I've looked at thousands of resumes since I joined SkyWater in 2022. Only one template consistently stands out as the best.  I've also got great news: you don't need to hire a resume writer to get it. I'll share this resume template with you, share why recruiters like me love it, and give you some tips on how to make it your own.

Here's why this resume format works:

It's simple, concise, and to the point.

Simple resumes are effective because they focus on clarity, relevance, and readability, making it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to quickly assess a candidate’s qualifications.  A minimalistic resume emphasizes essential details without distractions. This can help recruiters or hiring managers see the core skills and accomplishments directly relevant to the job, rather than being overwhelmed by unnecessary design elements or lengthy descriptions.

It's easy to read (for humans AND computers)

This resume is "ATS-friendly." Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) sometimes struggle to parse complex formats. Simple resumes are typically easier for these systems to read, improving the chances that your resume will be processed correctly and make it through initial automated screenings if that's a part of any employer's process.

It doesn't have any fancy graphics or images taking up unnecessary space.

I discourage graphics on resumes because they can interfere with readability, ATS compatibility, and the overall professionalism of the document. Graphics also may take up space that could otherwise be used to detail skills, achievements, and experiences. A simple layout lets everyone focus on substantive content. While rare, some graphics (like photos) can lead to unintended bias or misinterpretation. For example, colors or icons may convey impressions about personality or style, which can detract from the focus on qualifications.

I see too many resumes with lengthy executive summaries, colorful graphics, or a second page that is only 1/4th full.

Telling your story but being practical is a "top 1% talent" trait I see consistently. No cover letter or "fluff" will change how your experience is viewed. Let your experience be the first thing you see on the paper and speak for itself.

The other hard truth is that your resume needs to be digestible by automated systems. No longer is it guaranteed that a real human will be the first one looking at applications—sometimes, it's a program seeking specific keywords before passing them along for additional review. Making sure that it's simple and easy to pull information from can make a huge difference.

I'd love to hear opinions (in support of this simple format or against it) and how you have found success by adjusting your resume.

Would you like a copy of this resume template as a Word document? Download it right here.