8 free templates
Two-Column Resume Templates
Two-column templates add a sidebar for skills, contact details, languages and certifications, leaving the main column for your experience. You fit more on a page and the key facts are visible at a glance.
They work best when you email your resume or hand it over in person. For large online job portals, check the result with our ATS checker or choose a single-column design.
Use templateModern
Two-column · modern
Use templateProfessional
Two-column · professional
Use templateTechnical
Two-column · technical
Use templateCreative
Two-column · creative
Use templateComprehensive
Two-column · comprehensive · 2 pages
Use templateEngineering
Two-column · Engineering & trades
Use templateAdministrative
Two-column · Operations & admin
Use templateMarketing
Two-column · Marketing
Tips for using these templates
- Use the sidebar for short items: skills, tools, languages, links.
- Keep longer content, such as experience bullet points, in the main column.
- Do not overfill the sidebar; white space keeps it readable.
Check your resume before you apply
Upload your finished resume to the free ATS checker to see what applicant tracking systems read and which issues to fix first. It works in any language.
How to make a two-column resume work
Two columns let you separate quick-reference information from your story. The narrow column holds facts recruiters scan for (contact details, skills, tools, languages, certifications) while the wide column tells the story of your experience and results.
Balance is important. Keep the sidebar short enough that it ends around the same point as your main content, and avoid putting long sentences or achievements in it. If the sidebar overflows, move lower-priority items to the main column or remove them.
Because some applicant tracking systems read columns in the wrong order, test your resume with our free ATS checker before sending it to a large company's online portal.
Frequently asked questions
- Are two-column resumes ATS-friendly?
- They export real text, but some applicant tracking systems read columns in the wrong order. Run the free ATS checker on your resume, or use a single-column template for strict portals.
- When should I use a two-column resume?
- When you send your resume directly to people, want to fit a lot of skills on one page, or apply in fields like tech and marketing.
- What goes in the sidebar?
- Contact details, skills, tools, languages, certifications and links to your portfolio or profiles.
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