Sometimes it’s the smallest things that make the difference. Take whatever font you choose for your resume, for example.
You may be thinking: what is the problem? After all, it is only one font and can be changed in a few seconds.
But think again.
What does your source say about you and how would you fit into the organization you are applying for?
Times New Roman: what does it convey to you? For me, it conveys a sense of conservatism, following the status quo, obeying rules and conventions. This font choice could be great if you are applying for a large, hierarchical, risk-averse type organization, for example, certain government agencies or the military.
Comic Sans: what does it convey to you? For me, it conveys a childlike quality, playfulness and joy. This font could be perfect if you are looking to work with children or as an entertaining performance artist, for example.
Arial: what does it convey to you? For me, it conveys a modern, professional and highly skilled feel, and could be ideal if you are applying for a corporate position at a bank or large consulting firm, for example.
These are just a few examples, and the list is potentially endless …
So what does your font choice say about you – your personality, your skill set, your career path?
Think about how the font should be different if you are applying for a job at a new company compared to an established company. Or a male-dominated industry versus a female-dominated industry? Or a customer-oriented role versus a non-customer-oriented one?
And to expand this even further, what does your font color and size say about you? Colorful or minimalist? Bold or low-key? Innovative or traditional?
There is absolutely nothing right or wrong about what font, size, or colors to use, just as there is nothing right or wrong about the skills it brings. But what IS important is to consciously choose fonts and colors in line with the skills and experience highlighted on your resume.
Because the most powerful and effective resumes are those that have all the elements aligned with your strengths, skills, and unique selling points. This includes the structure, font, color scheme, length, references, as well as the experience it lists and the education / training it includes.
So always remember the power of the source!
