PDF or Word: Which is the best format to send my CV?
Posted: Tue Dec 10, 2024 4:35 am
You've worked hard to create your resume , taking care of every detail to make it stand out from the other candidates. But when it comes time to send it, a crucial question arises: should you send it in PDF or Word?
Although it may seem like a minor detail, the choice of format can be decisive. A CV that is not displayed correctly when opened or that is not compatible with the recruiter's system could cost you that much-desired opportunity.
That's why, in this OnlineCV article , we'll help you recognize which format is the correct one to send your CV and we'll give you expert advice to make the best choice.
Why is format important?
Before going into details about the linkedin phone number data advantages and disadvantages of sending your CV in PDF or Word, here are some key points to help you understand why the format is relevant:
First impression : A proper format suggests attention to detail and professionalism, while a disorganized one can make a bad impression.
Accessibility and convenience : The format should be compatible with the recruiter's software to avoid problems when opening and reading your resume.
Content protection : PDF, for example, protects your resume from unwanted modifications, maintaining the integrity of the document.
Compatibility with ATS : Formats such as Word are more compatible with different versions of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), making their analysis easier.
Device Responsiveness : A responsive format, such as PDF, ensures that your resume looks good on any device.
Industry expectations : Choose the format based on the standards of the industry you are targeting, as some industries prefer one format over another.
Don't miss: Functional or chronological resume? Read about the types of CVs you can use to search for a job based on your experience and professional profile.
Advantages of sending your resume in PDF format
We start with the benefits of a PDF resume , which is the most recommended format for sending your CV to companies, according to LinkedIn :
Format preservation
The PDF ( Portable Document Format ) is known for preserving the appearance of the document as you created it.
No matter what device or software the recruiter uses, your resume will look exactly the same. There will be no issues with margins, fonts, or images.
This point is important, because it denotes professionalism.
Superior design quality
While Microsoft Word has some pretty powerful templates these days in this regard, they will never match the capabilities of a design program.
More specialized users, such as artists , photographers or graphic designers , can take advantage of creating the resume in a professional design tool and saving it as a PDF.
Universal Compatibility
PDF is a standard format that can be opened on virtually any device without the need for additional software. This ensures that your resume is accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, regardless of the operating system.
Security of your document
PDF files are known for making it difficult to edit their content , preventing it from being altered or modified by mistake, for example, when you send your resume by email.
By sending your CV in PDF format, you ensure that no one can modify your data. Remember that your CV is still a document with a lot of information about you.
If you need inspiration, we invite you to take a look at our PDF resume templates that combine impeccable design and efficiency .
Although it may seem like a minor detail, the choice of format can be decisive. A CV that is not displayed correctly when opened or that is not compatible with the recruiter's system could cost you that much-desired opportunity.
That's why, in this OnlineCV article , we'll help you recognize which format is the correct one to send your CV and we'll give you expert advice to make the best choice.
Why is format important?
Before going into details about the linkedin phone number data advantages and disadvantages of sending your CV in PDF or Word, here are some key points to help you understand why the format is relevant:
First impression : A proper format suggests attention to detail and professionalism, while a disorganized one can make a bad impression.
Accessibility and convenience : The format should be compatible with the recruiter's software to avoid problems when opening and reading your resume.
Content protection : PDF, for example, protects your resume from unwanted modifications, maintaining the integrity of the document.
Compatibility with ATS : Formats such as Word are more compatible with different versions of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), making their analysis easier.
Device Responsiveness : A responsive format, such as PDF, ensures that your resume looks good on any device.
Industry expectations : Choose the format based on the standards of the industry you are targeting, as some industries prefer one format over another.
Don't miss: Functional or chronological resume? Read about the types of CVs you can use to search for a job based on your experience and professional profile.
Advantages of sending your resume in PDF format
We start with the benefits of a PDF resume , which is the most recommended format for sending your CV to companies, according to LinkedIn :
Format preservation
The PDF ( Portable Document Format ) is known for preserving the appearance of the document as you created it.
No matter what device or software the recruiter uses, your resume will look exactly the same. There will be no issues with margins, fonts, or images.
This point is important, because it denotes professionalism.
Superior design quality
While Microsoft Word has some pretty powerful templates these days in this regard, they will never match the capabilities of a design program.
More specialized users, such as artists , photographers or graphic designers , can take advantage of creating the resume in a professional design tool and saving it as a PDF.
Universal Compatibility
PDF is a standard format that can be opened on virtually any device without the need for additional software. This ensures that your resume is accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, regardless of the operating system.
Security of your document
PDF files are known for making it difficult to edit their content , preventing it from being altered or modified by mistake, for example, when you send your resume by email.
By sending your CV in PDF format, you ensure that no one can modify your data. Remember that your CV is still a document with a lot of information about you.
If you need inspiration, we invite you to take a look at our PDF resume templates that combine impeccable design and efficiency .