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The Pros and Cons of Having an Infographic Resume

Is an infographic resume – where graphic visual representations of information are used to present your content – a good idea?

The answer is a definite maybe.

While there’s usually room for an infographic resume in your job search, some people will always prefer to read text. In some fields and as technology continues to evolve, these new types of resumes may become the norm. But in other, more traditional areas such as the law and academics, most experts agree it’s doubtful infographic resumes will ever catch on.

The Pros

A good infographic resume is appealing to look at and illustrates messages very clearly. This makes the format more interesting than documents filled with text and bullet points.

  • An infographic resume will help you stand out from the crowd. Competition for top jobs can be fierce. It’s critical to differentiate yourself from other candidates.
  • You can clearly showcase information. Infographics are designed to sort, arrange and highlight content in an easy-to-understand manner.
  • Infographic resumes are easily shared online. They work well on social media including LinkedIn and Pinterest, and when posting an online portfolio. With a single link, you can showcase your expertise in a visually compelling manner.

The Cons

Not all jobs are suited to infographic resumes. Many employers require traditional resumes because that’s what they’re used to and expect.

  • Scanning via an applicant tracking system doesn’t work with infographics. If there’s an ATS involved in screening, your infographic resume would likely be weeded out.
  • Infographic resumes may be perceived as less professional. Traditions die hard. There’s a difference between differentiating yourself and being annoyingly clever.

A Happy Medium

Because they’re not accepted by all employers, you should continue to use a text resume when applying for most jobs. However, have your infographic resume online as an innovative way to show off your creativity, tech savviness, and seriousness about landing a job. In addition to your online portfolio, LinkedIn profile and Pinterest page, use your infographic resume on your website and/or blog.

  • Let the job decide for you. For creative fields such as communications or graphic design, at edgy, progressive companies, an infographic resume can work exceptionally well. For more traditional roles, stick to a traditional format.
  • When in doubt, use both. Submit both a traditional and an infographic resume.

The right resume, the right search strategy, the right contacts and opportunities … you need them all, as you take your career to the next level. A professional recruiter from PrideStaff Modesto can be your greatest asset as you find and land your dream job. Read our related posts or contact us today to learn more.

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