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When writing a resume, I know you are not worried about what font to use for resume but every detail matters, from the content to the design. Even something as small as the font you use can make a big difference in how your resume stands out. You might be thinking, “Does the font really matter?” The answer is big YES! The right font doesn’t just make your resume easier to read, it also makes you look professional and helps you leave a lasting impression on recruiters. Whether you’re chasing a new job to level up your career or just starting out as a freelancer on Fiverr or Upwork, this article has tips to help you shine. The right font could be your secret weapon to getting noticed and landing that dream opportunity!
Why Choosing the Right Font Matters
Choosing the right resume typeface isn’t just about looking good, it’s about making life easier for both the HR team and the ATS. Think of it this way when your resume is clean, easy to read, and simple to understand, you’re already one step ahead with other applicants. A professional typeface doesn’t just make your content shine it shows that you care about the details and respect your reader’s time. The wrong font, however, can make your resume feel cluttered and unprofessional, and even risk it being ignored by automated systems.
I know what you’re thinking, you’re thinking how can you find the best typeface for your resume, yes we are getting there but let’s first know what are the characteristics of the best resume font.
Characteristics of the Best Resume Fonts
When selecting a font for your resume, think of it as the foundation of a well-structured professional document. Here are the key characteristics to keep in mind:
- Readability: Choose a font that ensures your resume is easy to read, even at smaller sizes. Clear communication is key.
- Professionalism: Avoid fonts that look overly decorative or casual. A professional typeface conveys competence and seriousness.
- Versatility: Your font should maintain its elegance whether viewed on a screen or printed on paper.
- ATS-Friendly: Use fonts that are recognized by Applicant Tracking Systems to avoid any issues with automated processing.
- Neutrality: A good font complements your content rather than drawing attention away from it. Let your achievements take center stage.
The wait is finally over! Here are the top fonts that will make your resume stand out, impress recruiters, and set you up for success in landing that dream job and get that freelance job.
If you’re interested in more about how to level up your freelancer career click here.
Top Fonts for Resumes
1. Arial
Arial is a clean and widely used sans-serif font that ensures your resume looks modern and professional. Its simplicity makes it easy to read both on-screen and in print. Minimalistic and clutter-free, it’s suitable for almost all industries and a safe choice for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
2. Times New Roman
Times New Roman is a classic serif font that has long been a staple for resumes. It’s perfect for more traditional industries such as law, education, and finance. It conveys a sense of formality and tradition, is compact to allow more text per page, and is universally recognized and accepted.
3. Calibri
Calibri is a modern sans-serif font and the default font in Microsoft Word. It’s a top choice for its clean, contemporary look and excellent readability. Optimized for digital screens, it is both professional and approachable, making it perfect for general-purpose resumes Are you a Web Designer reading this guide?more hacks in this article on what specific templates on the resume you should use as a web designer
4. Garamond
Garamond is a timeless serif font known for its elegance and readability. Its unique style can help your resume stand out while remaining professional. It adds a touch of sophistication, is ideal for creative roles, and has a compact design that helps fit more content.
5. Helvetica
Helvetica is a widely recognized and trusted font, especially popular in the design industry. Known for its clean, classic, and timeless appeal, this typeface is a go-to for professionals, design enthusiasts, and typographers. Whether used in digital or print formats, Helvetica’s minimalist design ensures your resume looks polished and professional, making it an ideal choice for creative roles or industries that value modern aesthetics.
6. Avenir Next
Avenir Next is a sleek, modern typeface that has become a favorite among designers and recruiters alike. Known for its geometric shapes, open contours, and strong lines, it offers a contemporary and polished look. Its clean design ensures readability while exuding sophistication, making it an excellent choice for resumes aimed at creative or tech-focused roles.
7. Georgia
Georgia is a timeless serif font that effortlessly blends sophistication and clarity. Its elegant design makes it highly readable across both digital screens and printed formats. Whether you’re applying for roles in academia, publishing, or any field that demands a touch of refinement, Georgia ensures your resume stands out while exuding professionalism.
Tips for Using Resume Fonts Effectively
Choosing the right font is only part of the equation. Here are a few additional tips to make your resume shine:
Font Size: Use 10-12 points for the body text and 14-16 points for section headings.
Consistency: Stick to one font throughout your resume or pair one serif and one sans-serif font for contrast.
Formatting: Ensure proper spacing, margins, and alignment for a polished look. More guides about formatting a resume will be found in this article
Test Readability: Always preview your resume on different devices and print it out to ensure it looks professional.
Here are some FREE resume templates for you
Conclusion
Ready to give your resume a glow-up? Picking the right font is like putting on the perfect outfit for an interview it speaks before you do. Fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, and Helvetica not only make your resume easy to read but also show you mean business. So, get your font game strong and let your resume do the talking. After all, the job is as good as yours!
Need more fonts for different purposes?
Check this out!
Common Questions about What Font to Use for Resume
The ideal font for a resume is a clean, professional serif or sans-serif option like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
The ideal font for a resume is a clean, professional serif or sans-serif option like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use 10-12 points for body text and 14-16 points for headings to enhance visibility. Maintain consistent formatting for a polished, readable look.
The most commonly used font on resumes, Times New Roman, remains a popular choice among job seekers.
