Do you know what a CV template is and how it could benefit your job search? A CV template is essentially the presentation and format of a CV that is completely blank. It is created for the user to download and then insert their details.
There are lots of reasons why this would help someone searching for a job, but are there any downsides? Here’s why you should use a CV template, and a few reasons why you shouldn’t.
They save time
It makes sense that if somebody else has already created the layout for your CV that it will save you a lot of time. One of the most time consuming aspects of writing a CV is figuring out how to display the information in the first place.
If you’re in a rush to apply for a job or you just want to save a few hours; then choose a CV template. It will only take a few minutes to choose and download.
They reduce stress
Searching for a job can be very stressful, and if you’re currently out of work and have bills to pay – even more so! By choosing a CV template you are already one step ahead and moving onto the next stage. The amount of stress and worry it can save is huge, especially when they can look so good.
They look good
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to CV templates you may just find a hidden gem. It really comes down to what you think looks good and is appropriate for the job you are seeking. But if you’re happy that it looks great, then using a CV template could get you one step closing to being hired.
They contain all the sections
Trying to remember which sections need completing for a CV can be tricky. There are a few aspects which are classed as industry standard and should always be included. If you want to be certain that you’ve covered everything the employer will expect, then choose a CV template.
All of the sections will be present and perfectly aligned just waiting for you to insert your details. You may also find a few quirky and unique CV templates that add a couple more unexpected sections – like ‘Core skills’ and ‘Achievements and accolades’.
They can show your creativity
You will come across lots of free downloadable CV templates online that look professional. However, there are also some that break the mould a little and use colour and bright headings. A more creative design could work in your favour if you’re applying for a creative role. You don’t have to choose the traditional black and white CV template when there are so many other styles to choose from.
They are career focused
Some CV templates are created with a specific role or career in mind. This means that the styling of the CV template will suit your role. For example, there are marketing templates, admin templates, teaching templates, acting templates, modelling templates, and even nursing templates.
So if you want to go one step further and really impress an employer, then choose a CV template which oozes your chosen industry.
They are not always great
Some CV templates fail to pass the ‘they look great test’. Again, this does come down to personal opinion, but we’ve come across many sites what fail to deliver. Some have clearly been rushed and put together quickly, and some may even have important sections missing.
To ensure you don’t download a CV template which will hinder your job search, we would advise spending some time on the website. Get to know who the creators are and see how professional they look. Typically a website which has a lot of quality content will be classed as reputable.
They are not the finished product
Even though a lot of the hard work has been done, you still need to write a great CV. Sure, you’ve taken away a lot of time and stress by choosing a free CV template, but you still have to make it count.
Don’t relax just yet and make sure you make your great looking CV read great too. Tailor your credentials to the role and really make the employer take notice. Use the time you’ve saved by spending it on your skills, qualifications and experience.
Free CV templates:
Bag yourself a free CV template on one of these websites:
- Jobs.ac.uk
- Oxford University Careers Service
- CVTemplateMaster.com
- creativemarket.com/templates/resumes
- freecvdownload.com