How to Tell If a Resume Uses a Template

In this article some explanations are given as since most times they are the first part of resume that an employer can find out about you, in the competitive job market, your resume is what is used as an initial introduction to an employer. It is a picture of your expertise, who you are and what you have done. But due to the numerous resume templates easily accessible. Most of the jobseekers might end up using the templates in producing their resumes. Although a template might appear to be an easy way out, in some cases. It can also provide a pretty impersonal or generic-like document that is just too similar to others. By reviewing the next article, the user will get to know how to understand whether a resume has been produced on a template and which clues can indicate that the document lacks a personal touch.

The significance of an Individualized Resume

A resume which is done on a personal basis tells the potential employers that the candidate takes their application seriously. In contrast to a template, usually having a pre-formed structure, a resume adapted to the needs of a particular candidate. Points out his/her individual strengths, experience, and achievements. It states the personal branding of the candidate and this is the ticket to get out of the crowd.

Archetypal Signs of Template-Based Resume

The archetypical examples of a template-based resume are a strict formatting, excessive use of buzzwords and generally speaking, the inability to personalize the resume. These resumes are very generic in way of the structure given without a particular emphasis on the sections such as the Objective, Skills and Acquired Experience, all of which are preset, and therefore feels impersonal. Also, some examples of content include more general messages rather than examples of specific achievements or milestones. CV writers online can ensure a customized, professional resume that effectively showcases your unique qualifications and stands out to employers.

Absence of Personalization in Design

Template may also have inbuilt formatting which consists of a fixed layout structure of headings, bullet points and the sections. Although such layouts are rather neat and business-like, they can also give some resume a feeling of uniformity and standardization. In case the layout seems more or less the same or it is simply a regular resume with no design or originality to it, chances are high a template was used. As an example, two-column template with standard header and footer is being utilized by many of the templates.

Buzzword and Generic Phases overuse

Over usage of generic phrases and buzzwords is one of the first indications of a template-based resume. The templates usually have preloaded information that would serve the various positions. Other buzzwords like “dynamic professional”, “results oriented”, and “highly motivated” are common duds in template resumes. And there should be no specific instances to prove this kind of descriptive words.

Weird or Extremely Formatted Formatting

Templates are usually accompanied by their tight formatting that they do not have much space to customize. When the formatting of the resume is too rigid/uniform. Then it is a good sign that it was done through a template. An example of this is that. When spacing between things is too even throughout or when everything in the document is laid out the same way without any stretch, it could be template based.

Lack of consistency or Difference in Formatting of Sections

The other red flag of a template-generated resume is erratic formatting among section. This is due to the fact that templates are usually formulated in such a way that they can be used by myriads of applicants so that not all sections are made to appear homogenous in resumes. A mismatch of fonts, or even spacing between sections, or even some sections being styled differently to other sections can be an indication that it is a copy and paste job using a generic template,

Bandwagon or Too Plain Content

The resumes that have a template are usually filled with too simple of content that does not bring any value or depth in view of the qualifications that a candidate shall have to bring with him or her. This material can be based on work responsibilities and not accomplishments and outcomes. To illustrate, when a candidate states their job analyses and does not specify about exact effect that they had on their team and company. Then it is possible to conclude that this candidate used a template and failed to customize it.

Duplicated or Worn-Out Resume Forms

The other way of knowing that a resume is a template is by identifying overused designs. When the resume format is normal or resembles other resumes, you have seen. Then it is very likely to be of template-based resume. There are also some templates that are readily accessible online via resume-creating sites or word processing software. So it is possible that the same layout can be received by many applicants.

Personal Branding Deficiencies

The opportunity to incorporate the personal brand of a candidate is one of the most important things about a resume. The resume must be developed in a way that will demonstrate the special qualities that make the person stand out among other candidates. When there is no element of individuality in the resume and when it comes across as a copy paste job, more than likely it would be a template-based resume.

Conclusion

Although time-saving may be achieved when writing a resume by following a template. This approach is likely to give a generic, impersonalized, and boring look to a resume and does not allow bringing out what is unique about the candidate. Become aware of the red flags in the field of template-based resumes. Including the excessive use of slogans, fixed structure, and undifferentiated writing that most of the resume’s lack. And you will give your resume some breathing space. Tailoring your resume to your unique qualification, measurable achievements. And reflecting your personal brand name will make an impression on the hiring managers establishing each candidate on their dream job.