How To Use a Minimalist CV Template

A minimalist CV template is a CV format that favors a clean, clear and uncluttered aesthetic. This shouldn’t be confused with minimalist CV content, which refers to a condensed form of CV writing that includes only the most crucial information. Minimalist CV designs are a very common form of modern CV templates, and have a number of strengths that make them popular among professionals. If you like the minimalist look, you can also use one of our minimalist cover letter templates to ensure your cover letter and CV complement each other.

While there is as much variation in style in minimalist templates as there are between professional CV templates, minimalist layouts tend to share the following characteristics:

1. Simple font

You should always aim to use a professional, easy-to-read font when writing your CV and cover letter. Sans serif fonts in sizes 10.5 to 12 are most desirable for CVs because they are easy for applicant tracking systems (ATS), which employers use to review CVs, to scan. These fonts also tend to be popular with recruiters because of their clean-cut appearance. Fonts like Arial and Calibri are a good choice for any curriculum vitae or CV. 

2. Limited use of graphic design flourishes

If your job search is taking place within a creative industry where your CV design can act as a showcase of your skills, a minimalist CV template may not be for you. Minimalist CVs generally do not have fancy infographic features or graphic design elements. Sections are defined by simple headers and text is formatted in bold, italics or bullet points, without special icons or graphics, which can help make your CV more ATS-friendly.

3. Limited, muted use of color

Many modern CV templates use color and graphic design elements to provide an eye-catching result; minimalist CV templates do not do this. Any color used in the template will be subtle, muted and limited in scope. 

4. Lots of white space

As well as margins of at least one inch all around, the average minimalist CV template has more white space than the average creative or functional CV. The reason for this is to create a clean design that draws the headings and sections into sharp focus. 

Minimalist CVs are incredibly effective but also very accessible because even someone with a limited understanding of Microsoft Word can create one. Of course, there are many preset options if you want a minimal CV template to customize and make your own. There are times when a clean CV template will not be the best choice for you, however. 

Minimalist CV templates are an excellent option for those who have basic MS Word skills, who are applying to jobs in corporate or professional roles, and those who prefer a simple CV template design. In short, if you work in a field where form is secondary to function, a minimalist CV is the right choice for you.

If you work in a creative industry, however, and you need your one-page CV to have a little bit of character, a creative CV template may be better for your needs. For example, if you are a graphic designer, you need to reflect that when you design a CV for your job search. In contrast, if you’re seeking a legal job, for example, you can probably land your dream job without getting fancy with Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. A minimalist CV template and a matching cover letter will do the job just fine.

For free minimalist CV templates you can use immediately, visit CVHelp’s CV template section for these top examples:

1. Cinematic

Classic, easy to read, and clean-cut in appearance, “Cinematic” is a modern CV template that nails the minimalist aesthetic perfectly. This is a functional CV that emphasizes the work experience section.

2. Hollywood

If you have a lot of work experience to highlight, the Hollywood CV template is perfect as it places the contact information, skills and education sections, to the left of the summary and experience sections, while maintaining a relatively minimalist look.

3. Bedrock

With wide margins and bold headers with simple sections that rely heavily on bullet points, the Bedrock template is simple but effective. It has plenty of space for the summary, skills, experience and education sections, making it a versatile one-page CV template.

These simple, clean-cut mockups give a good idea of what your CV will look like if you make the most of the free minimalist CV templates that are available online. Just make sure you design a matching cover letter for the perfect first impression.