What is the best resume format for freshers?
If you are a fresh graduate preparing to apply for your first job, curating a stellar resume is one of the first hurdles that you need to get through.
Given that on average, recruiters only spend about 6 seconds on a single resume, it is essential to make a good first impression with your resume and stand out from the crowd of applicants with a well-formatted resume.
And while you may believe that a quick google search will help you find clarity on the same, it can sometimes trigger more questions and confusion.
But, fret not! You’re in the right place and this guide is just what you need to help you gain clarity on everything about resume formats and the best option for you.
In simple terms, the format of a resume constitutes its layout, design, and other elements such as font styles, headings, bullet points, spacing, and the different resume sections.
Read on to learn more about fresher resume format and related FAQs like the following:
- What is a resume format and why is it important?
- What are the different types of resume formats for fresher graduates?
- What is a chronological resume format for freshers?
- How to structure a functional resume format for freshers?
- What are some good fresher resume tips?
What is a Resume Format for Freshers and Why Does It Matter?
Picture this - you spend hours on end tailoring the contents of your resume to the job description of your targetted role but you miss out on the format.
One look at the disorderly resume and the recruiter instantly rejects it without even reading it. Not exactly a dream scenario for freshers. Isn’t it?
Therefore the need to have an organized resume with a simple design and format that is not only parsable by the recruiters but the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) as well.
Resume format includes the order in which you present your skills and qualifications, and other visual elements that enhance its readability.
Some of the well-known resume formats for freshers include reverse chronological, combination, and functional resume formats.
Meanwhile, the visual elements of the resume format for freshers constitutes of the following:
- Resume font style and size
- Spacing and margins
- Resume sections
- Resume length and file format
Also Read: How to create a simple resume format?
Different Resume Formats For Freshers
As stated earlier, there are 3 well-known resume formats that are generally used by freshers and professionals.
Given below is a breakdown of each resume format for freshers and its pros and cons:
Reverse Chronological Resume Format for Freshers
The reverse chronological resume format is the most well-known and widely accepted format that is preferred by recruiters and is easily parsed by Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) used by employers to select candidates.
This format displays the most recent work experience at the top, followed by the older ones.
While as a fresh graduate, you might not have professional experience, you can use this format to present your internship and volunteer experience and educational qualifications as well.
This format works well because it highlights your most recent and relevant experience or qualification, making it easier for the recruiters to scan through it.
Also, it typically uses bullet points to list job duties and accomplishments, which enhances the readability of your fresher resume.
Here are some tips on structuring a reverse chronological resume format for freshers:
- Start with your most recent education or job experience and include details like the name of the institution or company, your job title, and the dates of your tenure
- Describe your responsibilities and achievements by using bullet points, specific examples, and figures
- In case you have completed any relevant coursework or training, including the name of the program and the institution
Also Read: How to use the reverse chronological resume format in 2023?
Functional Resume Format for Freshers
A functional format is a resume format that highlights your skills rather than your work history.
It is often used by individuals who are changing careers or have limited work experience and hence can be a good option for freshers.
This resume format for freshers is characterized by limited use of bullet points and job titles whilst emphasizing specific accomplishments or achievements.
There is minimal to zero mention of work history, and the following are some sections included in this resume format:
- Summary or objective statement
- Skills (grouped by category)
- Education and training section
- Certifications or awards section (if applicable)
Also Read: What is a functional resume format and how can you use it?
Combination Resume Format for Freshers
A combination format or a hybrid resume combines aspects of both the chronological and functional resume formats.
It typically includes a summary or objective statement, a list of skills and qualifications, and a chronological work experience section.
While this resume format includes elements of both resume formats, it can be time-consuming to create and can appear cluttered and disorganized to the reader.
Also Read: What is a combination resume format and how to use it in 2023?
Resume Tips For Design Elements of Resume Format For Freshers
As for the design elements related to resume format for freshers, given below are some tips that you can follow:
- Ensure that your resume design is simple and doesn’t have flashy or bold colors as it can look unprofessional
- Avoid using infographics and graphs in your resume format if you’re applying for traditional job profiles as the ATS cannot scan them
- Use a font size of 11-12 points for the main text and 14-16 points for your resume headings
- Avoid using fancy and decorative fonts as they are difficult to read and may not be appropriate for a professional setting. Stick to professional and easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Ensure to use single spacing for the main text and double spacing for headings to enhance readability and avoid a cluttered look
- Leave a margin of at least 1” on all sides to follow the standard business letter format
- Use bullet points to make your resume more visually appealing and easy to read.
- Create distinct sections in your fresher resume to make it easy for the recruiters and ATS to scan the details.
- Include resume sections like header, contact information, summary/objective, skills, professional experience, educational background, and additional information section if needed
- Unless you have 10+ years of experience, ensure to limit your resume to a single page
- To keep your resume format intact, save your resume in PDF format
Also Read: What are the dos and don'ts of writing a stellar resume?
Key Points from the Blog
- The format of a resume constitutes its layout, design, and other elements such as font styles, headings, bullet points, spacing, and the different resume sections.
- Some of the well-known resume formats for freshers include reverse chronological, combination, and functional resume formats.
- The reverse chronological resume format is the most well-known and widely accepted format that is preferred by recruiters and easily parsed by Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) used by employers to select candidates.
- Functional resume format for freshers is characterized by limited use of bullet points and job titles whilst emphasizing specific accomplishments or achievements.
- A combination format or a hybrid resume combines aspects of both the chronological and functional resume formats.
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