Why settle for the handful of overused resume templates offered by a computer's word processing program? A web site with free resume templates lets job applicants stand out from the crowd with easy-to-read, expertly formatted resumes for business and academic use.

Dozens of resume templates are available to download and print at InstantResumeTemplates.com, and they're all free and fully customizable.

Users can choose from a variety of popular resume styles, including basic resumes, academic resumes, business resumes, chronological resumes, professional resumes and more. The templates, which are in Microsoft Word (.DOC) form, are available in letter size as well as A-4 for international use.

"The market is changing, and job-seekers don't have time to waste figuring out how to design or hunt down a resume style," said Kevin Savetz, the site's creator. "Whether users want to stand out from the crowd with a colorful, graphically different resume or adhere to a traditional format, we have what they need at InstantResumeTemplates.com."

After downloading a resume template, users simply "overtype" to retain the font and format. All of the elements can easily be changed in Microsoft Word to suit individual needs.

The resume templates include traditional options (such as the tried-and-true chronological style) as well as informal twists on professional resumes. But there are also cutting-edge resumes with the elements today's employers are looking for. Some templates, which feature the user's academic background as prominently as professional experience, highlight leadership skills, computer literacy and community service. The templates even include question "prompts" for the less-traditional features such as the "profile" and the increasingly popular "personal mission statement."

InstantResumeTemplates.com was created by Savetz Publishing, Inc., a company that creates high-quality, content-driven web sites. The site is part of the FreePrintable.net family of sites, which offer free printable business cards, stationery, award certificates, recipe cards and other useful printable items. Savetz Publishing also owns FaxZero, which lets users send faxes from their PC; and Free After Rebate, a guide to free-after-rebate deals.