The Best Resume Templates (And What Employers Want to See)

Creating a resume that stands out in a crowded job market can feel like trying to get noticed in a packed stadium. But with the right template and a clear understanding of what hiring managers are actually looking for, you can make sure your resume gets the attention it deserves.

Let’s break down the best resume templates and highlight what employers really want to see when they’re reviewing candidates.

Why Your Resume Template Matters

First impressions matter. Recruiters spend an average of 6 to 8 seconds scanning a resume before deciding if it’s worth a deeper look. A polished, clean layout can mean the difference between landing in the “yes” pile or the digital trash bin.

The right resume template helps communicate professionalism, organization, and relevance—all without saying a word. It also ensures your experience and skills are easy to read, which is key in today’s fast-paced hiring environment.

Key Elements Employers Look for in a Resume

Before we dive into template styles, let’s clarify what employers want to see across the board:

Clear Contact Information

Include your full name, phone number, professional email, LinkedIn profile, and optionally, a personal portfolio if relevant.

A Strong Summary or Objective

A short, 2-3 sentence intro at the top of your resume that explains who you are and what you bring to the table.

Relevant Work Experience

List roles in reverse-chronological order, focusing on achievements and measurable results.

Skills Section

Use bullet points to highlight hard and soft skills relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Education

Unless you’re a recent graduate, this section should go after your work experience.

Clean Formatting

No walls of text, distracting fonts, or over-the-top colors. Simplicity rules.

The Best Resume Templates by Style

Different industries call for different vibes. Here are the top resume template types and which roles they’re best suited for.

Classic (Chronological) Resume

Best For: Most industries, especially corporate roles like finance, law, and education.

Why It Works: It’s familiar to recruiters and ATS-friendly. This layout emphasizes work experience and is ideal for people with a solid job history.

Structure:

• Contact Info
• Summary
• Work Experience
• Skills
• Education

Template Tip: Use clean fonts like Arial or Calibri, and stick to black and white for a timeless look.

Modern Resume

Best For: Marketing, design, tech, and startups.

Why It Works: This layout blends structure with creativity. It may feature columns, icons, or pops of color—without going overboard.

Structure:

• Contact Info
• Profile Summary
• Skills (featured prominently)
• Experience
• Education

Template Tip: Use light color accents (navy, gray, or teal) to make your resume stand out while staying professional.

Functional (Skills-Based) Resume

Best For: Career changers or those with gaps in their work history.

Why It Works: Focuses on transferable skills instead of job chronology. Useful if your experience doesn’t directly align with the role you’re applying for.

Structure:

• Contact Info
• Summary
• Skills & Achievements
• Work Experience
• Education

Template Tip: Group skills by category (e.g., “Project Management,” “Communication”) and provide examples under each.

Hybrid Resume

Best For: Professionals with a mix of skills and experience across different fields.

Why It Works: Combines the best of both chronological and functional resumes. Good for those moving into leadership or seeking cross-functional roles.

Structure:

• Contact Info
• Summary
• Core Skills
• Work Experience
• Education

Template Tip: Use section dividers and consistent formatting to keep things organized.

Table: Best Resume Templates by Profession

Tips for Optimizing Your Resume Template

Make It ATS-Friendly

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes. That means fancy designs or PDFs with unusual formatting might get rejected automatically. Use standard headings (like “Experience” or “Education”) and avoid using tables within tables or excessive graphics.

Prioritize Readability

Stick to a font size between 10 and 12 pt, use bullet points, and leave plenty of white space. The easier it is to skim, the better.

Customize for Each Job

Tailor your resume for each application. Highlight the skills and achievements that align most closely with the job description.

Keep It to One Page (If You Can)

Unless you have 10+ years of experience, try to keep your resume to a single page. Concise and relevant always wins over long-winded and bloated.

What Not to Include

Even the best template won’t save a resume that includes outdated or unnecessary info. Here’s what to leave out:

• Objective statements that don’t add value
• References (just say “Available upon request” if needed)
• Irrelevant work history (e.g., your high school pizza delivery job)
• Personal details like age, marital status, or a headshot (unless you’re in a country where it’s the norm)

Popular Resume Templates (Free and Paid)

Here are a few platforms where you can find well-designed resume templates that cater to all industries and experience levels:

Wrapping It All Up

Choosing the best resume template isn’t about finding the fanciest layout—it’s about picking one that presents your skills and experience in the clearest, most compelling way. When in doubt, keep it clean, relevant, and tailored to the job you want.

And remember, your resume is just one piece of the puzzle. Pair it with a great cover letter and a strong online presence, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that next big opportunity.

Sources:

• Glassdoor: What Employers Look For in a Resume
• Indeed Career Guide
• Zety Resume Builder Insights
• The Balance Careers: Best Resume Templates
• SHRM.org: Resume Screening Best Practices