Should You Send a Resume as PDF or Word?
Choose the file format requested by the employer and check the exported document.
Should You Send a Resume as PDF or Word?
Use the file format specified in the application instructions. If no format is given, PDF is often convenient because it tends to preserve layout across devices. Some employers or application systems request an editable Word document instead. The safest choice is the one the recipient asks for.
What to do
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Export the final file, then open it in a separate viewer. Confirm that text is selectable, links work, pages are complete, and no section was cut off.
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Name the file clearly, such as Firstname-Lastname-Resume.pdf. Avoid a name like final-v7-new.pdf that gives the recipient little context.
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If the system asks you to paste your resume into fields, compare the parsed version with the source. Fix misplaced dates, broken bullets, or missing skills before submitting.
Example
If a posting says “upload a DOCX resume,” do not send only a PDF because you prefer its appearance. Follow the stated instruction.
A correct file format is only useful if the exported content is readable and complete. Reopen the exact attachment you plan to send; an earlier draft may have the right name but outdated content.
Use the file format specified in the application instructions. If no format is given, PDF is often convenient because it tends to preserve layout across devices. Some employers or application systems request an editable Word document instead. The safest choice is the one the recipient asks for.
Export the final file, then open it in a separate viewer. Confirm that text is selectable, links work, pages are complete, and no section was cut off.
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