Working Nomads

Are you staring at a blank page? Unsure which resume format will grab the attention of recruiters at first glance?

You are not alone. So many job seekers find themselves between a rock and a hard place when choosing a resume format. The struggle to pick the right format is real to many forcing them to consult experts for help.

While asking for help is a good idea, knowing which format employers prefer can save you a lot of trouble. This piece will take you through the two-column resume format.

In this day and age, a two-column resume is slowly gaining traction, and soon recruiters may demand job seekers submit a two-column resume. But why is this type of resume becoming popular each day? 

Simply because:

• Two-column resumes look modern and dynamic.
• They save space and fit more onto a page.

The only problem with this type of resume is that there are so many templates to choose from, making it a bit challenging to choose the right one.

Key points to remember when writing a two-column resume

• It will help you save space and fit more content into fewer pages.
• Keep in mind that not all resumes with columns will make it through the applicants tracking systems (ATS).
• Remember that the content of your resume matters more than the design. So, don’t focus more on the design, forgetting that the content of your resume is more valuable.

Benefits of two-column resumes

• Help group-specific information in a side column: For example, your contact information, languages, technical skills, and so on.
• Easy to read: Since all sections are separated from one another, two resumes are easy to read. This means recruiters will see every section of your resume at first glance.
• Easily adjustable: Most two-column resumes are easily adjustable. For example, you can decide which sections you move to the side column and which ones you want to highlight in the central part.
• Save space: One of the obvious benefits of two-column resumes is that they let you save space. For example, you can transform a two-page resume to a single-page one.
• Less wordy: They are always specific to the point. This means you spend less time preparing one. Not to mention that this brevity allows you to focus on your experiences and qualifications instead of unnecessary information that may be tiresome to read.
• More information: It gives you the opportunity to put more information on the first page.
• More appealing to the eye: You have the freedom to customize your resume to your satisfaction. Making sure your resume is attractive can make your resume stand out, landing you an interview.
• Experience: It enables you to summarize your experience better.
• Put your best foot forward: Forces you to focus on your professional experience and achievements.

Disadvantages of two-column resumes

• They may not pass through the older ATS. You will have to go the extra mile to get your formatting right for your resume to be scanned.
• Two columns break up the visual field, often resulting in more read time.
• Presents a cramped and busy appearance, detracting from your resume’s presentation.
• Some employers expect applicants to adhere to specific standard resume conventions. For example, you may be required to format your resume as a single page without splitting it into columns. Not adhering to these standards can create a negative impression.

In conclusion

If you are applying for a big corporation that might use ATS, you might want to go for the one-column resume. Other than that, if you have a good amount of content for your resume, think about two-column instead.

Resume