Traditional Resume Format: Free Templates & Guide
Traditional resume formats follow time-tested conventions and are preferred in conservative industries like finance, law, and academia. Learn how to format a traditional resume that conveys professionalism and reliability.
What Makes a Resume Traditional?
Traditional resumes follow classic formatting conventions:
- •Black and white only: No color accents or graphics
- •Classic fonts: Times New Roman or similar serif fonts
- •Simple formatting: Clean, straightforward layout
- •Standard sections: Work Experience, Education, Skills
- •ATS-friendly: Highly compatible with applicant tracking systems
When to Use a Traditional Resume
Best For:
- • Finance and banking industries
- • Legal professions
- • Government positions
- • Academic roles
- • Healthcare (clinical roles)
- • Conservative corporate environments
- • When job posting emphasizes "professional" or "traditional"
Key Characteristics:
- • Black text on white background
- • Times New Roman or similar serif font
- • 12pt font size for body text
- • 1-inch margins
- • Simple section headers
- • No graphics, icons, or color
- • Standard chronological format
How to Format a Traditional Resume
1. Header
Simple, centered or left-aligned:
- • Full name (16-18pt, bold)
- • Address (optional - city, state sufficient)
- • Phone number
- • Email address
- • LinkedIn (optional)
2. Professional Summary (Optional)
2-3 sentences, formal tone, no personal pronouns.
3. Work Experience
Chronological format:
- • Job title, Company name
- • Dates (Month Year - Month Year)
- • 3-5 bullet points per position
- • Action verbs, quantifiable results
4. Education
Standard format:
- • Degree, Major
- • University name
- • Graduation year
- • GPA (if 3.5+, optional)
5. Skills
Simple list or bullet points, no icons or graphics.
Traditional Resume Tips
Keep it conservative: Avoid any design elements that could be seen as flashy or unprofessional.
Use formal language: Avoid casual phrases or slang - maintain professional tone throughout.
Be consistent: Use consistent formatting, date styles, and punctuation throughout.
Proofread carefully: Traditional resumes require impeccable grammar and spelling.
Print test: Ensure it looks professional when printed on standard white paper.
Download Free Traditional Resume Templates
Get started with our free traditional resume templates designed for conservative industries.
Traditional Template 1
Traditional Template 1
Classic & professional
Traditional Template 2
Traditional Template 2
Classic & professional
Traditional Template 3
Traditional Template 3
Classic & professional