_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Commerce Career Services

www.commerce.virginia.edu/career-services ccs@comm.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7986

Resume Writing-Creative Industries

If you’re looking to land a job in a more creative field or who simply want to show off your design sensibilities in your job-seeking documents, consider creating a resume that will stand out visually. Some industries for which a unique resume may actually be more appropriate include marketing, advertising, public relations, and start-ups. That said, when deciding whether to opt for a less traditional resume, consider your personal brand, what you’ve learned about the industry, the company culture, and industry/company values. Also consider your comfort and skill levels for developing a more visually creative version of your resume. Who is your intended audience? What format will allow you to successfully communicate your brand? If creativity is an essential component of the role, consider taking a bit more creative liberty when drafting your resume! This might require learning a new skill set or soliciting help if this is not your strength. No matter your intention, make sure the end product effectively communicates you, your brand, and your fit for the position/industry. If you’re just getting started with your resume, review the CCS Resume Writing handout for general guidance first, as much of the information is applicable. For example, you want to list the education section first and include both UVA and McIntire. Within education, you will want to include your degree, concentrations, tracks, and GPA. Once you have the basics down, consider applying some of the specific suggestions listed below to craft your more creative resume. For additional guidance and ideas on formatting and layout, you’ll find some sample resumes in the pages that follow. If you have any questions about whether or not to use a more creative resume, or if you need help developing your document, the CCS staff is ready and willing to assist you! Recommendations

Know the industry and position before submitting a more creative resume! Even if you consider yourself

a more artistic person, you probably don’t want to use an uncommon format for an application with an

accounting firm or commercial bank.

Use a distinctive format/style/font that stands out, yet is easy to read with well-organized content.

Avoid too many different fonts, colors, or images. You want your resume to enhance your qualifications,

not obscure them.

Categorize your experiences by unique but relevant skill sets (e.g., education, creativity, leadership,

interpersonal, problem solving, communications, technology).

Focus on content! You don’t want to create a document that’s all flash and no substance.

In addition to LinkedIn, if you have an online portfolio or blog, include a link to that site.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Commerce Career Services

www.commerce.virginia.edu/career-services ccs@comm.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7986

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Commerce Career Services

www.commerce.virginia.edu/career-services ccs@comm.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7986

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Commerce Career Services

www.commerce.virginia.edu/career-services ccs@comm.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7986

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Commerce Career Services

www.commerce.virginia.edu/career-services ccs@comm.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7986