Word Resume Templates
Microsoft Word is a common file format for submitting a resume, so use our Word resume templates to create a document most employers can read.
- All of our templates are designed by our experts to look great in Word
- Pick a template and our Resume Builder will help you put together a polished, organized resume
- Save as many different versions of your resume you want, all in Word format
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Featured Microsoft Word resume templates
Whether you want a straightforward professional template for your resume, something creative or modern, or even something more basic, we’ve got the right Microsoft resume templates for you. Pick one of these templates, or visit our resume templates page for dozens more options you can use for your resume.
Professional
This all-purpose layout works for almost any job, with clean lines and elegant fonts contributing to its polished appearance.
Emphasized
This Word resume template provides a streamlined look, topped with an attention-grabbing color header. The two-column layout gives you plenty of space to expand on your work history and skills.
Impactful
Present yourself as a proactive, strong candidate using this Microsoft resume template, featuring bold fonts and a colorful two-column design.
Standout
“Connect the dots” of your career using this design’s unique dot graphics. Section headings are arranged on the left for quick navigation.
Structured
This classy layout arranges sections in a tab layout for easy access, with subtle but striking fonts and colors.
Original
This eye-catching design is laid out in quadrants, with your summary statement getting prominent placement.
Charismatic
As the name suggests, this Microsoft Word resume template presents you as an attractive candidate, thanks to its dual-color combination and streamlined layout.
Distinguished
You can’t get much more polished than this template, which presents your qualifications in an uncluttered style.
Managerial
Section headings are highlighted using box graphics, while the monogram design for the header adds a unique touch.
Download free resume templates for Word
We’ve picked out some free downloadable Microsoft Word resume templates you can use as a foundation for your resume. Just download them and fill them out in Word.
Blue Grey Word Resume Template
Pros
- Visually striking
- Organized two-column layout
Cons
- Unusual presentation may not fit every job
- Limited space to present work history and skills
- Photo of job seeker may be inappropriate for many job applications
Modern Chronological Word Resume Template
Pros
- Streamlined layout
- Strong header with job seeker’s name prominently displayed
Cons
- Easy to get cluttered if you have a lot of information to present
- Looks a little plain compared to other layouts
Polished Word Resume Template
Pros
- Bold section headings make for quick navigation
- Color header makes for a strong statement
Cons
- Icons at bottom are a unique graphic element, but leave less room for the rest of your resume
- Black font against the header’s red background may be difficult for some to read
Columns Word Resume Template
Pros
- Unusual “homemade” look
- Each section neatly organized
Cons
- Might not be appropriate for more professional jobs
- Large header cuts down on space to feature your qualifications
Color Block Word Resume Template
Pros
- Colors jump off the page
- Summary and contact information prominently displayed
Cons
- Not much room to feature skills and work experience
- Color combination might not work for everyone
Clean Elegant Word Resume Template
Pros
- Color background helps your resume stand out
- Creative layout
Cons
- Layout lacks room for summary and complete skills section
- Using “skill level bars” may throw off readers and ATS
Minimalist Word Resume Template
Pros
- Intriguing “centered” layout
- Highlights important skills
Cons
- Unorthodox sections may confuse recruiters
- Outdated references section
Geometric Word Resume Template
Pros
- Attractive minimalist design
- Subtle but effective graphic elements
Cons
- Limited space to present your credentials
- Packing in information can lead to “unbalanced” look
Swiss Design Word Resume Template
Pros
- Streamlined layout
- Highlights the summary statement
Cons
- Contact info can be difficult to find
- Skills section is deemphasized
Contemporary Word Resume Template
Pros
- Striking visual design
- Plenty of space for work experience
Cons
- Employers and ATS may be confused by “About Me” section
- Skill “ratings” may not appeal to everyone
How to create a Microsoft Word resume using our templates
Creating a resume using our Resume Builder takes only a few minutes. Just follow these steps:
Select your template.
Open our Resume Builder — you’ll be given the option of choosing from dozens of templates, all of which can be saved in Microsoft Word format.
Fill out your work history.
After you enter some info about your past and/or current jobs, we’ll provide you with expert suggestions on how to fill out your work history section.
Fill out your education and skills section.
Provide details on your education, and we’ll fill out your education section for you, followed by suggestions on the skills you should feature for your job. Be sure to include both hard and soft skills.
Polish up your summary.
As with the other sections of your resume, we’ll give you professionally-written suggestions on what to include in your summary. Just adapt them as needed for your own resume.
Save your resume and download it in Word.
Once you’ve completed your resume, you can save it and download it in Microsoft Word format. You can always go back and edit your document or customize its appearance if needed.
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5 Tips for your Microsoft Word resume
1. Make sure your formatting is consistent.
The easy way to check your layout is to display all the formatting marks for your resume. Just go to the “home” tab of your Microsoft Word screen and click the paragraph icon.
Now you’ll see how tabs, spaces and paragraph returns are used in your document. Make sure your formatting is consistent throughout, and when you’re ready to save the document, click the paragraph icon again to return to normal view.
2. Stick with a straightforward layout.
You might be tempted to use special graphic elements in your document to gussy it up, but employers (and the applicant tracking systems (ATS) they use to scan resumes) will find it easier to read your resume if you use simple lines and bullet points.
3. Give yourself some space.
What’s not in your resume can be just as important as what’s in your resume — aim to create a document that has a bit of space and is easy on the eyes. Don’t clutter up your resume with too much text; use peppy bullet points and phrases, and use margins that are at least 1 inch from the edges of the document. To see how experts in your field space their resume, visit out resume examples page.
4. Links can be handy.
If you want to point employers towards a job network profile (e.g., LinkedIn) or a professional portfolio site, be sure to link the text. Highlight the URL you want to link to, go to the “Insert” tab on your Word screen, and click on the “Links” icon. Then enter the link to the URL.
5. Focus on the content.
While putting together a resume that looks its best is important, what you put in your resume is just as important. Make sure you have the right resume format (use our resume format guide) and make sure each section of the resume addresses exactly what the employer needs — our handy resume-writing guide will give you all the tips you need.
Microsoft Word resume template FAQ
Does Microsoft Word have free resume templates?
Yes, Microsoft Word provides templates to create a resume, as featured on this page. You can also use our own Microsoft Word-friendly resume templates to create your resume. Just follow the instructions above for constructing your resume using our Builder.
How do you get resume templates on Microsoft Word?
To create a resume using a Microsoft Word template, follow these steps:
- Choose your template in Word. To create your resume from scratch, click “File” in your Microsoft Word menu (you can also hit Alt+F on a PC or Command+F on a Mac). Click “More templates” to see a selection of resume layouts. You’ll notice that the following screen also has a “Resumes and Cover Letters” option — click it to see a complete set of resumes. You can also enter “resume” in the “Search for online templates” box.
- Create your resume. Once you’ve picked a resume out, click it. You should see this screen. Click “Create” to continue.
- Fill out your resume. Fill in the resume with your information.
- Save your resume. Hit Ctrl+S (or Command+S on a Mac) to save your document. If you need to save your resume in a file format other than Word, click “More options …” On the next screen, you can choose to export your resume in PDF format by clicking “Export” or save it in a different file format (e.g., RTF).
Which Word template is best for a resume?
The best template for you will depend on your particular skills, experience and needs. If you’re applying for a professional job, go for a resume template that has a neat, streamlined appearance. If you’re applying for a more creative job, look into using a template that has a bit more color and flair. You should also use a template that can be easily read by employers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). Our Microsoft resume templates are designed to be easily scanned by hiring managers and ATS. For more tips about putting together the perfect resume, visit our resume-writing resources section.
Is it bad to use Word resume templates?
Not at all. Most employers prefer to have resumes sent to them as a Microsoft Word file. Just remember to review your resume before you send it in. Make sure your information is up to date, contains skills and work experience information that addresses what the job requires, and is neatly organized. The easy way to make sure your resume looks its best is to print it out — as long as it looks good in print form, it should look fine when you submit it electronically.
What is the best free resume template?
For free templates, visit our templates section — you’ll find a host of free templates of all types you can download and use to create your own resume. Our templates are ready-made to be downloaded in Microsoft Word or other formats such as PDF or plain text.
More resume tips
How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume
Beat the bots using these important tips. Remember, correct spelling counts in your resume!
Update Your Resume in 5 Easy Steps
Beware the urge to litter your resume with jargon, along with these other pointers.
How to Create a Targeted Resume
Of all the things to do when you write your resume, customizing it for the job might be the most important. Learn how to do it here.
