A Go-To Guide to Microsoft Word Resume Templates

Using Microsoft Word for resumes is like catching up with an old friend— familiar and always there when you need them. For many job seekers, it’s the obvious choice.

But let’s be blunt—why would you take advice on Word templates from a resume-building company like ours?

Here’s why: our certified professional resume writers (CPRW) have been through it all, crafting resumes that not only look great but get results (interview calls that is). We get it—using Word is about tradition. But when it comes to resumes, the content is what truly matters.

In this guide, we’ll equip you with a variety of CPRW-approved templates to choose from, share insider tips on creating and editing resumes in Word, and highlight what to watch out for when working with the most popular word-processing software out there.

Let’s get started.

Finding the perfect fit: How to create a resume using Word templates

Creating a resume in Microsoft Word couldn’t be simpler. With dozens of free templates available, it’s a great choice for finding professional yet accessible designs.

If you’re using the desktop app, here’s how to get started:

1. Open Word and click File.
2. Select New.
3. Type "resume" into the search bar.

In seconds, you’ll see a variety of options ranging from clean, minimalist designs to more dynamic layouts. Each template is pre-formatted, so all you need to do is replace the placeholder text with your own information.

To help you visualize what’s possible, let’s dive into some examples. These aren’t just about how the templates look—they also give you a sense of the industries they’re best suited for.

Word template for marketing roles

This marketing resume template features cleanly organized sections and a subtle paper color that strikes a balance between professionalism and creativity.

Word template for nursing professionals

For nurses, Word offers templates that look neat and straightforward. You can also add critical resume sections like Core Competencies and Certifications—elements that are non-negotiable for healthcare roles.

Word template for IT roles

Next, take a look at what’s available for IT job seekers. Here’s a functional resume layout that can be a good starting point, but it will need some further changes to highlight your technical skills and achievements.

Word template for executives

Finally, executive roles are given a touch of charisma with this template. While the design suggests authority, it’s up to you to unleash your imagination and craft content that conveys senior leadership and vision.

However, looking at these examples, you might start to wonder: are Word templates really worth it? If you still need to invest time in reordering sections and adding the right content, where’s the real productivity gain?

Let’s take a closer look at how MS Word templates measure up across different criteria—and whether creating your resume with this hegemonic software is the best choice for you.

Word resume templates: Should they stay or should they go?

As promised, this breakdown is all about transparency. MS Word templates are a popular choice for resume creation, but they come with both advantages and disadvantages. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a closer look at how they compare with a modern solution like Enhancv’s resume builder.

Pricing

Word templates come in two “flavors”: free and premium—but “free” isn’t quite what it seems. The so-called free templates require a paid Microsoft Office subscription, which starts at around $70 per year for personal use (at the time of writing). They’re accessible and simple but often lack the polish needed to truly set yourself apart.

Premium templates for Word like those above, on the other hand, are designed by third-party creators and sold on platforms like Etsy or Microsoft Create. They usually cost between $10 and $50 per template (in addition to your subscription fee).

While these designs are often more stylish and unique, buying a single template for each role can add up quickly, especially if you’re tailoring resumes for multiple industries.

ATS compatibility

The problem with using Word templates is that many aren’t designed with ATS compatibility in mind. Templates with fancy fonts, tables, or creative layouts can confuse the software, causing key details like your work experience or skills to be misread—or worse, ignored entirely. Even some premium templates fall into this trap, leaving job seekers wondering why their applications never seem to make the cut.

Enhancv’s ATS templates are tested against real software to ensure every detail is parsed correctly. They’re designed to save you time and make sure your application doesn’t get stuck in a system glitch. Why risk it when you can have a resume that’s built for success?

Customization

When it comes to customization, templates are just that—templates. They’re a starting point, not a finished product. Every placeholder needs to be filled with your own information, and that’s only the beginning.

In this case, too, it might be better to use a resume builder. It allows for more flexibility, letting you personalize every detail of your resume easily, without wrestling with formatting issues. Your resume should feel like it’s uniquely yours—because that’s what makes it stand out.

Formatting

Formatting your resume is all about the details, and while MS Word templates offer basic editability, making precise changes often feels like a job for a pro. Handling advanced features like assigning breaks to format columns, adjusting line and paragraph spacing, or managing widow-orphan control (that’s when you want to prevent single lines of a paragraph from appearing alone at the top or bottom of a page) can quickly become overwhelming.

Is this really where you want to spend your energy when designing a resume?

Proofreading is equally critical. Word templates won’t catch small formatting errors, like inconsistent spacing or mismatched fonts, which can make your application look sloppy. Always double-check for these issues before submitting a resume.

Finally, file format is key. Save your resume as a PDF to lock in the formatting and ensure it looks professional when viewed on any device. Submitting a Word document risks compatibility issues or accidental edits by the recipient.

That said, we don’t make Word templates. What we do is better: we create templates designed to save you time.

Speaking of which, let’s take a look at the templates you can start using today.

Word templates vs Enhancv's designs—a modern alternative

Word resumes often come with hidden challenges, from formatting headaches to ATS compatibility issues. That’s where Enhancv’s templates shine. Our designs balance visual appeal with simplicity, offering a seamless experience that doesn’t require mastering complex software.

Simple resume templates

Our simple designs closely mirror the timeless appeal of classic Word resumes. For example, our Ivy League template features a traditional layout ideal for those in law, academia, and administration.

Single-column templates

No wonder these are known as traditional templates. Single-column designs are often the top choice for certified professional resume writers when working in MS Word. While the software remains reliable, few people know how to use it proficiently, and bad formatting can turn great content into a flop.

That’s where we come in. With our single-column templates, you get the polished look of a professionally crafted resume combined with the simplicity and ease of a modern tool.

Double-column resume templates

Our two-column templates strike the perfect balance between structure and creativity, making them an excellent choice for showcasing skills and achievements side-by-side. According to our most recent research, this design is the most popular choice among Enhancv app users, thanks to its ability to present information in an organized yet visually engaging format.

Creative resume templates

Creative templates are an excellent way to let your personality shine through your resume. However, trying to achieve a unique look in MS Word can sometimes backfire, especially when it comes to ATS compatibility.

Many applicant tracking systems struggle to process graphic elements like tables, pie charts, text boxes, and, in some cases, even headers and footers. These issues can mean your resume doesn’t get through to a recruiter, no matter how impressive the content.

That’s why Enhancv’s creative templates are tested against the most common ATS systems to ensure your resume makes it through the initial screening while still adding enough zest to remain professional and visually engaging. Don’t worry—your icons and logos are safe with us!

Take this event host’s resume as an example:

Student resume templates

Let’s face it—most students hunting for jobs don’t have the time or patience to wrestle with Word’s formatting quirks. Should you really have to master an entire software just to make a resume? Probably not. And it’s not just you—most job seekers say they struggle with formatting in traditional word processors.

That’s where Enhancv’s student templates step in. They’re built to be intuitive, ATS-friendly, and ready to help you land your first job. Forget spending hours adjusting margins and spacing—our builder makes it easy to create a polished, professional resume without the tech headache.

Entry-level resume templates

When crafting an entry-level resume, the best strategy is to lead with your education and highlight your skill set. Employers know you’re just starting out, so they’ll focus on what you can offer and how you present it. While formatting does matter, it’s the content that truly counts.

To help you get started, here’s a well-crafted entry-level software engineer resume to inspire you.

Executive resume templates

At the executive level, your resume is more than just a document—it’s a reflection of your leadership, expertise, and ability to make strategic decisions. Any errors, no matter how minor, can be a red flag to hiring committees, as they expect precision and excellence from a C-suite candidate.

In fact, many C-level job seekers rely on career coaching services and professionals to craft their resumes, understanding that how they come across on paper often sets the tone for their career progression.

While Word can produce a flawless resume, it’s often at the cost of hiring a certified resume writer.

Our corporate templates are designed to highlight your achievements and communicate your value clearly, all while maintaining a polished appearance that commands attention, without the added expense.

Finally, let’s talk about something we’ve all been guilty of—thinking a Word template is a quick and easy fix for a professional resume. But the truth is, while they can work in a pinch, they also come with a few major pitfalls you’ll want to avoid.

The three biggest mistakes when using a Word resume template

We can’t stress enough that even small formatting or design choices have a big impact on how your resume is received.

Be careful with MS Word, particularly in these cases:

1. Overcomplicating the formatting: Word gives you plenty of tools, but also makes it easy to overdo it. Adding unnecessary tables, text boxes, or intricate designs might look creative to you but can confuse ATS software and hiring managers alike.
2. Relying too heavily on defaults: The default Word templates are a starting point, not the finish line. They can be too generic, making it hard to stand out among other candidates who might be using the same design.
3. Ignoring ATS compatibility: Many Word templates aren’t designed with ATS systems in mind. Fancy fonts, graphics, and unconventional layouts can prevent your resume from even making it to a recruiter’s screen.

Frequently asked questions on Word resume templates

Let’s clear up some common questions about using Word templates for resumes. If you’ve been wondering how to make the most of this tool—or whether you should use it at all—here are the answers you need.

Which is the best Word template for a resume?

The best Word template for you is one that fits your industry and career level and aligns with the job you’re applying for.

A clean, single-column layout is a safe bet for ATS compatibility, while creative fields might benefit from templates with subtle design elements. Just make sure it’s easy to read and effectively highlights your strengths.

Is Microsoft Word good for resumes?

Microsoft Word can be a solid choice for creating resumes, especially if you’re familiar with its features. However, formatting can be tricky, and Word templates aren’t always ATS-friendly.

Is it better to send your resume in PDF or Word format?

PDF is typically the better option because it preserves formatting across devices. That said, if a job posting specifically asks for a Word document, sending a .docx file is perfectly fine—just check if the formatting doesn’t break. Or simplify the process by using one of Enhancv’s printable templates.

Is it free to make a resume in Word?

Creating a resume in the desktop version of Microsoft Word isn’t free—it requires a subscription. However, the online version includes free editable templates. Keep in mind that the app only offers limited editing tools, so the end result might not look like you want it to.

Conclusion: Is MS Word the best option for your resume?

Word resume templates can be a great choice, especially if you need a quick, straightforward option or are already comfortable with the software. It works well for simple, traditional layouts and when you have the time to fine-tune formatting.

However, for more complex designs or when ATS compatibility is a priority, tools like the ones Enhancv offers provide greater flexibility and a more intuitive experience.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our featured templates and try your hand at creating a standout resume with MS Word—or discover how Enhancv can make the process even easier.