With many job postings receiving hundreds or even thousands of applications, you need to find a way of making your application stand out from those of other candidates. If you're applying for a job in a creative industry, then an innovative resume format could be just what you need to make the recruiter sit up and take notice. Consider these unique formatting ideas to help you design your resume.
Before you decide to create a nontraditional resume, ask yourself whether it is appropriate for the role for which you are applying. If you're applying for a corporate job at a very conventional organization, then sticking with a traditional format could be much safer. On the other hand, if you're applying for a job as a graphic designer at an exciting young startup, then out-of-the-box resume formatting ideas are exactly what you need.
1. Add a Splash of Color
A splash of color can make your resume stand out, but it's important not to overdo it. Add a colored border or header to your resume to make it pop in a pile of black and white documents. However, be aware that some organizations copy resumes in black and white for interviewers to read, so you need to ensure your resume is still readable if this happens.
2. Include Infographics
Infographics are one of the hottest trends on the Internet right now. Some creative job seekers are even finding ways to include infographics in their resumes. Consider whether you could use an infographic to communicate your job history and achievements in a visual context. For example, you could format your work history as a timeline, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for your resume. Infographics are a great way to present quantitative information in your resume, such as sales figures that you achieved in your last role.
3. Rework the Company's Design
If you really want to catch the attention of a recruiter at a particular organization, consider including elements of that company's design in your resume. Job seeker Eric Gandhi landed a job at Google after creating a resume based on the search engine's results page. It's a bold strategy, but if you need a recruiter to take a chance on you, this kind of design mimicry could be worth a shot. It shows that you respect the design and ethos of the company and want to be a part of it.
4. Newspaper or Magazine Format
Applying for a job as the editor of a newspaper, magazine or online publication? Why not format your resume to look like the front page? This innovative resume format is an attention-grabber, but you need to be sure that it is suitable for the job for which you are applying. It's also important to ensure that this resume format contains all the essential information, including your career history, qualifications, skills and key achievements.
5. Video Resume
Some application processes allow you to submit alternative forms of resumes. A video resume could give you the opportunity to show a company what you have to offer. Video resumes typically last only around 60 seconds, so you need to get the key points across quickly. Remember that a video resume is an opportunity for the recruiter to assess your verbal communication skills, so speak clearly and use body language that shows you to be confident, open and relaxed. Spend some time practicing your video resume script, so you can deliver all the essential information without speaking too quickly.
An innovative resume format could help you find your next job. If you're applying for a job in a creative industry, such as graphic design, then using a unique format could show that you are a creative candidate who has the right skills for the job. To stand out from the crowd, consider using one of these innovative resume formatting ideas, such as an infographic resume or video resume, for your next job application.
Photo Courtesy of Formula24 at Flickr.com
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!