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When it comes to resumes, presentation is just as important as the skills and experience that the resume itself spells out. Trying to design a resume from scratch can be a challenge, especially with few design skills.
Need a little help? Check out these 51 free (yes, FREE!) Microsoft Word resume templates that you can easily download to your computer, edit to include your experience, and hand in with your next job application. No recruiter or hiring manager will be able to say no.
Can’t wait to view them one by one? We’ve put together a selection of the best free resume templates in one easy download below.
Get your free resume templates
Professional templates perfect for any industry
Resume templates are handy tools for job seekers for a number of reasons. Firstly, it allows you to spend more time polishing up the content instead of worrying about the layout and design.
Secondly, it gives first-time job applicants a better idea of how much to write and the sections to focus on. This also applies if you’ve been out of the job market for a while and haven’t had to edit your resume recently.
Before you sprint ahead to the templates, here are some resume dos and don’ts you should know.
If you’re applying for a job, there is a very high chance that the resume will first be seen by some software before it makes its way to a pair of human eyes. This software is called an Applicant Tracking System and it sorts, scans, and ranks job applications that come through to a recruiter or employer.
ATS helps recruiters filter through candidates by scanning for relevant information and keywords in an application. Writing a resume that is ATS optimized is imperative, as you could potentially miss out on opportunities even if you’re qualified.
Turning a blank document into an attractive, well-designed resume is hard work, especially when you'd rather put that time to use in your job search. That's where these free Word resume templates come in. You can choose from a range of ready-made designs, whether you're looking for something classic, minimalist or colorful. All of the templates are easy to customize with your personal details, and you can even change the colors and themes if you're so inclined.
When you're done filling out your template, make sure to save your file as a Word .docx file (or .doc for older versions of the program), so you can always come back and make changes. When you're ready to send your resume, be sure to attach it in the requested format, for example PDF or .docx. To export as a PDF from Microsoft Word, go to the File menu --> Export --> Create PDF.
You can browse the free resume templates below, and get a selection of the best templates delivered straight to your inbox.
Get your free resume templates
Professional templates perfect for any industry
Want a basic resume to get yourself started? This is a great one for inputting your objective statement, experience, and skills. Download
What makes this resume template great is that it has a little color but it’s also perfect for any industry. Download
Want a resume that makes it easy to put your jobs in chronological order and send it off? This is the straightforward template you’re searching for. Download
Want to spruce up your resume without changing too much of the formatting? Try putting either your headings or subheadings in a different font. Download
This black block will stand out amongst a sea of white resumes. Download
This resume layout is actually optimized for applicant tracking systems, so you’ll be able to pop in keywords for the position you’re applying for and get yourself to the next round. Download
Adding in colorful lines to your subheadings or your personal logo can add special touches to your resume without taking away from the content. Download
Borders are an easy way to add more color to your resume and also take up space without being distracting. Download
If you’re working in a more formal industry, resumes like this one give you the ability to add color while still being professional. Download
This resume is another universal option that’ll help you look great no matter the field you’re applying for opportunities in. Download
You can add a little color on your resume without making it the color of a highlighter. Download
This resume template is made for professionals who want an elegant yet modern resume. Download
Journalists and copywriters can lean on this template to both showcase management experience and also their skill sets. Download
Want to stand out? This template is great for catching the eye of hiring managers. Download
Technical resumes can be difficult to format, but they don’t have to be impossible. Download
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Elle Woods isn’t the only one with a pink resume; if you work in an industry where creativity and color can get you a long way, why not try it? Download
You can use visuals to show your expertise, which might come in handy when you’re applying for jobs where you need to flaunt what you’ve got. Download
Adding a few icons can be a nice touch to a resume, especially one for creative or design positions. Download
Want a more minimalistic resume design but don’t have a ton of experience to show? This template makes your resume look a little more chic. Download
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Pastels are your thing? Then you’ve found your perfect resume. Download
Feeling bold? Submit a black resume and see what happens. Download
Want to add a longer profile about yourself to your resume? This template lets you do it. Download
This resume is called “plain but trendy,” and it’ll make you look put together. Download
A little splash of bright green color can’t hurt, especially if you’re applying to more creative positions. Download
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If you’re applying to jobs where showing off your personality more is an asset, this resume template could do the trick in landing you that perfect gig. Download
This resume is colorful, straightforward, and easy to read. What’s not to love? Download
Get your free resume templates
Professional templates perfect for any industry
You’ll wake up a drowsy recruiter with this red and black template. Download
Feeling blue? A hiring manager sure won’t after checking out this resume template. Download
Don’t let this simplistic resume fool you; it can help you go far in your job search. Download
This template flips the typical resume setup on its head, which could work in your favor during the application process. Download
The color’s a little unorthodox, but now’s not the time to bore recruiters. Download
This resume is so cool, recruiters will be stunned with amaze-mint (get it?). Download
Purple is an unconventional resume choice, but it may serve you well in some professions. Download
This resume’s surprise is the pop of color at the bottom. Download
This design’s a little more classic than others but still has an interesting neutral color scheme. Download
This resume template includes a summary section, which is ideal if you are changing careers or have recently graduated. Download
This template is particularly customizable – the header image, activity icons, and fonts can be changed fairly easily (especially if you’re proficient in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop). Download
This sleek design keeps your personal branding consistent across the board. It comes with both a resume and cover letter template. Download
If you want a creative resume that isn’t too colorful, look no further. This light resume template features clean lines and ample white space to let your credentials shine. Download
This colorblock template is ideal for creatives who want their resume to stand out. Download
If you’re looking for a role in a more formal industry, this template is ideal. Its text-centric layout coupled with colored headings makes it professional, but not too serious. Download
Ideal for jobseekers who have a myriad of information to present. There is a section for a summary, education, experience, awards, skills, social media, and contact details. Download
This clean template has a section to chart your skillset. Download
It’s named the ‘Timeless’ template, and it’s easy to see why. The understated, yet elegant, layout is something you can use throughout your career. Download
The large heading font and logo makes your name stand out more. Download
Best suited for jobseekers in less formal fields. Download
This stylish resume features a calming blue header and comes with a matching cover letter template, too! Download
You can use icons and progress bars to visually demonstrate your skill set, language ability, and hobbies. Download
This template features a unique way of presenting your professional skill set – a Venn diagram! It also comes with an accompanying portfolio and cover letter template. Download
This comes with an accompanying cover letter template – perfect for design-minded employers and jobseekers. Download
This word resume template walks the line between funky and professional. Ideal for those who intend on applying to a creative role. Download
Need a variety of resumes at your fingertips? We’ve put together a selection of the best free resume templates in one easy download below. And don't forget to check out our handy cover letter template too!
Get your free resume templates
Professional templates perfect for any industry
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