How to Create a Stunning Infographic Resume?

Do you want to be one step ahead of the competition and draw the attention of employers to your application, even before the interview stage? Why not add visual elements to your resume, like infographics?

It's easy to guess the reaction of many readers: “Nobody will take an infographic resume seriously” or “you can apply this trend only if you're a creative professional.” Well, we're here to prove you wrong.

Resumance is here to let you understand the great opportunities that come with infographic resume. Who will benefit the most from this type of resume, and who won't?

According to HR managers, only a few applicants use graphic design elements in their CVs. These are usually creative professionals like artists, designers, architects, copywriters, PR managers, and the like. For many of us, this is quite acceptable, given the nature of their profession. Meanwhile, we expect the resume of an economist, engineer, or accountant to appear more conservative, corporate-like, informative, and accurate. In short, creativity isn't the main highlight.

How to make an infographic resume?

• Analyze and evaluate the need for a graphic summary. Will it be appropriate for the position you're applying for?
• If the answer is yes, proceed with the selection of abstracts and elements to be added in your infographic (in this case, it would be the contents of your resume). Don't forget to re-read, redo, and/or update information or delete unnecessary data.
• Your infographic resume should include text blocks such as your name and family name, contact details, academic record, previous work experience, projects, personal qualities, etc. It's important to formulate sentences concisely. Additionally, don't forget to read 4 most important things your document should have.
• Create a sketch and draw out what your infographics should look like. Carefully structure all information, placing all the most important details front and center. Additional data are placed below or on the sides. Also, don't forget to insert relevant images for added visual appeal.
• If you're skilled in graphics design, creating your own infographic resume will be a breeze. But even if you don't have the talent for it, it's just as easy to find online tools and applications to help you out. You can find some of them in our list of top resume makers. Best of all, most of them are free!

Important pointers

When creating an infographic resume, remember to follow a few simple rules to make it effective:

• Don't overload your resume with large chunks of graphic elements. Everything should be in moderation.
• Don't use colors that are too bright.
• Make sure that the text is readable.
• Put all information on an A4 sheet.
• Present your data based on experience, implemented projects, attracted clients in numbers and facts, etc.

An infographic resume is a unique and effective way to show potential employers that you're an extraordinary candidate who's ready to provide their company with interesting ideas.

But as with anything, it comes with advantages and disadvantages…

Pros:

• Presents complex information into simpler, more easily understandable blocks of text
• Structures data that simplifies perception
• Visually pleasing

Cons:

• Not always a suitable format for every profession
• Can be more time-consuming for the recruiter to review (compared to a standard resume)
• Potential to leave many open questions

Should you decide to create an infographic resume to ensure that you can grab a potential employer's attention, Resumance advises you to make at least two different versions. One of these should be a standard resume, while the other one is an infographic. Of course, don't forget to attach a cover letter to your resume.