When it's time to update or create a new resume, you want one that reflects you and looks professional at the same time. Starting with a template can help with the appearance as well as what you should include. We have many great options for Microsoft Word users, but what about those who need Google Docs resume templates instead?

If you have done some searching already, then you know they are a little harder to find then those for Word. For you Google Docs users, here are several resume templates that you can easily adjust to fit your needs.

Built-In Google Docs Resume Templates

When you first log into your Google Docs account on the web, you will see the Template Gallery right at the top. This is a convenient place to start when searching for a resume template. Just expand the section by clicking the arrows and scroll down to the resume templates.

google docs resume templates

You should see five different template options, each with its own unique look and feel. Just click one and when it opens in the editor, swap out your information for the sample text.

If you have already seen the Google Docs resume templates and have decided you want to look at other options, then the sources below are for you.

1. Basic Resume Template

When you want a simple resume template without fancy formatting or colors, this one from Vertex42 is a good way to go. Along with its basic appearance, the template gives you the sections you should include with subtle prompts to help.

basic resume template

Remember, you can remove entire sections if you want to, such as the computer skills or language areas. And, changing the words is as easy as selecting the text and replacing it. Before you remove the text in the top section, you will notice a helpful link for resume tips that you might find useful.

2. Simple CV Resume Template

If a lengthy CV (Curriculum Vitae) is more your style, Vertex42 has you covered. This template contains five pages, but of course, you should remove unneeded sections. For instance, you will see areas for honors and awards, teaching experience, publications, and professional affiliations. This is simply a helpful way for you to see the formatting for only those that you will use.

cv resume template

Like with the basic resume template above, you will see a handy Vertex42 link at the beginning if you would like CV writing tips. And, this template gives you prompts as well.

3. Chronological Resume Template

With an impressive collection of resume templates, Gecko & Fly offers these next options. This first one is for those who appreciate a splash of color and a 2-column layout. As with most chronological resumes, your experience is at the top in reverse order with education directly below it, emphasizing the timeframes for each.

chronological resume template

In the right-hand column, you have spots for a small portfolio or other image, skills, and contact information. This layout provides a terrific way to highlight those items without them taking over the important slots in the main column. While you will not see any prompts with this template, the style alone might be just what you want.

4. Functional Resume Template

This next template is for those who prefer a functional resume over chronological, but again, would like a more notable design. You can emphasize your attributes and skills nicely at the top with arrow bullets and a star rating system. This is great if you want potential employers to get a quick glance at your most important offerings.

functional resume template

The following two sections are for experience and education, keeping the resume short and sweet on one page. And you can see there is a small bit of color on this template like with the chronological option. It's not overdone and provides an appealing appearance.

5. Streamlined Resume Template

Another chronological option with a streamlined design is this attractive template. Each section of the resume is broken into boxes for a neat and clean look. You can highlight items for your experiences and display your education simply with years of attendance.

streamlined resume template

The skills area at the bottom is well-formatted if you prefer a paragraph style over bullet points. But you can easily change this with the Google Docs formatting tool for a bulleted list.

6. Ardent Resume Template

If you want a unique look for your resume, this stylish template is for you. You can pop in a photo or image at the top and really emphasize your education, experience, and skills with this design. If you like the template, but prefer not to add an image, just remove the existing one and the rest of the text will move up.

ardent resume template

The skills section at the bottom uses a rating system similar to the functional resume template above. Again, this helps potential employers get a quick look at what you have to offer and how skilled you are at each item.

Add-Ons for Google Docs Resume Templates

Along with these helpful resume templates, Google Docs has additional sources you can check out with add-ons. You can open the store by selecting Add-ons > Get Add-ons. And, once you obtain one, just click Add-ons again and select the name of the tool to use it.

The first is an add-on from Vertex42 whose two templates we provided above. While you can snag the templates from the website links we provided, you can also obtain them along with cover letters from the Google Docs add-on.

google docs add-on template gallery

The benefit of using this add-on, aside from the resume templates and cover letters, is the extra templates you can use. These include options for invoice, accounting, schedule, checklist, and other templates.

VisualCV Resume Builder

Another excellent add-on for Google Docs resume templates is VisualCV Resume Builder. This tool provides you with six resume templates for free and three more if you decide to upgrade. A terrific feature of this add-on is that you can start with a template and just enter your information, pull in your LinkedIn profile, or upload an existing resume into the template.

google docs add-on visualcv resume builder

In addition to templates, VisualCV Resume Builder can help you manage your resume with your profile, stats, and an online dashboard. For a little extra with your resume templates, take a look at this useful add-on.

Do You Have Google Docs Resume Tips for Others?

A resume is one of the most important documents you will create, especially when seeking a new position or changing careers. You can complete a resume from scratch, of course. But, with a template that can assist you with formatting, you can concentrate more on the contents of the resume rather than its appearance.

Plus, we're here to help if you would like to see templates for Photoshop or Illustratoran infographic resume, or InDesign resume templates.

What is your experience with resumes in Google Docs? Do you take advantage of built-in templates, scour the web for more options, or just create your own? Let us know your thoughts and any tips for working with resumes in Google Docs.