Resumes have come a long way. But let’s be honest, some people still stick to old-school methods like buying pre-made templates from bookstores or typing in Word using the same traditional formats.

However, in today’s digital world, where almost everything happens online and job seekers and hiring managers rely on job platforms, do these outdated approaches still stand out?

This is where adding a splash of color to your resume can make a difference. But before you dive in, do you know when to use colors and which ones work best? Here’s everything you need to know about resume colors, along with their pros and cons!

The Role of Resume Design

When applying for a job, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. While the content of your resume highlights your skills and experience, the design plays an equally important role in how that information is perceived.

A well-structured and visually appealing resume not only grabs attention but also makes it easier for hiring managers to find the details they need quickly. Similarly, a clean, organized layout conveys professionalism, while strategic use of colors, fonts, and spacing can guide the reader’s eye and emphasize key information.

Remember, a great resume design doesn’t just look good — it enhances readability and ensures that your qualifications stand out. Should you use resume colors when applying for jobs? Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

What are the best resume colors?

When applying for a job, your first step is usually researching the company and understanding its values. But have you ever paid attention to their branding? Notice if their logo or website uses specific colors that reflect their identity. These colors can subtly influence how you design your resume.

Similarly, consider using resume colors that align with the role you’re applying for. Choosing the right colors can enhance your resume’s visual impact and show that you’ve put thought into aligning with the company’s culture.

Here are some color suggestions from resume professionals for different industries.

Creative Industry:

• Teal, Glaucous, Bleu de France, Maya Blue
• Coral, Orange Yellow, Orange Red
• Emerald Green, Bud Green, Granny Smith Apple, Light Sea Green
• Purple Plum

Other Formal Industries (Traditional Resumes):

• Navy Blue, Egyptian Blue, Slate Gray, Blue Gray
• Burnt Orange, Burgundy, Chestnut Brown, Bronze

Understanding the psychology of colors is a powerful strategy to make your resume more appealing and functional. Each color carries a specific meaning, and choosing the right one to match your desired role can help you stand out from other applicants.

Pros of Using Resume Colors

1. Enhancing Readability and Organization

Color can be used strategically to separate sections of your resume. It helps the reader’s eye to focus on important details. For example, a job seeker applying for a marketing role might use teal for section headers to improve readability without overwhelming the document.

2. Standing Out in Competitive Industries

If you’re in a creative field like graphic design, advertising, or digital marketing, using resume colors can showcase your creativity. For instance, a web designer might subtly incorporate accent colors that match their portfolio website, creating a cohesive personal brand.

3. Showing Personality and Creativity

Adding a touch of color can reflect your personality and make your resume feel more engaging. A customer service professional may use soft pastel colors to convey a friendly and approachable image. However, it’s important to use colors that complement your industry to avoid diminishing the content of your resume.

4. Branding Yourself Professionally

Your resume is part of your brand. If used correctly, resume colors can reinforce your branding. For example, if you’re applying to a company with a distinct brand color (such as blue for corporate companies), you might subtly incorporate that color to show alignment with their brand values.

Cons of Using Resume Colors

1. Might Look Unprofessional in Some Industries

Certain industries, such as law, finance, and government, prefer conservative and professional resume designs. If you’re applying for a position in a traditional company, using bold resume colors like pink or orange might be seen as unprofessional.

2. Can Be Distracting if Overused

While colors can enhance a resume, excessive use can make it hard to read. For instance, a job seeker applying for an accounting role who uses multiple bright colors (red, yellow, and green) might end up with a cluttered resume that weakens the impression of their qualifications.

3. ATS (Applicant Tracking System) Issues

Many companies use ATS software to filter resumes before they reach human recruiters. Some ATS tools struggle with complex formattings, such as colored text or graphics. If you’re using a resume builder, ensure your design remains ATS-friendly by keeping colors minimal and avoiding text in images.

4. Cultural Perceptions in the Philippines

Many Filipino employers still prefer traditional resumes. In industries where professionalism is highly valued, a black-and-white resume might be the safest choice. If in doubt, research the company’s culture or check job postings for design preferences to help you apply tips on how to make a resume for a job.

Keep your resume professional!

When adding colors to your resume, choose subtle and professional shades to keep it readable and ATS-friendly. Since most job applications happen online, make sure the colors look good in both digital and print formats. If you’re unsure, stick to a classic black-and-white design.In conclusion, always keep your content clear, relevant, and professional to boost your chances of landing a job. Explore Bossjob to connect with hiring professionals!