Free Sample Resume

Creative résumés defy strict definition because their form follows the originality and imagination of the creator (the writer). They’re dicey, but they can work. Sometimes.

A Creative Format Worked for a TV News Anchor

Steve Horstman, an on-camera newsman who is not afraid to stand out, used a three-column newsletter format to differentiate himself from his competition. This creative résumé helped him secure a main anchor slot in one of the top 30 U.S. markets (a strong jump from a mid-50s market). Compare his Before and After résumés (see them below).

You can also design a “theme” résumé to complement a particular company’s interests. For instance, a marketing representative applying to an amusement water park might use a long and narrow paper (card-stock weight) that folds into thirds. When opened, it displays a shadow of a waterfall (using a word-processing watermark function) on a light jade-green background. Alternative category headings can replace traditional ones: Make a Splash instead of Accomplishments, Water Chemistry instead of Experience, Pooled Resources instead of References, and so on.

Using Specialty Paper

Specialty paper is another tool you can use to display your creativity. The next four examples use unusual paper stock to complement each job seeker’s profession or industry.

Randy Bez’s Before résumé (see Résumé below) is a list-driven, “just the facts” presentation. The After version (see Résumé below) reflects his talents in the classroom and offers an inspiring “blackboard” quote, perfect for a teacher in the early elementary grades.

Sandi Stroop, an elementary educator specializing in early literacy development, uses an “ABC” paper and a font that looks like a child’s handwriting (see Résumé below). Tiny book images are used as bullets to set off key qualifications.

Finally, Sasha Berenton chose a jungle-theme paper to apply for a marketing position with a regional zoo (see Résumé below). Note the complete revision of content as well, which was needed because her Before version (see Résumé below) was intended for use in education.

Point

This is a great forum to showcase talents in a profession that calls for inventiveness—art, design, special events, promotions, and the like.

Pitfalls

• Creative résumés are difficult to pull off and should not be attempted by the imaginatively challenged (for example, novice writers and inexperienced graphic designers). Your intention is to be remembered, not embarrassed.
• Even if you are a creative genius, a traditional business format for the résumé is often preferred. Word has it from most advertising agencies that you should save the creative material for your “book” (your portfolio).
• Although the possibilities for creative résumés are endless, the professions for which they work are not.