5 Ways to Spice Up Your CV Template

Are you applying for your next job? We know what it's like to bring out your old resume and ponder on what you could possible change or update. That's why we've compiled some helpful tips for a strong resume!

You will find that it's not always about showcasing your relevant skills but about incorporating creative resume ideas that make you stand out as an applicant.

Megon Venter

Blog Author | B2B SaaS Content Writer

  

Megon is a B2B SaaS Content Writer with 7 years of experience in content strategy and execution. Her expertise lies in the creation of document management tutorials and product comparisons.

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The first step to actually getting started with these resume designs and retouches is to download a reputable resume template.

You can download our sample below and customize it according to your needs or browse through our template library for another resume sample that suits your needs better.

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1. Incorporate Visual Elements

Visual elements can transform a plain CV into an eye-catching document that really highlights your key skills. Consider adding:

Image Source: Semula Studio
 

• Icons: Use icons to represent different sections such as contact information, skills, and hobbies.
• Infographics: Showcase your skills and experiences using infographics. This not only makes your CV visually appealing but also easy to read.
• Charts and Graphs: Display your achievements and skills proficiency with charts and graphs. Tools like Canva or Visme can help you create these elements.

 
Understand the key differences between a CV and a resume with our comprehensive comparison guide.

2. Use a Professional Color Scheme

A well-chosen color scheme can make your resume sections look polished and professional. Here’s how to use some vibrant colors:

 


Image Source: Inkofert

• Primary Color: Choose a primary color that reflects your personality and the industry you’re applying to. For instance, blue is often associated with professionalism and trustworthiness.
• Accent Colors: Use one or two accent colors to highlight headings and key information. Make sure they complement the primary color.
• Consistency: Maintain consistency in color usage to ensure your CV looks cohesive.

"Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document."

Allison Pohle

Reporter

Source: Wall Street Journal

3. Choose a Modern Font

According to resume experts, the font you choose can significantly impact the readability and appearance of your CV. Consider these tips:

Image Source: Dina Solitha

• Sans-serif Fonts: Fonts like Arial, Helvetica, and Calibri are modern and easy to read.
• Avoid Overused Fonts: Steer clear of overused fonts like Times New Roman. Instead, opt for something fresh but professional.
• Font Size and Spacing: Use a font size of 10-12 points for body text and 14-16 points for headings. Ensure there is enough spacing between lines and sections to avoid a cluttered look.

 
Craft a professional CV effortlessly by following our template and detailed instructions.

4. Add Interactive Elements

Your resume objective is to share your professional experiences. If you’re submitting your CV digitally, interactive elements can make it more engaging:

Video Source: Canva Creative Studio

• Hyperlinks: Add hyperlinks to your portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or any other relevant online presence. Make sure the links are easy to spot.
• Embedded Videos: Include a link to a video introduction or a project demo. This provides a dynamic way for employers to learn more about you.
• Clickable Icons: Use clickable icons for your email, phone number, and social media profiles to make it easy for employers to contact you about previous work experiences.

"PDF Reader Pro is an amazing tool for individuals and for business. It's annotation and editing help me with my daily tasks and allows for collaboration amongst my team and I."

Naaziyah Ismail

B2B SaaS Content Writer

Source: LinkedIn

5. Showcase Your Personality

Your CV should reflect who you are as a professional and as an individual. Here are some ways to inject personality with the use of action verbs:



Image Source: Stev Creative

• Personal Branding Statement: Write a short personal branding statement that summarizes who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for.
• Unique Sections: Include sections that showcase your personality, such as a “Hobbies and Interests” or “Volunteer Work” section.
• Creative Layout: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the layout. A creative layout can help you stand out, but ensure it remains professional and easy to navigate.

 
Boost your job application with confidence by exploring our top 3 CV examples.

Do you want to play around with the tools available inside PDF Reader Pro? You can download the latest version for Windows or Mac here:

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Enhancing your CV template with these ideas and experiments can significantly improve your chances of landing that dream job. 

Try them out with your next job application and boost your chances of pursuing a new career path within the ever-changing job market.