When applying for jobs, your resume is your first impression—and often, the only chance you have to grab a hiring manager’s attention. Most resumes follow the same outdated, single-column format that buries key information under walls of text. But there’s a better way to structure your resume: the two-column resume.
A two-column resume is a visually engaging, easy-to-scan format that helps hiring managers quickly see your most valuable qualifications. It’s a small change that can increase your chances of landing interviews—especially in competitive fields like marketing, tech, design, and remote work.
In this article, we’ll break down why a two-column resume works, how to format it effectively, and how you can use it to stand out in the hiring process.
Why a Two-Column Resume Works
✅ It’s Easier to Read
Recruiters spend an average of six to seven seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to read further. A two-column format organizes key details upfront, making it easier for them to spot your skills, experience, and accomplishments instantly.
✅ It Highlights Key Information
Traditional resumes often bury important details in long paragraphs. A two-column resume separates essential elements—like skills, achievements, and links to work samples—into a sidebar while keeping work experience in a wider main column.
✅ It Looks More Professional & Modern
A visually appealing resume helps you stand out, especially in creative and tech industries. A well-structured two-column layout gives your resume a polished, sleek look that signals attention to detail and professionalism.
✅ It Maximizes Space
With a traditional one-column resume, candidates often struggle to fit everything onto one page. A two-column layout reduces wasted space and lets you include more relevant information without overwhelming the reader.
How to Structure a Two-Column Resume
A two-column resume splits content into two sections:
- Left Column (Narrow Sidebar) → Quick, scannable details
- Right Column (Main Content) → Work experience, education, and accomplishments
Here’s how to format it effectively:
🟢 Left Column (Sidebar) – Quick Highlights
This narrow section should feature high-impact details that recruiters can scan within seconds:
✅ Name & Contact Information
- Your full name
- Email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile
- Optional: Personal website or portfolio link
✅ Professional Summary (Optional)
A short, compelling 2-3 sentence summary of your expertise and what you bring to the table.
✅ Skills & Competencies
List 5-10 key skills relevant to the job (e.g., SEO, video editing, digital marketing, Python, UX design).
✅ Certifications & Awards
If applicable, showcase professional certifications (e.g., Google Ads, HubSpot Content Marketing) or industry awards.
✅ Links to Work Samples
For roles in marketing, content creation, design, or development, include clickable links to work samples.
🟢 Right Column (Main Content) – Experience & Achievements
This wider column is where you highlight your work experience and accomplishments in detail.
✅ Work Experience
- Company Name & Job Title
- Dates Worked
- Bullet Points (3-5 per job) focused on results and achievements, not just job duties
- Use metrics to show impact (e.g., “Increased website traffic by 40% in 3 months”).
✅ Education
- Degree, Major
- University Name
- Graduation Year
✅ Projects (Optional, but Recommended)
If you’ve worked on freelance, personal, or side projects, include a section highlighting relevant projects with links to work samples.
Example Two-Column Resume Layout
🟢 Left Column (Sidebar)
📌 Contact Info
📌 Skills
📌 Certifications
📌 Work Samples
🔵 Right Column (Main Content)
📌 Work Experience
📌 Education
📌 Projects
How to Create a Two-Column Resume
Option 1: Use Online Resume Builders
To simplify the process, use free or paid resume builders that offer two-column templates. Here are some great options:
- VisualCV – User-friendly, sleek templates
- Canva – Customizable design options
- Zety – Professional resume builder with optimized layouts
- Novoresume – Clean, ATS-friendly templates
Option 2: Use Microsoft Word or Google Docs
If you prefer manual formatting, use tables or columns in Word or Docs:
- Go to Insert > Table
- Select 1 row, 2 columns
- Adjust the left column to be narrower than the right
- Fill in content accordingly
Option 3: Use a Design Tool (For Creative Fields)
For graphic designers, marketers, or creatives, Adobe InDesign or Figma can help create a fully customized, visually stunning resume.
Mistakes to Avoid with a Two-Column Resume
🚫 Too Many Sections in the Sidebar – Keep it clean and only include key details.
🚫 Using a Non-ATS-Friendly Format – Avoid fancy fonts, excessive graphics, or unusual file types (use PDF or .docx for ATS compatibility).
🚫 Neglecting Readability – Ensure that text is legible with a clean font (Arial, Calibri, or Open Sans work best).
🚫 Focusing on Duties Instead of Impact – Employers care about results—not just job descriptions. Use numbers, achievements, and measurable outcomes.
Who Should Use a Two-Column Resume?
✅ Marketing professionals – Helps highlight campaign results, social media engagement, and branding work.
✅ Creative fields (Design, Video Production, Content Creation) – Great for showcasing portfolio links and projects.
✅ Tech professionals (Developers, Engineers, UX Designers) – Allows space for skills, certifications, and GitHub links.
✅ Remote job seekers – Makes it easy for hiring managers to quickly scan remote-relevant skills.
✅ Anyone who wants to stand out – If you’re applying in a highly competitive field, a two-column resume can grab attention faster.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Resume Work for You
A two-column resume isn’t just about looks—it’s about strategic readability and impact. By organizing information in a way that recruiters and hiring managers can digest quickly, you’ll increase your chances of landing interviews.
Ready to revamp your resume? Try the two-column format today and see the difference it makes in your job search!