best fonts for resume

The Best Fonts for Your Resume in 2023, According to HubSpot Recruiters

Published: July 19, 2023

Besides your content, using one of the best fonts in your resume may help you get a recruiter’s attention. Studies have shown recruiters typically scan a resume for six to thirty seconds before deciding if an applicant is fit for a role.

With only a few seconds to demonstrate your qualifications for a position, every detail counts – including the font you use. The question is, what are the best resume fonts to pass the six to thirty-seconds scan?

We asked HubSpot recruiters to reveal the seven best fonts for your resume and what they consider in terms of design ‌so your resume can stand out in a pile.

Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Font

Best Fonts for Resumes

Does Using The Best Resume Fonts Even Matter?

Worst Fonts for Resumes

Ideal Resume Font Sizes

Featured Resource: 12 Free Resume Templates

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To evoke a sense of style, professionalism, and uniqueness, you must put effort and consideration into your font choice. When speaking with recruiters, it quickly became apparent that classic fonts are still the best options.

“I’m a big fan of the 'classics' for resumes – Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, and Cambria. I’m a little old school, but I think they are the cleanest and exude professionalism,” said Johanna Fleming , a former senior recruiter at HubSpot.

Riley Kundtz , the former senior MBA campus recruiter at HubSpot, agreed.

“I find the classic formatting and Times font helpful when reading a dense resume from an experienced MBA candidate.”

Times New Roman has become a bit controversial lately. It was the go-to font for many years because it’s traditional and recognizable, but lately, some are opting against it.

“For me, it’s all about legibility and cleanliness – I prefer sans-serif fonts like Helvetica, which is modern and elegant, over serif fonts like Times New Roman,” says Glory Montes , a technical recruiter at HubSpot.

“Overall, I would just stay away from a font like Times New Roman; it’s overused and reminds me of long nights writing course papers in college,” adds Glory.

Georgia is one font The New York Times uses and is similar to Times New Roman. It’s a bit wider, making it easier to read.

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Paulina Valdez Franco, executive recruiter at HubSpot, agrees with this take.

“My two favorite fonts are Helvetica if you're looking for a clean and classic look, and Georgia, if you want a more modern and fun look,” she said. “The latter is also designed to read well on screens.”

Helvetica is widely used in advertising and works equally well for text-heavy pages and documents.

A lesser-known font that’s a great option for your resume is Garamond, recommended by our current team lead of engineering recruiting at HubSpot, Rich Lapham .

“Recruiters have an idea of the skills they are looking for on a resume, so if you try a new style or format, it can be tougher for recruiters to find the information they are looking for,” he said. “Keep it clean and simple.”

Franco added that Arial and Calibri are great choices to play it safe.

Bridget LeMon , HubSpot's global emerging talent and university recruiting manager, echoes this.

“It's totally acceptable – and becoming more common – for candidates to stray away from the resume norms of Times New Roman and Calibri,” she said. “Avenir Next and Muna are two excellent font options if you are looking to break the status quo.”

Ultimately, you‘ll want to consider the position you’re applying for when choosing a font. To Glory Montes’ point, certain more creative roles might benefit from a unique font than Times New Roman.

1. Times New Roman

Times New Roman font has been popular for resumes for decades. This serif option is easy-to-read and communicates formality. Online, the font is uniform and accessible across various platforms and operating systems.

Times New Roman has a classic and professional look, making it an excellent choice for applicants targeting corporate positions. Additionally, it is a standard font used in most word processors, making it an accessible option for any device.

Moreover, Times New Roman is easily readable in print and on-screen.

Best for: Word documents. PDFs can host unique fonts. However, a standard font will be helpful if your resume is uploaded as a Word document.

Disadvantages

The font's outdated look may not appeal to all industries, and some may consider it bland or generic. Additionally, this font may make your resume blend in with the rest due to its ubiquity.

Times New Roman is also a heavy serif font, taking up more space than other options.

Arial is a sans-serif font that has become popular for its clean and modern look. Arial's straightforward and minimalist design has made it a popular choice for applicants targeting creative positions.

Arial offers simplicity, which allows your content to stand out. Arial's legibility in small font sizes, even in print, makes it ideal for applicants trying to fit all the necessary information in their resume on a single page.

Best for: Resumes submitted online, where readability is essential for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used in recruitment.

The font's overuse in branding and design has led to its association with a non-innovative style. This may make your resume less attractive to recruiters looking for unique personalities who can bring new ideas to their team.

Arial's uniformity may not suit industries such as graphic design or creative writing seeking to showcase creativity and flair.

Conversely, Arial may make the text appear less formal and inappropriate for specific job applications.

3. Avenir Next

Avenir Next is a modern typeface gaining popularity among designers and recruiters. Avenir Next's appearance is characterized by its geometric shapes, open contours, and strong lines.

Its clean, contemporary look has become a popular font choice for resumes.

Avenir Next's sleek and modern design makes it an excellent choice for applicants targeting creative industries. Its clear, simple lines offer a sense of elegance, while its legibility gives recruiters a sense of professionalism.

What we love: Avenir Next is a scalable font. It maintains its readability even at small sizes, and its geometric shapes make it a perfect choice for digital resumes.

Avenir Next may not be as widely recognized, which could make it difficult to read on some computer systems without the font installed. Further, Avenir Next is a premium font with a higher price tag.

This might not be affordable for some applicants.

4. Helvetica

Helvetica is a widely recognized and popular font used on resumes, particularly in the design industry. It’s clean, classic, and timeless. This font is popular with professionals, design enthusiasts, typographers, and Wes Anderson.

Helvetica is easy to read and has a professional, straightforward appearance. The font‘s popularity means that job recruiters and hiring managers are familiar with it.

Helvetica’s clean lines give the resume a structured and well-organized look, making it ideal for those in finance, law, and business management.

What we love: The font is available in multiple weights, making it easier to differentiate headings and sections in the resume.

The font's ubiquity in resumes may make it feel overdone and uninspired. With so many applicants using the font, your resume may struggle to stand out.

Helvetica‘s minimalist design can also work against you if your resume has limited content. This can make the resume look empty and as if it lacks substance.

Calibri is a contemporary design, making it a popular choice for creating a visually appealing and easy-to-read resume.

The font has been designed with legibility in mind, making it an excellent option for resumes.

Additionally, Calibri's modern look creates a sleek and professional appearance, making it ideal for job seekers looking to highlight their contemporary skills and qualifications.

Calibri is also lighter than other font options, making it an ideal choice for job seekers trying to fit their resumes onto a single page.

What we like: Calibri offers a sense of uniformity across different platforms, making it an accessible and reliable option for applicants.

Calibri is one of the default fonts available in most word-processing programs. Your resume might not appear as unique and tailored to your personal branding as it would with a more distinct font.

The font can be perceived as informal, making it less than ideal for formal industries, like law or finance, where a more traditional look would be preferred.

Cambria's classic design features elegant serifs, making it a perfect choice for job seekers. You can easily create a traditional, professional-looking resume that stands out.

Cambria has a classic yet modern appearance. The font‘s serifs give it a timeless look that is perfect for job seekers in more traditional industries such as finance or law.

Additionally, the font is highly readable, even in smaller font sizes, which makes it an excellent choice for job seekers looking to fit more information on their resumes.

What we like: Cambria's generous spacing between characters and lines makes the resume much easier to read and stands out from other fonts.

Some recruiters and hiring managers might view the font as old-fashioned or generic. Further, Cambria's heavy serifs may be problematic for those trying to keep their resume to a single page as it can take up more space than other fonts.

Georgia is a traditional serif font that has been a popular choice for resumes due to its elegant and classic look. Georgia's unique design features distinguishable serifs that give it a professional appearance.

Georgia's design is easy to read even in smaller font sizes, making it a perfect choice for job seekers trying to highlight their accomplishments in a limited space.

Additionally, Georgia can be customized, which makes it an excellent option for applicants looking to add their personal touch.

What we like: The font's design combines traditional and modern aesthetics, making it a versatile option for job seekers applying for a wide range of positions.

The font's traditional appearance may not be suitable for applicants targeting creative or non-traditional fields, where a more contemporary font may be preferred.

Also, Georgia is a serif, making it difficult to read in small sizes on a digital screen. This might not be the best option for those mainly applying online.

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Most recruiters I spoke with were hesitant to offer a font. Instead, they focus on the content.

“I rarely pay too much attention to fonts,” said Heta Patel , a former HubSpot recruiter. “I'm more concerned to see a resume that’s formatted neatly – submitting a PDF is helpful with this, so your formatting doesn't shift.”

Sales Recruiting Manager Kelsey Freedman agreed.

“Honestly, I care little about the font of a resume, as long as it's clear and in PDF format," Freedman said. "I typically review a resume for 20 to 30 seconds, so a traditional font is good."

Freedman continued, "I would advise avoiding script font or bubble font, or similar fonts that are distracting.”

Ultimately, and as expected, your content still matters most. However, a clear font will help avoid any irritability you might cause a recruiter with a distracting, messy design.

“What I get most excited about is the content. Depending on the role, I look to see that candidates are sharing direct and compelling snapshots of their work,” said Ashley Hodder , a global recruiting manager at HubSpot.

“I look for indicators that show data orientation, autonomy, and thoughtfulness about business impact,” she said.

Worst Resume Fonts

While some recruiters may not have suggestions for the best fonts, many can agree on some of the worst ones.

“Anything that is cursive or too bubbly is too hard to read. For instance, I'd stay clear of Comic Sans,” says Holly Peterson , team lead for UX recruiting HubSpot.

Another resume font type to avoid is Script.

With text-heavy documents, Scripts, and any of their derivatives make text hard to read because they look like they’re written by hand.

They’re generally used in hand lettering and calligraphy for artistic projects and shouldn’t be present anywhere near your resume.

Ideal Resume Font Size

When asked which font size is best, Fleming said 12 is ideal. Most recruiters would agree.

Your text should be large enough to read comfortably without straining but small enough that there’s space to include all key elements, such as your objective, contact information, skills, and experience.

You can use larger font sizes for headings containing your name and section titles.

If your font is extensive, you can scale to 10.5 – but never go below it.

The critical takeaway is to make your resume clear and easy to read, which means keeping the font size around 12, sticking to classic fonts with modern twists, and forsaking your favorite script font.

Now that you know the best fonts for your resume, use these tips to write your resume  and ignite your creative spark with this ultimate collection of resume templates .

Editor's note: This post was originally published in November 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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How to choose the best fonts for your resume

One crucial element of any great resume is choosing the right font for your document. The perfect font can make all the difference in how employers view your application and whether or not they consider you as a potential candidate. Choosing an appropriate font will ensure that your resume looks professional, legible, organized, and attractive to employers. However, there are hundreds of thousands of different fonts in the world — how will you possibly choose?

Don’t stress! With this guide, you can take control over that key aspect of creating a stand-out job application and quickly format your perfect resume.

Summary/Overview

Resume font selection tips.

Because there is no one correct font, choosing the right font for your resume is an important part of creating a professional, attractive document that will help you stand out to potential employers.

Selecting the best font can be tricky and time-consuming, so it’s important to understand some key strategies behind successful resume font selection. Knowing which fonts are considered more formal or informal, what size works best for different types of resumes, and how to ensure readability are all essential elements of picking the perfect typeface for your resume.

Choose fonts that are simple and easy-to-read

When creating a resume , it is important to aim for a clean and legible presentation. To achieve this, it is essential to choose fonts that are easy to read — whether printed out or on a computer screen — and won’t distract from the content.

Popular professional font choices for resumes include Arial, Cambria, Garamond , and Times New Roman. These typefaces are widely-used and considered appropriate for resume content, as they make information appear organized and concise.

Additionally, avoid using bubbly or cursive fonts, which can be difficult to read and look unprofessional when printed. Examples include Comic Sans, Chiller, Brigand, and Hand Script.

Choose the right font size

Choosing the best font size is another important consideration. Generally speaking, the optimal resume font size is between 10 and 12. This range of sizes allows employers to easily read your resume without straining their eyes. Too small and employers may struggle with legibility; too large and the content may seem overwhelming.

Format the page

Margins are just as necessary to consider as the font. Margins should be no smaller than a half inch on every side of your document in order to ensure readability and create a professional-looking document. This is especially important for printed versions of your resume, as small margins can cause text to get cut off or be difficult to read. Furthermore, making margins too large can make your resume seem lacking, empty, or unprofessional. The ideal margin size will help employers focus on the content without becoming distracted by unnecessary design elements.

When formatting your resume, keep these tips in mind and set all four margins at no less than a half inch each — top, bottom, left, and right — for maximum impact when applying for jobs.

Rather than making margins smaller than that, if you are tight on space when creating your resume, using a font like Arial Narrow can be an effective way to save room while still ensuring legibility. Arial Narrow is a condensed font of the popular Arial typeface that takes up less room on each line without compromising readability. This makes it perfect for resumes where space is limited, but you still want to ensure readability.

If you are concerned about formatting your resume correctly, never fear – try out the Adobe Express resume builder and choose any of the free templates to quickly get started.

Choose the font that fits the role you’re applying for, as well as your brand

Make sure that your font choice is tailored to the role you're applying for, in addition to reflecting your personal brand. Choosing the best font for a resume should be seen as an extension of the content and reflect qualities such as professionalism, trustworthiness, and sophistication.

Calibri and Cambria are two of the most popular and safe fonts to use when creating a resume. These typefaces have been widely adopted by professional resume writers and employers alike, due to their legibility and modern aesthetic. Calibri was developed by Microsoft as a sans-serif font intended to replace Times New Roman as the standard typeface for all Microsoft applications. Calibri has since become a popular choice for professional documents, including resumes and curriculum vitaes (CVs) . Cambria is an Old Style font with clean lines and a more formal appearance than Calibri.

For traditional jobs like law offices and corporate positions, it is important to choose a classic font that conveys a sense of professionalism and capability. Times New Roman has long been the go-to font for these types of applications due to its clean lines and traditional aesthetic. This typeface conveys an aura of reliability and credibility, two qualities that are essential for any successful job application or resume.

When applying for a creative role , graceful fonts like Garamond , Trebuchet MS, or Book Antiqua can be perfect choices. These typefaces all feature highly-readable serifs, which makes them appropriate choices for creative roles such as graphic design or web development. Garamond is a classic font dating back to the 16th century, and its elegant serifs make it a great choice for professional documents. Trebuchet MS is another popular font with a more modern take on the classic typeface. Meanwhile, Book Antiqua boasts an old-fashioned style that can add sophistication to any resume.

It is important to pay attention to the font you select beyond simply making sure it is legible and professional. Carefully selecting a font that not only looks good but also reflects your personal brand can help employers recognize your unique style and attributes, making your resume stand out from the pack.

Best resume font examples

Calibri is a modern sans-serif typeface. You might recognize it as being the default font in Microsoft Word. It was designed to be legible on screen and easily readable at a variety of sizes and resolutions. Its clean lines and balanced proportions make it an ideal choice for digital displays, documents, and web pages. Additionally, its friendly appearance makes it a great choice for a resume.

Calibri is a popular font choice for resumes, with good reason. It is a clean and simple sans-serif typeface, meaning it has no extra decoration or embellishments. This not only makes it easy to read, it also helps employers to quickly scan your resume. Furthermore, Calibri is versatile enough to work with many other fonts and formatting options you may choose for your CV and reference list.

Calibri is a modern and professional font choice for job seekers. Its neutral sans-serif style makes it appropriate for most applications, as it conveys a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness. Calibri's subtle elegance makes it an attractive typeface for job hunters seeking to make a strong impression on employers.

Arial is one of the most popular and widely used fonts for professional documents like resumes. Its simple, clean lines and easy-to-read sans-serif style make it a great choice for job seekers looking to create an attractive, organized resume. Its neutrality also makes it an ideal font for most applications.

This sans-serif style makes it easy to read on screen and in print, while still giving documents a professional appearance. Its rounded corners and subtle curves make it a great choice for job seekers looking to add a hint of sophistication to their applications.

Arial is an ideal font to use for all kinds of resumes because it is legible, highly versatile, and widely available. This typeface offers maximum flexibility when creating a professional-looking document and stands out against the more traditional fonts like Times New Roman. Arial can be used in a variety of sizes and styles, making it perfect for any section of the resume including headings, main body text, and summaries. It also looks sharp when printed or sent as an electronic document. The clean lines make information easier to read while maintaining integrity in the overall presentation. For job hunters looking to make a good impression, Arial is an appropriate font choice.

Cambria is a typeface designed to make reading on screens easier and more enjoyable. It features large x-height, open letterforms with low contrast, and generous spacing between letters. This sans-serif font's wide proportions create a strong readability that makes it suitable for both digital and print resumes. In addition, Cambria features a variety of weights, allowing you to express different tones in your resume.

The low contrast between characters helps create a calm and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for branding. Cambria's bold character shapes give it a distinctive look that can be used to convey authority, classiness, and modernity. This typeface has a classic yet modern feel to it, which can help create an attractive and effective presentation of your information no matter the font size. Whether you need to express authority and seriousness or warmth and personality, Cambria is a great choice.

Times New Roman

Times New Roman is a serif typeface which has been used by publishers and writers since the 1930s. The clean lines and sharp strokes of Times New Roman make it especially appealing for long texts, like novels and newspapers. This font is also popular for use in print media because it stands out from other fonts.

Serif typefaces have been used for centuries, and the subtle flourish of Times New Roman helps to give documents a classic feel. It is a standard font on most computer systems today, making it easy to access when needed. Its classic, traditional look conveys an air of sophistication and professionalism, making it the perfect choice for resumes, cover letters , and other important documents. Additionally, its familiarity and ease of use make it an ideal choice for those who need to quickly create a professional document.

Garamond is a classic serif font that has been around since the 16th century. It was designed by Claude Garamond, a French type designer and punchcutter, and is known for its readability and gracefulness. The letters have a slightly slanted look to them which adds to its elegant appearance. Its sharp edges help it stand out from other fonts making it great for use in headlines or titles. Its popularity continues today as many digital versions of Garamond can be found on the web and used for various design projects.

Garamond is traditional in appearance, yet has an informal feel. The unique strokes of Garamond give it a subtle flair that stands out from more modern typefaces. This typeface is legible even at smaller sizes, making it a great choice for long documents like books and magazines. Additionally, the curves of this font give it a sense of warmth that creates an inviting atmosphere for readers.

Garamond is an excellent choice for all job hunters who are looking to make a great first impression. Its grace and readability make it suitable for use on resumes, cover letters, and other documents used in job applications. Its classic style gives a sense of sophistication that can help job seekers stand out from the competition.

Trebuchet MS

Trebuchet MS is a graceful sans-serif font. This typeface has an elegant look that stands out from more traditional serif fonts like Times New Roman. The curves and lines of Trebuchet MS give it a modern yet subtle flair that makes it accessible to readers.

Trebuchet MS is a sharp and eye-catching font that works particularly well for headers. The bold strokes of this font give it an authoritative and modern look, making it stand apart from other typefaces. The well-balanced letterforms ensure that the font remains legible even at smaller sizes, which makes it ideal for headlines and titles that need to be both attractive and readable. Plus, its sharp edges create an engaging contrast with softer serif fonts, making Trebuchet MS a great choice for adding emphasis to any document.

Trebuchet MS is an ideal font choice for resumes in creative fields such as design, social media, and marketing. Its boldness helps it stand out, ensuring that your resume will make a great first impression with potential employers.

Book Antiqua

Book Antiqua is a classic serif font with wide letterforms. Originally designed by Monotype Corporation in 1937, the typeface has maintained its traditional look and feel ever since. Its heavy strokes and generous x-heights give it a strong presence, making it ideal for formal documents and logos. The bold weight is even more dramatic, making it an attractive choice for headlines.

Book Antiqua offers more options for a resume than Times New Roman. This font has a range of weights and italicizations, as well as a wide variety of ligatures, so you can customize it to make a statement about your qualifications. Additionally, Book Antiqua was optimized for the web, meaning its characters remain sharp even when resized on digital devices. All in all, this makes Book Antiqua an ideal choice for anyone looking for a modern and eye-catching font that won't lose any clarity or visual impact when viewed on different screens.

Book Antiqua is an excellent choice for job hunters in creative roles due to its classic-yet-modern look. It can be especially helpful when applying for creative positions as employers are looking for individuals who are able to present their skills in a bold manner. Not only does Book Antiqua offer a timeless appearance of sophistication, but its wide letters also allow you to effectively emphasize crucial information while highlighting each section of your resume or portfolio. With this font's traditional look combined with up-to-date design capabilities, Book Antiqua is bound to create an impactful impression on any employer.

For job seekers looking for a traditional role, Book Antiqua is an excellent choice. Its wide letters and classic serif style offer a timeless aesthetic that conveys professionalism and sophistication. But its bold appearance also helps emphasize important words and phrases, making sure your resume stands out from other candidates with more traditional resumes. With Book Antiqua, you can be sure that your application will be noticed and make an impression — perfect for anyone looking to stand out while still remaining professional.

Arial Narrow

Arial Narrow is a version of the popular Arial font that was designed for narrow spaces. This typeface has a simple, modern look that maintains the same proportions as the full-width Arial font. It features all the same characters, glyphs, and accents, allowing it to be used in place of regular Arial while keeping text within a tighter margin.

Despite its narrower width, Arial Narrow retains its sharpness and legibility even at small sizes. It is also available in italic form, giving designers even more options for creating attractive layouts in limited space.

Arial Narrow is the perfect choice for resumes that need to fit into tight spaces. Its condensed letterforms allow it to take up less space than regular Arial while still maintaining a clear and legible font size. This makes it easier to fit more information into the same area, allowing someone's resume to be seen in its entirety without having to shrink the font size excessively.

Georgia is a great font choice if you are looking for a professional yet modern look on your resume. In fact, this is the chosen font for LinkedIn. Its thick serif letterforms give off an authoritative and confident feel, while its rounded edges add a touch of warmth to the text. Georgia also has excellent readability, making it easy for potential employers to quickly scan through it. Additionally, the font supports a wide range of languages and offers multiple weights for more advanced typography.

Georgia is a great choice for resumes because it is bold enough to draw attention to important information while still appearing professional and straightforward. It also looks great when printed, making it an excellent option for paper resumes as well as digital ones.

Helvetica is a classic font choice for resumes and other professional documents — think the New York Times . Its clean and modern aesthetic makes it a versatile typeface for any situation, and its wide availability ensures that it can easily be found on most computer systems. However, the same properties that make it so versatile also mean that it can be seen as generic or uninspired, depending on how it's used.

To ensure your resume stands out from the crowd, use Helvetica in combination with other fonts to create an attractive page design. Consider using bold or italicized versions of the font to add emphasis to key points. Additionally, adding subtle touches, like drop shadows or larger text sizes, can further personalize your resume and make it look more engaging to viewers.

Verdana is a great font choice for resumes because of its simple, professional look. It has a clean, modern style that conveys confidence and authority while also being easy to read. Its letterforms are slightly wider than other sans-serif fonts, which can make text stand out more in certain contexts.

In addition, Verdana is available in multiple weights so you have the freedom to create an attractive page design with subtle touches, such as bold or italicized versions of the font. However, its relatively low contrast means that some of the finer details like headings and accents may not be as prominent as in other fonts.

For a more distinct look, combine Verdana with another font to create an eye-catching design.

Resume formatting tips

Be organized and concise.

When it comes to creating an effective resume, organization and concision are key. To make your resume organized, start by using a consistent format and structure throughout, including the same font, font size, margins, and line spacing for each section. This uniformity will help draw attention to the essential information rather than distract from it.

Resumes should generally be kept to one page in length. This is not only important for providing a concise summary of your skills and experience, but also for helping to draw attention to the key points that you want employers to take note of. By sticking to one page, you can ensure that recruiters will be able to quickly assess your qualifications without getting bogged down in irrelevant or unnecessary information. Furthermore, most employers may discard overly long resumes without reading them.

When making a resume, it is essential to make sure each statement is brief and clear. Each sentence should communicate one idea or skill clearly and concisely. Avoid using prolonged descriptions or vague phrases; instead use short, action-oriented words that succinctly sum up your qualifications.

Focus on using language with higher semantic richness, such as precise terms and engaging adjectives. This will emphasize your accomplishments by making them sound even more impressive.

Finally, make sure that each section is organized in a logical order and that there’s a clear flow throughout the document.

Describe your qualifications

Throughout your resume, avoid using first-person statements. Using the pronoun “I” can come off as self-absorbed or overly opinionated; instead of speaking about your own accomplishments, focus on how you can benefit a potential employer.

Be sure to use passive voice and objective language throughout. Rather than saying “I did this project…” try replacing “this project” with its name or describing what was achieved through it — highlighting results over process.

By avoiding subjective words like “I think/believe/feel etc.,” and sticking to facts and figures that prove your skill set and experience level, you will provide employers with an accurate description of yourself while demonstrating that you are capable of professional communication without being too forward or boastful.

Choose the right voice

It's important to use the correct tense when describing your work experience. For past jobs, you should use past tense wording such as “managed” or “developed," while for present and ongoing positions, you should opt for present tense words like "manage" or "develop."

This will help to create an organized timeline of your career history and make it easier for potential employers to quickly identify what position or positions you currently hold. Careful attention to grammar and word choice keeps resumes professional-looking while providing clarity on your qualifications and experience level.

Punctuate your resume

Paying attention to punctuation is key. Keeping a consistent style of punctuation will help maintain clarity and readability, thus making your resume easier for recruiters to understand and process.

Having the same level of punctuation throughout the document creates a more polished impression; this may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the eyes of recruiters. As such, use commas, periods, and other similar marks appropriately and with consistency so that employers and recruiters are able to quickly recognize the points you're trying to make on your resume.

Keep sections clear

Breaking up sections and organizing information on your resume plays a major role in making it easier for recruiters to quickly read and understand. Bold, italicize, and underline consistently throughout each section to make sure that the hierarchy of your document is clear and easy to identify. Utilize white spaces to separate and highlight information. For example, you might use italics for job titles, bold for main responsibilities or points, and underlining for section headings.

You can also break up your subsections into bullet points or column lists to provide further structure for the employer when reading your resume. Doing this makes it easier for them to distinguish between different topics within a certain section so they don’t get lost as they’re scanning through your background.

Create flow within the resume

When designing your resume format, it is important to make sure that each section flows logically and clearly from one point to the next. To do this, break up the content into manageable chunks and avoid long paragraphs where possible. Use headings and subheadings to separate sections, as well as bullet points to list relevant qualifications. These techniques will also help recruiters quickly identify what they need to pay attention to in your resume.

Finally, make sure that each section is organized in a logical order and avoid using excessive font styles or colors. This will ensure that recruiters have an easy time understanding your qualifications and that your resume looks professional.

When creating job hunting documents like a resume , cover letter , or CV, it’s important to be consistent in the style, structure, and fonts used. Using a uniform format throughout all documents helps recruiters quickly identify key points and process your experience level at a glance. By keeping formatting elements consistent across each document, you can make sure that the hierarchy of your material is easy to understand.

Ultimately, staying consistent in terms of structure and style with your job hunting documents will help them stand out from other applicants’ submissions while creating an overall professional impression for potential employers. Check out any of the resume templates in this blog post as a reference.

Include essential information

When creating a resume, it is essential to provide contact information and the type of job for which you’re applying. The header should include your name, phone number, email address, website, and any other contact information that employers might need to get in touch with you.

In addition, you should specify the type of job that you’re applying for, whether it be full-time, part-time, or contract. This will let recruiters know what type of position they’re reviewing your resume for and can better assess your qualifications in relation to the job requirements.

Providing accurate contact information is essential so that employers are able to reach out to you if necessary. Make sure that the contact information you provide is up-to-date to ensure that recruiters can get in touch with you quickly and easily.

Explain your qualifications

Creating a short list of your qualifications is an important step in crafting a successful resume. This list should be concise and tailored to the job you want, highlighting the skills and experiences that make you the most qualified candidate.

Your qualifications should include both hard skills (technical or specific knowledge) and soft skills (general abilities related to communication, problem-solving, etc.) as these can help demonstrate why you’re the best fit for the position. It's also important to showcase any relevant certifications or awards that will help set you apart from other applicants.

By creating a comprehensive yet concise list of your qualifications on your resume, recruiters will quickly have an understanding of what makes you stand out from other candidates.

How to include experience and education

It's important to make sure that both experience and education are adequately represented in separate sections. This will allow recruiters to quickly scan for the information they need without having to look through multiple paragraphs. Including a section for each ensures that all relevant qualifications and experiences are represented.

It's important to separate these sections out is so that each one can be addressed separately and in more detail if needed. Separating out the education and experience sections of your resume makes it easier for recruiters to quickly see what you have to offer and determine if you’re the right candidate for the job.

How to select experience and education

When selecting the education and experience to include on your resume, make sure that it is pertinent to the role you are seeking. Start by making a list of all relevant qualifications, experiences, and certifications you have attained that may be applicable to the job in question.

Begin with the most recent qualifications, experiences, and certifications. This will help recruiters quickly assess your current experience level.

Make sure to include any special skills or courses you’ve taken that may be relevant to the job. By doing so, employers can get a clear picture of what abilities you possess and how they may relate to their organization or company.

Selecting the most pertinent and up-to-date information for your resume helps employers better assess you as a potential candidate.

How to include multiple roles at the same organization

If you’ve previously held multiple roles and responsibilities within an organization, it's a great idea to include this information on your resume. This will demonstrate to employers that you have the versatility and adaptability needed for today’s ever-changing business landscape.

Start by writing down all of the roles and responsibilities you’ve held within the company, then prioritize them according to relevance with regard to this job opening. Once you have a list, format them in bullet points so employers can quickly scan through them.

Include any accomplishments or projects that you’re particularly proud of from each position — employers often look for this information when they evaluate candidates. With this strategy, you'll be demonstrating your commitment and capacity to take on multiple roles.

Only include facts in your resume

It is essential to remain honest and truthful when creating documents for future employment. Lying or exaggerating on your resume can be tempting in order to make yourself seem more qualified for a position, but it can have serious consequences.

Not only could misrepresenting yourself lead to potential challenges during the job interview process if employers or hiring managers notice any discrepancies, but it may result in dismissal if they find out after you’ve already been hired. Additionally, lying on your resume can damage your reputation and credibility in the long run.

Choose action words

Using action words like "completed," "advised," and "generated" is an important step in creating an effective resume or application. These words demonstrate concrete actions that you have taken or results that you have achieved, and they help recruiters better understand the impact of your work experience.

For example, instead of simply saying that you “managed a team," use action words to show how you “successfully led a team of 10 employees to meet quarterly goals.” This will help hiring managers quickly understand what kind of work you have done in the past and how it could be beneficial for the role.

Include other activities

It is important to include extracurricular activities that demonstrate your qualifications and help build your brand. Doing this will show employers that you are an active participant outside of the work environment and can help set you apart from other candidates.

Start by making a list of any volunteer or community involvement organizations of which you are a part, any scholarships or awards you have won, and any other affiliations that may be relevant. Be sure to include the name of the organization, your role within it, a short description of the activities you’ve undertaken, and any accomplishments you achieved while participating.

If there is a way to quantify your accomplishments, like the number of people you’ve helped or money raised during a charity event, be sure to include it. Doing this will help employers understand your commitment to furthering yourself and developing your skills outside of the workplace.

Have someone proofread your resume

Having someone qualified and trustworthy proofread your resume before sharing it with prospective employers is a must if you want to make sure it’s up to a professional workplace standard. Proofreading your document can ensure that there are no typos or grammatical mistakes, which could give recruiters the wrong impression of your abilities.

An experienced proofreader can provide helpful feedback and suggestions for improvement. If you don’t know anyone qualified to proofread your resume, there are several online services available to help with this task — some of them even offer personalized advice based on the job that you’re applying for and can suggest how best to showcase your skills and experience.

By getting an experienced proofreader to check your resume, you can rest assured that your document is in perfect shape before submitting it to employers.

When choosing fonts and formatting for your resume, it's important to remember that the goal is to create a document that's professional, organized, and easy-to-read. Popular fonts like Times New Roman and Calibri are usually safe bets, as they look professional and are simple enough to scan through quickly. Also, font size matters — be sure you pick a readable size so your resume looks clean. Finally, coordinate the appearance of your resume with both your CV and references list to present a uniform look in terms of design. Any of Adobe Express’ resume templates will help speed this process along.

With all these resume tips in mind, you can optimize your job search with an effective resume that will surely stand out from the crowd.

This post was updated on February 28, 2024.

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Resume font tips and FAQs

When deciding which font to use on your resume, it is important to consider the difference between serif and sans serif fonts.

Serif fonts are more traditional and feature small lines or strokes that extend off of the edges of each letter. Examples of popular serif fonts include Times New Roman, Georgia, and Garamond.

Sans serif fonts, on the other hand, are more modern and feature a cleaner look without any additional lines or strokes. Popular examples of sans serif fonts include Arial, Calibri, and Futura.

When deciding between serif and sans serif fonts, it is important to consider the type of job you are applying for. Serif fonts are more traditional and can be a great choice for positions requiring you to demonstrate professionalism, in the legal or financial sector, for instance. Sans serif fonts, however, are more modern-looking and better suited for creative industries like marketing or design.

Ultimately, it's important to choose a font that reflects your skill set and best presents your qualifications to potential employers.

In general, script fonts are not recommended for resumes. Not only are they often difficult to read, but they can also give the impression of unprofessionalism.

Additionally, using a script font can make it more difficult for an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) robot to scan — which could cost you an interview. Stick with a classic typeface that conveys a professional image and communicates your qualifications clearly.

Instead, use a crisp and clear font like Times New Roman or Arial that looks professional while still being legible. This will show employers that you are serious about the job and willing to put in extra effort to make sure your resume is presentable.

When making a resume, the margins you use can make a huge difference in how it looks and is received by potential employers. Margins that are too small or too large can be distracting and make it difficult to read your resume quickly. As such, it’s important to pay attention to the margin size when creating a professional-looking resume.

Generally speaking, it’s best to use a one-inch margin on all sides of the document. This allows for plenty of room for your content without looking too cramped or overwhelming.

You can also increase the left and right margins slightly to give more breathing room if desired — just make sure not to go overboard.

Your margins should be no smaller than a half inch.

The length of your resume should depend on the type of job you are applying for, as well as how much work experience you have. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to limit it to one page if you are just out of college or lack industry experience.

As your career progresses, your resume should be updated and expanded to show off your achievements. However, even experienced professionals should aim to keep their resumes concise — two pages maximum is typically recommended for these cases. Employers don't have time to sift through long documents, so make sure yours is easy to read and digest by limiting it to the essential facts about yourself.

In some cases, like when you have lots of experience in a particular field, it can be beneficial to include extra information on a second page. However, this should only be done if necessary — too much irrelevant detail can make your resume hard to read quickly, and employers may decide you are not the right fit before they have a chance to see your qualifications.

When extending your resume onto a second page, it is important that both pages appear consistent in formatting and content. Be sure to include the same header on each page indicating your name and contact information at the top, as this will help employers easily identify that the document belongs to you.

Use the same font and font size throughout your resume and make sure to include page numbers for easy reference. By doing this, you can ensure that both pages look professional when viewed together.

Explore Related Posts

https://www.adobe.com/express/learn/blog/how-to-apply-for-your-first-job-or-internship

https://www.adobe.com/express/learn/blog/10-ways-to-pair-fonts-for-maximum-impact

https://www.adobe.com/express/learn/blog/cover-letter-examples

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What’s the Best Resume Font, Size, and Format [For 2024]

When you’re working on your resume the font might be the last thing on your mind.

But details matter.

And something that might seem insignificant at first, like your resume font, can have a huge impact on whether you get the job or not.

Why’s that?

Consider the resume readability.

You may have the best resume in the world, but if the font is assaulting the HR manager’s eyes, well , chances are, they’re not going to give you a call back any time soon.

Similarly, if you go with the most boring font that’s almost camouflaging with the background, they just might forget about your resume by the end of the day.

Most HR managers don’t spend a whole lot of time on actually analyzing your resume. The very first they look at is the resume layout and only then do they go through the contents.

If the layout is good (e.g. 1 page, looks good, easy-to-scan, etc.) and the font looks readable - only then will they decide if it’s worth a read or not.

And remember, this is only done in a matter of seconds.

So, imagine someone glances at your resume. What first impression is your font giving off?

Do you want your resume to stand out and go in the right box?

If so, read on to find out: 

• What's the Best Resume Font & Size

How to Format Your Resume

How to make your resume (the easy way), what’s the best resume font & size.

When it comes to font and font size, we generally recommend going with something that stands out, but not too much.

The font you go with has a direct impact on the readability, and so, it needs to look good on PDF as well as paper.

Before we dive into the best resume fonts though, let’s take a look at one font you shouldn’t ever use :

Comic Sans.

Yes, you’ll stand out. No, not in the good way.

Jokes (and bashing comic sans) aside, the most common font people tend to use is Times New Roman, 12pt.

Now, there’s nothing necessarily wrong with that, but you should know that it’s going to be the default font for most people.

Do you want your resume to stand out among all the Times New Roman resumes?

If so, consider using:

• Ubuntu - Ubuntu is a modern, humanist-style, typeface developed in 2010. It looks great everywhere, maximizes readability, and does not belong to any specific industry. You can use it for all job applications and your resume is guaranteed to stand out.
• Roboto - Looks familiar? You might recognize this font because Google developed it for its Android operating system in 2011. But don’t worry, it’s free for commercial use. It has a tech look to it, but feel free to use it in any industry - tech or otherwise.
• Overpass - Relatively newer font, developed in 2015, Overpass is a digital typeface font inspired by Highway Gothic. It looks very formal and classy, making it ideal for more conservative industries. But you can’t go wrong with using it in other industries as well because of its sleek design.

Once you’ve picked your font, you move on to:

Resume Font Size

In a resume builder , such as ours, the font sizes are pre-defined in order to create a font hierarchy across the document that will result in increased readability of your resume.

When faced with a situation where you are not relying on a resume builder and have to choose the font size yourself, as a rule of thumb, we recommend going with 10-12pt for normal text and 14-16pt for section titles and headers.

This approach should save you some space and also won’t make the HR manager have to squint to read the text.

It’s important to note that once you decide on a font and font size, they should be consistent throughout the whole resume.

Basic Layout Info

When it comes to the resume layout, here’s what you need to know:

• Line spacing - Go for 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing between text and double lines after subheadings. Feel free to adjust this accordingly based on the space of your resume
• Bullet points - You can use bullet points in your resume experience section to make it easier to skim through. Just make sure you don’t overuse them, limit them up to 6 points within each section.
• Resume length - Stick to one page, unless you have 5+ years of experience (2/3 pages at most, in that case).

So, once you’ve got the basic layout and the feel of your resume down, you can now move onto actually writing the main sections within your resume. Here’s how you do that:

You probably already have a general idea of what you should include in your resume.

Sounds simple, right? 

Simply list your qualifications and call it a day.

Well, not quite.

The sections you list on your resume have to be relevant to the HR manager and the job you’re applying for. 

No one wants to hear your whole life and backstory.

Instead, here’s what to include and how .

Contact Information

Let’s start with the basics.

Your name, professional title, email address, contact information . These are all things that go on any resume ever. 

After all, they need a way to contact you, right?

Make sure the spelling is correct, and everything is up to date.

Thinking of including your social media handles?

As long as they’re relevant - go for it.

Your LinkedIn profile is important for most HR managers.

But your Behance link might be relevant only if you work in design. Likewise, you might want to include Github only if you’re in IT.

Resume Summary or Objective?

Do you have more than 2 years of work experience?

Include a resume summary that sums up your previous jobs and qualifications in 50 words or less. Don’t just repeat what’s on the resume below. Instead, offer insight that might compel the HR manager to learn more about you.

Now, if that’s not the case, feel free to include a resume objective that mentions your motivations and why you’re the perfect candidate for your job. If you don’t have a lot of experience, feel free to lean on what inspires you instead.

Work Experience

This is the section most HR managers jump to in your resume.

If you want to convince them that you’re the right fit, make sure you list work experience that’s relevant to the position and offers actionable insight.

If possible, quantify the impact you made when working for each role and be very specific about your contributions.

• Improved revenue by 20% by optimizing Facebook ads.
• Created Facebook ads.

At the end of the day, the HR manager wants to hear about your accomplishments, not responsibilities.

Most job ads typically list the type of skills they’re looking for straight away. This is your chance to stand out and prove to the HR manager that you’ve actually read the job ad.

To perfect your skills section, get a good mix of hard and soft skills .

What’s the difference?

Well, your hard skills include specific knowledge and expertise that comes from training. For example, if you’re applying for a tech job, your hard skills should include specific knowledge needed for the job.

For example:

Your soft skills , meanwhile, are self-developed and come from experience. I.e. skills you’ve learned from life, such as communicating with people, working in a startup, and so on.

• Communication
• Self-Driven

When thinking about some of the skills to put on your resume , read the job ad carefully. You want to mention the skills that are relevant for the job - no one cares about your Expert knowledge of Underwater Basket Weaving.

This is fairly straightforward, yet, many people make the mistake of filling this section with unnecessary information.

When writing your education section, only include the important things, such as:

• University name
• Years attended
• (Optional) GPA - Is it more than 3.5? Then you might want to include it. 
• (Optional) Honors - Were you top of the class? Go for it.
• (Optional) Minor program - Relevant to the job? Feel free to include.

Keep it simple, no need to waste space with the background of your university or what motivated you to choose your major.

Optional Sections

Want to stand out from the crowd AND leave a good impression? Some of these optional sections might help…

• Hobbies and interests
• Volunteering Experience
• Certifications and Awards
• Publications

There’s a lot more to making a good resume than what we’ve covered so far. Want to learn more? We have a super-comprehensive guide for that. Give it a read, and you’ll be an expert in no time!

Now that you know what goes in a resume, you might be wondering - “what’s the best way to make one?”

Yes, you can do the whole thing manually and hand-craft your own resume with Microsoft Word

But think about it - do you really want to go through all the hassle?

If you’re going to be hand-crafting your resume from scratch, you need to get everything right. 

You need to format it right, get the layout right, make sure it’s ATS-friendly (CV screening software HR uses), and really dive into the details.

This is extremely time-consuming.

Instead of manually knitting up a resume, you could be making better use of your time.

Work smarter, not harder, right?

If you want to make your life easier, try Novorésumé’s resume builder . It’s free (with premium options) and really simplifies the process of creating a resume.

Our templates were developed with recruiters and employers in mind, so you can rest assured that you’re always sending in your best work.

Whether you’re a college student or a senior executive - Novoresume templates have your back when it comes to best resume formatting practices.

Key Takeaways

Ready to get back into the job search with the best resume font practices that will have the HR manager grabbing your resume from a full-stack?

Make sure your resume font reflects that and that it’ll have your resume radiating with the font choice the next time you send it in.

Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve learned so far:

• Best resume fonts are: Ubuntu , Robot , Overpass . The worst one? Comic Sans
• Best resume font sizes are: 11-12pt for normal text, 14-16pt for section titles and headers.
• The most-used resume formatting order is: Contact information , work experience , skills , and education .

With that said, if you don’t want to worry about the specific resume formatting and getting the details right - you can always use a resume builder to make your life much easier.

There is no reason as to why you should be pouring your sweat, blood, and tears into the painstaking hours of perfecting your resume, down to the margins and fonts manually, when you can just use a resume builder (which is free) to do it for you.

If you want to learn other ways to save time and stay up to date with the latest career advice, be sure to check out our career blog .

Suggested reading:

• How to Pick the Best Resume Format [+Examples]
• What to Put On a Resume (To Get The Job You’ll Love)
• 100+ Achievements to Write in Your Resume [Examples for 2024]

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• Career Blog

10 Best Fonts for Resume: Complete Guide for 2024

Your resume is the first impression recruiters have of you. It is your chance to showcase your experience, qualifications, and personal brand. However, did you know that the font you choose can affect the readability and overall impression of the document?

Choosing the right font for your resume is essential. It can mean the difference between your application being noticed, or overlooked. Different fonts can affect the readability of your resume and may impact your chances of securing that dream job.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the importance of selecting the right font for your resume. We’ll explore how different fonts can affect readability and provide key considerations to help you choose the best font for your resume.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a good understanding of why font selection is critical and how to choose the right font for your resume to make it stand out from the crowd. So, let’s get started!

Serif Fonts

When it comes to creating a compelling and professional-looking resume, the choice of font can make or break your chances of getting noticed. Serif fonts, characterized by small lines or flourishes at the ends of their strokes, are often regarded as a classic and traditional choice for resumes.

Definition of Serif Fonts

A serif font is a typeface that features small lines, stems, or projections at the ends of characters. These lines are usually at a 90-degree angle to the main vertical or horizontal stroke of the letterform. Serif fonts are often used in printed materials, such as books, newspapers, and magazines because they tend to be more legible at smaller sizes than sans-serif fonts.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Serif Fonts in Your Resume

One of the advantages of using a serif font is that it can give your resume a classic and professional-looking appeal. It also has better readability and is great at guiding the reader’s eye through the text on a page.

On the other hand, a disadvantage of using serif fonts is that they’re often seen as outdated and boring. They also tend to be less readable when used at smaller font sizes, and can take up more space on a page than a sans-serif font.

Top 3 recommended Serif Fonts for Your Resume

Times New Roman : A classic serif font that has been a standard in the industry for decades. It’s a great choice for conservative or traditional industries such as law or finance.

Georgia : A modern take on a classic serif font that’s a great choice for creative industries such as design or advertising.

Cambria : A versatile serif font that can be used for a wide range of industries and professions. It’s a great choice if you want to give your resume a modern touch.

Sans Serif Fonts

Definition of sans serif fonts.

Sans Serif Fonts are a type of font style that do not have the small lines or strokes at the end of each letter, unlike their Serif counterparts. They often have a cleaner and more modern aesthetic and are generally easier to read on screens.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Sans Serif Fonts in Your Resume

One of the biggest advantages of using Sans Serif Fonts in a resume is that they can make the document look more modern and professional. They are often easier to read, particularly on digital devices, and can help make your resume stand out from the crowd.

However, there are also some potential disadvantages to using Sans Serif Fonts in a resume. First, they can sometimes come across as cold or impersonal, particularly if the rest of your resume style is more traditional. Additionally, some hiring managers may still prefer a more traditional Serif font style.

Top 3 Recommended Sans Serif Fonts for Your Resume

Calibri  – This is a classic Sans Serif font that has been a popular choice for resumes for many years. It is clean, modern, and easy to read, which makes it a great choice for any resume.

Helvetica  – This is another classic font that has been used in a wide range of contexts, from print advertising to branding. It has a clean and modern feel that makes it a great choice for a resume.

Open Sans  – This is a newer font that has gained popularity in recent years due to its clean and modern aesthetic. It is available in different weights, which makes it a versatile choice for a resume.

Example of Sans Serif Fonts in Action

Using Sans Serif Fonts in a resume can help make the document look more modern and professional. For example, you could use Calibri for your resume heading and section headers, and then use Helvetica or Open Sans for the body text. This would create a clean and modern look that would be easily readable on screens or in print.

Sans Serif Fonts can be a great choice for a resume, particularly if you want to create a clean and modern aesthetic. Just be sure to balance this style choice with the rest of your resume design and be aware of potential personal preferences from hiring managers.

Script Fonts

Script fonts are a type of font that imitates handwriting. They are characterized by their flowing and curved lines that vary in thickness. They are elegant, stylish, and often used in invitations, greeting cards, or logos. Script fonts come in various styles, from classic to modern, and are a popular choice for adding a personalized touch to your documents.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Script Fonts in your Resume

Using a script font in your resume can be beneficial in certain situations but also has some drawbacks. The main advantage is that they can make your resume look more creative and sophisticated. They can showcase your personality and creativity while highlighting your professionalism. However, using a script font in your resume can be risky, as it may not be easy to read or scan by resume screening systems. Moreover, some employers may not appreciate the use of a script font in a professional document, depending on their industry or job requirements.

Top 3 Recommended Script Fonts for your Resume

When choosing a script font for your resume, it’s essential to consider legibility, readability, and compatibility with the rest of your resume design. Here are the top three recommended script fonts for your resume:

Lobster  – a popular script font that’s modern, elegant, and easy to read. It’s perfect for headings or titles in your resume.

Alex Brush  – a beautiful, handwritten script font that’s perfect for conveying a personal touch. It’s ideal for highlighting your name or contact information.

Allura  – a sophisticated script font that’s easy to read and gives a modern touch to your resume. It’s versatile and can be used for both headings and body text.

Example of Script Fonts in Action

Imagine you’re applying for a job in a creative industry that values design and originality. You want your resume to stand out and showcase your skills and personality. You decide to use a script font for your heading and name, paired with a clean and modern sans-serif font for the rest of the text.

Using a script font for your name creates a unique and elegant look, while the clean sans-serif font for the rest of the text ensures readability and legibility. By combining these two fonts, you create a balance between creativity and professionalism, making your resume stand out among others.

Using script fonts in your resume can be a great way to showcase your creativity and add a personal touch to your application. However, it’s crucial to choose the right font that balances legibility and originality and complements the rest of your resume design. Following these tips and recommendations can help you create a standout resume that impresses employers and lands you the job you want.

Display Fonts

Definition of display fonts.

Display fonts are fonts that are meant to be used in large sizes, such as headlines and titles. They are decorative in nature, making them ideal for catching the eye and drawing attention to specific elements of a design or document.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Display Fonts in Your Resume

Using display fonts in your resume can help make it stand out and create a sense of personality and style. However, it is important to balance the use of display fonts with legibility and readability. Overusing them can make your resume difficult to read and distract from the content.

Top 3 Recommended Display Fonts for Your Resume

Roboto Slab : A modern, stylish font that balances legibility with personality. It is a popular choice for headings and titles.

Bebas Neue : A bold, sans-serif font that is perfect for making a statement. It is ideal for headlines and titles.

Abril Fatface : A decorative, serif font that is elegant and unique. It is a great choice for creating a sense of style and personality in your resume.

Example of Display Fonts in Action

When using display fonts in your resume, it is important to use them selectively and sparingly. For example, you could use Bebas Neue for your name and section headings, while using Roboto Slab for the body text. This will help create a sense of hierarchy and organization, while still maintaining a professional and legible appearance.

When using display fonts in your resume, it is important to consider the purpose and audience of your document. Use them strategically to add personality and style, while still maintaining readability and clarity.

Combination Fonts

Combination Fonts are a mixture of two or more different font types. This technique of mixing and matching fonts helps to create a professional and visually appealing resume. The combination can be of serif and sans-serif or cursive and bold fonts.

Using Combination Fonts in your resume has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

• They stand out in comparison to the typical Times New Roman or Arial fonts.
• They can be used to highlight important information such as headers, skills, or job titles.
• Combination Fonts can help to create visual hierarchy and provide a clear flow of information.

Disadvantages:

• Overuse or misuse of this technique may lead to a cluttered and incoherent resume.
• Too many fonts may cause visual discomfort, thus making it difficult to read the resume.

Here are the top three recommended Combination Fonts for your resume:

Garamond and Helvetica:  This is a perfect combination of a traditional serif with a sans-serif font. Helvetica’s clean and modern feature complements Garamond’s elegant and classic style.

Roboto and Lato:  Roboto is often used in technology and modern-day design, while Lato is a sans-serif font that has been tailored for the web. This pairing provides a professional, readable, and modern feel.

Baskerville and Franklin Gothic:  This combo lies somewhere between traditional and contemporary. The pairing of Baskerville’s timeless serifs with Franklin Gothic’s bolder sans-serif creates a resume that looks elegant, modern, and professional.

Now let’s look at an example of Combination Fonts in action. Our candidate, John, decided to use Garamond and Helvetica throughout his resume. He uses Garamond only for the headings, while Helvetica is used for the body text.

In the header, John used a 16pt Garamond font for his name, followed by a 12pt Helvetica font in bold for his job title. For the body paragraphs, John used an 11pt Helvetica font. In addition, he used Garamond in bold for his section headings.

John’s resume stands out because of his use of Combination Fonts. The combination of the two fonts helps to create a professional and visually appealing resume, which is easy to read and navigate.

Therefore, Combination Fonts can be an excellent way to differentiate your resume from others, but always ensure that you use the right mix of fonts and pay utmost attention to readability.

Font sizes and spacing

When it comes to creating a resume, it’s important to pay attention to font sizes and spacing. These elements can greatly impact the overall look and readability of your document. Here are some tips on how to determine the appropriate font size and spacing for your resume, as well as recommended measurements for various sections.

How to Determine Font Size and Spacing

The font size you choose will depend on the font you select and the amount of space you have available. In general, use a font size between 10-12 points, with a slightly larger font for section headings. Additionally, consider setting your resume margins to approximately 1 inch on all sides to create a clean, professional look.

Spacing is also important. You want to make sure there is enough white space between lines to make your resume easy to read, but not so much that it looks sparse. A good rule of thumb is to use 1.15 or 1.5 line spacing to ensure readability.

Ideal Spacing for Various Sections

Different sections of your resume should have different levels of spacing to create visual hierarchy and make it easy for employers to find the information they need. For example, you may want to use wider spacing in your contact information section to make it stand out, and narrower spacing in your experience section to make it more compact. Here are some ideal spacing recommendations for each section:

• Contact Information: Wider spacing between lines and margins to make it stand out
• Objective or Summary: Slightly wider spacing than body text, but not as much as contact information
• Education: Similar spacing as body text
• Experience: Slightly narrower spacing than body text, but not so narrow that it looks crowded
• Skills: Similar spacing as body text

Recommended Font Sizes for Different Sections

Just like spacing, font size can also be used to create visual hierarchy on your resume. Here are some recommended font sizes for different sections:

• Name and Headings: 14-16 points
• Objective or Summary: 12-14 points
• Body Text: 10-12 points
• Section Headings: 11-12 points

By following these guidelines for font size and spacing, you can create a clean and professional resume that’s easy to read and visually appealing. Remember, your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s important to make it count!

Font Pairing

Font pairing refers to the practice of using two or more fonts in a design to create a harmonious and visually appealing composition. It involves selecting fonts that complement each other in terms of style, weight, and legibility while also conveying the desired tone and message.

In your resume, font pairing plays a crucial role in setting the right tone and highlighting your skills and achievements effectively. The fonts you use can convey your personality, level of professionalism, and attention to detail. By choosing the right font combinations, you can make your resume stand out from the competition and leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when pairing fonts for your resume:

• Limit your fonts : Stick to using no more than two or three fonts in your resume, as too many fonts can create visual clutter and distract from the content.
• Choose contrasting fonts : Pair fonts that have contrasting styles or weights, such as a serif and a sans-serif, to create interest and hierarchy in your resume.
• Consider readability : Make sure the fonts you choose are easy to read and legible at various sizes, especially if your resume might be scanned by applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Be consistent : Use the same fonts consistently throughout your resume to create a cohesive and polished look.

Some popular font pairings for resumes include:

• Roboto and Open Sans : Both sans-serif fonts, Roboto has a more futuristic feel, while Open Sans is more traditional. This pairing is a good choice for tech or design roles.
• Georgia and Helvetica : Pairing a serif and sans-serif font creates contrast and hierarchy. Georgia is a classic serif font, while Helvetica is a timeless sans-serif. This pairing is best suited for traditional or conservative industries.
• Lato and Merriweather : Lato is a clean and modern sans-serif font, while Merriweather is a warm and approachable serif font. This pairing works well for creative or customer-facing roles.

Ultimately, the fonts you choose will depend on your personal style, industry, and the message you want to convey. By following these tips and exploring different font pairings, you can craft a resume that stands out and leaves a positive impression on potential employers.

When it comes to creating a standout resume, font choice and formatting aren’t the only factors to consider. Font color is also an important element that can help catch the eye of a potential employer and emphasize key information.

Importance of font color in your resume

Font color plays a crucial part in determining the overall look and feel of your resume. It can help create a hierarchy of information, highlight important sections, and make the document easier to read. Using color strategically can also help your resume stand out from the stack of black-and-white applications.

Best colors to use for your resume

The colors you choose for your resume should complement the overall design and branding of your application. In general, it’s best to stick to neutral colors like black, gray, and navy blue. These colors are professional, easy to read, and won’t distract from the content of your resume.

If you are applying for a creative role, you can consider using brighter, more vibrant colors like red, green or blue. However, be sure to use them sparingly and in a way that enhances the readability of your resume, rather than detracting from it.

How to use font color to highlight key information in your resume

When using font color in your resume, it’s important to do so strategically. Here are some tips to help you use color to your advantage:

• Use color sparingly:  Stick to one or two colors at most, and use them to highlight key information rather than overwhelming the entire document.
• Create a hierarchy:  Use color to create a visual hierarchy of information. For example, you could use a brighter color to draw attention to your name and contact information, and a darker color for the body text.
• Use color consistently:  If you choose to use color in your resume, make sure you use it consistently throughout the document. This will help create a cohesive and professional look.
• Consider your audience:  Keep in mind the company or industry you’re applying to when choosing font colors for your resume. Some industries may be more conservative, while others may appreciate more creative approaches.

While font choice is important, font color can also play a big part in creating a professional and eye-catching resume. By using color strategically and thoughtfully, you can highlight key information and make your application stand out from the crowd.

Font Accessibility

Font accessibility is an often overlooked but crucial aspect of resume design. While aesthetics should certainly be considered when selecting a font, it’s important to ensure that the font you choose is also accessible for all readers, including those with vision impairments.

Understanding the Importance of Font Accessibility

Individuals with visual impairments often use screen readers to read text on a page. However, certain fonts can be difficult for screen readers to recognize and parse properly. Fonts with particularly thin or intricate lettering may be particularly difficult to recognize, causing confusion or making it difficult to navigate through the information presented.

In addition to being practical, font accessibility is simply good design practice. Making your resume accessible to a wide range of readers ensures that your experience and qualifications are communicated as effectively as possible, increasing your chances of securing an interview.

Guide to Selecting Accessible Fonts for Your Resume

When selecting a font for your resume, it’s important to choose one that is both aesthetically pleasing and accessible. Here are a few tips:

Stick to common fonts : Common fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Verdana are more likely to be recognized by screen readers, increasing the accessibility of your resume.

Avoid fonts with thin or ornate lettering : Fonts with thin or intricate lettering may look stunning to the eye but can be difficult for screen readers to decipher.

Consider font size and spacing : Ensure that your font size and spacing are appropriate for readers with visual impairments, as larger fonts and increased spacing can make text easier to read.

Use bold or italic formatting sparingly : While bold and italic formatting can be used to draw attention to important information, these styles can be difficult to recognize for screen readers. Use these formatting options sparingly and only for necessary information.

Recommended Accessible Fonts for Your Resume

Here are a few fonts that are both commonly used and easily recognized by screen readers:

• Times New Roman

By selecting one of these accessible fonts for your resume, you can ensure that your experience and qualifications are communicated as effectively as possible.

Best Practices for Using Fonts in Your Resume

General guidelines for using fonts in your resume.

When it comes to creating a visually appealing and professional resume, the font you choose can play a significant role. Here are some general guidelines to follow when using fonts in your resume:

• Stick to standard fonts: Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri are safe bets.
• Use a font size of 10-12 points for the body text and 14-16 points for headings.
• Keep it simple: Avoid using too many different fonts, styles, or sizes.
• Make sure your font is legible and easy to read.
• Use bold or italicized text sparingly and uniformly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Fonts for Your Resume

While choosing the right font may seem like a small detail, it can make a significant impact on your resume’s overall impression. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing fonts for your resume:

• Don’t use a font that is difficult to read or too ornamental.
• Avoid using too many fonts, styles, or sizes, as this can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.
• Don’t use fancy or cursive fonts for the body text, as this can make it difficult to read.
• Avoid using font sizes that are too small or too large, as this can make your resume look unprofessional.

Tips for Enhancing the Visual Appeal of Your Resume Using Fonts

In addition to following general guidelines and avoiding common mistakes when using fonts in your resume, here are some tips for enhancing its visual appeal:

• Use a bold or italicized font for headings and section titles to make them stand out.
• Experiment with font size and weight to create hierarchy and visual contrast within your resume.
• Use a sans-serif font for online resumes, as it is easier to read on screens.
• Use color sparingly and uniformly to add visual interest, but not too much that it becomes distracting.

By following these best practices, you can create a professional and visually appealing resume that is sure to catch the eye of potential employers.

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What are the best resume fonts? A CEO who has read thousands of resumes this year shares his 7 favorite picks

When it comes to writing the perfect resume , most people rarely put much thought into which font to use.

As the CEO of a resume writing company , I review thousands of resumes every year. It's also part of my job to speak with hiring managers and recruiters to understand what they look for in candidates today — and many of them agree: Choosing a readable font is important.

In fact, the average initial screening time for a candidate's resume is just 7.4 seconds, according to a study from job search website The Ladders .

The "best resumes" — where recruiters spent the most time and focus — had "clearly marked section and title headers, all written in a clear font," the study noted.

The best fonts for your resume

The top factors to consider when picking a font are professionalism, design, spacing and, most important of all, readability.

Also, many companies use an ATS (applicant tracking system) to streamline the recruiting process, and there may be problems if the system doesn't recognize your font. So if you've been using something too unique or unusual, it's time to update your resume font.

Here are my seven favorite picks for 2021 to 2022:

This sans-serif font is often used for branding and website or mobile design, which makes it a great option if you're in the creative field or are applying to a marketing job.

Georgia is very similar to the Times New Roman font, except a bit wider. Many people also find it easier to read, which is why The New York Times uses it as its main font .

3. Helvetica

Helvetica is generally seen as more elegant and modern. Go with this font if you want to add some flair to your resume while maintaining the same level of professionalism as some of the traditional fonts.

A more narrow body structure compared to some of the other fonts on this list, Tahoma has a technical feel, making it an ideal option for those in the software engineering field.

5. Times New Roman

This is still my No. 1 favorite. Still one of the most popular fonts used today, Times New Roman is traditional, classic and easily recognizable.

6. Trebuchet MS

Trebuchet MS has a thicker look, but its rounded san-serif typeface makes it great for entry-level job seekers trying to fill up a single-page resume with their experience, skills and accomplishments.

Need to squeeze in more text on your resume? Go with Verdana, as it was designed to be easy to read in small print on computer screens.

The font size matters, too

If your font is too small, hiring managers will have to squint to read your resume. If it's too large, your resume will look bulky and end up being longer than it needs to be.

To avoid making any mistakes when it comes to font sizes and formatting , here are my three general rules:

• Your name (at the top): 18 to 24 points
• Headings: 12 to 16 points
• Body: 10 to 12 points

You can always utilize font sizes to manipulate the length of your resume. For example, if your resume is sitting at 1.5 pages when using 10-point font, consider increasing the font size to 12 points in order to get your resume closer to a full two pages.

Of course, it's ultimately your experience and skills that will win over employers. But using a clear font in a size that makes sense will boost your chances of getting your resume the time and attention it deserves.

Peter Yang  is a career expert and the CEO of  Resume Writing Services , the parent company of  ResumeGo . Before that, he worked as a hiring manager and recruiter. Follow him on Twitter  @ThePeterYang .

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What Are the Best Fonts for a Resume?

13 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

The right font makes your resume stand out in all the right ways

The experts say it takes 6 seconds (or less) for a hiring manager to decide if your resume is a keeper – and the font size and style you choose will have a major impact on that decision.

A font that in any way makes your resume hard to read or look unprofessional will land it quickly in the trash pile. You could be the most competent candidate, but you'll be out of the running from the beginning if your resume can't be read easily.

To help ensure that your qualifications and experience are the main focus, and not your font choice, here are the best fonts to use for your resume.

The best fonts to use on a resume

Of course, a lot of what goes into picking the right font for your resume depends on personal preference, but you should choose from a particular set of best fonts to ensure that your resume doesn't get passed over. 

The fonts listed below will all work well on a resume because of their clean, professional look and overall easy readability. Keep in mind that you have to choose a font that is clean and easy to read both on-screen and in print.

Times New Roman

Calibri font for a resume

Calibri is known for being contemporary and professional, which makes it suitable for use in a variety of industries. It's well-spaced, clean, and easy to read. Additionally, it's read accurately by an applicant tracking system, or ATS . Calibri is the one to choose if you can't decide which you like the most. 

Pros of using Calibri:

Modern look

Professional appearance

Lighter size so you can fit more words on a page

Cons of using Calibri:

Everyone else is using it, so it lacks uniqueness

Can be considered unprofessional by some industries like law and finance

Cambria font for a resume

Cambria was originally designed to be easily read on screen. It has good spacing and nice proportions, which means it can be simple to read even in low-resolution situations. The way it's designed even lends itself well to being read when printed in a small size.

Pros of using Cambria:

It has an elegance that can make your resume visually appealing

As a Microsoft Word font, you will probably not lose formatting when sharing the resume file

It's suitable for a variety of jobs across multiple industries

Cons of using Cambria:

It was designed in 2007 and can be seen as old-fashioned

It's a heavy serif font, which may make it difficult to keep your resume to two pages

Arial font for a resume

Arial is one of those tried and true fonts that have stood the test of time. Interestingly enough, it was designed to have the same width as the characters in the Helvetica typeface – which is great if you intend to use multiple fonts on your resume. Some people will choose to use one font for the body text and another for the headers. 

Pros of using Arial:

It's a clean and simple font to use on your resume

Arial is easy to read even if you're using a 10-point font

It's ATS-friendly

Cons of using Arial:

It arguably lacks the sophistication of newer fonts

Some feel that it's a less-than-formal font style, especially if you're applying for a creative role

Helvetica font for a resume

We already mentioned how Helvetica pairs well with Arial. It's a bit more elegant than Arial, so it would work well for the section headers of your resume. The really great thing about Helvetica is that it has a wider range of font weights than Arial, which will really help your resume to stand out. 

Pros of using Helvetica:

Helvetica exudes professionalism

It has a clean and straightforward design and a high readability factor

It makes your resume look clean and well-structured

Cons of using Helvetica:

Some people may see Helvetica as too clean and neutral, making your resume seem sterile and without personality

It has a dense design with tight spacing, which could make it difficult to read when you use a smaller font size

Tahoma font for a resume

Tahoma is considered a reliable font for people who want a modern, sans-serif font with a balanced appearance. Over the years, it has become a popular choice for a lot of digital applications because of how easy it is to read. It doesn't have a lot of decorative strokes, which gives it a clean appearance.

Pros of using Tahoma:

It's a great font to use for both headline and body text

Because of how the letters lay out, it's easy for on-screen reading

It's suitable for a wide range of professions

Cons of using Tahoma:

It's not as widely used as Arial and may, therefore, be less recognizable

Even though it's a Microsoft default font, not all versions of Microsoft Word have it 

Trebuchet font for a resume

Medieval war device or popular font? Surprisingly enough, when the Trebuchet font was designed, it really was named after those machines that slung huge boulders in the ages of old. The man who created it, Vincent Connare, wanted to give it a name that would signal something that “ launches words across the Internet .” 

Pros of using Trebuchet:

Trebuchet is a great font for injecting personality into your resume

There's good spacing between characters, making it easy to read on- and off-screen

It's appealing without being grandiose – consider the little tail on the capital 'Q' 

Cons of using Trebuchet:

It's not very commonly used and could cause formatting oopsies when sharing your resume file

There are some variations in the character widths, which may cause you to have trouble keeping your resume to two pages

Verdana font for a resume

Verdana is one of the best fonts to use for a resume, because it was specifically designed to be legible at small sizes, on screen and off. In fact, it's known for having wide proportions and loose letter spacing so that text is clearly separated, guaranteeing that what's on the page is easy to read.

Pros of using Verdana:

Since it was designed for low-resolution on-screen reading, it's great for online applications and resume submissions

Verdana also has distinct letter characteristics - like a little square over the 'i' and 'j' -  which make it unique

It has different weights available, giving you options for design variations between section headers and body text

Cons of using Verdana:

Even though it's easy to read, some people consider Verdana a bit informal

The loose letter spacing may mean that you have a hard time keeping your resume to two pages

Garamond font for a resume

When you use Garamond font for your resume, you're truly taking a trip back in time. Garamond typeface can trace its roots back to the 16th century. Of course, today's Garamond is an interpretation of those old designs. It has an elegant appearance that almost resembles pen-writing, but with an upright design.

Pros of using Garamond:

Garamond text has good spacing, making the document it's used on appear well-balanced

It's a great font to use on your resume if you intend to have a print version ready to hand for humans, for off-screen reading

It's a versatile font that is widely accepted

Cons of using Garamond:

The serif-style font is less suitable for screen reading

Some hiring managers feel that Garamond is too artistic for formal documents like resumes

Times New Roman font for a resume

When you open Microsoft Word, if the default font isn't set to Calibri it's probably set to Times New Roman. It is one of the most popular typefaces of all time and is known for having a robust design. It was originally designed for a printed publication – The Times , from Britain – that wanted to adopt something more traditional in the 18th century that would work with a printing press. Welcome to Times New Roman. 

Pros of using Times New Roman:

It is a universally accepted font – a safe choice

Because Times New Roman is a classic serif design, it gives your resume a professional and traditional appearance

Since it was specifically designed for print, the letters are still legible even when you use a small font

Cons of using Times New Roman:

Using Times New Roman font for your resume is considered, by some, to be outdated  

When you use a smaller font size, the letters get squished together a bit which can make it hard to read on a screen

What is the difference between a serif and a sans-serif font?

The basic difference between serif and sans-serif fonts is decorative. Serifs are, by definition, little decorative strokes that finish off a letter. Since 'sans' means 'without,' then sans-serif fonts are missing the little decorative strokes at the end of each letter.

Serif fonts are more traditional and formal, making them great for designing your resume. The serifs – or decorative strokes – make these fonts easier to read in print and are considered less sterile than sans-serif fonts. 

Serif fonts that you can use on a resume you're going to print out include Garamond and Times New Roman.

Conversely, sans-serif fonts lack any decoration at all. These fonts are considered modern and provide a straightforward appearance which is great for on-screen reading. The biggest downside to sans-serif fonts is that they can be difficult to read if you're using a smaller font size.

Sans-serif fonts you can use on a resume that will be used for online applications include Calibri, Tahoma, Arial and Helvetica.

What fonts should you avoid on a resume?

Since the main point of your resume is to present your qualifications in a way that shows you're the right professional for the job, there are some fonts you want to stay away from. 

Specifically, you should avoid using flowery, themed, cursive, or “fun” fonts, like 

Monotype Corsiva

Freestyle Script

Segoe Script

Along with being difficult to read and not compatible with an ATS, “artistic” fonts tell employers that you don't know the rules of creating a professional resume, which could potentially lead them to think you don't take your job search seriously. Remember, no snazzy resume font will showcase your qualifications as clearly as your job experience, talents, and accomplishments .

What is the best font size to use for a resume?

Generally, a 10- to 12-point font size is recommended. A good rule of thumb to remember: don't decide on a font size until you've chosen the specific font you'll use for your resume. This is because some fonts like Calibri, Trebuchet, and Arial Narrow take up less space than Times New Roman or Verdana. 

Depending on the font, you might be able to slightly reduce or slightly increase its size to have the  two-page resume that recruiters prefer while still ensuring it's easy to read and the format is pleasing. 

However, going above a 12-point size font in the resume body to make two pages means you probably need to add more details about your past responsibilities and achievements or include skills developed from voluntary work and hobbies .

If you're submitting your resume online, you also might need to use a 12-point font size throughout and eliminate any formatting, like underlining, italics, or bolding. Online programs may convert your information to an  ASCII format or ask you to use an ASCII format so the resume displays correctly, and a 12-point font works best in that case.

Page formatting

The margins, bullets, and spacing you pick for your page matter just as much as the font and font size. At the end of the day, you want your resume to be accurately read by an ATS and impress a hiring manager. So, in addition to making sure that you spell out your qualifications, skills, and career achievements, be sure you have a document that is well laid out, readable, and professional-looking. 

A lot of that comes from consistency. So, to ensure that your resume looks the way it should and is aesthetically pleasing, here are some formatting rules for you to follow that will guarantee consistency:

Margins: Use balanced margins that are no less than 0.5 inches all the way around. It's okay to have your top and bottom margins different to your left and right margins, but you want to avoid having a top margin that's less than your bottom margin.

Spacing: You can use the line spacing formatting feature of Microsoft Word or Google Docs to ensure that you have consistent spacing. If you're using 6pt line spacing in front of one section header, make sure you take the time to check that all section headers have 6pt spacing in front of them.

Bullets: While you have some leeway on the type of bullet you use, it's best to stick with a simple dot bullet to make sure that your resume looks the same on the hiring manager's computer as it does yours. Also, for the love of all things resumes, double-check that all of your bullets line up. Fewer things scream, “ I didn't pay attention” than bullet points that are out of alignment.

Graphics, icons, and images: Don't use them –  at all. The ATS can't properly parse information from resumes that contain things like charts, images, and icons . Since it turns your resume into a text file, those images get converted into funky characters. 

The best font sends the right message

There are three specific targets to aim for when choosing a resume font:

Does it present you as a professional who is well-qualified for the job?

Can recruiters and hiring managers easily read and scan it for critical keywords and information?

Will it be read correctly by an Applicant Tracking System or online application program?

A well-written resume is always the key goal, but a particular font can have a major effect on the message you convey to a potential employer, whether that's of a seasoned expert, a young and hungry professional, a new graduate, or anything in between.

It can also mean the difference between getting called for an interview and getting a “no thanks” email. Take the time to follow these tips and create a resume that clearly presents who you are and you'll find yourself interviewing in no time.

Not sure if your resume format and font are working for your job search? That's where our objective resume review comes in! Submit your resume now for expert feedback.

This article was originally written by Lisa Tynan and has been updated by Marsha Hebert. 

Recommended reading:

The Hidden Dangers of Using Microsoft Word Resume Templates

5 Ways Your Resume Is Selling You Short

Best File Format to Use for Your Resume

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From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

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These Are The Best Fonts For Your Resume In 2024

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When it comes to crafting the perfect resume to land your dream job, you probably think of just about everything but the font. But font is a key part of your first impression to recruiters and employers.

In this post, I'm going to walk you through the 10 best fonts for your resume (and when to use each). We'll also talk about why employers care about font choice and how you can use it to set yourself apart from the competition.

Does Your Resume Font Really Matter?

Imagine an ad for a sleek, ultra-thin cell phone. What kind of design and font do you picture in the marketing materials?

You probably dreamed up something as slender and condensed as the phone itself. You wouldn’t expect a marketing team to use anything flowery, ornate, or thick and bold if they’re trying to get customers to think thin:

Image courtesy of Apple.com

Now imagine an ad for a fantasy novel. How would the words pop on the page?

You probably didn’t imagine something traditional and straightforward, right? If you’re going to dive into a fairy tale universe packed with dragon-slayers and towering castles, you’ll probably expect to see a font with a few flourishes and curlicues.

Font choice is a crucial part of any marketing team’s design. Every aspect of an advertisement’s design, from the imagery to the layout, and the way the words appear on the page, should get a potential customer thinking positively about the product or service being sold.

When you craft your resume, think of yourself as a marketing team of one. You’re designing for the recruiter’s or employer’s first impression of you with your cover letter and resume. You’re selling yourself in every aspect of your self-branding, from content to timeliness and format.

When your name lands on an employer’s desk or in their inbox, you want them to come away with a great impression of you! They aren’t seeing you in person, and there are no other context clues to give them any other ideas than what you present them with–even something as seemingly small as format or font. Because everything they see about you will be written in your chosen font, it will make a much bigger difference than you might imagine!

You don’t have to take my word for it, either. There’s plenty of scientific evidence to prove that font affects consumers’ perceptions of a product or company, and employers’ perceptions of job applicants:

One study at Wichita State University , for example, showed that respondents associated fonts like Times New Roman and Arial with stability. Courier New and Georgia meant “maturity” in participants’ minds, while Agency FB was associated with rigidity and Kristen symbolized excitement.

Other sources indicate  that it’s not just the font choice, but the consistency of that choice with other aspects of marketing, that really makes the difference. If font and other visual and tonal elements (like resume design, formatting, paragraphs, graphics, and style choices like bold and italics) all give the same consistent message — such as “this applicant has the relevant skills,” “this applicant is reliable and dependable,” or “this applicant is creative and visually-oriented,” that message is likelier to stick in your reader’s brain. But if just one aspect, like font, is off, it could undermine the entire message, weakening every aspect of your introduction.

Remember that the presentation of your resume and cover letter together are a way for you to self-brand. If your brand messaging is consistent across design and content, form and function, font and tone, you’re much likelier to make a sale–or, in this case, to get invited for an interview.

What’s The Big Deal About Resume Fonts?

So, why does a small thing like font choice make such a big impact on your ability to get hired?

Our brains make connections every second, working overtime to flesh out the meaning of everything we read and see. We connect certain aesthetics and words with emotions, character traits, and moods.

Think about it: You’d probably feel confused if you went to a fresh fruit smoothie shop and saw grungy, gritty, dark décor. That’s because, due to your past experiences, you probably already associate smoothie shops with breezy, tropical environments and bright, cheery colors.

As typeface designer and author Cyrus Highsmith told The Week , “Typography is the detail and the presentation of a story. It represents the voice of an atmosphere, or historical setting of some kind. It can do a lot of things.”

Think of the typography as the mood-setter for your resume; instead of lighting a candle, you’re creating an atmosphere with the aesthetic of your font and other design choices.

We bring our past experiences and myriad associations to everything we do. Your resume font should activate those connections in your recruiters’ and potential employers’ minds, causing them to connect you with traits like professionalism, honesty, and skill.

Like each applicant, each font has a “personality.” If a font is difficult to read or doesn’t reflect the job you’re applying for, it could leave a recruiter with a bad taste in their mouth (even if they aren’t aware of it). And because you’ve already put so much thought and effort into your resume, you don’t want something small like font selection to have a negative impact.

What Fonts to Avoid on Your Resume

I'm sure you know of one or two fonts that could make even the best written resume look unprofessional.

For example, you’re probably well aware to avoid a playful font like Comic Sans . But there are a few other fonts to avoid that may not be so obvious. So, let’s quickly take a look at them.

Times New Roman. I’m sure you know this popular font well. And, typically, it’s fine for letters and college papers. But for resumes? Not so much. Reserve this font for contracts and reports.

Arial. Pretty much everything I just said about Times New Roman can be applied to Arial. It’s okay, but it could come across as boring when you have so many other great options.

Courier. Here’s another popular one that seems fine. But this font has a fixed width between letters. And that can make it appear too boxy or robotic for resumes.

Futura. This is another font that may appear okay at first glance. But still it should be avoided. Its circular shape is a bit too decorative for a text-heavy document like your resume.

Papyrus. This font looks interesting, but it has a bit too much personality for a resume. I wouldn't recommend using it as a hiring manager would find this distracting.

Next, we’ll go over how to make the best possible impression with your resume typeface.

Once you choose a font you like, you can use my free resume builder to create a beautiful, ATS-friendly resume that actually gets results. It won't cost you a penny:

How to Choose the Best Font for Your Resume

The two most important factors when selecting a font for your resume are readability and professionalism.

The last thing you want to do is to make a recruiter or employer’s life harder, so when building your resume , your font should always be straightforward and highly readable. They shouldn’t have to squint to read overly light, thin fonts, or struggle to make out complex symbols or typefaces.

Professionalism, meanwhile, is all about tone. Just as we discussed in the previous section, even “silent” choices like font and formatting can convey tone as easily as your word choice. The tone of your font should match the tone of your workplace personality and your level of professionalism.

In terms of both readability and professionalism, there are a few broad “font families” that we commonly associate with the workplace and with professional settings. Let’s go over each of the five main font families, or broad categories, from which you have to choose when you’re writing your resume , cover letter , or references .

The Differences Between “Font Families”

Every font belongs to a “family” of fonts, which have similar characteristics and leave similar (though not identical) impressions. The first decision you have to make in terms of selecting a resume font is which font family is best for your goals.

These are the five broad categories that fonts fall into:

Serif: Serif fonts, like Times New Roman, belong to one of the largest and most common “font families.” Letters in serif fonts have decorative serifs, or little “tails,” on certain character strokes.

Sans Serif: Sans serif literally means “without serif,” so you can guess these typefaces don’t have–tails! Examples of sans serif typefaces include Arial and Helvetica. Sans serif typefaces have become highly popular in the digital marketplace, partly because of their less formal, more straightforward and minimalist look.

Monospace: Commonly associated with newspapers and typewriters, monospace fonts like Courier and Courier New were designed so that each letter would take up the same amount of space on a given line. Each letter is the same width. This allows for clean, consistent graphic design, as there’s no size variability between the characters. Monospace fonts have also become a popular design choice in recent years because they’re a bit nostalgic, calling back to the days of typewriters and telegrams.

Cursive: Cursive fonts, like the famous Comic Sans, are meant to appear handwritten or “scribbled” to give text a personalized touch. Certain fonts in this category might be rarely used in professional settings, but in the vast majority of cases, these are used for graphic design or marketing materials rather than cover letters or CVs.

Fantasy: Fantasy fonts are not useful for resumes or cover letters–there might be an out-there exception, but I haven’t found any yet–but they are used for decorative and design purposes, like signage and certain marketing materials. Examples of fantasy typefaces include Impact and Western. They are typically used for headers or other shorter texts, because they’re not the easiest to read.

What’s The Best Font Option For Your Resume?

In today’s world, a clean, modern sans serif font is recommended. This is partly because the workforce has gone increasingly digital, making even professional interactions slightly less formal and more straightforward and concise.

Sans serif fonts are more contemporary in look and feel than the more conformist and traditional serif fonts. They cater to today’s minimalist, cut-to-the-chase, 280-character-driven economy. They cut out all the extra distraction and get right to the point, just like you want to do in your job search.

While you might make a different decision for your resume font in your job search–if you’re in an ultra-traditional and more conservative profession that expects a high level of formality, for example — sans serif fonts are generally the best option.

Now that we’ve narrowed it down to a certain font family, we’ll break down the top 10 best resume fonts and what job categories they might be ideal for.

Breaking Down The 10 Best Resume Fonts

In 2020’s marketplace, these are the 10 best resume fonts based on reliability, perception, and style:

• Open Sans (Modern)
• Calibri (Modern)
• Helvetica (Modern)
• Avenir (Modern)
• Lato (Modern)
• Roboto (Modern)
• Avant Garde (Modern)
• Museo (Modern)
• Georgia (Classic)
• Garamond (Classic)

For each one, we’ll delve a bit into the font’s history and aesthetic, as well as its pros and cons and when to use each:

Open Sans, released in 2011, is one of Google’s signature fonts. Its letters are tall and wide.

Pros: Open Sans is wildly popular for web design for a reason: optimal readability. The wide-open letters are easy to read on any screen, big or small. Because it’s used as Mozilla’s default font in many cases, and for many Google pages, it’s familiar to the eye.

Cons: Open Sans is widely perceived as “flat” or “neutral,” which can be a very good thing for a resume. But if you want to stand out a bit or for your resume to have a bit more personality, it might not be the best choice.

Alternatives: Adelle Sans is similar to Open Sans and is a great substitute.

Calibri came on the scene in the early 2000s as the Microsoft Word replacement for the classic Times New Roman.

Pros: Calibri can be easily read on any computer and won’t mess up the formatting no matter where it’s sent. Everyone has seen it before, so it’s not distracting. It’s a sans serif font, so it’s clean and sleek. It’s a good choice for a standard resume or for work at a digital-first company.

Cons: Calibri is a little “safe,” as it’s the default Microsoft Word font and is used by many other applicants. But standing out from the pack isn’t always the best goal when it comes to resume font. Instead, you want your resume itself to do the work. But Calibri might not be the best choice for a creative career at a quirky company.

Alternative: Arial, which is the default typeface for Google Docs, is somewhat similar to Calibri in its optimal readability for the web. It’s also similarly straightforward and legible.

Helvetica was designed in the 1950s and comes with a little bit of elegance and flourish. It’s frequently rated as one of the more attractive typefaces.

Pros: Helvetica is a softer, beautiful sans serif typeface. It’s modern while still being a bit pretty and not too stark. Because it’s not always used for resumes, it stands out a bit without being too far “out there.” It might be a good choice for a design company (especially because it’s frequently used in graphic design ) or a profession that puts a premium on aesthetic.

Cons: Helvetica is only pre-loaded on Macs, so it will convert to a different font on other systems.

Alternatives: Swiss, Arial, and Folio are all similar to Helvetica in “font personality.”

Avenir comes from the French word meaning “future.” Designed in 1988, this geometric sans serif font is warm and lively, with curved edges and a few selective tails.

Pros: Avenir isn’t odd enough to be distracting, but it’s not a standard “safe” resume font. It might be a good choice for a future-forward company. It’s also consistently rated one of the favorite fonts of designers , so it could be good for any aesthetic-focused or creative profession. Finally, it’s versatile: It comes in a variety of weights.

Cons: Avenir is not a very common choice for resumes, so it might be a tad jarring to a highly traditional or formal eye. Alternatives: Nunito, with its rounded letters, is very similar to Avenir.

Lato, designed in 2010, is named after the Polish word for “summer” because it was meant to be as cheery as the warmest season. It is professional enough to be serious, but has a touch of brightness in its typeface style.

Pros: Lato is an increasingly common choice for resumes because of how readable it is. It’s an approachable and stylish font, while remaining professional. Finally, Lato is open-source, which means anyone can download it for free.

Cons: Lato is not one of the resume “classics,” which is always a tiny bit of a gamble. Microsoft Word does not list Lato as one of its defaults, which means it won’t show up for every recruiter or employer. If you download and install the font, make sure you send your resume to PDF format so the recruiter/hiring manager will see the same formatting you do!

Alternatives: Brandon Grotesque and Open Sans are both similar to Lato.

Released by Google in 2011, Roboto probably looks familiar, especially if you do a lot of traveling: It’s used for Google Maps. It’s similar to the other fonts optimized for the web, with a more slender, sleek typeface.

Pros: Because it’s open-source, Roboto is free for anyone to use. It’s also optimized for web readability, so like Open Sans, it’s legible on any screen. It’s also sleek and contemporary, so it’s great for any modern company, especially those that put web presence at a premium (such as marketing).

Cons: Roboto appears a little less formal than some other fonts, so it’s not ideal for academic applications or very traditional work environments.

Alternatives: Roboto is somewhat similar in style to Helvetica and Arial.

Avant Garde

Inspired by the 1920s German Bauhaus movement, Avant Garde is a unique typeface that is having a comeback after being used frequently in 1970s advertisements. Its letters are wide, and several of them have quirky flourishes, like the sloped “v” and curliqued Q.

Pros: Avant Garde is interesting enough to stand out while remaining readable for the web. It’s a solid choice for creative types and people who want to highlight their unique personalities.

Cons: Avant Garde is, well, avant garde. It’s not a default or standard resume font, so it’s not the best choice for an executive-level position in a traditional field.

Alternatives: Avant Garde is similar to Harmonia Sans.

Released in 2009, Museo began with the uppercase “U,” with two flatly curved horizontal tails. It’s warm and approachable.

Pros: Museo is frequently used in web design. It would be a great choice for a customer service or sales job that requires a friendly, open demeanor, or for work in an artisanal or artistic field like fashion or design. It’s open-source, so it’s free to use.

Cons: Museo is warm and friendly, but that can be a drawback if your recruiter is highly traditional. It might be distracting in some cases.

Alternatives: Use Calvert in place of Museo if you’re looking for a similar vibe.

Georgia was released in 1993 and is widely used by companies like Amazon, The New York Times, and Yahoo as a default font. It’s a serif font, so it has a classic look with a bit of warmth.

Pros: Georgia was specifically designed to be read on screens, so it’s highly accessible for screen readers with visual impairments and is legible even on mobile phones. It’s professional and standard while still having a touch of fun and flair.

Cons: Georgia is so widely used and familiar that it might not make you stand out among other applicants.

Alternatives: Georgia and Times New Roman are often used interchangeably. Georgia almost appears to be an “updated” version of TNR.

Garamond came out in 1989, but it has a much longer history. The typeface was inspired by 16th-century design and is often used in print.

Pros: Garamond has an old-school, vintage look that lends it a touch of class. It’s a good example of a font with a distinct personality, making it a solid choice for academic or literary fields.

Cons: Garamond’s retro look means it’s probably not ideal for ultra-contemporary companies.

Alternatives: Cormorant, Sabon, and Minion are strong alternatives to Garamond.

How About Font Combinations & Pairs?

Now that you know which fonts should play best on your resume, you may be wondering if combining a few will get you even better results.

When it comes to leveraging combinations or pairs of multiple fonts, my recommendation is to avoid it completely. The rule of thumb should be one font per resume.

It comes down to efficiency and improving our odds. Using a single font will ensure that things are consistent and that they look good. As soon as we introduce multiple fonts, we have to consider how they pair with one another and, if we're being honest, the average person doesn't always have the best eye for design (myself included!).

You don't want to end up in a situation where you're distracting the read with weird font choices. Keep it simple and pick one. You can always personalize it using font weights and formatting.

The Best Font Size for Your Resume

Remember that readability is one of the most important aspects of resume font choice.

Font size is a key aspect of your reader’s ability to scan your resume quickly, pick out the important parts, and come away with a solid, positive impression of you. A recruiter might be sifting through dozens or even hundreds of resumes at a time (or more), and making their job simpler is the first and easiest way to make yours stand out in a good way.

It can be be tempting to cram every last thing you’ve ever done onto your resume, but cutting out the extraneous parts of your work history can do you some good in more ways than one. With too many sections on your resume, it can quickly become overwhelming to the eye.

What’s more, if you include too much content, you’ll probably be required to shrink your font size to 10 (never, ever go below 10!). But a slightly larger font size gives employers a better impression; one study at Stephen F. Austin University showed that resumes using 12-pt. font were evaluated more highly than those in 10-pt. font.

Since the ultimate goal is to make your resume as easy to read as you possibly can, the optimal font size is between 12 and 14. 10 can be used if you’re highly experienced and have an extremely lengthy resume, but it’s not ideal. Try cutting out a few things that aren’t directly relevant to the job at hand and see if you can make your resume a little easier on the eyes with a larger font.

This exercise can also improve your resume overall by making it more straightforward and concise. No matter how much you might want to include your high school volunteer history, it’s much more important that a recruiter sees only the most relevant and applicable education and work experience right away–no muss, no fuss.

In the same vein, be wary of any light or thin fonts, as your reader will likely get frustrated if your resume is hard to read. Use black instead of grey or any other color so that your resume is optimized for readability.

4 Tips You Can Use To Leverage Formatting & Make Your Resume Font Pop

In addition to choosing a font, you can also use various formatting styles to make certain areas of your resume stand out.

Tip #1: The first rule of resume formatting is to use any special styles, like bold or italics, sparingly. You don’t want your reader to feel overwhelmed by mixed styles or too many italics sections on a page. Be selective about any special characters. White space is your resume’s best friend, and will allow your reader to scan the documents quickly, cherry-picking the most important parts with ease.

Tip #2: The next rule of using bold and italics on your resume are to do so consistently. It might seem like an obvious rule, but it’s also often broken. If you bold your previous job titles and use italics for subtitles, for example, do so for every previous job you list, even if they’re different in some way. Establish a pattern with your style choices right away, and your reader will follow your lead.

Tip #3: You can use bold in your resume to highlight specific key aspects of your background that are relevant to a given job, or to set apart particular sections for optimal scan-ability. For example, you could use bold to highlight special skills you used (such as expertise in a given software program) that are specifically mentioned in the job description. Or, you could use bold, along with a slightly larger font size, for headings.

Tip #4: Italics, meanwhile, are best used for subtitles below headings, or for extra emphasis on a specific aspect of your education or work history, like measurable outcomes. For example, you could use italics to denote the dates during which you worked at a particular job. They’re also frequently used to share quantitative data, like “Grew quarterly sales by 13%.”

Should You Use Different Colored Fonts On Your Resume?

As I've mentioned above, finding ways to stand out on your resume is key.

Typefaces, font size, and general formatting are subtle ways to inject personality into your resume. Colors are a bit more direct.

Adding a splash of color can make your resume pop! I've personally done it on my own resume, check it out:

It's easy to go overboard and end up with a resume that looks tacky or gimmicky.

Notice how I've only injected color into a few areas of my resume and I kept things consistent. If want to do this yourself, I only recommend changing the colors for:

• The section headers on your resume
• Any bars/charts in your skills section
• Any lines (vertical or horizontal) on your resume

I'd recommend picking three of those four so you don't go overboard. Also, I'd recommend keeping things to a single color. Adding multiple colors to your resume is distracting and confusing.

How To Find & Download Non-Standard Resume Fonts (For Free!)

You may have noticed that a few of the fonts I recommended don't show up when you try to find them in Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

Despite being some of the best choices out there for your resume, these fonts aren't always part of the standard package with Microsoft or Google. The good news is, you can easily download and add them yourself without spending a dime! You can learn more about the difference between OTF, TTF, and Web font files here .

Here's how to add custom fonts to Microsoft Word:

• Find a site where you can download fonts for free. Font Squirrel , Dafont , and 1001 Free Fonts are all great options.
• Search for the font you want and download either the OTF or TTF file to your desktop
• Open the file you downloaded and click “Install Font”
• Restart any applications where you want to use the font (Microsoft Word, Photoshop, etc.)
• You should see your new font appear as an option in the drop down!

Adding new fonts to Google Docs is much easier. All you need to do is:

• Open any Google Doc
• Click on the Font drop down and click “More fonts…”
• Search for the font you want, select it, and click “OK”
• Your new font should appear in your drop down as an option

Note: If you're using Google Docs for your resume, make sure you export it as a PDF and not a Word document. PDFs take a “snapshot” of your document as is so your formatting and style will be consistent across devices. Microsoft Word versions vary across devices and different operating systems view Word files differently. If you save and/or send as a Word document your formatting, style, and resume font may get messed up. Not a great first impression!

Resume Fonts: The Bottom Line

We’ve gone through every aspect of resume fonts, from why they matter in the first place to how to choose the best one to fit your professional goals.

Remember to keep readability and professionalism in mind when you choose a font for your cover letter and CV. When in doubt, select a contemporary sans serif typeface and a 12-14-pt. font size. Use bold and italics consistently but sparingly, and remember that white space is your friend.

In addition, the way we’ve thought about resume fonts in this article is a good model for how you should approach all of your introductory materials during the job application process.

Every aspect of your cover letter and CV or resume should be carefully curated to highlight relevant experience and traits. And because your potential employer doesn’t have anything to go on other than what you provide them with, it’s important to make every letter – and every typeface – count.

Ready To Take Your New Font And Write A Resume That Gets Results?

Now that you know what font you're going to use to convey your value, it's time to make those updates!

Choosing a font is pretty straightforward, but understanding how to write your resume, what content to include, what format you should use…that can get confusing in a hurry.

If you want to understand the simple formula for writing resumes that actually get results, check out our complete guide: How To Write A Job-Winning Resume (With Samples & Templates) .

That will give you straightforward answers on what templates to use, how to format your resume, what sections to include, and how to get your value recognized. After you read through that, you should be ready to make those updates!

Head over to our free resume builder to create your resume using one of our proven templates. When you're done with your resume, compare it to your target job description using ResyMatch.io, our free resume scanner tool!

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Austin Belcak

Austin is the founder of Cultivated Culture where he helps people land jobs without connections, without traditional experience, and without applying online. His strategies have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, & Fast Company and has helped people just like you land jobs at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, & more.

2 thoughts on These Are The Best Fonts For Your Resume In 2024

This is a superb analysis of fonts, giving pros, cons and alternatives. And the guide on how to download them is priceless. I’ve never seen a career consultant delve into as many aspects of job searches as you, Austin. You’re the best I’ve ever seen. BTW, I’ve heard that Garamond is valued because it looks so well on Power Point presentations. What’s your opinion on that?

Hey Christie, I really appreciate the kind words! Thanks so much for taking a minute to read through the post, I’m so glad it was helpful.

I personally recommend a Sans Serif font for pretty much everything — resumes, presentations, one sheets, etc. They’re the easiest to read and the most widely accepted these days.

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• BY Bogdan Sandu
• 20 January 2024

Imagine this: You’ve crafted a resume that’s a masterpiece of your achievements, but wait, does the font scream ‘professional’ or ‘meh’? Let’s dive into the world of the best fonts for resumes . Why? Because the font you choose is the suit your words wear in front of your future boss. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about making those words work for you.

In this read, we’ll unravel the magic behind selecting the perfect font . It’s not just Arial versus Times New Roman.

It’s about typography that speaks professionalism, font readability that glides the recruiter’s eyes through your skills, and font styles that echo your personality.

We’ll guide you through the digital compatibility maze, ensuring your resume shines on every screen, and help you navigate the ATS-friendly pathways.

By the end, you’ll have a toolkit of serif and sans-serif fonts that balance creativity with professionalism.

You’ll learn how to pair fonts for visual hierarchy , tweaking font size for impact, and ensuring your resume’s font is recruiter-friendly. Ready to make every letter count?

The Best Fonts for Resumes

Serif fonts.

Hey there! Let’s jump into the serif world, a realm where each letter gets a little extra flair. We’re talking about those tiny feet at the ends of letters.

They’re not just for show; they add a classic, polished look to your resume. In a pile of a thousand, you want yours to whisper, “I’m the one,” right?

Times New Roman

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Best fonts for your resume

What is the best font to use for my resume?

A good choice of font for your resume will ensure that it looks professional, and recruiters can read it with ease.

The wrong choice of font could make your resume look sloppy and give readers a headache.

Your industry could affect the choice you make too. For example, if you are in banking or law then you may opt for a very traditional font – whereas a trendy tech or media resume might require something a little more exciting.

Here are our top 27 fonts that we recommend using on your resume, along with who they might work for, and examples of how they look on a resume.

Resume templates 

This low-contrast font is a great choice for highlighting design elements like bolder titles. It uses clear curves for a crisp and easy-to-read finish. All of which contributes to the clarity of your resume, so you can effectively highlight your skills and experience.

Best for: Great for most industries but particularly, teaching , administrative and academic resumes

Source Sans

Source Sans Pro was created for user interface (UI) design, which means a huge amount of attention was paid to the look and style. This font has a classic feel, is professional and easy on the eye, so recruiters will love it.

Best for: Business, management, trade and finance

Bodoni MT is an Italian typeface that offers a trendy and timeless style. Over the years, this has been used by lots of luxury brands like Vogue, Calvin Klein, and Gucci, making this ideal for creative industries.

Best for: Marketing, IT, design, fashion and retail

EB Garamond

A take on the classical Garamond, the organic strokes and design of this font make it elegant and easy to read. This can be perfect if you want to add character and a touch of class to your resume, without going too far or affecting the reading experience for the recruiter.

Best for: Healthcare, pharmaceuticals , administration and personal assistants

Fira Sans is a professional but contemporary style that is readable without being too formal. It is ideal for creating headers that stand out. Plus, the neat finish is perfect for industries that focus on precision and quality.

Best for: Construction , mechanics and engineering resumes

This font can do a huge amount of work for very little effort. Offering great readability and spacing, you can easily format your text for a clear and concise application, that still has creative flare. Not only that, but this font lends itself nicely to bold titles. This focus on layout is great for those in creative industries.

Best for: Graphic design , marketing and other creative industries

Courier Prime

This is a traditional-looking font that is less formal than the original Courier typeface from the 50s. It’s ideal for creating an edgier, slightly more daring resume whilst also ensuring readability and professionalism.

Best for: Finance, consultants, business, managerial and professional resumes

Montserrat is a versatile font used in a lot of editorial work, websites, branding and signage. This is a result of the geometric shapes and readability, and this can be a welcome addition to any resume, but particularly those that want to remain professional, whilst also adding a modern style.

Best for: Admin, business support, editors, and journalists

Playfair Display

If you’re looking for a font that’s sturdy but elegant and great for writing slightly larger bodies of text, you can’t go wrong with Playfair Display.

Best for: Design, marketing, estate agents and sales

If you write for a living, you’ll be aware it’s not just the words that count. So, for a simple but stylish font that offers a great experience for the reader, Roboto is the font for you. It’s also the reason this style is better suited to roles that require a lot of writing.

Best for: Content writing, communication, and digital marketing roles

Saira is a contemporary and versatile sans-serif font. While looking different to traditional fonts like Times New Roman, this can still be used for a professional, sophisticated resume with a formal tone.

Best for: Teaching, accounting, finance, and business

Source Code Pro

Source Code Pro comes from a family of typefaces created specifically for coding environments. This means it is not only great for coding roles, but also IT positions and others that handle large amounts of data and/or information.

Best for: Coding, IT and data analysis

Arial is probably the most popular choice for resumes and it’s easy to understand why. It’s a simple no-frills font, which is easy to read and keeps your document looking clear and crisp. If you’re having trouble deciding on a font for your resume, Arial is definitely a safe bet.

Best for: All industries and career levels

Calibri is a nice light font, which is still clear and firm enough to provide a pleasant reading experience . It’s ideal for a resume  which needs a lot of technical detail, like IT or engineering, because it will allow you to get more text on the page without it looking bunched up.

Best for: IT and technical resumes

Tahoma creates a bit more of a cool trendy impression on your resume without going overboard. It’s strong and rigid lines make it extremely easy to read, with just the right amount of curvature to create a fresher impression than some of the more classic fonts – ideal if you’re applying to quirky firms, and want to work in an office with table tennis and hammocks 🙂

Best for: Digital marketers and tech firms

Times New Roman

Times New Roman was the resume font of choice many years ago, mainly because it used to be Microsoft Word’s default font. It creates quite a formal traditional look for the resume due to the classic looking serifs (flicks at the end of words). Some recruiters find Times New Roman a little hard to read, so make sure you have the font sized at 12 or more to combat this.

Best for: Teaching resumes , academic resumes, or Traditional organizations such as architects , interior designers, banks and law firms, estate agents .

Lucida Sans

Lucida Sans creates very clear and crisp text, so you certainly won’t have any complaints from people not being able to read your resume. It certainly has a more modern feel to it, so best used for junior roles or roles in the creative space.

Best for: Junior, graduate , creative resume s, hairdresser resumes

Cambria is often described as a slightly less formal version of Times New Roman – it’s still traditional but has a touch of modernism. If you’re looking to go for something slightly more daring without going too far from the beaten path, then Cambria could be the font for you.

Best for: Project managers , finance managers, strategy consultants , business analysts , professional resumes

If you’re looking to create a classy, elegant resume, then Garamond is certainly the font to go with. It provides a touch of class without ruining the reading experience for recruiters and hiring managers. A good choice for professionals who want to give their resume some character.

Best for: Doctors, Accountants , junior finance

Despite its exotic sounding name, Browallia is actually one of the simplest and most down-to-earth fonts out there. If you’re looking to create an incredibly easy reading experience and aren’t too worried about jazzing the resume up stylistically, then opt for Browallia.

Best for: Data analysts , surveyors, electricians , warehouse workers

If you want to create a resume with a very modern feel, then Abadi provides a very sleek and stylish appearance that will resonate well in trendy industries like media and fashion. It’s not just style over content though – it also makes the text nice and easy to read and digest.

Best for: Media and fashion, chef resumes

Georgia gives your resume a look that is halfway between trendy and classic and is very popular in the writing and editorial space.

Best for: Writers, bloggers, editors

Trebuchet us a good impactful font which ensures that your writing jumps off the page and captures the reader’s attention instantly. If you’re looking to stand out amongst the competition with a lesser used font and hook recruiters to your resume, then trebuchet could be a good differentiator for you.

Best for: Customers service resumes , waitress/waiter resumes, barback resume , sales assistants resumes, Receptionist resumes , housekeeping resumes , Care assistant resumes , Support worker resumes , operations assistant resume s

The Verdana font has a very solid dependable feel to it, whilst still remaining stylish and simple. It has a very heavy bold option which is great for creating impactful headlines .

Best for: Construction and engineering resumes

Berlin Sans FB

Berlin Sans is probably as cool-looking as you can go, without going too far. It will give your resume a bit of an edgy look but won’t make it unreadable. Only use to apply for really modern forward-thinking firms like Facebook and Google – don’t use it for traditional organizations.

Best for: Applying to Facebook and Google

Century Gothic

For a font that’s crisp, clean, and easy-to-read, you can’t go wrong with Century Gothic. This font can be used for a resume in any industry without looking out of place.

Best for: All industries

If you need to focus on readability, but also want to add a splash of modern resume style without going wild, opt for Gill Sans. It’s a very simple font, with a tiny bit of new era styling added.

Best for: Admin and business support resumes

Best font size for your resume

Once you’ve selected a font that suits your personal style and industry, you need to think about the size of font you will use.

Depending on the type of font you use, you should ideally use a font size between 10-13 .

Too big and your resume will look basic and unprofessional.

Too small and recruiters will struggle to read your resume .

And remember to keep your resume at around 2 pages in length, with a professional layout.

Font colour

To provide a pleasant reading experience for recruiters and employers, keep the colours and formatting simple when writing your resume.

Black text on a white page may seem boring, but it works.

If you want to experiment a bit – some blues or dark colours in your headings are about as far as you should go in order to stay professional.

Going overboard with too many zany colours will give readers a headache and have recruiters doubting your professionalism.

Headings and subheadings

Recruiters will want to scan through your resume quickly and pick out the information they need. Make this easy for them by enlarging and embolding your headings and subheading like below.

Keep your fonts consistent throughout the resume to ensure it looks uniformed and neat.

Fonts that are best not to use on your resume

Now that we’ve covered the best fonts for your resume, it’s worth mentioning the fonts which should never be used on a resume.

Hopefully it’s clear to see why from the examples …

Some candidates use Impact in an attempt to make an impact on readers – but it doesn’t make a positive one. It looks very harsh and kills the professionalism

Courier is a very old-fashioned basic font and may cause readers to doubt your IT skills.

Comic Sans is the closest thing you will find to a rushed scribble – it shouldn’t be on a professional document.

Bradley Hand

Bradley Hand is both difficult to read and unprofessional looking – avoid at all costs

Resume font matters

Although resume font may seem like a trivial matter, it can have a huge effect on your ability to land interviews and job offers.

Readability and professionalism are the most important factors when deciding the best font to use for your resume.

When in doubt – just keep it simple.

Good luck with the job search.

10 Best Fonts for Your Resume [2024]

• November 8, 2023
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

Choosing the best fonts for your resume can be tricky. When you’re creating your resume, there’s a lot to keep in mind. Between writing the content of your resume and choosing from an endless selection of designs, it’s easy to overlook some of the fundamental aspects. But if there’s one thing you don’t want to neglect, it’s choosing the best font for your resume.

Table of contents

How to choose the best fonts for a resume, choose the right font size for your resume, what are the 10 best fonts for a resume, which fonts should you stay away from.

• Fonts for a Resume FAQs

Choosing the right font for a resume is important for several reasons. Here are some key points to consider:

• Professionalism and Legibility : The font you choose can impact the overall appearance and readability of your resume. A well-chosen font can make your resume look polished and professional, while a poor choice can make it appear unprofessional and difficult to read.
• First Impression : Your resume is often the first impression a potential employer has of you. The font you use can contribute to the overall impression you make. A clean and professional font can convey a sense of professionalism and attention to detail, while a font that is difficult to read or unappealing can create a negative impression.
• Consistency and Readability : Consistency in font choice throughout your resume helps create a cohesive and visually appealing document. It is important to choose a font that is easy to read both on screen and in print. Fonts with clear letterforms and appropriate spacing can enhance readability and ensure that your resume is easily understood.
• Attention to Detail : Choosing the right font for your resume demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism. It shows that you have taken the time to carefully consider all aspects of your resume, including the font choice.

When choosing the right font size for your resume, it’s important to consider readability and legibility. You want to ensure that your resume is easy to read and that the font size is appropriate for both paper and digital formats. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right font size for your resume:

Considerations for Font Size Selection:

• Standard Font Size : The standard font size for a resume is typically between 10 and 12 points . This size ensures that the text is legible and doesn’t appear too small or too large on the page.
• Consistency : Maintain consistency in font size throughout your resume. Use the same font size for all sections, including headings, subheadings, and body text, to create a cohesive and professional look.
• Readability : Ensure that the font size you choose allows for easy reading. Avoid using font sizes that are too small, as they can strain the reader’s eyes. Similarly, avoid using font sizes that are too large, as they can make your resume appear unprofessional and take up unnecessary space.

Recommended Font Sizes:

• Headings : For section headings, such as “Work Experience” or “Education,” a font size between 14 and 16 points can be used to make them stand out.
• Subheadings : For subheadings within sections, a font size between 12 and 14 points can be used to differentiate them from the body text.
• Body Text : For the main body of your resume, including job descriptions and bullet points, a font size between 10 and 12 points is generally appropriate. This size ensures readability while maximizing the use of space.

It’s always a good idea to review your resume in both print and digital formats to ensure that the font size is easily readable in both contexts.

Take a look at the ten best fonts for resume writers in 2023 and decide which one is right for you.

It is a modern font with excellent legibility and Word’s standard font. It performs exceptionally well on computer screens. Moreover, its design ensures legibility even if you choose a smaller resume font size.

2. Garamond

If you are looking for a more modern version of the standard Times New Roman, Garamond is perfect. This font will give your resume a polished and neat look. Furthermore, Garamond can help you tighten up the space of your resume. It can do this without sacrificing the readability by decreasing the letter spacing.

This sans-serif font will give your resume a modern yet professional look. It is one of the newer fonts with a contemporary design. The tight spacing of the letters will allow you to fit more text on one page of your resume.

Arial is a sans-serif font that is legible and simplistic. It is a safe choice as a font for a resume, and it remains a classic among many job seekers . It is often considered the simpler version of the famous Times New Roman.

Didot looks very elegant thanks to the straightforward, rational design and fine strokes. It’s known to draw the readers’ attention due to its ‘dazzle’ effect and thick verticals.

Verdana was designed in 1996. The goal was to create a simple, elegant font. This allows Verdana to remain readable on large and small screens of any resolution. It has a classic yet original look and can help your resume stand out.

7. Helvetica

Like Arial, Helvetica offers clean lines and outstanding legibility. This font is so popular that some of the world’s biggest brands, such as BMW or Microsoft, have used it in their logos. Its professional appearance makes Helvetica a safe bet for your resume font.

This font is a more creative design than the standard Calibri. Corbel can make your resume look unique and modern. Released in 2005, Corbel is perfect for those looking for a legible yet creative font for a resume.

9. Times New Roman

Times New Roman remains one of the most used fonts. Yet, its timeless look has its shortcomings. Because of its popularity, a resume with Times New Roman may not stand out as well. Moreover, if you choose a smaller resume font size, Times New Roman may be hard to read. This font thus remains a timeless classic and will not harm you, but it might not make your resume stand out.

10. Baskerville

This font stands out best in headings or names and is the most trusted out of all serif fonts. Baskerville has a classic and elegant look. It conveys trustworthiness and reliability.

Using unprofessional fonts such as Comic Sans or  Courier on your resume is never good. While it might make your resume stand out, it will make you seem childish and unprofessional. The recruiters will be less likely to consider a resume written in such fonts. Your chances of landing a job will thus decrease.

FAQs – Best fonts for your resume

What are the best fonts for resume headings.

When choosing a font for your resume heading, it’s important to consider the readability, professionalism, and aesthetic appeal of the font. Additionally, it’s recommended to use font sizes around 12 for the main body and 14-16 for headings to ensure clear and easy-to-read formatting. Here are some recommended fonts for a resume heading:

• Avenir Next

What is the standard font for a professional resume?

One of the most commonly used fonts for resumes is Times New Roman. This classic serif font has been a staple in the business world for decades due to its timeless appeal and legibility. Its traditional look gives off an air of formality and is widely accepted as a safe choice. Another popular option is Arial, a clean and modern sans-serif font. Arial offers a sleek and contemporary look while still maintaining readability. It is often preferred by those seeking a more modern or creative approach to their resume design. Calibri is another widely used font that strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and modernity. With its clean lines and rounded edges, Calibri provides an elegant yet approachable feel to your resume.

Your choice of the best fonts for your resume plays a crucial role . You should aim for a professional, distinctive, and elegant look. Consider this when deciding on the  font for your resume . The look of your resume may make the difference between an interview and rejection.

You may also be interested in:

• 9 Ways How to Improve Your Resume
• Can a Resume be 2 Pages? (Tips & Tricks)
• Should You Put a Photo on Your Resume?

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• Fill in your summary, experience, education, skills, and more.
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Nela Moore is a Graphic Designer & Implementer and UX Lover. She has spent the last 10 years working in the software industry with a specialized focus on development.

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The Best Resume Format: 20+ Examples + How-to Tips

How to format a resume the right way and how to choose the best of the three standard resume formats, depending on your current career circumstances. Plus, examples of well-formatted resumes you can steal.

The term “resume format” might mean different things: 

• For some, it’s about the nuts and bolts of the document—things like margins, fonts, overall structure.
• For others, it’s about picking the right type of the three standard resume formats—reverse-chronological, functional (skills-based), or combination (hybrid).
• Then there are those who think of “format” as the visual design and layout of a resume.

Whichever of those aspects of resume formatting you’re curious about, you’ll get all the answers you need here.

In this guide:

• How to format your resume to make it readable and professional.
• Which resume format to choose, based on your current career situation.
• Recent resume formatting trends you should know (and not always follow).

Just came here for the TL;DR version? Here it goes.

Short answer:

• Consistency is the most important aspect of resume formatting. Use a standard font like Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12 pt font for the main body and 14–16 pt for headings. Set line spacing for 1–1.15 and margins not below 0.5 inches. For dates, choose one date format and stick to it.
• To save time and effort and make sure your resume looks just right, use an online resume builder. Obviously, I’d love you to take Rezi for a spin because we’re strongly focused on ATS-compliant formats, but if you want alternatives, Wozber, FlowCV, and Teal are also worth a try.
• The reverse-chronological resume format is a safe choice for all jobseekers and the best choice for 9 out of 10 candidates. 
• If you’re fresh out of school and have no work history to showcase, still use the reverse-chronological resume, just put your education section above the work experience part. 
• The combination format might work if you’re changing careers, but only if you’ve had a lot of professional experience in that previous field.
• The functional resume format is usually too risky. Use at your own peril. The only scenario where it might be okay is if you’re applying for a highly-creative role and your portfolio matters more than your resume.

How to Format a Resume?

• Set margins for 1 inch. If a few lines spill over to the next page, you can make your margins slightly smaller, but not smaller than 0.5 inches.
• If you have less than 5 years of experience, make your resume one-page. Two-page resumes are fine for mid-level to senior-level candidates.
• Use one of the standard, recognizable fonts like Arial, Calibri, Merriweather, Helvetica, Georgia, or Garamond. You can use a different font for headings: a combo of serif and sans-serif fonts often looks better.
• Go for 10–12 pt font for the main body and 14–16 pt for section headings.
• Put essential information in bold but don’t overdo it—use it for things like company names, educational institutions, or certifications.
• Use single or 1.15 line spacing for the main body, and 1.5–2.0 for the space between headings and sections.
• Structure your sections in the following order: Contact Information, Summary, Work Experience, Education, Skills, Additional Sections (Certifications, Courses, Conference Participation, Volunteer Work, and similar).
• Use bullet points to describe your duties and achievements in your work experience section. Use up to 7 bullet points per job—the more recent the position, the more bullets you can shoot for.
• Save your resume as a PDF unless the job ad explicitly asks for a different file format. Name the file FirstName_LastName_Resume_TargetCompany , e.g., John_Doe_Resume_Apple.

Formatting your resume right won’t automatically get you hired. Formatting it wrong, though, will automatically get you rejected. 

It’s the bare minimum you need to take care of in your job application. So yeah, don’t mess it up.

These essentials make sure your resume isn’t just professional, but also easy to skim and visually appealing.

Set proper margins

Margins frame your resume, giving it a clean, organized look. Aim for one-inch margins all around. If you’re tight on space, you can squeeze them down a bit—just not below 0.5 inches to avoid a cramped look.

Use respectable fonts

Your choice of font matters a lot. Stick to clear, professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, Merriweather or Times New Roman. Keep the main text between 10 and 12 points, bumping up headings a bit to make them pop. The aim is clarity, ensuring anyone can easily read your resume.

Get your line spacing right

Good line spacing keeps your resume from looking like a wall of text. Use single spacing for your content, with a bit more space between sections (1.5 to 2.0) to break things up visually.

Use clear, descriptive headings

Headings guide readers through your resume, so they need to stand out. Whether you bold them or use a different font, keep it consistent. This helps employers quickly find what they’re looking for.

Put the sections in the right order

How you organize your resume sections can make a big difference. Kick off with your contact info and a punchy summary or objective. After that, what comes next depends on what you want to highlight. Usually, you’ll lead with your work experience, followed by education, skills, and any extra goodies like certifications or awards.

Use bullet points strategically

Avoid using paragraphs to describe previous experience. Bullet points are your best friend for listing achievements and responsibilities. Start each one with a dynamic action verb and, whenever you can, quantify your successes. This format is not just reader-friendly, it also shines a spotlight on your contributions.

Save your resume as a PDF

When saving your resume, PDF is usually your safest bet to keep the formatting consistent across different devices. Name your resume file clearly with your name and the word “resume,” like, John_Doe_Resume.pdf . 

For brownie points, you can add the name of the company you’re applying to: Michael_Tomaszewski_Resume_Rezi.pdf (to be frank, I never got to send one).

Understanding these formatting basics sets a solid foundation for your resume, making it look good and read well. 

But that’s the easy part. Here’s where things get a little more complicated (or do they?).

Which of the Three Resume Formats is the Best?

• The three standard types of resume formats are: reverse-chronological (the most common one, focused on your work history), functional, AKA skills-based (focused on your skills), and combination (highlighting skills while tying them to professional experience).
• Reverse-chronological resume format is the best choice for most candidates, no matter their industry or seniority level.
• Combination resume format can work well for senior professionals with stellar achievements or for career-changers with extensive experience in their previous field.
• Functional resume format is generally risky: most recruiters don’t like it, and it might not pass some ATS scans. You can get away with it when applying for creative roles, where your portfolio matters more than linear work experience.

I’ll go into details right below. But first, consult this handy flowchart.

Below, I’ll break down the three main types to help you pick the best one for your current situation and career goals.

Reverse-chronological resume format

This is the go-to format for most jobseekers. Its main focus is in the work experience section, with jobs you’ve held listed in reverse-chronological order (starting with the current or most recent one, then working your way back in time).

This is the standard order of sections on a reverse-chronological resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Summary or Resume Objective
• Work Experience
• Additional sections (Publications, Courses, Certificates , Volunteer Work , Hobbies and Interests, and similar)

And here’s what a good reverse-chronological resume looks like.

Reverse-chronological resume sample

Pros: it’s a recruiter- and ATS-friendly resume , highlighting your career progression and best achievements. It focuses exactly on what matters the most to potential employers.

Cons: if you’ve had plenty of success over many years of your professional career, some of the best bits might get lost between the cracks of a reverse-chronological resume.

This format is a no-brainer when you’ve had a straightforward career in the same field. 

That said, the reverse-chronological resume will work well even for career-changers, people with career gaps, or recent grads with little to no professional experience. 

Here’s why:

• Career changers: write an effective reverse-chronological resume by expressing your desire for a career switch in the resume summary, then, focus on experience and skills that are transferable to the new industry.
• Employment gaps: a 2014 study has shown that career gaps are far less significant to hiring decision-makers than you’d fear. As long as the gap has been followed by a period of continuous employment, it’s unlikely to bother your potential employer. The same goes for any gap shorter than 9 months. It shouldn’t even be called a “gap” in that case, you were just out of work for a while. Of course, you still need to explain the break, but something as straightforward as “Job Seeking” or “Break for Personal Reasons” will do the trick.
• No relevant work history: still fresh out of school with no work experience? Put your “Education” section above your “Work Experience.” In the education section, elaborate on relevant coursework or extracurricular activities . As for the work experience, list anything that might count, even that part-time cafeteria job or volunteer work.

Note : more recent, post-pandemic studies suggest that Americans do display slightly negative sentiment towards those who were unemployed during the pandemic. That said, those surveys were run on general population, not hiring professionals, so take the results with a grain of salt.

Functional (skills-based) resume format

Here, you focus on your skills rather than when you worked where. 

It’s commonly advertised as *the* resume format for candidates with gaps in employment or who are switching careers and want to highlight transferable skills.

The twist is that, technically, you don’t even have to put in the dates next to your jobs. And that might sound really tempting to those of you who aren’t too confident about your career progression so far.

But it just doesn’t work like that. 

You’ll be much better off honestly addressing any irregularities in work history on your resume than trying to conceal those. A functional resume immediately raises questions.

Honestly, any time I had to write a sample functional resume to show that it MIGHT work, I always ended up creating something closer to a combination resume (more on that in a moment).

This is the standard order of sections on a functional resume:

• Resume Objective
• Skills Summary
• Additional sections

Here’s what it looks like in practice.

Functional resume sample

Pros: it lets you play up your strengths and downplay less relevant positions. Can be a good choice for creative or artistic positions or when applying to small businesses.

Cons: recruiters aren’t fans because it can seem like you’re hiding something. It’s not great for dealing with ATS scans. It conceals what hiring decision-makers are interested in the most—your career progression.

If you’re dead set on using the functional resume format, by this point, I’ve probably run out of options to convince you otherwise. 

My final piece of advice: provide concrete examples that prove the skills you’re listing. And if you have an online portfolio, by all means include a link in the contact information section.

Combination (hybrid) resume format

Also called a chrono-functional resume. A mix of both worlds, this format showcases your skills upfront, followed by a reverse-chronological work history. It’s ideal for highly experienced senior candidates or career-changers who’ve had long stints of employment in their “previous” careers.

• Extensive Skills Summary

Combination resume sample

Pros: highlights your most important skills and achievements up top. The magic sauce is tying a skill you mention to concrete evidence from your work history.

Cons: it’s fairly difficult to write it well. The whole point is compiling the highlights from your career in the skills summary at the top, but you don’t want to repeat all that information all over again in the work experience section.

A great example of someone who benefited from a combination resume comes from my individual client from a few years back, we’ll call him Jose.

Jose had over a dozen jobs throughout his 20-year career. He wasn’t much of a job hopper, more like a jack of all trades, taking a part-time gig here and there or holding two jobs simultaneously at times. 

He spent most of his life as a goalkeeper coach for a soccer club in Florida. Jose also handled some promotional activities for the club, was responsible for fundraising, and worked as a sales rep for a niche goalkeeper gear manufacturer. He was looking for a job in sales. And—

As we started talking, I realized he was an amazing salesperson! 

For instance, he single-handedly closed a sponsorship deal with the then Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper (to those of you in the US—trust me, that’s a huge name in Europe) despite competing with the Nikes and Adidases of this world, and other companies he wouldn’t have been able to outbid. He also did spectacularly well managing sales initiatives for the soccer club.

And yet, if two of his most recent job positions had just read “Head Goalkeeper Coach” and “Goalkeeper Coach,” all of those other relevant achievements would have gotten buried. And recruiters won’t dig for information they don’t have readily available at first glance. 

Long story short, we wrote a combination resume for Jose and quickly landed him his dream sales gig. If your current situation sounds even a bit similar, this might be your cue!

CV format vs. resume format

Just a quick note here. If you’re looking for a job in academia, none of the above holds true. You’ll need to follow a CV format—and it’s an entirely different document.

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is not just a “fancy” resume. It’s way more detailed and used primarily in higher education teaching and research positions, covering your entire career. 

How to choose the best resume format for you?

Depending on your experience level:.

• Entry-level with no experience: lean towards a modified reverse-chronological resume with the education section above the work experience.
• Mid-level: use the reverse-chronological format, which showcases a solid work history and upward career trajectory.
• Senior-level: go for a combination format as it allows you to display a rich mix of skills and impactful career milestones.
• Career-changers: the combination format is a good bet, letting you emphasize relevant skills over past job titles. You can also use a reverse-chronological resume, but provide some context for your desire to change careers in the resume summary or resume objective.

Depending on other factors:

• Linear work history: when you have a solid, consistent work history in the same field, use the reverse-chronological resume format. If your work history is varied with gaps or changes in career paths, a combination resume format might be better.
• Your industry: creative fields are more open to unique formats and designs. For more traditional fields, stick to the basics of standard resume formatting and, ideally, use the reverse-chronological resume.
• The role’s requirements: no matter the exact structure you end up using in your resume, always tailor any resume format to highlight the skills and experience that the role requires.

Here’s what you need to know about resume formatting and resume formats:

• Make your resume presentable. Treat it as any other formal document. Use an elegant font, single line spacing, 1-inch margins, and clear, visually-distinct headings.
• Always include the following sections: contact information, summary or objective, work experience, education, and skills.
• It’s best practice to throw in additional sections that back your expertise up: certifications, conferences, publications, volunteer work, projects, and similar.
• There are three standard resume formats: reverse-chronological, functional, and combination.
• The reverse-chronological resume is the best pick for a majority of candidates.
• Senior candidates or career-changers with a rich history of employment can benefit from using the combination resume format.
• Functional resumes are a less-than-perfect choice. They’re not exactly ATS-friendly, and they conceal some of the most important information.

Thanks a ton for reading and, as always, keeping my fingers crossed for your job hunt! Got any questions unanswered? Check out the FAQs below or hit me up via a DM on LinkedIn, always happy to talk careers!

Should my resume be one page?

For most early-career professionals, keeping your resume to one page is ideal. It forces you to highlight your most relevant experiences and skills. However, if you’re a mid- to senior-level professional with extensive experience relevant to the job you’re applying for, it’s acceptable to extend to two pages. The key is relevance and value—every section should add something meaningful.

How do I create an outline for my resume?

Start by listing the essential sections: Contact Information, Summary or Objective, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and any other relevant sections like Certifications or Projects. Next, under each category, bullet point the items you plan to include, focusing on achievements and skills. Adjust the order based on the resume format you choose and what you want to emphasize most.

What’s the best resume format for college students?

College students often benefit from a modified reverse-chronological format with education placed above work experience. It allows you to highlight your academic projects, and extracurricular activities, especially if you lack formal work experience. However, if you’ve had significant internships or relevant work, a traditional reverse-chronological format that showcases this experience can also work well.

Can I include a picture on my resume?

Generally, it’s best to avoid including a picture on your resume, especially for jobs in the US and UK, where it can actually work against you due to anti-discrimination laws. However, there are exceptions based on industry (like acting) or geographic location (some countries outside the US expect a photo). Always research the norms for your specific situation.

What’s the best resume format for ATS scans?

A reverse-chronological format is the safest bet for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) because it’s straightforward and easy for the software to parse. Regardless of format, ensure your resume includes relevant keywords from the job description, uses standard headings (like “Work Experience”), and avoids overly complex layouts or elements that could confuse the ATS.

What should I always include on a resume ?

Always include your contact information, a summary or objective (tailored to the job), your work experience (with achievements and quantifiable results), your education, and relevant skills. Depending on the job, you might also include sections for certifications, languages, volunteer work, or projects. Remember, customization based on the job you’re applying for is key.

Michael Tomaszewski

Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW, is a resume and career advice expert with 7+ years of experience in the hiring industry. He has helped millions of readers and dozens of one-on-one clients create resumes and cover letters that *finally* do their talents and accomplishments justice.

9 Tips for Creating Your Freelance Graphic Design Resume

F reelance work provides a path toward setting your hours and determining your healthy work-life balance. Chris Grosser states , “Opportunities don’t happen; you create them.” The best way to stand out is with a compelling freelance graphic design resume that helps you find the best opportunities to grow your career.

The best resume will help you pop off the page and encourage the client to contact you to learn more about how you can help their brand. The challenge is knowing the best things to add to your professional resume to impress clients and spur career growth.

Luckily, you’re in the perfect spot to learn more about graphic design resume ideas and tips to create a strong case when courting new clients. Continue reading to emphasize freelance career building with your resume today!

1. Remember the Basics

It’s critical to list your basic information on a freelance graphic design resume. The basic information often gets lost in the shuffle when attempting to stand out to clients. Ensure you have your name, contact information, and LinkedIn profile on the resume to make contacting you straightforward.

Remember that your resume will be scanned, so you can save time by not overdoing the headings on your resume. You should refrain from labeling past work experiences as gigs, as your resume could be thrown out before ever getting in front of a hiring manager or client.

2. Be Straightforward

A concise freelance graphic design resume is the best approach to gaining new clients and career opportunities. Keep your resume at two pages or less for the best results. The ideal resume contains all relevant information on one page.

It’s tempting to show off all your relevant experience, but a long resume is less likely to be read from start to finish. Most hiring managers will skim resumes. Provide headlines that grab attention instead of attempting to share your life story.

3. Avoid Word Processors

As a graphic design professional, you have the skills and experience with programs designed to create impressive resumes. Use those skills to demonstrate what you can do for clients. Your resume is an opportunity to show your skills within different design programs.

Google Docs and Microsoft Word won’t cut it when attempting to turn the head of a large corporation. Use the skills you’ve honed to show the hiring manager that you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

4. Use the Best Fonts

Knowing which fonts to use and which to avoid is an excellent step toward designing a stand-out resume. Fonts that are easy to read Trendy fonts are often a bad idea, and the most crucial factor to consider is the legibility of the font you choose for your resume.

Choose a font that is easy to read or skim. You can use the client’s website to gauge which font option is the best based on the brand’s tone. A company with a modern font will likely appreciate a stylish font choice on your graphic design resume. Work with the best virtual assistants to keep your resume clean and your content growing.

5. Add Color

The key to using color with your graphic design resume ideas is to avoid going overboard. A bit of color is an asset to your graphic design resume, but too much color distracts the reader from the necessary information. The best color schemes contain two or three colors that work well together.

Use the colors in crucial areas on the document to spruce things up and put your resume over the top. The goal is to draw eyes to specific sections of your resume with subtle colors and design elements.

6. Use Your Experience

Use your experience to bolster your resume. If you used a specific program or designed an impressive website for a client, share information about it and demonstrate your knowledge. Talk about the steps you took and the obstacles you overcame to create the finished product.

Hiring managers are wary of graphic designers who claim others’ work as their own. Demonstrating your process and knowledge is a fantastic way to stand out from other candidates vying for the position.

7. Provide Work Samples

Putting your money where your mouth is is quite effective when building a freelance graphic design resume. The best way to show what you’re capable of is by providing work samples from past projects you’ve handled.

Build a short collection of your best works to demonstrate your talent and experience. Work samples act as fantastic teasers to gain attention from hiring managers and convince them to check out more of your portfolio.

8. Stay Consistent

Knowing when to stop is an essential part of becoming a successful graphic designer. It’s natural to want to experience using different design elements, like colors, fonts, and templates. Consistency is one of the most effective ways to tone your resume down.

Maintain a consistent color palette from start to finish. Apply that template to your cover letter to maintain the same theme when applying for jobs or contacting potential clients.

9. Provide a Cover Letter

The last tip for graphic design resume ideas concerns something other than the resume. Your cover letter is an essential document that tells your potential client much about you, your experience, and how you can help the potential client improve their business.

Keeping your resume short is wise, and you can use your cover letter to tell your story and share your graphic design journey with potential clients. Maintain a professional tone within your cover letter and focus on your career. It’s an effective way to share more relevant information about your graphic design background with the client.

Create Your Freelance Graphic Design Resume Today

Building a freelance graphic design resume is crucial to career growth and finding new clients to work with. Use your design skills to find a font and color scheme that attract attention and help you stand out.

Include your basic information, and use a straightforward approach to sharing your background and experience. Provide a work sample to demonstrate your prowess, and be prepared to share your design methods.

Finding new career opportunities is daunting, but the proper guidance will put you on the right path toward career growth. Check out more of our Career blog content to take your next steps toward a brighter future.

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.