What Font Should a Resume Be? (Pro Tips to Standout)

When it comes to job hunting, creating a resume that stands out is crucial. 

One aspect that job seekers often overlook is the font used on their resumes. 

While it may seem like a minor detail, the font can play a significant role in how a resume is perceived by potential employers. 

In this blog post, I will discuss the best font options for resumes and provide tips on how to choose and use the right font.

What font should a resume be?

Your resume font should be easy to read, professional, and modern. Some of the best fonts to use for a resume are Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, and Helvetica. 

Remember to choose a font that matches the tone of the job you are applying for and use the same font consistently throughout your resume. 

Stick to one or two fonts, use appropriate spacing, and avoid using bold and italics excessively. 

By following these tips, you can create a resume that is both visually appealing and easy to read.

DON’T MISS: CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME VS FUNCTIONAL: BEST ONE FOR YOU

What is the Ideal Font for a Resume?

There are two main font categories: serif and sans-serif fonts. 

Serif fonts have small lines or flourishes at the end of each letter stroke, while sans-serif fonts do not. 

Here are some popular options for each category and their pros and cons:

Serif Fonts

Serif fonts are commonly used in printed material, including books and newspapers. 

They are considered classic and traditional, which can make a resume feel more formal.

1. Times New Roman

Times New Roman is a classic font that has been used for decades. 

It is a serif font that is easy to read, making it a popular choice for resumes. 

However, it is also a very common font, so using it may not help your resume stand out.

2. Georgia

Georgia is another serif font that is easy to read and has a bit more personality than Times New Roman. 

It is a good choice for resumes in creative fields or for those who want to add a bit of personality to their resume.

3. Garamond

Garamond is a more elegant serif font that is ideal for resumes in fields like law or finance. 

It is a bit more unique than Times New Roman and Georgia, which can make your resume stand out.

Sans-serif Fonts

Sans-serif fonts are modern and clean, which can make a resume feel more contemporary.

1. Arial

Arial is a popular sans-serif font that is easy to read and looks professional. 

It is a good choice for resumes in fields like technology or engineering.

2. Calibri

Calibri is a relatively new font that is becoming more popular. 

It is a sans-serif font that is easy to read and looks modern. 

It is a good choice for resumes in fields like marketing or design.

3. Helvetica

Helvetica is a classic sans-serif font that is often used in branding and marketing. 

It is a good choice for resumes in creative fields or for those who want to add a bit of personality to their resume.

Other Fonts

While serif and sans-serif fonts are the most popular choices for resumes, there are other font options to consider.

1. Script Fonts

Script fonts are elegant and decorative, but they can be difficult to read. 

They are not recommended for resumes unless you are applying for a job in a creative field like graphic design.

2. Decorative Fonts

Decorative fonts are fun and eye-catching, but they can be difficult to read. 

They are not recommended for resumes unless you are applying for a job in a creative field like advertising.

3. Monospace Fonts

Monospace fonts are often used in programming or computer science resumes because they help with alignment. 

However, they are not recommended for other fields because they can be difficult to read.

SEE ALSO: MATCHING RESUME AND COVER LETTER TEMPLATE (BEST GUIDE)

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Font for a Resume

Choosing the right font for your resume involves considering several factors.

Legibility

The font you choose should be easy to read, even in small sizes. 

Avoid using overly decorative fonts or fonts that are difficult to read.

Readability

The font you choose should be easy to scan. 

Use fonts that are easy to read at a glance and avoid using fonts with narrow spacing or tightly packed letters.

Typeface

The typeface of a font can affect how professional or modern your resume looks. 

Choose a typeface that matches the tone of the job you are applying for. 

For example, a traditional typeface may be more appropriate for a job in finance, while a modern typeface may be better suited for a job in tech or design.

Consistency

Consistency is key when it comes to choosing a font for your resume. 

Use the same font throughout your resume to create a cohesive and professional look.

Branding

Your resume should reflect your brand. 

Consider using a font that matches the font used on your website or business cards.

Tips for Using Fonts on a Resume

Once you have chosen a font for your resume, there are a few things to keep in mind when formatting your resume.

Size Matters

The size of the font you choose is important. 

Generally, a font size between 10-12 points is ideal for most resumes. 

However, if you have a lot of content on your resume, you may need to use a smaller font size.

Use Bold and Italics Sparingly

Bold and italics can be useful for highlighting important information on your resume, but use them sparingly. 

Too much bold or italics can be distracting and make your resume look cluttered.

Stick to One or Two Fonts

Using too many fonts on your resume can make it look unprofessional. 

Stick to one or two fonts throughout your resume to create a cohesive and professional look.

Pay Attention to Spacing

Spacing is important when it comes to using fonts on a resume. 

Use appropriate spacing between lines and sections to make your resume easy to read.

Font to never use in your resume

Comic Sans is a font that should never be used in a resume. 

This font has gained notoriety for its unprofessional appearance and is often associated with amateurish or whimsical designs. 

Using Comic Sans in your resume can make you appear unprofessional and can detract from the content of your resume. 

Instead, opt for a more traditional font like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri to create a professional and polished resume.

NOTE: Only your resume may not get you hired, check out this guide on HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER THAT GETS YOU HIRED (+ FREE EXAMPLE).

Final Thoughts

By considering factors like legibility, readability, and consistency, you can choose a font that will help your resume stand out positively. 

Remember to use the same font throughout your resume and pay attention to spacing and formatting to create a professional and cohesive look. 

Good luck with your job search!

FAQs

Can I use a decorative font on my resume?

It is not recommended to use decorative or ornamental fonts on your resume, as they can be difficult to read and may not be compatible with all devices. Stick to professional and easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, and Helvetica.

What font size should I use on my resume?

Generally, a font size between 10-12 points is ideal for most resumes. However, if you have a lot of content on your resume, you may need to use a smaller font size.

Should I use a different font for headings and subheadings on my resume?

Using a different font for headings and subheadings can help break up the content on your resume and make it easier to read. Consider using a bold version of the same font you are using for the body of your resume, or a complementary font that is easy to read and matches the tone of your resume.

Can I use a colored font on my resume?

While it may be tempting to use a colored font on your resume to make it stand out, it is generally not recommended. Stick to the black or dark gray font on a white background to ensure that your resume is easy to read and professional.

Is it okay to use a font that’s not on the default list of Microsoft Word?

You can use fonts that are not on the default list of Microsoft Word, but keep in mind that the person who is reading your resume may not have that font installed on their device. It’s best to use common fonts that are widely available to ensure that your resume looks the same across all devices.