Modern Resume Templates & Examples: Free Download

A modern resume template is a resume layout that incorporates contemporary design elements to effectively showcase your skills, work experiences and educational qualifications in a visually appealing manner.

Modern resume templates often include a professional summary, job-relevant keywords and a clean yet vibrant design. 

This type of resume allows job seekers to present themselves dynamically and engagingly, making it easier for potential employers to quickly understand their capabilities and potential fit for the role.

We offer several free modern resume templates to download on this page, as well as modern resume templates you can use directly in our Resume Builder.

It’s easy to use our modern resume templates! You can open and edit our modern resume templates using common software such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs or Adobe InDesign, or edit them within our Resume Builder.

We recommend using My Perfect Resume’s AI Resume Builder for expertly crafted modern resume templates and content suggestions written by Certified Professional Resume Writers.

Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for keywords and skills to identify the most qualified candidates.

When selecting an ATS-friendly modern resume template, keep the following tips in mind:

• Simple formatting: Avoid using complex graphics, tables or text boxes that can confuse the ATS system.
• Standard fonts: Stick to standard fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri. Avoid uncommon fonts that may not be recognized by the ATS.
• Standard headings: Use standard headings such as “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills” to help the ATS system easily identify the different sections of your resume.

Our professionally designed modern resume templates are ATS-friendly, so you can rest assured that your resume will make it past screening and into the hands of the hiring manager.

While modern resume templates can be visually appealing and effective for many industries, it’s important to consider the expectations and standards of the industry you are applying for. 

For example, a creative industry such as graphic design or advertising may be more receptive to a modern resume template with unique design elements, whereas a more traditional industry such as finance or law may expect a more conservative format.

It’s important to research the industry and company you are applying to and tailor your resume accordingly. See what your resume should look like for additional guidance from career advice experts. 

A modern resume should include the following key sections:

• Contact Information: Include your full name, phone number, email address and professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn.
• Professional Summary: This is a brief paragraph at the beginning of the resume that highlights your key qualifications and career goals.
• Work Experience: List your previous work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job.
• Education: Include your educational background, including the degrees or certifications you have obtained, the institutions you attended and the completion dates.
• Skills: Highlight your key skills and abilities that are relevant to the job you are applying for. This can include technical skills, language skills or any other relevant proficiencies.

Remember to keep your resume concise and focused on the most relevant information. See what to put on a resume for additional tips and tricks.

We recommend that you write a cover letter to accompany your modern resume. A cover letter serves as an introduction to a resume and allows you to illuminate your job-relevant skills and work experiences. 

It also provides an opportunity to explain any gaps in your resume or address any specific qualifications or requirements mentioned in the job posting. 

A professional cover letter template can help you stand out from other applicants and show your enthusiasm and interest in the job.

When it comes to choosing font types and sizes for a modern resume, it’s important to prioritize readability and simplicity. 

Stick to standard, easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman. Avoid using decorative or cursive fonts, as they can be difficult to read and may not be recognized by automated resume screening tools.

Use a font size of 10-12 points for the body text of your resume and 14-16 points for section headers. Use the same font throughout your resume to maintain consistency and readability. 

See 40 professional resume tips for additional pointers from our career experts.

If you have an old resume that you want to convert to a modern resume format, we recommend using our Resume Builder. Here’s how:

1. Select “Import Existing Resume” to upload an old resume to our builder.
2. Choose a modern resume template from our selection of professionally designed resume templates.
3. Insert tailored content suggestions written by Certified Professional Resume Writers.
4. Use our ATS resume checker to ensure that your resume complies with current resume screening system best practices. 

Check out our guide on updating your resume in five steps to identify additional quick-fix opportunities.

Explore the latest modern resume trends below to craft a standout resume: 

• Minimalist design: Use ample white space, clear headings and a consistent font to create a visually appealing and easy-to-read resume.
• Subtle pops of color: Incorporate color in headings or icons to help your resume stand out. Stick to a color palette that aligns with your personal brand and the industry you’re in.
• Infographics, charts or icons: These can help visually represent your skills, achievements or language proficiency in your modern resume. However, be cautious not to go overboard and make sure these elements enhance the readability and clarity of your resume.
• Links to your online portfolio: Link to your personal website or professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn or GitHub. 

Remember, it’s essential to strike a balance between creativity and professionalism. The design elements you choose should enhance the readability and effectiveness of your resume rather than overshadowing the content.