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Maximizing Efficiency with Microsoft Word’s Blank Document Template

In today’s digital age, Microsoft Word has become an indispensable tool for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re drafting a letter, creating a resume, or writing a report, Microsoft Word provides a versatile platform for all your document needs. One of the most valuable features in Word is its blank document template, which allows users to start with a clean slate and maximize efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore how you can make the most out of Microsoft Word’s blank document template.

A Fresh Start: The Power of Blank Documents

When you open Microsoft Word, you’re greeted with numerous options – from pre-designed templates to recently used documents. However, sometimes what you need is a fresh start without any distractions or predefined layouts. That’s where the blank document template comes in.

By starting with a blank document, you have complete control over the layout and formatting of your content. This allows you to tailor your document specifically to your needs and preferences. Whether it’s adjusting margins, selecting fonts and sizes, or customizing headers and footers, starting from scratch gives you the freedom to create a document that reflects your unique style.

Streamlining Workflows: Creating Templates

While starting from scratch can be liberating in certain situations, it may not always be the most efficient option. If you find yourself frequently creating similar types of documents – such as meeting agendas or project proposals – it might be worth considering creating templates.

Microsoft Word allows users to save customized documents as templates for future use. By creating templates based on your commonly used formats and layouts, you can streamline your workflows and save valuable time. Simply open a blank document template that matches your desired format and make any necessary adjustments before saving it as a template file (.dotx). The next time you need to create a similar document, just open the template file instead of starting from scratch.

Collaboration Made Easy: Sharing Blank Documents

In today’s collaborative work environments, sharing documents with others is a common occurrence. Microsoft Word’s blank document template makes collaboration even easier by providing a standardized starting point for all parties involved.

When collaborating on a document, it’s important to ensure consistency in formatting and layout. By sharing a blank document template with your collaborators, you can ensure that everyone starts on the same page – both figuratively and literally. This eliminates the need for back-and-forth discussions about formatting preferences and saves time for everyone involved. Additionally, sharing blank templates promotes brand consistency within an organization by enforcing predefined styles and guidelines.

Customization: Making Blank Documents Work for You

While Microsoft Word’s blank document template provides a clean slate to work with, it doesn’t mean you have to start from scratch every time. The beauty of using Word is its flexibility, allowing you to customize your blank documents to suit your specific needs.

Consider creating your own personalized blank document template that includes commonly used elements specific to your workflow or industry. For example, if you frequently include disclaimers or boilerplate text in your documents, adding them to your custom template can save you time and effort. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different layouts, headers, footers, or even pre-filled content sections that are relevant to your work.

In conclusion, Microsoft Word’s blank document template is a powerful tool that can maximize efficiency in various ways. Whether you prefer starting from scratch or creating customized templates for streamlined workflows and collaboration purposes, taking advantage of this versatile feature will undoubtedly enhance your productivity. So the next time you launch Microsoft Word, consider utilizing the power of the blank document template and unlock its potential for efficient content creation.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

MORE FROM ASK.COM

Functional Resume Template – 15+ Free Samples, Examples, Format Download!

Your job hunting artillery is incomplete without a functional resume that lays out your claims to a job in an organized manner. Functional resume templates enable job seekers to coherently present relevant information, neatly organized under pre-laid out columns and blocks such as educational qualifications, project experience, career history, job objectives, previous employer testimonials, etc. Not only do these templates ensure that you come up with a neat and professional looking resume, but also ensure that you do so without losing on your sleep, because these templates are smartly built to adjust to your specific case.

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Sample Functional Resume-Business Manager

Omni Resume

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Professional Resume Design

Sample Functional Resume – Technical College

Functional Resume Sample for Monster

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Functional Resume Example Template

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Functional Resume Template for 2023

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Download this free functional resume and customize it in Word

Our functional resume is completely free ! It is a reverse-chronological resume template that focuses on skills honed through professional experiences. It is commonly used when switching careers or just starting one. This free template is perfect for all profiles and job offers and can be customized easily in Word to fit your style preferences. Download for free this resume template !

Are you looking for a functional resume Word template that is easy to customize and free to use ? We’ve got just the one for you! With this free example of a functional resume template, you are one step closer to getting that interview call. Use this free template in Word to create a professional and effective resume that highlights your skills clearly and concisely. It is customizable to fit your style preference while still looking modern and professional .

Functional resume vs chronological resume

A functional resume emphasizes an individual’s skills rather than their chronological work history.

Unlike a traditional chronological resume, this example of a functional resume focuses on what you can achieve rather than where you have worked.

Download our Chronological Resume Template

When should you write a functional resume?

There are several situations where this type of resume may be the best option:

1. If you have gaps in your employment history

For example, a functional resume can help downplay them and, instead, shine the spotlight on your skills and experience .

2. If you are looking to change careers

A functional resume helps to highlight the transferable skills you have that are relevant to your new occupation. For example, if you taught English as a second language, you most likely have managed a classroom with many students. Which suggests you have honed your interpersonal, time-management, planning, and organizational skills. These skills are all adaptable in almost every job position!

3. If you have worked as a freelancer or a volunteer

It can help to showcase the skills you have developed in those roles . For example, if you have been freelancing as a writer, translator, and content manager, describe the skills you acquired through these jobs rather than individually naming each client and short-term projects you have worked on.

How do you write a functional resume in 2023?

This free functional resume example makes it incredibly easy for you to visualize the framework of an effective one. All you need to do is:

• Brainstorm the skills and experience you want to emphasize. 
• Fill in the sections for each of those skills or experiences. For example, you can have section headings for “Project Management,” “Customer Service,” or “Graphic Design.” 
• Within each section, provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated these skills or gained that experience.
• Add other relevant skills on the side in bullet points.
• Include your education, certificates, and interests .

Learn more about What skills you should add to a resume here.

You still need to provide enough information in your resume about your work history to give potential employers a sense of your overall career trajectory. We have indicated where you would need to do that, so you don’t have to worry about placement! Just fill in the sections with your own information and watch as those recruiters start paying attention to your resume!

Download your new functional resume template today and get hired tomorrow!

Resume examples you might also like

How to Write a Functional Resume [4 Free Templates Included]

Struggling with your resume because you just graduated from university and don’t have much work experience?

Or maybe you’re switching careers, and aren’t sure how to make your past position relevant for the new field?

Whichever the case, the solution is pretty simple:

Use a functional resume format!

• What’s a Functional Resume?

When to Use a Functional Resume?

How to write a functional resume.

• What Are Some Other Resume Formats (and When To Use Them)

What is a Functional Resume?

A functional resume, also known as the skill-based resume, is a resume format that focuses on your professional skill test as opposed to work experience.

If you were to create a traditional resume, you’d list out your work experience in reverse chronological order as follows:

Whereas, in the case of a functional resume , you list out each of your skills, and then back them up by highlighting how you’ve practically applied them in the past:

It’s better to use a functional resume in the following situations:

• You’re a recent graduate with no work experience. As the functional resume focuses on skills rather than experience, it can be very helpful to students.
• You’re switching careers . If you have some work experience, but the said experience isn’t relevant for the position you’re applying for, you can use a functional resume to highlight how your skills make you the right candidate.
• You have a long history of unemployment (or gaps between jobs). Since the functional resume format focuses on skills, you can use it to downplay your work experience gaps.

That being said, in around 90% of cases, we don’t recommend using a functional resume .

While it does have its perks (e.g. standing out as a recent graduate), it also comes with significant downsides.

First off, it’s nowhere near as popular as the traditional resume format, and in certain parts of the world, recruiters might not even know that the functional format is a thing.

In addition, some recruiters might find the lack of work experience in a resume suspicious because it can hint the candidate isn’t being truthful (e.g. red flags, being fired from previous employment, etc.).

These 2 disadvantages combined make a compelling case against the functional resume format.

So, if you do decide to create a functional resume, weigh the pros and cons and proceed at your own risk!

Want to also learn how to create a traditional resume ? Check out our guide!

First things first - pick a compelling resume template to get started. We recommend using our Functional Resume template:

Then, create the following sections on your resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Summary
• Skill Summary

If you have additional space once you’re finished with these sections, you can fill it up with some optional sections (which we’ll explain a bit down the line).

Now, let’s walk you through each of these sections and explain how to do them right:

#1. Contact Information

While it might sound elementary, there’s a ton of tid-bits you need to know about getting the contact information section right.

Here’s what you need to include in the contact information section:

• First and last name
• Current job title
• Email address
• Phone number
• City and country you’re based in

Optionally, you can also include links to relevant social media profiles. For example:

• If you’re a writer, you can link your portfolio page or website.
• If you’re a developer, you can link your GitHub profile.
• If you’re a marketer, you can link your Instagram or Twitter page.
• Your LinkedIn profile link (if it’s up-to-date).

#2. Resume Summary

The next section on your functional resume is the “resume summary.”

This section goes right under your contact information, and looks something like this:

In a nutshell, a resume summary is a 2-4 sentence recap of your biggest professional achievements and career highlights.

The goal of this section is to show the recruiter (in one glance) that you’re qualified for the position you’re applying for.

Here’s what a well-written resume summary would look like:

• Professional executive assistant with experience in supporting high-level CEOs and other executives for over 5 years. Experienced in customer support, data entry, and scheduling meetings. Skilled in time management, MS Office, and Adobe Photoshop.

#3. Skill Summary

This one’s going to be the bulk of your functional resume.

In a skill summary section, you mention the top 3 skills required for the position you’re applying for and then provide information on how you’ve gained the said skills right under them.

Let’s say, for example, you’re a recent graduate applying for a role in marketing. Here’s what your skill summary could look like:

Copywriting

• Wrote over 20+ well-researched papers for my university.
• Worked at the university news media as a journalist, interviewing interesting university alumni and publishing their stories on the website.
• Created and published high-quality tech articles on my personal blog (www.exampleblog.com).
• Participated in a university project for a real-life company (Company X), where we had to come up with ideas for expanding to a new market.
• With the help of my team, came up with 5 ideas, out of which 3 were actually implemented by the company.
• Came up with 100+ topic ideas for content on my personal blog, some of which got over 50 shares when published.

Project Management

• Acted as a team leader for most of my university projects, ensuring that they were completed on time, and that every group member contributed.
• Was part of the Startup Weekend organizational committee. Helped source speakers, organize the event, find sponsors, and overall ensured that the event went smoothly.

#4. Education

The next section on your functional resume is Education , and this one’s actually pretty straightforward.

Here, list out the following information:

• Name of the degree (e.g. B.A. in Computer Science)
• Name of the university and dates attended (e.g. Boston State University, 2012 - 2016)

Optionally, you can also include the following as part of your education section :

• GPA. If you had an impressive GPA in your university (3.5 - 4.0), you can list it in your resume. Most companies, however, don’t really care about your grades all that much .
• Honors. E.g. Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, etc.
• Academic Achievements. Your thesis, interesting or noteworthy research papers you’ve written, etc.
• Courses Attended. If you’ve taken some very impressive classes (and they’re related to the role you’re applying for), you can mention them in your education section.

#5. Optional Sections

Still have some space left on your resume? Here are some other sections you can include:

• Projects - In our opinion, this one’s the most underrated resume section. Here, you can include any kind of personal or university project you’ve worked on. E.g. blog you’ve started, a piece of software you coded, etc.
• Extracurricular Activities - If you’re a recent graduate, you can include a section about the extracurricular activities you’ve participated in during university.
• Languages - Knowing an extra language or two can always come in handy. When filling these out, though, make sure to include your level of understanding (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Fluent, or Native).
• Work History - Yep, you CAN include work history on your functional resume. If you decide to do this, though, your resume will be a combination resume and NOT the functional one.

Other Resume Formats

There are 2 other resume formats in addition to the Functional one:

• Reverse-Chronological Resume Format
• Combination Resume Format

Here’s what they’re about:

#1. Reverse-Chronological Resume Format

This one’s the most common resume format out there and it’s what most people have in mind when they refer to a “resume.”

This resume format simply lists out work experiences in reverse-chronological order and backs them up with other essential resume sections (skills, education, etc.).

Unless you have specific reasons to use either of the other resume formats (combination or functional), we recommend you stick with this one.

#2. Combination Resume Format

The combination resume is almost the same thing as a functional resume, with a small twist.

In addition to the skill summary section on the resume, you also add a work history section (which helps even out the downsides that come with a functional resume).

Usually, the combination resume is used by senior professionals with a decade’s worth of work experience.

4 Free Functional Resume Templates & Examples

Want to get started with your functional resume?

All you have to do is pick one of our free templates and you’re good to go!

#1. Functional Resume Template

Our functional resume template adds a dash of style to the traditional black-and-white resume.

Use this template to present your skills and talents in the best way possible!

#2. Combination Resume Template

This combination template allows you to showcase your skills without having to cut down on work experience.

#3. College Resume Template

Our College resume template is perfect for recent university graduates, allowing you to emphasize your skill-set over your work experiences.

#4. Professional Resume Template

Looking for something a bit more professional? This resume template is a prime favorite for job-seekers who are serious about their careers.

Key Takeaways

And that just about sums up everything you need to know about functional resumes!

Now, let’s do a small recap of everything we’ve learned so far:

• A functional resume format is a type of resume that focuses more on skills rather than work experiences.
• You can use a functional resume if you’re a recent graduate with little work experience or if you’re switching careers.
• To create a compelling functional resume, you want to get your skill summary section just right.
• Functional resumes, however, are not that common in most parts of the world, so we recommend sticking to a conventional resume format to most job-seekers, instead.

Discover More Resume Templates

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

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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..

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.

• Sample Resumes

FREE 9+ Functional Resume Samples in PDF | MS Word

The functional resume sample is what you should use to highlight your skills and qualifications, your achievements and unique talents, and should not focus much on your chronological wok history, old degrees, etc. This is helpful when you have a big gap in work history that you would not want to talk about, or you may be changing the job role or domain altogether. Some interesting and useful formats for the  Sample Resumes  are given here.

Functional Resume

Functional resume sample - 9+ examples in word, pdf, functional resume templates – 8+ samples , examples , format, functional resume example - 9+ samples in word, pdf, sample functional resume.

Size: 32 KB

The sample functional resume is just a sample which tells you how a functional resume should be written. You may read and understand the style to take ideas for making your own.

Functional Resume Example

Size: 124 KB

The functional resume example is a ready-made resume as a model that you may see to know how you can also make a functional resume for yourself.

Functional Resume Format

Size: 41 KB

This is a clear format suggested for the functional resume making. With this format, you actually can make any functional resume, when you know which facts to place where.

Administrative Assistant Functional Resume

Size: 67 KB

The functional resume you would like to make for the position of administrative assistant is here. The skills you must highlight to apply for this job role are suggested here.

Functional Resume Cover Letter

Size: 317 KB

The functional resume cover letter is here, and this one suggests how you should write a proper cover letter to introduce and highlight the functional resume along with it.

Experienced Functional Resume

Size: 189 KB

Professional Functional Resume

Size: 23 KB

Basic Functional Resume

Size: 92 KB

Sales Functional Resume

Size: 76 KB

What Is A Functional Resume?

You should make a functional resume for showing off your talents and skills and would like to talk of all that you are good in, your accomplishments, and individual achievements, etc. However, this resume will not talk about your academic qualifications, degrees, old work experiences in chronological order, etc. This will not talk about what you did earlier, and would rather focus on what you can do, and what you are good at. That is the beauty of the functional resume, which is ideal for you when you want to switch jobs with a new role or domain change.

Uses Of A Functional Resume

It’s best to use a functional resume when you want to change a job and at the same time the job role and domain too. In such cases, your old work experience may be a hindrance for the new job. Also, if you have had a gap earlier in work history which may be a drawback to be mentioned on the resume, you should then go for using a Functional Resume s. Your old work history won’t get a focus here, and rather you skills will be focused. Hence, functional resume writing when done tactfully can help one switch job roles, change job domain, and cover up for old problems in your professional career.

Making a functional resume can be fascinating when you have the right guideline to follow. Else, understanding the art, that how you will camouflage your old work history, etc. while highlighting your skill sets can be a tough job when you have no samples to refer to. Hence, you may always consult the Basic Resume Samples as a fresher and the professional resume samples/ CV, when you have experience.

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

Published: August 10, 2023

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.

But just because resumes have gotten more creative doesn't mean you need special design software to make your application stand out. On the contrary, writing your resume in good old Microsoft Word is still the perfect way to develop your personal brand, while also communicating your experience and career goals.

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

Download 12 free, editable resume templates.

Free Resume Template Downloads for Word

1. monogram header resume template.

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.

12 Free Customizable Resume Templates

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

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Google Slides

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

2. Maroon Sidebar Resume Template

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

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. Bold Serif Resume Template

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.

5. Strategist Resume Template

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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Urban Development 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.

10. Email Marketing Resume Template

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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. Dark Resume Template

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.

14. Skilled Resume Template

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.

15. Inbound Marketing Resume Template

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.

16. 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.

17. Face Forward Resume Template

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.

18. Spick and Span Resume Template

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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. CV 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.

23. Entry-Level Resume Template

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.

24. Goldenrod 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.

25. Resume Template With Personal Endorsements

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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. 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.

29. 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.

30. 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.

31. Concept Resume

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Should You Use a Functional Resume Template?

The functional resume format deemphasizes work history and puts skills and accomplishments front and center. Unfortunately, recruiters hate the functional resume format because of this.

Are you a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone with limited work experience? If so, you may have heard it’s best to use a functional resume template to showcase your skills and abilities.

Not so fast. Although a functional resume showcases your skills, it deemphasizes your work history. And recruiters hate this.

In this guide, you will learn about the functional resume format and what recruiters say about it. You will also learn which format recruiters prefer and how you can jumpstart your resume .

Table of contents

• What is a functional resume?

How to write a functional resume

Functional resume template.

• Why recruiters hate the functional format
• What recruiters want you to do
• Use Jobscan’s resume builder
• Functional resume examples 

Frequently asked questions

Want to create a resume that recruiters approve of? Here’s a free resume builder you can use. 

What is a functional resume format?

The functional resume format focuses on skills and abilities, not work experience. That’s why it’s also called a skills-based resume. 

In this format, your work experience is listed with minimal detail at the bottom of the resume.

When to use a functional resume format

A functional resume can be used in the following instances:

• You’re a recent graduate with no employment experience . 
• You’re making a career change . 
• You have a long history of gaps between jobs . 
• You are returning to the workforce.
• You have limited work experience.

Here’s how you write a functional resume:

• Start with your contact information (name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile.)
• Write a professional summary .
• List your key abilities in a skills summary . Put them in different categories relevant to the job.
• Include your work experience. Mention your job title, name of employers, and employment dates. You should outline these in reverse-chronological order. 
• Add an education section.
• Include relevant volunteer experience , certifications, training, awards, and other relevant achievements.
• Tailor your functional resume to the job description .

Here is an example of a functional resume template you can download .

Why recruiters dislike the functional resume

We talked with a recruiter and this is what he said: “ Recruiters hate the functional resume format . It’s a waste of time.”

Recruiters dislike functional resumes for two main reasons: 

1. It conceals information

“You’re taking information out of context [in a functional resume],” said the recruiter. “It’s easier to BS your way through to make things sound glamorous.”

The functional resume format raises suspicion among recruiters. This is because some job applicants may use it to:

• Cover gaps in their employment
• Bloat their skills.
• Hide their lack of experience. 

This is easy to do because the main focus of a functional resume is on skills rather than career history. 

2. The meat of the resume (i.e., the experience and education sections) is not featured at the very top

The expert told us a story from his own job search history to illustrate what he meant. He used a functional resume template to make the jump from sales to the HR industry:

“I actually paid someone to do [a functional resume] for me. Whenever I would hand it to someone who was screening at a job fair, I would watch their eyes. They would skip right past everything at the top of the resume. Then they would go straight to my work history and look at the job titles. I would repeatedly watch them do this. Then I finally got myself into the HR industry where I was screening resumes, and I do the exact same thing .”.

The functional resume format covers up gaps in an applicant’s experience. And recruiters know it. They will skip straight down to the work history to try and figure out what you’re hiding.

Here’s what recruiters want you to do

A study revealed that recruiters only spend six seconds reviewing your resume. Because of this, you need to:

• Give recruiters a quick overview of what you bring to the table at the top of your resume. 
• Highlight your work experience, include measurable results, and provide context.

“I definitely want to see everything laid out in context,” said the expert. 

Recruiters want to have a better idea of the context of every skill and accomplishment. And the functional resume doesn’t offer this.

Use the hybrid resume format instead

The hybrid resume blends the best elements of the functional and reverse-chronological resumes. That’s why it’s also called the combination resume.

Here’s how you format a hybrid resume:

First, you show your key skills and achievements at the top of your resume, like a functional resume. 

And like a reverse-chronological resume, you then emphasize your employment history. To strengthen your resume, you need to outline key responsibilities and measurable accomplishments.

This way, recruiters can see the expertise you bring to the table and have a clear view of your work history.

Hybrid resume example

Here’s an example of a hybrid resume:

In this example, the job seeker started with a professional summary followed by a list of her core skills. She then outlined her work experience in reverse chronological order. She also included measurable accomplishments in her work history. 

A recruiter reading this resume will get a clear picture of whether the candidate is fit for the role.

Want some help to jumpstart your resume? You can use our resume builder to create your own ATS-friendly hybrid resume.

We also have resume examples to guide you and free templates you can download and use.

Use Jobscan’s free ATS-friendly resume templates and start building your resume that gets noticed by recruiters!

Hybrid resume formatting tips

Whatever stage you are as a job seeker, we recommend that you use the hybrid resume format.

Additionally, we recommend that you:

• Write a compelling resume summary that will hook the recruiter’s attention.
• Include your core hard and soft skills and competencies.
• Include measurable resume accomplishments and tangible results in your work experience section.
• Use strong action words .
• Tailor your resume to the specific job posting.
• Incorporate resume keywords in your skills section and work experience section.
• Optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS). The ATS is a software recruiters use to filter hundreds of applications. 

If you want to check how well your resume is optimized for the ATS, use Jobscan’s resume scanner . It analyzes your resume against the job description and gives you a list of keywords and ATS tips to help increase your chances of getting interviews.

Create a hybrid resume with Jobscan’s resume builder

Want to create a great resume the free and easy way? 

With Jobscan’s resume builder , you can have a great resume that impresses recruiters!

Here’s how you use Jobscan’s resume builder in three easy steps.

Step 1. Choose one of our many ATS-friendly hybrid resume templates.

Step 2. Fill in each field.

Step 3. Download your resume either as a word document or a pdf.

Functional resume examples

We don’t recommend using the functional resume format. However, here are some examples for you if you decide to use it.

Functional resume example for recent graduates

For recent graduates, here’s what you can include in your functional resume:

• Resume objective detailing what you have to offer despite your limited work experience
• Your degree and GPA (if it’s impressive)
• List of relevant skills
• Internships and volunteer experience (include relevant accomplishments)
• Awards, training, certifications, and other accomplishments from extracurricular activities

In this example, the job seeker started with a summary of his academic background. He then outlined his technical skills that are relevant to the job. He also mentioned his bachelor’s degree, GPA, projects, internship experience, and work experience.

Functional resume example for career changer

If you are switching careers, here’s what you can include in your functional resume:

• Resume summary of your professional background (include years of experience)
• List of relevant skills that qualify you for your target industry
• Work history section with employment dates
• Awards, training, and certifications

In this example, the job seeker is transitioning from sales to human resources. To prove that she fits the role, she added transferable skills such as customer service. She also included her work experience in sales, followed by an education section. She then shared about her volunteer experience as an HR assistant and ended with more skills.

Functional resume example for job seeker with employment gaps

If you have employment gaps, here’s what you can include in your functional resume:

• Resume summary of your professional background and expertise
• List of relevant professional skills
• Internships and volunteer work (include relevant accomplishments)

The job seeker outlined specific skills directly relevant to the job. She then included relevant projects, certifications, and publication. She also mentioned her employment history. Even with her employment gaps, this job seeker managed to put the spotlight on her skills and talents.

Functional resume example for job seeker re-entering the workforce

If you are returning to the workforce, here’s what you can include in your functional resume:

• Resume summary of what you can bring to the company
• Summary of your skills and abilities
• Work experience with measurable accomplishments
• Volunteer experience, projects, awards, and certifications

In this example, the job seeker mentioned her eight years of experience and her readiness to work again. She then emphasized her key skills, qualifications, volunteer experience, courses, and certifications.

Functional resume example for job seeker with limited experience

If you have limited experience, here’s what you can include in your functional resume:

• Resume summary of hard and soft skills you can bring to the company
• Summary of your skills and abilities relevant to the job
• Education section

In this example, the job seeker showcased her commitment to the firm in her summary. She then outlined her key skills relevant to the job. She also included her education, some relevant coursework, and internship experience. She also outlined her academic awards.

What are the different resume formats?

There are three basic resume formats :

• Chronological resume format
• Functional format
• Hybrid resume format

Who is the functional format of the resume good for?

The functional format is good for:

• Job seekers with limited work experience
• Career changers
• Job seekers returning to the workforce
• Job seekers with employment gaps

What is the difference between a hybrid resume and a functional resume?

A functional resume puts the spotlight on your skills. The hybrid resume not only focuses on your key skills but also on your work experience.

Which resume format is best?

Among the three resume formats, recruiters prefer that you use the hybrid resume format.

More expert insights on this topic:

Convert Your Resume to an ATS-Friendly Format – Free Resume Converter

How to Add Work Experience to Your Resume in 2023

How to Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description + Tips and Examples

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