Did you know that 70% of employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes? With this in mind, it is crucial to have a well-crafted resume that stands out from the competition.
Online resume builders, like Canva, have become popular tools for creating professional resumes, offering templates and tools at an affordable price. However, these builders come with their own set of pros and cons.
On one hand, they provide easy-to-use templates and tools that can assist you in creating a visually appealing resume. They offer a wide range of designs and customisation options, making it convenient for individuals with little to no design experience.
On the other hand, there are limitations to consider. Difficulties in printing and formatting the final resume, as well as industry-specific content and formatting issues, can pose challenges. Additionally, the use of non-linear formatting, colour blocks, and images can hinder the ATS parsing process.
Considering these factors, it is important to explore alternative options such as Microsoft Word templates and the LinkedIn helper, which offer more relevant choices. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of online resume builders, helping you find the perfect fit for your job-seeking journey.
The Pros
One of the pros of using online resume builders is that they offer a wide variety of templates and designs to choose from, which can help make your resume stand out. These customisation options allow you to tailor your resume to your specific needs and preferences.
You can easily change the layout, font, and colour scheme to create a unique and visually appealing resume. Additionally, online resume builders often have time-saving features such as pre-written content suggestions and auto-formatting. This can save you valuable time and effort in crafting your resume from scratch.
With just a few clicks can have a professional-looking resume that showcases your skills and experiences effectively. Overall, online resume builders provide convenient and customisable solutions for creating an impressive resume.
The Cons
Let us discuss the drawbacks of using websites to create our resumes. While online resume builders offer convenience and ready-made templates, there are downsides to consider.
One major issue is the difficulty in removing sections. Often, these builders have limited options for customisation, making it challenging to tailor our resumes to our specific needs.
Additionally, the formatting may not always be compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which could result in our resumes being overlooked by potential employers.
Another drawback is the limited text sections available. Some builders prioritise one-page resumes, which may restrict our ability to include all relevant information.
Lastly, the content limitations of these builders can be frustrating, as we may not have the freedom to fully showcase our skills and experiences.
Alternative Options
Another option we can explore is using Microsoft Word templates and the LinkedIn helper to create our resumes.
Microsoft Word provides a wide range of resume templates that are more relevant and suitable for industries. Additionally, the LinkedIn helper feature in Word allows us to easily import our professional information from our LinkedIn profile and customise it according to our needs. This integration with LinkedIn ensures that our resume is up-to-date and reflects our professional achievements and experiences accurately.
Furthermore, Microsoft Word offers more customisation options compared to online resume builders, allowing us to have more control over the formatting, layout, and content of our resumes.
With these alternative options, we can create professional and effective resumes that are tailored to our specific needs and industry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can online resume builders customise templates for specific industries?
Yes, online resume builders can customise templates for specific industries. They offer customisable designs and industry-specific templates to cater to the needs of different job fields, making it easier to create a professional and targeted resume.
Are there limitations on the number of sections or text that can be included in an online resume builder?
There may be limitations on the number of sections or text that can be included in an online resume builder. However, the level of customisation varies between platforms. It’s important to consider your specific needs when choosing a resume builder.
Can online resume builders generate resumes in formats other than PDF?
Yes, online resume builders can generate resumes in alternative formats like Word. However, it is important to consider compatibility with ATS. These builders offer convenience and ease, but it is crucial to ensure your resume is ATS-friendly for better job opportunities.
How do online resume builders compare to Microsoft Word templates in terms of functionality and design options?
Online resume builders offer limited functionality and design options compared to Microsoft Word templates. The user experience is hindered by improper sectioning and content limitations. Additionally, the cost of using online builders may outweigh their benefits.
Are there any potential drawbacks or risks associated with using online resume builders?
Potential drawbacks and risks of using online resume builders include limitations in customisation options, format options, and functionality comparison. Design options may also be limited compared to Microsoft Word templates.