The modern resume

How do I write the perfect resume as an applicant? What does a recruiter or HR manager want to hold in their hand at the end? The long answer would be: everyone has different tastes and therefore every resume can be perfect. While that is a correct statement, the trend today is toward the "modern resume."

What is a modern resume?
A modern resume is no different from a classic resume in terms of content: the only thing that is modern is its appearance and structure. We notice that especially young applicants rely on this means, but also more and more experienced candidates use visual aspects to thereby underline their personality.

The optics
One's own personality and specific skills can be successfully underpinned with colors and graphics. An example here would be an applicant who wants to radiate calmness and reason with dark blue, or naturalness and hope with green. Furthermore, shapes are often used to subconsciously convince the HR manager. Circles are here to suggest stability and cooperation, rectangles, courage and balance.

The structure
By using colored areas, a page can be effectively divided into topic-relevant components. In contrast to the classic resume, where personal information and contact details are listed at the top of the first page, here, through visual division, more information can be expressed in less space.

The goal
Both through the structure and with the use of colors, applicants can stand out from competitors. Often, small differences ultimately decide whether an applicant is invited or rejected. Since many HR managers and recruiters examine the resume before the motivation letter, standing out here can be essential.

Now, before you go searching for modern templates or start enhancing your current resume with graphics and visual characters, here are some tips:

1. templates bring little
The modern resume should emphasize you and your personality. Pre-made models cannot do justice to this, which is why we recommend using templates only as inspiration.

2. less is more
An overload of graphics, colors and symbols can have a negative effect. The HR manager or recruiter may receive many applications and therefore not have time to think about the symbols for minutes on end. An excess here quickly looks chaotic or unprofessional.

3. adapt to the situation
Even the modern resume ultimately serves to showcase your experience and career. For certain positions or careers, a plain resume may have more impact than a thoughtful color scheme.
In industries where modernity and innovation are paramount, a modern resume can send the right signals. In classic, traditional or conservative companies, a plain resume can give an advantage.

Last but not least: You decide on the presentation of your resume. Although the trend is towards modern presentation, it must suit you personally and you must feel comfortable with it. Also, not everyone has to jump on this trend right away. It may also be a good idea to swim against the tide for once.

For example, this could look like this: