Creating a CV in Google Docs
You’ve found an interesting job and now you need to create a CV. But what if you don't have a word processing program or you always work on your tablet or smartphone? Then, Google Docs may be a great alternative.
What is Google Docs?
Google Docs is an online service from Google and is comparable to the word processing program Microsoft Word. With this online tool, you can create, edit and format documents. All your work is stored online so you can work on your documents anywhere in the world and never worry about losing your work.
In addition, you can easily share documents in Google Docs with others and work on them at the same time with other people.
Advantages of creating a CV in Google Docs
One of the great advantages of writing your CV in Google Docs is that you can create and edit the document anywhere, any time of the day. But there's more.
Free software
Google Docs is part of Google and if you have a Google account for personal use, you can use various functionalities that Google offers for free, including Google Docs.
Editable on mobile devices
Do you prefer working from your smartphone or tablet? Then, you can download the free app from the Google Play Store or the App Store and edit your CV online in Google Docs on any mobile device. This is handy if, for example, you’re on the road and you see an interesting vacancy. You can quickly and easily adjust your CV without needing to log in to a desktop device.
Option to save in various formats
Another advantage of creating a professional CV in Google Docs is that you can save your Google Docs file in various formats. What you need to do for this is open your Google Docs document and choose ‘File’ > ‘Save’. You will then be given the choice of saving your document in one of the following file formats:
- Microsoft Word (.docx)
- OpenDocument Format (.odt)
- Rich Text Format (.rtf)
- PDF Document (.pdf)
- Plain Text (.txt)
- Web Page (.html)
- EPUB Publication (.epub)
Easily share your CV with others
Another handy feature of Google Docs is that you can also share documents online. All you need for this is the recipient's email address. You add this via the ‘Share’ button.
However, be sure to choose to change the access settings to 'Viewer’ so that no one can change your document. Of course, you can also simply share the link and grant access that way.
Disadvantages of creating a CV in Google Docs
While there are many advantages to creating a resume in Google Docs, there are also some disadvantages.
Limited choice in CV templates
Google Docs offers a small selection of resume templates (5), all of which come with a different base colour, font and layout. That said, the templates generally look almost the same and the choice is very limited.
Frequently used templates
Since there is so little choice in the CV templates available, it is very likely that your CV will be very similar to those of other candidates applying for the same job.
Minimal sections
If you want more information on your Google Docs CV than just a personal profile, your education and your work experience, then a Google Docs CV template may not be the right tool. A basic template only has five sections, which can be completed, meaning you won’t be able to include additional sections such as internships, extracurricular activities, language skills, volunteering experience or hobbies and interests.
CV builder or Google Docs?
In Google Docs, you first choose a CV template, after which you replace all sample data with your personal data. If you have more information than you can enter in the simple sample document, then you need some knowledge of Google Docs to keep the layout of your CV looking professional. In addition, with a CV created in Google Docs, you probably won't stand out from all those other candidates, as the choice of CV templates is very limited.
Creating a CV can be quite a time-consuming process. Using a CV maker or builder can help you save time as you don’t have to worry about the structure or the layout.
The big advantage of preparing your CV with a CV maker or builder is that you can create a beautiful CV within a few steps. You fill in your personal data, work experience and training, and the tool takes care of the rest.
How to create your CV in Google Docs
Here’s how to create your CV in Google Docs in five steps:
- Log in with your Gmail account and select the ‘Google Documents’ application.
- After opening the application, select ‘Blank’ to open a blank document or choose one of the CV templates available to you by clicking on ‘Template Gallery’ (on the right side of your screen, just above the templates shown).
- Write your CV in the file you’ve created.
- You can modify the layout using the elements visible on the banner above the document, or go to the menu and click on ‘Format’. You will be able to put certain words in bold, italics, underline them, etc. By clicking on ‘Insert’, you will be able to insert headers, images (or your photo).
- Change the title of your CV in the upper left-hand corner.
- You don't have to worry about accidental data loss as Google Docs files are continuously automatically saved. Once your CV is ready, all you have to do is download your document as a PDF or Word file and you can start sending and applying.
Our thoughts
- Google Docs is a quick and easy way to create your CV. It’s free and you can save your document as a Word or PDF file (or both).
- However, if you’re looking for a much simpler solution to create your CV, look no further than our CV maker. With Jobseeker, the section headings are pre-populated and the layout is automatic, so all you need to do is focus on highlighting your skills, experience and achievements.
