LiveCareer’s Resume Builder Helps You Download, Print, and Send
Every employer has a preference for resume file formats. Popular formats include Microsoft Word docs, PDFs, or plain text files, which seems simple enough.
However, resume files formats can get complicated when you begin applying for numerous roles, each of which has a different file requirement. When you need to save a single resume in multiple file formats, using a resume builder that allows you to easily switch between file formats is a game changer. Read on to learn how it works.
Save Your Resume in One of the 3 Common File Formats
Our resume builder makes submitting job applications in the preferred resume file format simple. Remember that each resume file format has its pros and cons. Here are the main differences between the three most requested resume file formats:
Most Popular: Microsoft Word Document (docx)
Jobseekers often use Word to save their resumes and customize their content because of this file format’s ease of use. It is also the most frequently used resume file format submitted with job applications. A potential employer may require you send your resume as a Microsoft Word file, but be mindful that while Word docs are easily scannable by most ATSs, unlike a PDF, formatting can be skewed or lost when uploading or emailing this type of document.
Lock Your Format: PDF
When you save your file as a PDF, the information on your resume looks exactly as you designed it. PDFs are difficult to edit, making this a reliable resume file format to be submitted with job applications. With a PDF resume file, the hiring manager receives a virus-free copy of your work history and a proper resume format.
Adobe Acrobat Reader is necessary to open PDF files, so it is good to check that your recipient has this program before sending your resume format. Another reason to be sure that a PDF is an accepted format: Some ATS programs can’t scan a PDF, which means submitting one would render your application useless.
Simple and Effective: Plain Text Document (.txt)
This resume file format is ideal for an ATS because it removes special formatting from your resume. An ATS can then process your content without being distracted by formatting or design elements. This file format, however, might not impress a hiring manager thanks to its stripped-down look. To preserve the appearance of your resume template, only save your file as a plain text document when the job application requires it as the proper resume file format, and otherwise use a Word document or PDF.
Use the Right Resume File Format for Every Application
It can be frustrating to compose a resume in a Word document only to discover that the employer you are preparing to apply to actually wants it in a PDF because switching between resume file formats can be a pain.
With LiveCareer’s Resume Builder, it’s simple to choose the right file format every time you apply.
Here’s how it works:
Build your resume
in the resume builder.Save it in one of three file formats –
Microsoft Word docs, PDFs, or plain text files.Download, print, or send
your resume electronically.Switch formats easily.
Our builder allows you to change your resume file format in just a few clicks.
Resume Builder FAQs
- What is the best file format, a PDF, Word doc, or plain text?
- What is the most commonly requested resume file format?
- What is the proper format to send a resume via email?
- Can I convert a Word document to a PDF file?
What is the best file format, a PDF, Word doc, or plain text?
The best resume format depends on the expectations of a hiring manager and your own resume file format preferences. Infer which format to use by reading the job post or seeing what is requested during the online job application process. If there is no information, choose a file format that best preserves the look and feel of your resume template. A PDF is often the top choice for locking in proper resume formatting.
What is the most commonly requested resume file format?
An ATS prefers a plain text resume format over other resume file formats because it strips out formatting and design elements. Recruiters, on the other hand, often prefer a PDF or Word file. A PDF template is free of viruses, which makes it a reliable option to send your resume.
What is the proper format to send a resume via email?
The right file format for emailing will depend on the employer’s specifications. Read the job ad carefully to see whether the hiring manager has a preference. If not, choose a Word document or a PDF to use as an attachment. These will allow you to preserve the design elements in your resume.
Can I convert a Word document to a PDF file?
You can convert a Word doc file to a different format, like a PDF, in only a few clicks. Saving your resume in several different file formats can be useful when you want to submit the same resume to more than one position and the format requirements differ.
