Should you save your resume as a pdf

You may also find instructions within the application itself or in other job postings from the same company. Keep in mind that the instructions may say that either file type is acceptable, which means the choice is up to you. In some cases, you might not be able to find the information anywhere. Reaching out to the hiring manager to clarify will demonstrate initiative, show that you care about the job and help you stand out. To tell whether a document is formatted as a PDF or Word file, look at the end of the file name.

You should see a period followed by a few letters. If the file name ends with. You can also find online applications that will allow you to convert a file from one format to another. Adobe Acrobat also has this capability. One common reason for submitting your resume as a PDF instead of as a Word document is to preserve the formatting and content. However, if you have the right software, you can edit a PDF.

Making changes to a PDF document is more difficult than making changes to a Word document, but it is not impossible. With that being said, PDF is a safer choice because it prevents accidental changes. Editing a PDF requires a very deliberate process, whereas making changes to a Word document can be done inadvertently. Skip to content. When to use a PDF When to use a Word document Frequently asked questions When you are ready to submit a digital version of your resume, you have two options—you can attach your resume as a Word document, or you can attach it as a PDF.

The layout of your resume matters just as much as its contents. See proper cover letter format templates, get actionable examples and expert tips. To learn more visit our Privacy Policy Got it! Quick, pick. There are obviously no glowy swords in Star Trek. Now, quick - PDF resume or Word resume? So, which file format do you choose? Create your resume now Generic Word Resume vs Zety's resume in pdf— See more templates and create your resume here.

Rate my article: pdf word resume. Average: 4. The receiver may not have the correct software to open a PDF file less of an issue for a hiring professional, more of a concern for sending your resume to someone in your network who offered to take a look or pass it along. More information on ATS and your file format below. For example, a two-column resume format might be read from left to right, despite that information being unrelated.

A PDF is acceptable for many employers If you're sending your resume to a recruiting agency, a. Here are expert tips to increase your open rate when you're sending your resume. A Word document is the easiest file type to edit, giving it a huge advantage. It's also possible to keep your Word document neat and organized, giving it a strong advantage over TXT files.

A Microsoft Word document is the safest bet for submitting your resume. Here are the reasons why you should always submit a Word document:. There have been surveys done that show employers and recruiters prefer a Microsoft Word document over PDF. A Microsoft Word document is easily opened by many programs and devices. Yes, sending your resume in Word is the safest bet. Employers prefer it and it can easily be screened by ATS.

A previous version of this article recommended a. This is unlikely to make much of a difference in , since all versions of Word made after will open either. To save your resume as a TXT file, simply follow the same steps we outlined above regarding Docx and Doc. ATS is software which the majority of companies now use to screen your resume. The resume the ATS processes as a good match for the position are sent forward or recommended to the hiring manager.

Other resumes are scored poorly by the ATS for lack of keywords, experience mismatch, or complicated formatting. Always send a Word document to ensure your resume goes through.

Join more than 1 million people who have already received our complimentary resume review. In 48 hours, you will know how your resume compares. The name you give your resume is also an important factor to consider when sending out your resume. Recruiters or hiring managers will sometimes go back to search the database for your resume. You want to ensure that they find your resume easily when they type in your name. It also comes off as professional!