If adding a graphic or other design element to your resume scares you, the findings recorded in the 2014 whitepaper by Career Thought Leaders Career Brainstorming Day might shake you up!

According to leading industry experts who came together to report and summarize trends in resume development and job search strategy,

“Infographics are most often used in resumes, leadership bios, one-page achievement statements, and mobile docs. Hyperlinks, charts, charts, and feature sections (ie, project highlights) are also used, adding content. visual to help documents out. “

This means that a document that was once a simple reverse chronological list of jobs and accomplishments is getting a major makeover. If you’re considering updating your resume for job hunting or to use as a networking tool, this could mean a bit of exploring into uncharted territory for you.

What kinds of graphics or design elements could you consider on your resume?

A chart or graph

If your industry is sales, marketing, finance, business leadership, or innovation, this could work for you! A picture is worth a thousand words! I have used resume charts to show sales growth, dollars saved, and new revenue generated. A chart or graph quickly gets to the point and illustrates success.

An infographic

Infographics provide information quickly and look engaging in the process! Is there a symbol, image or graphic element that you can use to quickly convey your value?

A logo

It works just as well on nursing resumes as it does on bartending resumes. Is there a small logo or image that you can include (that is not copyright infringement) that could be a little differentiator on a resume? The goal is to communicate value quickly. A small image or logo can help the reader quickly associate you with your industry!

A little color!

Contrary to conservative opinion, color is not the resume of the kiss of death. In fact, adding a pop of color could help your resume stand out amidst a sea of ​​black and gray. While I don’t recommend drenching your resume in all the colors of the rainbow (unless you’re in a creative field), I’ll tell you that adding a little color won’t hurt.

Writer’s Tip … consider matching the accent color on your resume to the color the organization has chosen as part of its logo or branding! Many resume writers report success with this sneaky little tactic.

A custom letterhead

If the rest of the above design suggestions seem too drastic, consider designing your name and contact information on a custom letterhead. Use this unique design in any correspondence you feel like, including your cover letter and professional reference sheet.

Regardless of the layout or graphic elements you try, don’t forget the first rule of thumb for creating a resume: “Know your audience!”

If you work in a super conservative industry, the above suggestions may not be appropriate for you. (However, I will say that I have worked with clients who were very hesitant to use them, but were still daring enough to give them a try. They were the first to admit they were wrong after getting that first interview faster than anticipated!)

Time to get creative and show your value in a way that is well written and attractive to the eye!