A recent article from Business Insider featuring some creative resumes – some of which are really quite cool, you really should take a few minutes to look at them – got me thinking about how a “good-looking” resume can make it to the top of the pile.

One of the resumes featured looked like a Google Search page, and this one really caught my eye for a few reasons. (Funnily enough, the author, Eric Gandhi, landed an interview at Google!)

1. It looks like a Google Search Page – one of the most recognizable formats for information to be provided in. A a simple layout (or as in the case above, also a familiar layout) makes it easier for the reader to understand. At CML, we showcase all of our candidates’ resumes in a simple and consistent layout for our clients, so that the talent stands out, not the formatting.

2. It’s clear and concise. And this should describe every resume ever written – but it doesn’t. Hiring managers are generally extremely busy, so a clear and concise resume is preferable. Eric’s contact details, employment history, skills and education are clearly laid out.

And another point I garnered from Eric…

3. Eric got himself an interview because he showed Google he understood their company. Potential employers like people who know and understand their brand, you’re one step away from being a brand ambassador for their company (i.e. you’ll say nice things about them). Now, I’m not saying go and steal their Letterhead for your resume paper, but study their website and notice if they are appearing in the local press at all, and mention something that stood out to you in your interview.

So, a few tips for making your resume more attractive

• use a simple font
• use bullet points
• and certainly use Bold for headings.

Stay away from

• too much fluff
• too many colours (black and white really does work best)
• and make sure it’s not too long!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask us!