how to make resume in canva

How to Create a Resume Using Canva

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• Canva is a user-friendly platform that offers options for creating a resume, including starting from scratch or using a template.
• The process of creating a resume on Canva involves selecting a design, customizing the background, choosing elements like shapes and graphics, adding text, and filling out sections.
• Canva also allows users to add links or other visual elements to their resume and provides the option to group elements for easy editing and organization.

Creating a resume is a time-consuming, yet important process—especially if you’re starting from scratch. Luckily, there are online design platforms that can help you achieve the perfect resume for the job.

Canva is a great resource to use for any style of resume you’re looking to create, especially since you have options during the building process. You can start from a blank canvas or fill out a template with your information.

In this article, you’ll learn how to create a resume using Canva, either by starting from scratch, or with a template.

Creating a Resume on Canva From Scratch

Canva's user-friendly platform makes it simple to navigate and easy to build a document, even if you're starting with a blank page. Feel free to dig into a few more tips to get the most out of Canva once you're ready to elevate your design. But first, let's nail the basics.

Here's how to create a resume on Canva.

1. Start With a New Page

On Canva’s main page, go to Create a Design and type in Resume . Several types of resumes will appear in the search. Make sure to click on Resume with the measurements of 8.5 x 11 in.

2. Change the Background

Blank designs start with a white page on Canva’s Editor page . If you want to change the color, click Background Color towards the top left-hand corner of your workspace. This will bring up a list of colors that you can use.

You can also click the + icon to bring up the Color Picker , to give you an even bigger range of options.

3. Choose Your Elements

Next, click on the Elements tab to find the shapes and graphics. Be aware that elements with a crown on them aren't free as they are part of the benefits of the Canva Pro subscription .

Using a basic shape to emphasize your resume is always a safe choice, we're going to pick one to use in the top corner of our resume. To find these shapes, go to Elements > Shapes > See All . Choose a shape that you think helps accentuate your resume.

If you can’t find one you like, you can always type in a shape name in the search bar. The shape will appear under the headings Shapes, Graphics, Photos, and more.

Make sure to alter the size if need be. You don’t want anything too large that takes over the design. If you want to change the color, use your color picker in the top left-hand corner of your workspace to do so. You can see how the shape is arranged in the next step.

4. Add Your Header

After you're done adding any Elements, click on the Text tab. You'll see several different ways to insert written content into your resume.

Canva creates heading/subheading combos for different types of documents. Plus you can also choose to insert a heading, subheading, or body text individually.

If you click on a heading/subheading combo, you’ll find it's too big for the header. It’ll also be in the wrong spot. To fix this, click on one of the anchor points of the text box and drag that point inwards. Once it's the right size, position your mouse over the text box, click and hold, then move the box to the right spot.

When you move the text box, you might see pink lines pop up in different positions. These pink lines are guides to help you line up your text with the shapes on your page.

To change the alignment of your text from centered to left-justified, click on the Alignment button to see a menu with the different options.

To change the font, click on the text you want to adjust—no highlighting is needed. Then, click on the font drop-down menu in the top left-hand corner. Pick a font from the choices available.

To change the text to say something different, click inside the box and start typing.

5. Add Your Professional Profile

Having a professional profile is very important for your resume. Make it a quick, one-to-two-sentence blurb for why you're awesome and why you should be hired.

To add your own, click Add a Subheading in the Text tab. Rename the subheading to "Professional Profile" or something meaningful to your industry. Choose a clear font and then position the text box on the page under your heading.

Next, click on Add a little bit of body text . This will open up a new text box where you can fill out your profile. Once done, position it beneath the “Professional Profile” subheading.

If you're not sure where to begin writing, you can try some of these tips for writing a resume headline that gets noticed .

6. Add a Divider

After your professional profile, you may want to add a graphic element to separate your profile from the rest of the resume.

To create one, go to Elements > Shapes > Lines and find the line you want to use. Something simple and non-obtrusive is recommended, so it doesn't draw attention away from the top of the page. Reposition it and change the size and color as needed.

7. Fill Out Your Sections

Next is filling out the different sections of your resume. List your contact details, accomplishments, work history, and education. Just make sure not to list things you don’t need on a resume .

To add the text boxes, follow the same instructions for creating text as the last step.

An easy way to keep your formatting the same across each section is to copy the subheading and body text from the professional profile. Once copied, just change the text inside the box.

8. Add Links or Other Visual Interest

Most of the time, you want your resume to be simple, so it’s easy to read. However, if you’re applying online, adding visuals to your online resume can be a nice touch. If you don't have any visual material that's relevant, including a few links can be incredibly useful (e.g. links to your portfolio, previous publications, or personal website etc.)

Adding a link to your resume in Canva is easy. After creating a new section titled “Links”, and typing the info you want, click on the words you want the link to be attached to. When the text box is highlighted, a three-dot icon will also appear. Click on the three dots, select Link , enter the URL, and press Enter .

9. Revise Your Resume and Group the Elements

Always make sure to check for grammar or visual errors. Learning how to proofread your resume will ensure you create a professional document.

"Grouping" means that separate elements on your page will be read as a unit. In Canva specifically, this means that you can edit each item by itself, but move the elements as one unit across the page. This is helpful if you want to tweak your design but keep individual sections organized.

To group items, click and drag over the elements you want to group until their bounding boxes show up in purple. Once they are selected, click on Group .

Make any final adjustments to the look of your resume and your finished.

Creating a Resume on Canva Using a Template

Not everyone has the time to build a resume from scratch, or perhaps they don't feel like being particularly creative. If that's the case for you, creating a resume using one of Canva's templates is the way to go.

1. Select a Template

Crafting a resume from a template is an incredibly easy process compared to creating one from scratch. On Canva’s main page, type Resume into the search bar and press Enter .

The next page will have thousands of resume templates to choose from—some even come with a cover letter template. Select one that you think will work for you and click Customize This Template .

2. Fill Out the Template With Your Information

Each template comes equipped with different sections that you’ll need to fill out. Just like creating a resume from scratch, if you click on the text box, you’ll be able to edit as you go.

If you find that some aspects of the resume don't fit the style of resume you’re trying to build, you do have the option of deleting or moving sections. Remember, all templates are completely customizable.

If you have to move a full section for any reason, even to a different page, it would be much easier to group the section first, then move it. Refer to step nine above for how to group a section.

Create a One-of-a-Kind Resume on Canva

Canva is a great platform to use for all your creative needs—even when it comes to building your resume. It doesn’t matter what your skill level is either. You have the option of simply choosing a template and inserting your information or creating a resume from a blank canvas.

Next time you’re job hunting, try using Canva on the desktop or the mobile app to create your most appealing resume yet.

• Work & Career

Should You Use Canva for Your Resume? Here’s What You Need to Know

Creating your resume in Canva can feel like manifesting a makeover. What can seem like a plain and boring document suddenly looks colorful and eye-catching.

So as a career coach, when I meet with clients who’ve spiced things up by making a Canva resume, I hate breaking the news that their fancy new document probably won’t make it through an applicant tracking system (ATS), the software recruiters and hiring managers use to organize and sort through online applications. I steer them back toward a Word or Google doc, and show them how you can still feel dressed up but actually get noticed.

Here’s why I regularly give this advice—and when you can make an exception.

Wait, what’s the issue with using Canva to build a resume?

Every bit of text on a Canva resume template is placed using text boxes, no matter which template you select and even when you create your own design from scratch. This makes for nicely spaced resumes, but it won’t help in getting your content read properly by an ATS.

Elements including text boxes, tables, headers and footers, images, and columns can trip up an ATS scanning your resume and turn your carefully crafted document into a jumbled, nonsensical mess. Even if you make your resume in a Word doc, you should still avoid using all of these to ensure your content is readable. And though some Canva templates are simpler and cleaner than others, they’re all built on text boxes and other elements an ATS might not be able to decipher properly. Plus, you can download your Canva resume as .pdf, .jpg, or .png files, but not as .doc or .docx files, which are most easily parsed by an ATS . Finally, the most popular applicant tracking systems all search for information differently, making it even more important that you create your resume with straightforward formatting and content.

All of these factors make it hard to recommend selecting any of Canva’s templates or even creating your own when you’re applying for a job online.

And while the ATS is the most immediate hurdle, a review of some of the available templates tells me they might lead you astray in other ways. For example, some guide you to include resume objectives , which are outdated and unhelpful; photos of yourself , which don’t belong on your resume (not in the U.S., at least); or sections that list references or state, “ References available upon request,” which you just don’t need. Some reserve disproportionate space for your contact information , which belongs on your resume but doesn’t warrant a quarter of the page, or leave very little room for you to list your work experience with meaty bullets describing your impact and accomplishments.

Read More: Beat the Robots: How to Get Your Resume Past the System and Into Human Hands

When *is* a good time to use a Canva template?

When you’re bypassing the online application system entirely and emailing your resume directly to a contact—maybe someone you know or have been referred to—you might consider impressing them with a nicely designed Canva resume. Or once you’ve gotten through the ATS and made contact with a person, you can send a fancier resume to share with the people you’ll be interviewing with. Just be sure you’re including the right sections and information and keeping in mind that humans looking at your resume also don’t want to be overwhelmed by a super busy or indecipherable document.

As applicant tracking systems improve, my hope is that job seekers won’t have to worry about how a resume is built and will be able to have fun with the design. But for now, hold off on using your Canva resume until after you’ve made it through the online system.

OK, cool. So how should I make my resume?

If you’ve been using this type of resume to apply and aren’t having much luck with positive responses, this is a great time to see if things improve with a simpler resume created in Word or Google Docs.

Here’s some more advice on putting together a resume that will help you land interviews and jobs:

• Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)
• 43 Resume Tips That Will Help You Get Hired
• The 41 Best Resume Templates Ever
• What it Really Means to “Tailor Your Resume”

Check out even more resume advice and, if you need some extra or more personalized help, you can book a resume review with me or another Muse career coach.

Home / Blog / Tutorials / Canva / How to Create a Resume in Canva with AI (Step-by-step Guide)

How to Create a Resume in Canva with AI (Step-by-step Guide)

Written By Raman Singh • 9 minutes Read • Last Modified: July 20, 2024

Creating a résumé is a time-consuming yet necessary process—especially if you’re beginning from scratch. Fortunately, there are online design tools that can help you create the ideal CV for the job that your hiring managers would love.

Creating an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume is the first step in the process of seeking a job online. Sometimes it can be a daunting task for job seekers,  especially if you are starting from scratch and if you are unaware.  

Canva is an excellent resource for creating any type of resume, especially since there are options available during the creation process. You can start with a blank canvas or fill in a template with your information.

1 Step #1: Write your Resume Using AI

1.1 using copyrocket ai tool, 1.1.1 step #1: go to app.copyrocket.ai and sign up.

To get started, visit app.copyrocket.ai and register for a free account. Once signed up, you can use the AI tool to create your résumé in canva seamlessly.

1.1.2 Step #2: Navigate to AI Writer

After logging in, navigate to ‘AI Writer’ from the left menu. This is where you can input your query to generate content.

1.1.3 Step #3: Search for Resume Builder

In the AI Writer, search for “resume” and select “resume builder” from the search results. This will help you create an applicant tracking system-friendly resume which is crucial for online job applications.

1.1.4 Step #4: Copy the Result

Once the tool generates your resume, copy the content. Open a markdown editor such as Dillinger , and paste the result there.

1.1.5 Step #5: Save or Download

Now, copy the formatted resume from the markdown editor and either save it somewhere safe or download it as a .doc file .

1.2 Using ChatGPT

1.2.1 step #1: get resume prompt.

First, obtain the appropriate resume prompt from our Prompt Book available here . This book provides useful prompts to guide you in creating your resume directly using ChatGPT .

1.2.2 Step #2: Enter the Resume Maker Prompt

Go to ChatGPT and paste the resume maker prompt into the chat . This prompt is designed to assist you in crafting a detailed and professional resume.

1.2.3 Step #3: Fill in Your Details

Fill in all the placeholders in brackets like [name], [number], etc., with your actual information. ChatGPT will process these inputs to develop a complete resume draft.

1.2.4 Step #4: Generate and Save

Press ‘enter’ and allow ChatGPT to generate your résumé. You can then either copy the entire text and paste it into a markdown editor or download the document directly.

Using either Copyrocket AI or ChatGPT, job seekers can create eye-catching resumes using Canva’s templates with very little room for error.

These tools simplify the resume creation process, ensuring you stand out to hiring managers and applicant tracking systems. Resources like Canva allow for easy edits and formatting, making it simple to upload and present your qualifications effectively.

Whether it’s for jobs, internships, or corporate positions, the modern design capabilities of Canva make it an invaluable tool.

2 Step #2 – Choose Desired Canva Resume Templates

Starting on the Canva homepage, go ahead and type in resume. You’ll see that over 10,000  canva’s templates are available for you to customize.  

You can also type and search for “ATS resume templates”. ATS stands for applicant tracking systems, which employers use for the screening of the candidates’ resume.

If you dont want to choose a template, you can also create a resume directly.

Scroll down and take a look at the various canva template available to you. You’ll find that most of these are free to use, though some have a Canva Pro subscription logo in the bottom right-hand corner.

ou will need a Canva  Pro subscription in order to use these templates.  Many of these pro templates are more creative in nature, and others are slightly more professional.

3 Step #3 – Edit And Fill Your Details

Let’s go ahead and start by using a more professional looking resume. Go ahead and click on it, and then click “Customize This Template”. 

Once you click Customize This Template, it is  now a completely open canvas for you to use.   Everything on the first page here can be edited.. 

The first thing I’m going to do is adjust the name. For any edits that you want to make to the text of your resume, go ahead and click on it. 

4 Step #4 – Adjust Fonts

If you want to adjust the font, go ahead and either highlight or double-click on it,  go to the top of the screen, and you can see the various font styles available for you to use.

You can then click on them and see what they would look like. Once you find one that you like, you can then go ahead and adjust the size and even the colour.  

Throughout the rest of the document, if you want to use the same type of font or find one easily that you used previously, you can go ahead and click on it, come back up to the top of the screen, click on Font, and then easily see the other fonts that you have used in this document.  

5 Step #5 – Edit or Add Design Elements

In the template that we chose, it has some design  elements that you may or may not wish to keep.  Go ahead and click on this line.

Here, you  can adjust the color, the type of line,   and you can drag it, and adjust accordingly.  If you make any change to your resume and you  decide that you want to go back, up at the top of the screen, you can click the undo button.  

If you decide that you would like to add additional elements that are not already on your template, on the left-hand side, click on elements.

You can continue to tweak your resume and add any additional graphics or designs that you would like to include.  Likewise, for anything that exists on the resume, you can go ahead and make adjustments as well.

Here you can add additional  text boxes to be included on your template.   Although you don’t necessarily need  to do this, given that you already have pre-populated text boxes that you can  just quickly edit with your information.

6 Step #6 – Upload Your Photo to Resume

You can also upload a photo to your resume using the upload option on the left sidebar.  On the left-hand side,  click on Uploads. If you don’t already have your photo uploaded to Canva, click on Upload Files.  Locate the picture on your computer and open it. It will be downloaded to your canva library.

Then go ahead,   click and drag on the image, and bring it over to  where the previous photo on the template was. Once   it’s here, you can double click and then adjust  it, zoom in or out, and you can even rotate it.   Once you have it where you like,  go ahead and click out of the box.

Coming back here to your design, you’re going  to go ahead and edit all of the information you need changed in your resume.  

7 Step #7 – Add Page to Your Resume (Optional)

You can also go ahead and click Add Page if you wish to add additional information to a subsequent page before filling out anything else.

Ideally, resumes are one or two pages long. Try not to exceed that limit. So now you have your template and you can take the time to edit and customize the data to put your best foot forward.

But now, let’s not forget some of the most important steps before you send off your resume and apply for that job.  

8 Step#8 – Export Your Resume

Once you’re done editing your resume,  make sure to come up to File and Save. This way you can come back to Canva at any time  and continue to edit your resume.

Likewise, I recommend downloading this to your computer.  Up here on the right-hand side, click on Share. Then click on Download. Here you can see that  there’s different file types for you to download. 

Even though it’s suggesting  to download in a PNG files, for a resume, it’s suggested that you  actually download it in PDF standard.  

This allows you to either edit your resume in PDF,  copy and paste into a Word or google doc if you wish, or you already have your resume ready to send  out or apply because it’s in a PDF format. 

And there you go! Canva makes it easy to create a stylish and polished-looking resume.  

9 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

9.1 what is the best format to download my resume in canva.

For a resume, it is recommended to download it in PDF standard format. This ensures that your resume is ready to send out, and you can also easily edit or copy and paste it into a Word or Google Doc if needed.

9.2 Can I create a resume directly without using any templates on Canva?

Yes, you can create a resume directly without selecting a template. However, starting with one of Canva’s templates can save you time and provide a polished, professional look.

9.3 Are all Canva resume templates free to use?

Most Canva resume templates are free to use, but some require a Canva Pro subscription. These pro templates often have more creative designs or additional features.

9.4 How can I make sure my resume is ATS-friendly?

To ensure your resume is friendly to applicant tracking systems, you can search for “ATS resume templates” on Canva. These templates are specifically designed to be compatible with applicant tracking systems that companies use to screen resumes.

10 Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a resume in Canva offers job seekers a flexible and user-friendly way to craft a professional and eye-catching document. With the variety of Canva’s templates available, you can easily design a resume that stands out to hiring managers and applicant tracking systems alike.

Remember to download your resume as a PDF to ensure it retains its formatting and is ready to send out to potential employers.

Utilizing Canva’s tools, you can add or edit text boxes, images, and other design elements to create a visually appealing resume that highlights your skills and qualifications.

Whether you’re applying for jobs, internships, or seeking to impress recruiters, Canva makes the process straightforward and efficient.

Don’t hesitate to use the search function to find specific templates that suit your needs, and take advantage of the free and premium options available to best present your professional experience.

Written by Raman Singh

Raman is a digital marketing expert with over 8 years of experience. He has a deep understanding of various digital marketing strategies, including affiliate marketing. His expertise lies in technical SEO, where he leverages his skills to optimize websites for search engines and drive organic traffic. Raman is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and sharing his knowledge to help businesses succeed in the online world.

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How Do I Edit My Resume on Canva?

Editing your resume is an essential step in tailoring it to match your skills and experiences. One popular platform that allows you to create and customize your resume is Canva. With its user-friendly interface and extensive design options, Canva makes it easy for anyone to create a professional-looking resume. In this tutorial, we will guide you on how to edit your resume on Canva.

Step 1: Log in to Canva

If you haven't already, start by creating an account on Canva or logging in if you already have one. Once you're logged in, you'll have access to all of the features and templates available.

Step 2: Choose a Resume Template

Canva offers a wide range of pre-designed resume templates to choose from. To find the perfect template for your needs, click on the "Templates" tab located on the left-hand side of the screen. Use the search bar to enter keywords like "resume" or "CV" to filter the results.

You can also use additional filters such as color, layout, or style to narrow down your options and find a template that suits your personal taste.

Step 3: Customize Your Resume

Once you've selected a template, it's time to make it your own. Canva provides various editing tools that allow you to personalize every aspect of your resume.

• Edit Text: Double-click on any text element within the template to modify it. You can change fonts, font sizes, colors, and even add new text boxes.
• Add Sections: If you need additional sections in your resume, such as "Skills" or "Certifications," you can easily add them. Click on the "Elements" tab and select the appropriate section from the options available.
• Upload Images: To include your photo or any other relevant images, click on the "Uploads" tab and choose the file you want to add. You can then resize and reposition the image as needed.
• Change Background: If you prefer a different background color or pattern, click on the "Background" tab and select your desired option.

Step 4: Save and Download Your Resume

Once you're satisfied with your changes, it's time to save and download your edited resume. Click on the "Download" button located at the top right corner of the Canva editor.

To ensure high-quality output, choose a file format such as PDF or PNG. These formats preserve the design elements and maintain compatibility across different devices.

Congratulations! You've successfully edited your resume on Canva. Now you can use it for job applications, print it, or share it digitally with potential employers.

Remember that updating your resume regularly is crucial to reflect your latest accomplishments and skills accurately. With Canva's intuitive editing tools, you can effortlessly keep your resume up-to-date and visually appealing.

Start editing your resume on Canva today , and take advantage of its numerous design options to create a standout document that showcases your professional journey!

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• The Truth About Using Canva...

The Truth About Using Canva for Resumes

8 min read · Updated on March 18, 2024

Is Canva a good tool for creating and designing your resume? Here's what to consider.

Everyone wants their resume to look nice, but unfortunately, we're not all graphic designers. That's why many people will try to find a “hack” to create a more visually appealing resume that will help them stand out from the crowd.

One of these hacks is Canva , a popular design tool. It's free and easy to use, and it allows you to create social media graphics, presentations, posters, and, yes, resumes without any graphic design know-how.

It has dozens – if not hundreds – of resume templates you can choose from, with categories including modern, infographic, minimalist, corporate, photo, and even acting resumes. All you have to do is drag and drop your text into the template. You can even upload your own images before downloading or printing your resume.

Sounds easy, right? Sure – but is Canva good for resumes? Let's break down the truth about using Canva for resumes.

Are Canva resumes good?

Using Canva to design your resume sounds smart; it's free, easy to use, and the templates look pretty sharp. However, using Canva to create your resume may not be as effective for your job search. Here are some of the biggest downsides to the design tool.

Canva resumes do not pass applicant tracking systems

When you apply for a job, there's a good chance a human won't be the first to see your resume. Many companies employ applicant tracking systems, a/k/a the ATS or “resume bots,” to collect, sort, scan, and rank resumes based on certain programmed elements.

There are several strategies you can use to beat the resume bots , and a lot of these strategies focus on the design of your resume. For instance, with resume bots, it's important to use a clean resume design. This means no complex designs or unusual formats; applicant tracking systems have a difficult time reading these. 

It's also important to avoid using any images or charts . These often become a garbled mess in the ATS.

Canva resume templates employ, at the very least, a bunch of text boxes that you can use to copy and paste your resume content. Resume scanning systems simply can't parse information from text boxes properly. This means that your resume will look like it has a bunch of nonsensical characters in it, leading the ATS to reject your resume as an incompatible file. 

Important Note: ATS rejection is one of the main reasons that job seekers are ghosted by companies. The ATS kicks out your resume submission, making it so the human beings at the company don't even know you exist.

As a rule of thumb, less is more, so stick to simple resume fonts , straightforward bullet points, and an overall minimalist look. There's no need to include a headshot, infographics, or cute little icons.

Write for the ATS and human beings

Your goal is to get past the applicant tracking systems and into the hands of recruiters and hiring managers. Even the humans reading your resume are more concerned with your skills and experiences – not the design of your resume. Since you have two different audiences for your resume, it's best to use something more common, like the reverse-chronological format . 

The ATS knows how to read a reverse-chronological resume, and it's what hiring managers expect to see. In fact, the human beings looking at your resume know exactly where to find pertinent information in a reverse-chronological format. You don't want to present something to them that they have to spend time deciphering because, in reality, they're only spending a few seconds skimming through your document. 

Canva resumes are only one page

It used to be frowned upon to have a resume longer than one page — even if you had 20 years of experience under your belt — but times have changed.

Now, recruiters, hiring managers, and HR pros don't mind a resume that's more than one page. In fact, a study from ResumeGo found that recruiters are 2.3 times more likely to prefer a two-page resume over a one-page resume, regardless of an applicant's job level.

Young professionals today tend to have a lot more valuable experiences, even when they're fresh out of school, like internships, co-ops, freelance work, and study abroad experiences. This isn't just fluff – these are experiences recruiters are interested in seeing from recent grads and entry-level job candidates.

When you use Canva for your resume, you'll notice a common trend: Almost all of the templates are built for one page. Not only that, they're difficult to edit into two pages. Sure, you can duplicate the first page of the resume, but that duplicates every section on the first page, which isn't necessary.

If you want to use a Canva template for the first page of your resume, you'll have to tap into your inner graphic design skills to figure out how to format the second page in a way that's congruent with the first (Spoiler: It's going to be difficult with the way Canva has these set up).

Canva resumes leave out valuable information

When you're perusing Canva resume templates, you'll probably find quite a few designs that look clean and sharp. The design pros certainly know how to create a simple template and utilize white space. However, upon further inspection, you'll notice there's not a whole lot of room to list your experiences. Plus, you'll find there are quite a few missing sections.

For instance, the “gray and black professional resume” looks nice. But upon closer inspection, you'll notice there's very little room to list your job experiences – just a corner of the page. Additionally, you'll notice valuable real estate dedicated to character references , which you should not list on your resume at all.

There's also a chunk of space on a resume reserved for contact information . While this information is important, you can, oftentimes, condense it and include it in one line at the top of your resume, under your name.

Some of these templates also lack important sections, including a key skills section , an achievements and awards section, and a career summary.

In general, these templates look minimalist and airy – which is great – but they also don't leave you much space to showcase your experience and qualifications, which is essential when you're building your resume. Instead, use this ultimate resume guide to determine which sections you need to include in your resume.

Should I ever use a creative resume? 

OK, so is it time to just write off the notion of using Canva for your resume? Generally, yes. In reality, they're just not right for most people. They won't pass applicant-tracking systems, they'll constrict you to one page, and they don't allow you to show off all your qualifications, skills, achievements, and experiences in an effective way that'll land you the job.

Many times, a creative resume design will work against you. If you do want to show off your design, photo, or other creative skills, consider building an online website or portfolio where you can show off your skills to your heart's desire. 

On the other hand

With that said, if you're attending a career fair or networking event and need something that's short and crisp, you could use Canva for your resume. Basically, anytime you're not applying for a job online, it's probably OK to have a Canva-designed resume. Just remember that you'll want to get the email address of the person you hand your Canva resume to so that you can send them your real resume – you know, the one that has more of the relevant information the hiring manager wants to see. 

Canva could harm your job search success

We know it's tempting to use a Canva resume because they are free, quick, and easy, but they may be harming your job search more than they are helping it. You're better off working with a professional resume writer who knows the ins and outs of resume design. They'll ensure your resume passes applicant tracking systems and overall are formatted for your success.

Key takeaways:

Canva resumes do not pass the ATS

Canva resumes utilize improper formatting, like text boxes, tables, and images

Canva resumes cannot be downloaded as .doc or .docx files

Canva resumes do not provide enough space to include relevant information

Canva resumes emphasize all the wrong things (like your contact information and references)

Stick with writing a reverse-chronological resume in Word or Google Docs to get past the ATS

Only use Canva when you're giving your resume directly to a human being

Not thrilled with your resume's format and design? Let a professional resume writer clean it up .

This article was originally written by Carson Kohler in 2021 and updated by Marsha Hebert in 2024. 

Recommended reading:

Resume Builders Versus Resume-Writing Services: Which Should You Choose?

QR Codes on Resumes: A Genius Move or a Silly Distraction?

Should I Put My Pronouns on My Resume?

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

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How to Create a Resume with Canva Resume Builder - A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome! In this guide, we'll show you how to create an impressive resume using Canva's user-friendly platform. We'll also introduce you to WPS AI for a more guided approach. And if you're looking to further enhance your resume, we'll highlight the capabilities of WPS Office. Let's get started on crafting a standout resume!

Part 1: About Canva

What is canva.

Canva is a free online graphic design platform that allows users to create professional-looking designs without any prior design experience. It offers a wide range of features, including access to a vast library of templates, fonts, and stock images. Canva is used by millions of people around the world to create a variety of designs, including social media posts, presentations, posters, and more.

Functions of Canva

Canva has a wide range of functions, including:

Design creation:  Canva provides a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to create designs of all kinds. Users can choose from a variety of templates or create their own designs from scratch.

Collaboration:  Canva allows users to collaborate on designs with others in real time. This makes it ideal for teams working on projects together.

Brand management:  Canva allows users to create and manage their brand assets, such as logos, fonts, and color palettes. This ensures that all of their designs are consistent with their brand identity.

File sharing:  Canva makes it easy to share designs with others via social media, email, or link. Users can also export their designs in a variety of formats, including PNG, JPEG, PDF, and SVG.

Pros and Cons of Canva

User-friendly: Canva is designed to be easy to use, even for people with no prior design experience.

Affordable: Canva offers a free version with a wide range of features. Paid subscriptions offer additional features, such as access to more templates and stock images.

Collaborative: Canva allows users to collaborate on designs with others in real time.

Comprehensive: Canva offers a wide range of features, from design creation to brand management.

Versatile: Canva can be used to create a variety of designs, including social media posts, presentations, posters, and more.

Limited customization options: Canva's templates may be limiting for users who need more customization options.

Advanced design features: Canva lacks some of the advanced design features found in professional design software, such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.

File export options: Canva's free version limits users to exporting their designs in PNG or JPEG format. Paid subscribers can export their designs in a variety of other formats, including PDF and SVG.

Overall, Canva is a powerful and versatile graphic design platform that is suitable for users of all skill levels. It offers a wide range of features at an affordable price.

Part 2: How to Generate a Resume Using Canva ?

Creating a standout resume with Canva is a seamless process that yields professional results. Follow these steps and refer to the provided images for a clear visual guide:

Customize your resume

Step 1: Begin by logging into your Canva account or creating a new one if you haven't already. Once in, select the "Resume" category from the template library.

Step 2: Browse through the available resume templates and choose the one that aligns best with your style and industry. Click on it to start customizing.

Step 3: Replace the template's placeholder text with your own information. This includes your name, contact details, professional summary, work experience, education, and any additional sections relevant to your profile.

Using a Template

Step 1: Go to the Canva website and log in to your account.

Step 2: Click on the "Create a design" button and select "Resume" from the list of templates.

Step 3: Choose a resume template from the library and click on it to open it in the editor.

Step 4: Customize the template to your liking.

You can change the colors, fonts, and layout of the template, and add your own text and images.

Step 5: Once you are finished customizing your resume, click on the "Download" button to download it in PDF, PNG, or JPEG format.

Here are three examples of excellent resume templates in Canva:

Modern Minimalist Resume Template

This template is perfect for job seekers who want a clean and professional resume. It features a simple layout with a focus on typography.

Blue professional modern CV

This template is perfect for job seekers who want a resume that stands out from the crowd. It features a colorful and creative design with plenty of space to showcase your skills and experience.

Executive Resume Template

This template is perfect for experienced professionals who are looking for a sophisticated and elegant resume. It features a classic layout with a focus on readability.

I have found Canva resume builder to be a very easy-to-use and versatile tool. It offers a wide range of templates to choose from, and it is easy to customize the templates to your liking. Canva also has a variety of features that make it easy to create a professional-looking resume, such as the ability to add images, charts, and graphs.

Overall, I highly recommend Canva resume builder to anyone who is looking for an easy way to create a professional-looking resume.

Part 3: Best Free Resume Builder - WPS AI

WPS AI is an innovative and powerful tool designed to streamline the resume-building process. Its intuitive interface and advanced features make it a standout choice for crafting professional resumes. With WPS AI, users can expect a seamless experience from start to finish.

Pros and Cons of WPS AI

Free to use: WPS AI is completely free to use, with no hidden fees or subscriptions.

Easy to use: WPS AI is very easy to use, even for people with no prior resume writing experience.

Comprehensive features: WPS AI offers a wide range of features, including AI-powered resume writing, smart resume templates, and an ATS-friendly resume builder.

Accurate and reliable: WPS AI is powered by AI that has been trained on millions of resumes, so you can be confident that your resume will be accurate and reliable.

Multilingual support: WPS AI supports multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

Limited customization options: WPS AI's resume templates are limited in terms of customization options.

Fewer features than paid resume builders: WPS AI offers fewer features than some paid resume builders, such as the ability to track resume views and hire rates.

How to Free Download WPS AI:

Downloading WPS AI is a straightforward process. Follow these steps with accompanying images for a hassle-free experience:

Step 1: Visit WPS AI's official website to find the download section.

Step 2: Click on the download link to initiate the process.

Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

How to Generate a Resume Using WPS AI:

Creating a resume with WPS AI is a breeze. Here's a step-by-step guide with images to assist you:

Step 1: Launch the WPS AI application and select the resume template that aligns with your preferences and industry.

Step 2: Begin customizing the template by replacing the placeholder content with your own information. Pay special attention to highlighting your skills and experiences.

Step 3: Utilize the tool's intelligent suggestions to further enhance your resume.

I have found WPS AI to be a great free resume builder. It is easy to use and offers a variety of features that can help you create a professional-looking resume. I especially like the AI-powered resume writing feature, which can help you identify and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

Overall, I highly recommend WPS AI to anyone who is looking for a free and easy-to-use resume builder.

WPS offers a wide variety of resume templates that can help you create a professional-looking resume. The templates are available in a variety of styles, so you can find one that matches your personality and the industry you are applying for.

WPS Template - Make Your Resume Excellent

To download and use a WPS resume template, follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to the WPS template website.

Step 2: Browse through the resume templates and choose one that you like.

Step 3: Click on the "Download" button to download the template.

Step 4: Open the template in WPS Writer and customize it to your liking.

Step 5: Once you are finished customizing your resume, save it in PDF or JPEG format.

Part 4: Edit Your Resume with Great Tools - WPS Office

WPS Office is a comprehensive and free office suite that provides users with a seamless platform to open, create, edit, and save Microsoft Office files, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, WPS Office offers a user-friendly interface and a range of powerful features.

Advantages of WPS Office:

Rich Functions: WPS Office boasts a wide array of functions that cater to various document creation and editing needs. From basic text documents to complex spreadsheets and presentations, it provides a robust set of tools.

Lightweight: Unlike some other office suites, WPS Office is known for its efficiency and low system resource consumption. This ensures smooth operation even on devices with limited processing power.

Safe and Stable: With WPS Office, users can work confidently knowing that their documents are secure. The software is designed to provide a stable and reliable environment for document creation and editing.

How to Free Download WPS Office:

Downloading WPS Office is a straightforward process. Follow these steps with accompanying images for a hassle-free experience:

Step 1: Visit the official WPS Office download page.

Step 2: Select the appropriate package for your operating system (Windows or Mac).

Step 3: Click on the download link to initiate the process.

Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

With WPS Office, you'll have a versatile and reliable office suite at your fingertips, providing you with the tools you need to create and edit documents with ease. Whether you're working on a resume or other professional documents, WPS Office offers a user-friendly platform to get the job done efficiently.

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Boost your productivity with WPS's abundant free Word, Excel, PPT, and CV templates.

1. Is Canva's resume builder free to use?

Yes, Canva offers a free version of its resume builder with a wide range of features. Additionally, there is also a paid version available that comes with additional perks and functionalities. This gives users the flexibility to choose the option that best suits their specific needs and preferences.

2. What file formats can I download my resume in?

With Canva's resume builder, you have the option to download your resume in various file formats. These formats include PDF, JPEG, and PNG. This provides flexibility in how you choose to save and share your resume with potential employers or colleagues.

3. Does WPS AI have a free version?

Yes, WPS AI offers a free version with basic features, alongside a premium version that unlocks advanced functionalities

In this guide, we've explored the world of resume building, with a special focus on Canva's user-friendly platform and extensive template library. While Canva excels in creating visually appealing resumes, it's important to also consider WPS Office, a versatile suite known for its compatibility with Microsoft Office files and secure, stable platform. Additionally, WPS AI offers a guided approach to resume creation. Whether you opt for Canva, WPS AI, or WPS Office, the key is to choose the tool that best suits your needs, ensuring your resume stands out in the competitive job market.

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15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.