Infographics, or data made visual, date back to the 1700s. You have probably seen lots of infographics in print and online, and now this trend is moving into the job market with infographic resumes.
Standard resumes use text to list information from top to bottom. Infographic resumes apply graphic design elements, including layout, color, icons and font styling, to organize content.
Do you need to create an infographic resume? Read the lists below to decide.
Pros of an Infographic Resume
You Stand Out From the Crowd
In a competitive job market, an infographic resume can provide an advantage. A hiring manager, who has been viewing text resumes all day, may spend extra time looking at a document that is interesting, different and visually appealing.
Infographics Showcase Your Creativity
Many industries value originality and imagination. Although you may list “creativity” as a skill, an infographic resume is a compelling way to demonstrate your design talents in action.
Visuals Highlight Your Qualifications
Infographics are an excellent way to illustrate data in “easy-to-digest” snippets. Done well, an infographic resume can clearly communicate the qualities that make you a good candidate. Infographic resumes are especially useful for highlighting work timelines and measurable statistics.
Cons of an Infographic Resume
Your Resume May Be Rejected
Some companies prefer traditional resumes. And, as a result, they may not take your application seriously. In addition, many organizations use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to initially scan resumes. As this software looks for keywords and plain text, there is a good chance an infographic document may be thrown out before a real person sees it.
Great Infographics Are Difficult to Create
Infographics are not only time-consuming, they also require a certain level of design expertise. This can be tricky to pull off. And, poorly crafted application materials always work against you.
Best Practices
Send Two Resumes
Even if you decide to use an infographic resume, you should prepare a traditional resume as well. When you are applying for positions, send both. This way you can get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager with your creative flair.
Let the Job Decide
If you are applying for a job in graphic design or communications, an infographic resume may be a good choice. Other careers may place a higher value on your ability to connect through writing. With legal, engineering or finance positions, a standard resume may be a better plan.
Post Your Infographic Resume Online
Maybe you chose not to use your infographic resume, but don’t hesitate to add it to your social media accounts or your personal website. Since 70 percent of hiring managers use social media to screen candidates. (Business News Daily, 2018), your extra effort still could work in your favor.
Creating a resume that gets results can be an overwhelming task. That’s where Aventure Staffing can help! We have offices in Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota, and our employment specialists can provide advice and support at no cost to you. Submit an online application and begin the process today!