Why do I need to PDF my resume?

Hi Samantha,

This is a great question. In applying for positions, putting a resume in PDF format when sending electronically is something you should always do. As another individual noted, saving a document as a PDF is basically taking a picture of the document. This means that if you send from your computer, no matter what word processor the receiver is using, the formatting of the document will not change. You put a lot of time and effort into perfecting your resume, so sending as a PDF ensures nothing gets re-formatted and mixed up in translation.

This is a really easy step to take and is worth the extra second. When you go to save your document after your final edits, go to 'save as'. Below where you enter the file name is a drop box to select your 'file extension' where .pdf will be an option. Select that, hit save, and you're good to go!

Best of luck in your career pursuits!

Hi there Samantha,
I agree with the comments above. If you have formatted your resume in a way that you feel best represents you - you should definitely opt to export it as a PDF to send to potential employers. The formatting when it is received will not be distorted as it could with a Word document.

That said - always be sure to read resume submission requirements. Some hiring organizations will request that you submit a Word document. You do not want to be rejected as a candidate from the outset because you didn't follow instructions.

All the best to you.

HI Samantha. I agree with the other posters but I caution you to check what format the employer website requests that you use. Many websites specify the format, and some require a format other than a .pdf, such as .rtf or .docx. If you know how, you can "lock" the editing on your Word doc so that it can only be read, not changed.

Hi Samantha!

That is a great question.

Personally, I don't believe that PDF is superior to a Word formatted resume. Yes, PDF allows you to make a "fancier" resume with impressive formatting and graphics. However, Word formats are more universally accepted. Word formats are also easier for companies who use ATS (applicant tracking systems) to import your resume information into their system.

You want to make your resume easy for the hiring manager to read and manage. Different companies will prefer one format over the other, so it's probably best to have a copy of your resume in each format.

I hope this helps! Best of luck with your future job searching!

-Stephanie

Hi Samantha,

PDF is def. the way to go. Not only is much more professional but it allows you to keep your formatting. Say that you pick a font that the person you are sending your resume to doesn't have or that their WORD settings are different from yours, the formatting you've picked may not apply. Since PDF is basically a picture of what is showing on your screen, the person you are sending your resume to will see the exact same thing.

Joao

Hi Samantha,

I personally prefer to save my resume as a pdf file mostly because as you send it over electronically to future employers there is a high percentage of it arriving without any disruptions to its original format.

However, I do develop my resume in word format first and then once it is finalized I save it as a pdf format for distribution. So, technically I always have my resume saved in my computer using both programs.

Hope my insight helped and good luck in your job search.