience, list only essential information, like:

  • Information about the subject you majored in
  • Year of graduation
  • Name of Universities

In case you do not have two or more years of experience, you can include more information, such as:

  • The minor you studied
  • Student exchange programs attended
  • College honors

Skills section

Every type of resume needs to include your skills. You can list them by relevance or alphabetically; both options are good. Naturally, all the skills you list should be relevant to the position.

Make a list of your soft and hard skills. Take the time to read the job description to see what the employer is looking for. Then you must compare your list of skills with the skills required by the employer in the job description. It is essential to include all the skills required in the job description. 

Additional sections

You can extend your resume to an additional page if you need more space for additional sections to highlight the unique value you can offer, but it is best to keep it concise. Additional areas supplement your experience and skills section and are especially useful if you do not have much work experience .

However, you should not add any additional information if it does not help the recruiter determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the position. Here are some of the things you can mention:

  • Volunteering experience
  • Research experience
  • Publications
  • Certifications and licenses

Reverse Chronological Resume Structure

[Full name]

[Current position]

Phone number: [insert information]

Email: [insert information]

Social media links: [insert information]

Resume profile

A forward-thinking (job title) with a strategic approach and result-based mindset with 5+ years of experience in the field. I am eager to join (company name) and help inspire and lead the sales team into new markets and impress your customers.

I have exceeded sales goals by over 15% at my current position while managing a team of a dozen associates, leading to a $125K revenue increase.

Employment History

[Job position] [start of employment – end of employment] [Company name] [city name and state]

 Insert duties and responsibilities.

Insert duties and responsibilities.

Key achievements:

Insert key achievements.

[Degree name] [Field of study] [Graduation year(optional)] [University name]

Courses (optional):

Insert most relevant courses.

Academic achievements (optional):

Insert achievements for [specific degree].

Extracurricular activities (optional):

Insert extracurricular activities you participated in during this time.

Awards (optional):

Insert noticeable awards [name of the award] [given by] [date].

 Insert noticeable awards [name of the award] [given by] [date].

Hard skills:

Insert relevant skills.

Soft skills:

Interests (additional section)

Insert interest.

 Insert interest.

Publications (additional section)

Insert relevant publications.

This infographic is about the anatomy of Reverse Chronological Resume.

Free Templates

Given below are reverse chronological resume templates:

Great Professional Marketing Manager Reverse Resume Sample as Word Document

Pros and Cons of Using a Reverse Chronological Format Pros

Even though the reverse chronological resume format offers many benefits, this option has some downsides. Learning when to avoid using this option and when it will get the desired results is essential.

Here is what you need to know:

The pros include:

Provides a straightforward narrative of your career 

This is one of the main benefits of using a reverse chronological format. By listing your work experience in reverse chronological order (i.e., starting with your most recent job and working backward), you create a clear and easy-to-follow narrative of your career progression over time. This can be particularly useful for employers who are looking for candidates with a specific level of experience or who want to see how your skills and responsibilities have evolved.

Conforms to expectations 

Recruiters expect to see this kind of resume format, and they know what to look for and where to look. But, at the same time, it is a great option when applying to large organizations that use automated tracking systems for job applications or standardized application forms.

Emphasizes well-known companies 

This resume format highlights the companies you worked for in the past. If you have worked for some of the most-established brands, this format can prevent that from going unnoticed by recruiters.

The cons include:

Shows the gaps in your work history

The reverse chronological format instantly shows if you have not worked for a year or two. In other words, recruiters can see that you have gaps in your career, which might be concerning for them. Also, it highlights the duration of employment at each job, making it easy for the employer to see how long you worked at each position. If you have had many short-term jobs, it may raise questions about your stability and job commitment.

Not suitable if you are switching careers

A chronological resume typically emphasizes your most recent work experience, which can be a disadvantage if you have not worked in a particular field for an extended period.

If you have marketing experience but your most recent marketing job was seven years ago, recruiters might not notice this on your resume or might not consider it relevant. This could potentially weaken your chances of being considered for a job in that field.

Not perfect for entry-level candidates

These kinds of resumes are designed to highlight your prior experience , but people who are new to the job market do not have any work experience, and as such, this format is not useful for them.  

Since a reverse chronological resume is the most common format, having one ready is always a good idea. In addition, chances are high that your next job application will require this kind of resume.  At the same time, it is important to keep your resume updated and incorporate any recent awards or achievements.   Hopefully, this post has helped you understand how to create an effective document. Make sure to download our template so that you can easily create a perfect resume.  

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Help Desk Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Help Desk Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Frank Hackett

Help Desk Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

  • Resume Text Examples

How To Write a Help Desk Resume

  • Entry-Level Help Desk
  • IT Help Desk

Help Desk Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Help Desk Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Hideo Araki (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Miami, FL 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

A dynamic help desk technician with three years of experience delivering exceptional technical support and customer service to end users. A proven track record of interfacing with diverse customers to resolve tier I issues and achieve satisfaction ratings of over 92%.

Professional Experience

Help Desk Technician , Microcenter, Miami, FL | July 2022 – present

  • Deliver technical support to over 30 customers per day and identify solutions to tier I hardware and software-related issues for laptop and desktop devices
  • Communicate effectively with diverse customers, perform root cause analysis to diagnose technical issues, and maintain a 92% satisfaction rating on exit surveys
  • Achieve recognition for consistently exceeding performance goals, including a top-five ranking in resolution times across a team comprised of 40 technicians

Junior Help Desk Technician , Miami-Dade College, Miami, FL | June 2021 – July 2022

  • Supported over 20 students and faculty per day in resolving technical issues related to PCs, smartboards, user login, and university devices
  • Performed routine maintenance on laptops, PCs, and other devices, including cybersecurity updates, system upgrades, and hardware configuration
  • Technical support
  • System administration
  • Hardware configuration
  • Root-cause analysis

Certifications

  • CompTIA A+ Certification | 2021

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Information Technology University of Florida, Gainesville, FL | 2021

This help desk resume example effectively conveys the candidate’s achievements using strong numbers and metrics. The content strikes a successful balance between conveying the applicant’s daily responsibilities and demonstrating how they consistently exceeded performance goals.

Skyler Thompson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Seattle, WA 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

A lead help desk technician with six years of experience specializing in hardware configuration, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and end-user support. A strong history of interfacing with junior technicians and customers to identify ideal solutions for complex technical issues.

Lead Help Desk Technician , Arkline Technical Pros., Seattle, WA | March 2020 – present

  • Serve as the escalation point for junior technicians, field over 80 tier II tickets per week, perform research, and conduct root-cause analysis to identify optimal solutions for software, hardware, PC, and mobile device issues
  • Document solutions for recurring issues in a shared knowledge base and lead initiatives to enhance workflows, contributing to a 10% reduction in average resolution times
  • Provide training to over 35 new hires during the onboarding process

Help Desk Technician , Miami-Dade College, Seattle, WA | June 2018 – March 2020

  • Delivered technical support to over 20 end users per day, resolved tier I and tier II issues related to hardware configuration, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity
  • Communicated empathetically and calmly to guide users through the troubleshooting process, resulting in a 90% satisfaction rating
  • Cybersecurity
  • Microsoft Azure
  • CompTIA A+ Certification | 2018

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Information Technology University of Washington, Seattle, WA | 2018

This is a strong example of how to craft an engaging help desk resume. The bullet points are concise and engaging, providing unique insights into how the candidate successfully optimized processes and workflows for previous employers.

Anthony Gentile (123) 456-7890 [email protected] San Diego, CA 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

A help desk manager with 10 years of experience managing service desk operations and resolving complex tier III issues for end users. A proven track record of managing help desk teams and identifying opportunities to improve resolution times and user satisfaction.

Help Desk Manager , HubSpot, San Diego, CA | July 2017 – present

  • Manage all aspects of daily service desk operations, lead a team of 30 help desk technicians, and ensure the delivery of exceptional technical support to end users for complex issues related to the HubSpot CRM
  • Serve as the escalation point for tier III issues, provide training and mentorship to enhance team performance, and successfully improve average resolution times by 15%
  • Coordinate with the IT manager to develop help desk policies for service requests, incident management, and ticket escalations

Help Desk Manager , Apptivo, San Diego, CA | June 2014 – July 2017

  • Oversaw a team of 20 IT service technicians, coordinated daily help desk operations, and identified opportunities to improve the end-user experience, resulting in a 17% increase in user satisfaction
  • Fielded and resolved escalated tier III trouble tickets related to the Apptivo CRM, documented solutions for recurring issues, and delivered end-user training to clients
  • Team management
  • End-user training
  • Operations management
  • Process improvement
  • CompTIA A+ Certification | 2014

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Information Technology University of San Diego, San Diego, CA | 2014

This help desk resume successfully conveys the candidate’s leadership capabilities and technical expertise. Because the candidate is targeting a managerial role, it’s important to emphasize their background in leading teams and interfacing effectively with end users.

To stand out from the competition in today’s job market, you need a results-driven help desk resume that captures your strongest qualifications as an information technology (IT) service technician. Avoid simply describing mundane job responsibilities and instead bring your most impactful technical achievements to light. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the resume-building process to help you identify the right solution for your career needs.

1. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications

Given the sheer volume of applicants for any singular job opportunity, hiring managers often spend less than 30 seconds reviewing a resume. To make a lasting impression, lead with a powerful opening summary that illustrates the value you bring to the table. Start with a sentence that lists your title, years of experience, and three to four impressive technical skills that align with the job description. Round out your paragraph with unique insights into who you are as an IT professional.

For example, if you’ve consistently found innovative ways to improve resolution times for trouble tickets, emphasize this directly in your summary. If you excel in leading and training help desk teams, highlight how your leadership skills could be an asset to the organization.

Strong Profile Example

A help desk manager with 10 years of experience managing service desk operations and resolving complex tier III issues for end users. A proven track record of leading help desk teams and identifying opportunities to improve resolution times and user satisfaction.

Weak Profile Example

A hardworking help desk manager with a decade of experience with strong interpersonal and solution-finding skills. Quickly resolve technical issues. Strong knowledge of various operating systems, PC devices, and hardware.

2. Add an accomplishment-driven professional experience section

Help desk job responsibilities tend to be similar across job postings and can sometimes appear generic at first glance. While it’s important to show you can have experience performing these types of tasks, go a step further to grab the attention of the hiring manager. As you build your professional experience section, emphasize compelling achievements that show how your contributions have positively impacted service desk operations.

One viable strategy is to incorporate meaningful data and metrics to paint a clearer picture of your achievements. For instance, you might mention the total number of tickets you fielded each day or draw attention to your user satisfaction rating. You could also show how your efforts helped to improve average resolution times.

Strong Professional Experience Example

Lead Help Desk Technician, Arkline Technical Pros., Seattle, WA | March 2020 – present

  • Provide technical support training to over 40 new hires during the onboarding process

Weak Professional Experience Example

  • Resolve a large number of escalated tickets and utilize solution-finding skills to quickly address user issues
  • Log solutions to common technical issues and improve resolution times
  • Assist with the training of new employees

3. Include relevant education and certifications

Feature your college education and industry certifications to show potential employers that you have the knowledge and qualifications to succeed in the position. Help desk technicians are usually expected to have a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science. The CompTIA A+ certification is also commonly listed as a requirement for these types of positions. As you grow in your career, consider pursuing additional certifications, such as a Certified Service Desk Manager (CDSM) credential.

  • [Degree Name]
  • [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Information Technology
  • University of Washington, Seattle, WA | 2020
  • [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
  • Certified Service Desk Manager (CSDM), SDI | 2019
  • CompTIA A+ | 2017

4. List pertinent key skills

Most companies utilize applicant track systems (ATS) to expedite the hiring process and remove less qualified candidates. To pass the initial screening phase, incorporate a range of both technical and soft skills that match the job posting. For instance, if a company mentions a skill such as cloud technology multiple times in the description, the ATS will likely seek this keyword. Below are potential key terms you may encounter when applying for help desk technician jobs:

Key Skills and Proficiencies
Client relations Cloud technology
Communication Computer science
Cross-functional collaboration Customer service
Customer success Data analysis
Debugging End-user training
Hardware configuration IT
Leadership Process improvement
Root-cause analysis Software configuration
System administration Technical support
Troubleshooting  

How To Pick The Best Help Desk Resume Template

When selecting your help desk resume template, opt for a format that allows the hiring manager to easily navigate your content. Choose a template that is visually appealing without being overly reliant on distracting colors and graphics. Prioritize clean, well-organized layouts that use an elegant font such as Calibri, Cambria, or Garamond.

Frequently Asked Questions: Help Desk Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for help desk resumes -.

Lead each bullet point with a strong action verb to add a dynamic and engaging element to your writing. Avoid passive verbs such as “helped” or “worked” in favor of proactive language such as “led,” “managed,” and “implemented.” We’ve compiled a list of action verbs to diversify your word choice during the resume-building process:

Action Verbs
Analyzed Built
Collaborated Conducted
Created Developed
Diagnosed Drove
Enhanced Evaluated
Executed Identified
Implemented Improved
Integrated Led
Managed Performed
Resolved Supported

How do you align your resume with a help desk job description? -

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , jobs for computer support specialists are expected to grow by 5% between 2022 and 2032. Despite these optimistic projections, it’s still important to tailor your resume toward each individual opportunity to maximize your chances of success during the job search.

For example, if a company needs a help desk technician with a comprehensive knowledge of Linux, highlight your experience diagnosing and resolving issues related to this specific operating system. If an organization is seeking a candidate with a strong background in Microsoft Azure, emphasize your expertise in cloud technologies.

What is the best help desk resume format? -

The reverse chronological format is generally best suited for help desk resumes. Hiring managers are most interested in your prior work history, and this approach places your most recent experience at the forefront of your document. A combination approach that prioritizes technical skills, education, or certifications should only be considered if you have no prior work experience to highlight on your resume.

Craft your perfect resume in minutes

Get 2x more interviews with Resume Builder. Access Pro Plan features for a limited time!

Building an engaging help desk cover letter is a great way to strengthen your application during the job search. The key is to craft a compelling document that shows how your background is aligned with the organization’s needs, mission, and values. For more insights, visit our information technology and computer science cover letter guides.

Frank Hackett

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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  6. FREE 9+ Sample Chronological Resume Templates in MS Word

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COMMENTS

  1. Free resume templates to download and print

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  2. Chronological Resume Template & Guide (Free Download)

    The chronological resume template highlights your work history by emphasizing your most important employment duties, accomplishments, and relevant abilities. This specific resume format allows hiring managers or recruiters to quickly review your experience and career path by placing the job history section underneath the professional overview.

  3. Chronological Resume Templates for 2024

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  4. Chronological Resume Template, Examples, & Format

    Chronological Resume Template, Examples, and Format A chronological resume emphasizes your career progression by listing your experience in reverse-chronological order, and is the most widely used resume format.

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    Chronological resume templates are one of the most popular styles, and for good reason. They put your most important qualifications front and center, showing at a glance the job positions and responsibilities you've held. Many businesses value real-world experience highly, so making this factor stand out on the page is a smart idea.

  9. Chronological resume

    Download a free template (Word) A free to use and direct downloadable resume template for a chronologic resume. This template was created by a certified resume expert and can be used with Microsoft Word. Download resume-template-chronological.docx 18 KB. The templates are for a personal use only. You are not allowed to sub-license, transfer ...

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  12. Reverse Chronological Resume Templates [Ideal Format]

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  14. Chronological Resume Template

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  15. How to Write a Chronological Resume in 2024 + Examples

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  16. 29+ Chronological Resume Template in InDesign

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  17. FREE 9+ Sample Chronological Resume Templates in MS Word

    FREE 9+ Sample Chronological Resume Templates in MS Word | PDF Aside from rehearsing an upcoming interview, looking for the right outfit, and calming down the application-induced jitters, you're most likely thinking about how you're going to present your resume as well. If you've been in the industry for quite some time and aims for a major career shift or vying for a more advanced ...

  18. 40 Free Resume Templates for Microsoft Word (& How to Make Your Own)

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  19. 25+ Word Resume Templates (Free & Premium)

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  20. 20+ Free Word Resume Templates for 2024 [Download Now]

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  21. MS Word Resume Templates to Download

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  22. Reverse Chronological Resume Explained (Free Templates)

    Reverse Chronological Resume Explained (Free Templates) Your resume should grab an employer's attention when you are looking for work and make it easy for them to scan through the most important details. A reverse chronological resume is an effective way to present a candidate's work history in a clear and concise format, making it easier for employers to assess their qualifications and ...

  23. Help Desk Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    Help Desk Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App) Entry-Level Help Desk; IT Help Desk; Help Desk; Use This Template. Build Your Resume. Resume Builder offers free, HR-approved resume templates to help you create a professional resume in minutes. ... The reverse chronological format is generally best suited for help desk resumes. Hiring ...