Having just read through >300 resumes to fill several security consulting roles, my anecdata is that a well laid resume makes with good design does make a good first impression and increases the chance that I will read through it. To me, it exhibits that they have put a bit of effort into communicating their value and shows ability to understand how to communicate information.
That said, still not as much of an impression as a good cover letter written to demonstrate how their strengths match the vacancy.
That said, still not as much of an impression as a good cover letter written to demonstrate how their strengths match the vacancy.