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The Resume Format to opt for

Once you have finished editing your perfect resume, there is always a question of the right format to choose to not end up in a situation when the employer receives an unreadable file. Let us look at the most common pros and cons of each format in this article so that you can make up your mind and analyze your particular case.
Who Are You Sending the File to?
The first and the most important step is to follow your potential work provider’s instructions. There is quite a high probability that they ask you to send a resume of a particular format and if they don’t, never hesitate to ask yourself — will this prevent unwanted situations?
The thing is, a lot of companies use an ATS (Application Tracking System), and this may not be compatible with certain formats like Mac Pages or Word.doc.
PDF Files
This is probably the most popular option among candidates. PDF is perfect in terms of security — this cannot be edited by anyone (for instance, if you post it online and the file is downloadable). However, some employers would like to change your document in order to highlight some important information and make notes before the interview. In this case, only printing the PDF file will help.
Creating a PDF file also implies that the HR will receive it exactly as it is, no matter what version of the PDF reader they use. If you are asked to send your resume through email, this will be a very good idea to choose PDF.
Some more things to consider, though:

  • Virus risk is minimal;
  • Compatibility with Macs and PCs;
  • No possibility that the file will be changed by someone else;
  • A chance that the ATS will not process this document is moderate — make sure to consult the company’s representative first.

Why You Need to Check Out Resume Builder
Making a bright and well-structured resume takes a lot of effort. If you are exhausted from editing the file that you are unsure of, take a look at one of the most user-friendly tools for creating a resume — Resume Builder Pro.
This easy resume builder offers a range of fonts, colors, ready-made samples to use and edit, and more. You can choose among the options you feel suit you best and complete a personalized downloadable resume designed to make the first impression on your future employer that will not say no.
Amazing news — our professional resume builder is accessible for free! You don’t need to worry that the service may let you down. Thousands of satisfied users have already used it to create a resume online with the help of Resume Builder. Make sure to try.
Word Format
This is classic, especially if the company uses the ATS. You may choose this format either when you are sending an email or posting your resume online. However, be aware that your resume, if downloadable, may be stolen or changed.
In case there is no Microsoft Word on your computer, you can use Google Docs to create a resume and then save it in the format of your choice.
What else you need to know about word.doc:

  • A standard option in most businesses;
  • Usually ATS-compatible;
  • However, the file may not be read correctly if the employer is using another version of the program.

Here is some useful advice from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania about how to use a resume template in MS Word.
HTML Format
This format will let you present yourself «online» as HTML implies being open as a web page. You can use this format if you want your potential work provider to view your resume on the website of yours, or as a web page (for some reason). However, if you wish to convert the document into HTML format, you may need to use a separate software app.
Make sure to inform the recipient that you are about to send this file — someone may confuse your resume with a junk email and leave it unread, which is obviously undesirable.
Plain Text
Something less popular today is the simple text without any fonts or illustrations. Still, this may be the option you need in the following situations:

  • The employer has asked to send your resume in the body of an email;
  • The company’s ATS is mainly focused on processing plain texts;
  • The employer mentioned that it would be easier for them to put the info about you into a database.

If you decided to make a plain-text resume, proofread twice, and ensure that it is as clear as possible — there wouldn’t be any other elements in your CV apart from very straightforward information about you, your competencies, qualifications, and a wish to work for a certain firm.
Hard Copy
Not very obvious in our digital reality but still useful in particular situations. If you really need a job position in a place, you know quite a lot of, and you are ready to visit them in person, consider creating a hard copy resume.
Some essential tips to use:

  • Printing a CV on tinted paper may be unprofessional and difficult to read, so better opt for white or eggplant paper instead;
  • Don’t staple the document. Use paper clips;
  • A cover letter has to be on top of each of the hard copies you make.

How to Choose an Appropriate Name for a Resume?
No matter what file format you decide to use in the end, provide a clear naming for the employer to simply understand what they received. For instance, naming your CV «CV» will make it hard for HR, who processes tons of similar documents every day, to identify.
Summary
It is incredibly important to consider all factors when creating a resume. Not only its content, which is obviously the basis of it all, must be something to focus on, and not only the visual attractiveness of your resume matters. Be exceptionally careful with the format and check this twice — what file will be the most convenient one for the HR of your dream company? The right one will pave the shorter way to the job position you really need.