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What Is the Best File Format to Use for Your Resume?

8 min read · Updated on December 11, 2021

Not all file formats are created equal.

You've written your resume, keyword-optimized it, and had at least three people edit it. Now it's time to save your document and send it out. But have you saved it in the best resume file format for hiring managers to process? 

We've all been taught to polish our resumes, divide them into readable sections, and stay away from writing in the first person, but what about the actual fire format? No one ever mentions that detail. Which file format should job seekers use to upload, email, and submit their resumes? The answer: It depends on the situation.

How are you uploading your resume?

Whether you're submitting your resume through application software, posting to a job board, or emailing it, make sure to follow the employer's directions carefully. For example, the file format an employer wants may vary based on the company's applicant tracking system (ATS) — which may or may not be compatible with PDF files or Mac Pages.

Also, depending on how they are asking you to submit your resume, they may request you upload a certain file type. For example: 

If you're posting your resume online , the job site will specify which file type is accepted. This can range from a Word document to a PDF file (either created from a plain text document or created as an image), or a plain .txt, .rtf, .html, or .odt file.

If you're emailing your resume , the company will make clear how they want you to send it. They will probably ask for it to be sent as an email attachment, specifying whether they want it to be a Word document or PDF file. They could also request that you copy your resume directly into the email body. 

Now, if the job posting doesn't specifically say how the company wants you to upload your resume, here are the pros and cons of each file format to help you choose the best one for your resume — and how to save them accordingly. 

Word document

With Microsoft Word as commonplace as ever, many companies accept Word documents when receiving resumes from candidates — especially if they use an ATS. Unless the company specifies that you can upload another file type, play if safe and stick with a Word document.

Documents written on Word will be saved as a .doc or .docx file, which is a popular file format to send as an email attachment. If you're saving your Word document on your Mac or PC, you will simply click File > Save As (choosing where to save it to on your computer) > and then name your document.

If you don't have Microsoft Word, you can save a Google Doc as a Word document. Go to File > Download As > and choose Word Document (.docx). There may be formatting issues, however, when making this conversion, so it's a good idea to have someone with Word check your resume to ensure it has retained the proper formatting. 

Pros of Word documents:

Word is standard in most businesses.

They maintain the overall formatting and keep the same feeling.

They are more likely to be ATS-compatible. 

Cons of Word documents:

There can be compatibility issues when it comes to different Microsoft software versions (.doc versus .docx and Mac versus PC) that may alter the format of your resume. 

While Word has its ups and downs, emailing a PDF gives you complete assurance that the employer will see your resume exactly as you designed it. PDFs also come with extra protection since hiring managers or other employees cannot edit or alter the document at any point, ensuring your original copy arrives safe and sound. This layer of protection helps you if you save your resume to your website or online portfolio where it is easily downloadable.

If you are sending a resume directly to a contact or hiring manager through email, a PDF is often your best option.

You can easily still write your resume in Microsoft Word or Google Docs and save it as a PDF. To save from a Word document, go to File > Save As > and select PDF from the Format drop-down menu. To save from Google Docs, go to File > Download As > and choose PDF Document. 

Pros of PDFs:

They eliminate virus risk.

They are compatible with both Macs and PCs.

No one can change the resume once it's saved as a PDF. 

Cons of PDFs:

Not all applicant tracking systems (ATS) can view and parse resumes in this format, which could cause your resume to get thrown out before it reaches the hiring manager.

When it comes down to choosing between a Word document or PDF file, the best thing you can do is have your resume saved as both file formats; you never know which one you might need. For example, TopResume gives you the ability to download your resume as either a Word document or a PDF file once the final version is ready to go. 

With that, there are still other ways you can save your resume — albeit they may be a bit more outdated.  

Job seekers can easily save their resumes as an HTML file , which appears similar to an internet bookmark and can be sent as an email attachment or posted on a website. Hiring managers then open the file on their browsers and view it much like a web page.

Pros of HTML:

It retains formatting and layout when the resume is sent as an email attachment.

The recipient can view the resume right in the email browser without downloading it.

The resume can be posted on your website. 

Cons of HTML:

You may require a separate software application to convert the document to HTML.

Not all browsers support HTML documents.

The resume file may be mistaken for spam, which is often sent in HTML.

A text resume has no special effects such as bold, italics, or centering; it contains only plain-text characters that can be created from the standard keyboard. This format is better for older versions of ATS software since it is easier to sort through, decipher, and read plain text files that do not contain any design elements or conditional formatting. But a plain text resume will not be as appealing to the human hiring manager on the other side.

Plain text files will usually work better when applying for jobs directly over the internet versus sending resumes via email, with some resume gathering systems taking your Word or PDF document and stripping it down to TXT format on your behalf. It then populates the resulting plain text resume into a separate text box. 

If you choose to do this, however, you'll need to proofread what appears in that box carefully to ensure that it looks as clean as possible, even without any included formatting. It may be simpler to save your file to TXT format so you can proofread or revise before uploading.

Pros of plain text:

A text resume can be sent within the body of an email.

Plain text makes it easy for employers to place the resume into a searchable database. 

Cons of plain text:

It strips out all graphics and special text effects.

It isn't very visually appealing.

Hard copy resumes may be rare, but they are not completely obsolete. In-person job fairs may still call for a hard copy printed on professional-quality paper, and you might want to consider bringing one with you to your next in-person interview just in case.

The rules for hard copies are simpler than their electronic cousins. Keep in mind the following tips when printing out your resume:

Don't use colored paper beyond white or eggshell; other colors look unprofessional and can cause issues with readability.

Use new, unstained resume paper, which is available at most office supply stores.

Don't staple the resume; use paper clips instead.

Place a cover letter on top of each hard copy.

Choosing a resume file name

Once you've decided on which file format to save your resume as, you need to choose an appropriate and clear file name — you don't want to confuse the hiring manager or have your resume end up getting lost in the shuffle. 

That means, instead of using the generic “resume.doc,” use your name; for example, “JohnDoeResume.doc” or “johndoeresume.doc” would work just fine. Make sure you include the word resume in the name so you can distinguish it from your cover letter, which should also take on the same format when saving: “JohnDoeCoverLetter.doc” or “johndoecoverletter.doc.” 

While naming and saving only takes a few clicks of your keyboard, they can make a big difference in your job search; don't take it lightly. 

Before you save your resume, is it the best it can be? Our resume writers know how to make you stand out.  

This article was updated in March 2020. It was originally written by M.A. Smith .

Recommended Reading:

Don't Waste Another Job Application: Fix Your Resume

Online Job-Application Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

The Top 10 Resume Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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Best Resume Format 2024 (+free examples)

Reverse chronological format

Functional resume format, combination resume format, formatting a resume for a remote position, the best resume format for freelancers in 2024, how to highlight specialized knowledge on a resume, the best resume format for recent grads 2024, what is a resume format.

The phrase “resume format” is often a confusing one, since different sources use this term to refer to different/multiple things. 

In the most basic sense, a resume format is the type of structure your resume has depending on the order in which resume sections are presented, how the employment history section is written, and which sections are given the most emphasis. 

For example, in one type of resume format, the skills section may be overly emphasized, while in another, your work history will take center stage.

3 main types of resume formats

Luckily when it comes to choosing a resume format, your choices are already narrowed down to three main types:

• Reverse chronological
• Combination

Each one offers unique advantages and there are no best resume templates. You may even want to create a version of your resume in each format depending on the job title , the company, or even the country in which you are applying. An online resume builder can make it much easier to quickly switch around sections and go from one format to another without much fuss. 

The old standard, the reverse chronological format has probably been around nearly as long as resumes. And it’s not without good reason. A chronological format is still the best way to showcase employment history , especially in traditional industries where climbing the corporate ladder is the most commonly accepted route. All the best resume templates will focus on this logical approach.

“Reverse” refers to the fact that this format begins with your most current (or most recent) place of employment and works backward until you’ve listed all your relevant experiences of the past ten years. While you don’t need to include everything you’ve done in that timeframe (for example, you’ll want to leave off your server experience on an architect resume ) you do want to pay attention to any gaps in employment history as the chronological format can quickly make them stand out to the hiring manager.

• Use a chronological format if your work experience is your key selling point.
• Pick a chronological format just because you think you have to even if it doesn’t match your experience.

For jobs where specialized skills count for more than employment history, the functional resume can be a lifesaver. This format allows you to highlight your expertise right from the top of your resume in a section often called “Experience.” Whereas a chronological resume format shows an employer what you’ve accomplished in the past, a functional resume format is more focused on the skills and specialized knowledge you can offer right now.

Since a functional resume format is more flexible than a chronological one, it’s a great choice for a variety of job situations. Skilled tradespeople, freelancers, gig workers, students , and even recent grads can all benefit from highlighting their strengths without having to categorically organize them under previous positions which may be too numerous or repetitive.

• Choose a functional format if your skills are the most important aspect of your job.
• Create a functional resume just because you lack work experience in a field that traditionally requires a chronological resume.

A combined format sometimes called a combination format, is exactly what it sounds like: the perfect fusion of the chronological and functional formats. The need for a combined resume format is often dictated by the candidate’s job search . For example, a freelancer looking to apply to a full-time position may want to begin the resume with top skills before following up with an Employment History section to show their ability to work in environments similar to the prospective employer’s.

Many professional resume writers will write in a combination style while still calling it reverse chronological. Highlighting your key skills at the top is a genuinely smart move for many roles. The work experience section isn't so far behind and you can normally still fit the two most recent roles on page one .

The advantage of the combined resume is that it allows the job seeker to first draw the hiring manager’s attention to their strengths , while also providing the employment history information that many traditional companies still expect. For candidates whose experience best fits a functional resume but aren’t sure how well it will be received, a combined resume is the right choice.

Here's a video that can help you choose between a combination or chronological resume format.

• Create a combined resume if you want to take an innovative approach, highlight key abilities or you are making a career transition.
• Confuse a hiring manager by burying or hiding certain sections that you know they will expect.

Best format for freshers

If you have recently graduated or you are due to graduate soon, you may be wondering about the best resume format for freshers . You may not have a lot of experience, so you will want to focus on your education and what you have learned through your studies.

With your qualifications, you should go into some detail about what you did and what modules you covered. This will give the hiring manager a better overall feel for who you are and what you know. The most valuable aspects of your coursework should be highlighted and pay attention to how these are transferable to the role. Keep your resume format for freshers clear and concise, there is no need for the graduate resume to be any more than one page.

Choosing the best resume format (top 5 tips)

Here are our top 5 tips for choosing a resume format and finishing it inside a resume builder :

• Choose a resume format that is aligned with the tone and branding of your prospective employer
• When in doubt, a simpler , more traditional template is a safer choice than a more eccentric one
• Your template should contain a healthy balance of white space to text so as not to overwhelm the reader with information
• Decide which resume sections are most important for your experience and choose a resume format that is designed to focus on those
• Don’t be afraid to move around the sections or try out a different format to see which version of your resume works best.

If you spent at least some portion of your career believing that there was only one correct way to format a resume, we’d understand. Most people are familiar with the reverse chronological resume format which dictates that you begin your resume with your most recent position and work backwards from there. 

Although chronological may still be the most common format, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Many candidates find that selecting a different resume format better allows them to highlight their diverse experiences and unique skills. It is one way of standing out, but only if it allows you to make your case in the most effective way.

Likewise, many forward-thinking hiring managers are no longer looking for cookie-cutter employees. They want applicants to showcase an entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to adapt to the workplace of the future. While the chronological format may still work best for communicating previous positions, adding elements of a functional format to create a combined one can quickly set apart an innovative candidate.

In the chapters below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect resume formats including:

• The three main types of resume formats and the differences between them
• Which format to pick in 2024 based on current trends in hiring
• Top tips for choosing a resume template to help you get started

Many hiring managers can spend less than 30 seconds reviewing a resume. Clean formatting without spelling or grammatical errors is one of the first things they take in, according to Mashable .

Ready to craft a resume that catches the attention of recruiters? A Google doc resume template can give you a head start. Keep reading and we’ll help you decide whether it’s your best bet for success.

Which resume format should you use in 2024

Ultimately, no resume format is more correct than another. It all comes down to your experience, industry, and potential employer. When choosing a resume format for 2024, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine which resume format is right for you.

If you answer YES to any of the following questions, you may want to consider switching from a chronological format to a functional or combined one:

• Do I have a rare skill set I want the employer to notice right away?
• Am I switching to a different career or job function where I have no previous work experience?
• Have I learned a variety of important skills in only one or two positions?
• Will my prospective employer appreciate a fresh and direct approach to resume formatting?

While combined resumes will be on the rise in the coming years, that doesn’t mean a nontraditional format is for everyone. Here are some situations in which a chronological format is likely the best choice:

• Your knowledge from previous workplaces is more important than standalone skills
• You are applying to a large company which has a traditional structure
• Your competition likely has traditional career paths with impressive employers
• You have a sizeable amount of work history directly related to your prospective position
• You’ve worked at other companies comparable to your prospective employer

We also have made a chart to see which resume format is the best for you:

How 2024 job trends influence resume formatting choices

It’s no surprise that in 2024 the way we work is changing – big time. And that affects everything from the methods of conducting your job search to formatting your resume. With more companies favoring remote teams, flexible hours, and specialized candidates, there is a lot to adapt to when it comes to finding a new position or even starting a career from scratch. Your resume should show that, at a time of change, you have what it takes.

In this chapter, we’ll discuss some of the major trends for work in 2024 and how you can adjust your resume formatting choices to increase your chances of landing your dream job . Here’s what’s ahead:

• Work from home: a blessing or a curse?
• Freelancers’ role in the market
• Specialized workers lead the way
• Breaking into the workforce in 2024
• How modern technology is shifting hiring practices

For many, remote work may be an entirely new experience but that doesn’t mean it’s going anywhere anytime soon. Companies have seen the advantages of working from home in increased productivity, employee morale and a reduction in overhead costs. According to NPR , many of America’s largest companies are planning to free their employees from the walls of the office for the foreseeable future.

According to researchers at MIT, more than half of the American workforce is currently working remotely. Good luck finding a new chair for the home office!

Which resume format you choose for a remote position largely depends on the type of work you do. There are many industries where the fact that you’re working from home won’t mean you should jump ship on a chronological resume. However, if there are other factors in play, for example, you are looking for part-time creative work while still holding another job, you may consider a combined resume format to paint a clearer picture of what you do. Just make sure to label remote positions as such so that a potential employer sees that you are comfortable in a digitally connected environment.

After having long struggled in a work world designed for traditional employees, in 2024 freelancers are finally ahead of the game. According to CNBC , the freelance market is booming, with more than one-third of Americans turning to freelance work this year and employers looking to hire them, especially in the fields of e-commerce, web, and mobile design.

So for freelancers looking to have their day in the sun, what’s the best resume format? It depends on your objectives. For freelancers looking to remain in their current situation, a functional resume might serve as a great way to show clients what they are capable of. 

A combined resume can be a great choice if your skills are your selling point but you also have some impressive previous employers that can’t be missed. Finally, if you are transitioning to full-time work, a chronological resume may be the right choice.

According to McKinsey , specialization is the way of the future. Employees who can handle one task well are likely to fare better than generalists in the long run. Low-wage jobs will be replaced with employees who have superior knowledge of products and the market (think “super agents” instead of just call center workers.) Many people will need to learn new skills and focus on career development in order to have the best chances of future advancement.

So what do these changes mean for your resume formatting? For one, companies want to know what you can bring to the table. A combined resume format can help you highlight specialized knowledge without appearing like you don’t have much industry experience to show. If you complete any training or certifications this year, you may also want to format your resume to include an additional section to showcase them.

1 in 16 workers will need to change occupations by 2030, according to the McKinsey report . If a career switch is in the cards, your resume format may help give you a fighting chance against more established candidates. Consider a functional format if you have no experience in the new field and a combined format if you have 1-3 related positions to show.

Recent graduates are facing a tough moment to enter the job market as companies shrink the number of entry-level hires and interns they are willing to take on. However, it’s not all bad news. Although many companies have a temporary hiring freeze, they are expecting to reach pre-pandemic hiring levels by summer 2024, according to Forbes .

When it comes to the best resume format for recent grads in 2024, flexibility and skills are everything. That doesn’t mean you should jump straight to a functional resume format. Hiring managers are wary of grads who try to cover a lack of work experience by focusing only on skills. If you have some previous internship experience , it can be enough to create a chronological resume format or a combined one if that’s a better choice for your industry.

Great news for recent grads – it’s becoming easier to find a job with less experience. According to Forbes , more than 70 percent of roles today have fewer requirements than one year ago.

Formatting your resume to pass the ATS

Did you know that two-thirds of the resumes submitted for a single position never make it to the hiring manager’s desk? That’s because a human HR rep is no longer the first gatekeeper when it comes to making new hires. A large percentage of today’s workplaces are employing ATS – Applicant Tracking Systems – to help filter out candidates, saving the hiring manager a lot of time and energy.

The ATS algorithms scan resumes for keywords and rank them against the other applicants. Only a top selection moves on to be read by a human hiring manager. You may have all the right experience and skills but if you don’t format them correctly, there’s a big chance you’ll miss out on the opportunity for an interview. 

When it comes to formatting your resume to pass the ATS , here’s what we recommend:

• Choose a format that is well-organized and easy for the ATS to scan
• Label your sections with standard headings like “Employment History” or “ Education ” instead of more creative names which may confuse the ATS
• Make sure your resume is free of spelling errors since the ATS won’t understand even obvious typos
• Download your resume in a format that’s easy for the ATS to read, Docx or PDF are two of the most common
• Avoid graphic elements or pictures containing important text since the ATS will not be able to isolate it

Key takeaways plus top 5 resume format tips

We hope this guide to resume formats has prepared you to make the best choice for your own experience and career goals in the ever-changing landscape of 2024. Here are our top 5 resume format tips to remember:

• The reverse chronological resume format remains the most common one and the best pick for traditional companies where work experience is the most important factor
• Functional resumes allow you to focus on specialized knowledge or skills but shouldn’t be used just to cover gaps in work history
• Combined formatting is increasing in popularity since it draws attention to specialization while still offering the employment history section most hiring managers expect
• In a tough economy, job seekers need to be in tune with the needs of their prospective employer and deliver the right type of resume format, even if it means innovating
• The ATS will be the first test of your resume format, so make sure you’ve optimized correctly

The easiest way to create a clean resume format – or to easily switch between two different types – is with a resume template. Resume templates allow you to be sure that your formatting is precise, attractive and optimized for the ATS, all without having to spend hours fighting with graphic design software. Check also our blog about: '' How to write a resume ''.

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What File Format Should You Use For Your Resume?

Don’t risk your resume coming out as garbled symbols or missing the automated screeners - this guide outlines what file format to pick and why.

3 years ago   •   9 min read

In today's highly competitive job market, every detail counts. Among those, one crucial, yet often overlooked, factor is the file format of your resume. It's not just about the content, but also how that content is delivered. The wrong format could mean the difference between your resume being reviewed or disregarded.

Imagine having the perfect skill set and experience for a job, only to be rejected because the hiring manager or the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) couldn’t properly open or read your resume. Sounds unfair, doesn't it? But it happens more often than you might think.

That's why understanding the right resume file format, its compatibility with various systems, and its impact on presentation is essential for anyone entering or navigating the job market. This article will guide you through the most common file formats, their pros and cons, and how to make the best choice to get your resume in the 'yes' pile.

PDFs are the best resume file format

Google Docs and Microsoft Word are two of the most popular word-processing applications in the world, and they are extremely effective tools to write and edit your resume. When sending your resume, though, you want to export your document as a PDF, instead of leaving it in Word format (i.e. docx).

Imagine you've crafted a visually stunning resume in a .docx format with an intricate design and a unique font. It looks perfect on your screen, but when a potential employer opens it on a different system, the layout and design are distorted due to software incompatibility, leading to a sloppy and unprofessional appearance.

On the other hand, if you'd saved the same resume as a .pdf, it would appear consistently across different devices and software, maintaining your original design and layout.

Accessibility

Despite the huge market share of Microsoft, not everyone has them installed on their devices. If you send your resume as a DOC or DOCX from Microsoft Word and the hiring manager doesn’t have Microsoft Office installed, they’ll either have to get a reader or plugin for their particular setup, upload it to Google Docs or opt not to look at it altogether (most just choose this last option!).

With PDF files, however, a wide range of browsers, email programs, and image viewers can open PDFs, including popular ones such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Mail, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat Reader, meaning hiring managers will be able to open them without any issues.

ATS compatibility

Along with hiring managers, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are something else you want to ensure compatibility with. These are resume screeners that process and sometimes score your resume for 'fit' before it reaches a hiring manager. If you apply for a job online, there's a 98% chance your resume will go through an ATS.

When it comes to file formats, ATS software generally prefers simpler, text-based formats. These include:

• .pdf: While PDFs can often be read by ATS software , not all systems can accurately parse PDF files. It is essential to ensure that the job posting does not specifically ask for a different file format.
• .docx: This is typically a safe choice, as most ATS can easily read and parse .docx files.
• .txt: Being the simplest format, a .txt file is always readable by ATS, but it lacks formatting, which can make the human review less appealing.

PDFs generated by Word, Google Docs or most word processing tools are completely readable by Applicant Tracking Systems. By submitting your resume in the PDF file format, you’ll make it possible for ATS to read and process the file and the font without issues.

To check if your resume can be read by these systems, open it in Chrome, Preview, or Adobe Acrobat Reader and see if you can highlight/select the text. If you can highlight text, ATS will be able to read your resume. If you can’t highlight text, ATS will likely not be able to read your resume.

Find out if you’ve chosen the right file format for your resume by uploading it to the tool below — it’ll let you know if your resume is readable by Applicant Tracking Systems and provide tips on how to improve your resume.

Font and layout preservation

Speaking of fonts, it’s a common issue for fonts to be unreadable if they aren’t installed on the device reading them - at least for DOC and other formats. With PDFs, however, what you see is what you get. The document will look exactly like it does on your computer when it comes through to the hiring manager, regardless of whether or not they have the fonts required.

Similarly, file layouts can shift between different versions of Word, causing lines to overlap or margins to shrink and expand. Saving your resume as a PDF means the lines will stay in place.

Harder to edit by recruiters

Once you turn in your resume, you don’t want it to be tampered with — either by an errant keypress or an overzealous hiring manager. Unlike DOCs and other file formats, PDFs are much harder to edit once they are saved.

With so much going for them, it’s easy to see why Vice considers PDFs to be the most important file format in the world. Now that you’re in the know, let’s go over the process to save your Word and Google documents as PDFs.

Related: What to Name Your Cover Letter and Resume Files

Other common file formats

While PDFs have proven to be a reliable choice for most job applications, there are other file formats that you might come across in your job search.

.docx (Microsoft Word)

.docx is widely used and recognized. It allows for easy editing and formatting, which can be an advantage when tailoring your resume for different job applications. Some Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) prefer .docx as they can easily parse and search for keywords within this format.

But compatibility can be an issue. Although Microsoft Word is ubiquitous, there can be formatting differences between versions or with other word processors. When opened on a system without the same fonts installed, the formatting might change, affecting the visual layout of your resume.

.rtf RTF (rich text format)

.rtf is a universal format that can be opened by almost any word processor, making it highly compatible across platforms. It maintains basic formatting like bold, italics, and underlines.

But .rtf doesn’t support advanced formatting options like columns or images. If your resume relies on complex formatting or design elements, they may not appear correctly in .rtf.

.txt (plain text)

A .txt resume can be useful for job applications that require you to paste your resume into an online form. It's the most compatible of all formats because it can be opened by any software, eliminating the risk of technical issues on the employer's end.

But .txt files don’t support any formatting, not even bold or italics. This can make your resume appear plain and harder to read.

Interactive

Interactive resumes are a great addition to your standard resume, especially in creative and digital-centric roles, but not a replacement! These dynamic resumes, shared as URLs or embedded within applications, offer an engaging platform for employers to interact with your work history, skill set, and professional persona.

File Formats to Avoid for Your Resume

While we've discussed the benefits of using PDF, DOCX, or TXT files for your resume, it's equally important to know which formats you should avoid. Here are some file formats that you should generally steer clear of when submitting your resume:

.jpg or .png (image files)

While these formats may preserve your formatting and design perfectly, they aren't practical for a resume. Most ATS systems can't read image files, which means your resume could go unread. In addition, it's impossible to edit or extract text from these files without using specific software.

.odt (OpenOffice)

OpenOffice may be a good Microsoft Office alternative for personal use, but when it comes to job applications, it's best to stick with more universally accepted formats. Not all ATS systems can parse .odt files, and not all hiring managers may have the necessary software to open them.

.pages (Pages)

This is the default word processor for Macs. However, like with .odt files, not all systems are equipped to handle this format. It's best to convert .pages documents to more universal formats like .docx or .pdf before submitting your application.

Proprietary or Obsolete File Formats

Avoid using old or less common file formats like .wps (Microsoft Works) or .wpd (WordPerfect documents). These are unlikely to be compatible with the hiring manager's system or the ATS software.

Design tools

Generally speaking, don’t use Adobe Photoshop, Canva , or similar design tools to build your resume. While you may be able to save your resume as a PDF using these tools, the odds are high that it will be saved as a PDF image - meaning ATS will not be able to scan the text and enter it into any databases.

If you aren’t sure if your PDF is an image or not, open it and see if you can highlight the text by dragging over it with your mouse. If you can, you’re all set, and ATS will be able to read your resume correctly.

Online resume generators

Like design programs, online resume generators often similarly produce PDF files that are images rather than readable text.

If you use one of these tools, make sure it can be read by resume screeners (an easy way to do that is to test your resume through an ATS ). If you come out with a product that can’t be read by ATS, you’ve dramatically lowered your potential for being spotted by the automated system.

On the topic of ATS, use the tool below to find skills and keywords relevant to the job you’re applying for. It's a good way to improve your chances of getting past ATS screeners.

How to turn your resume into a PDF

First and foremost, you should understand that Microsoft Word and Google Docs are both great options for creating your resume. Feel free to use our database of 250+ proven resume templates . Download one, and fill it out with your own details using the word processor of your choice.

How to save as a PDF with Microsoft Word

Saving a file as a PDF in Microsoft Word isn’t too different from saving it as a DOC, with a few added steps.

• Open your finalized resume using Microsoft Word.
• In the upper left corner, click “File”.
• On the left side of the screen, “Export” should appear about halfway down. Click it.
• You’ll see a button to “Create PDF/XPS”; click that as well. At that point, you’ll be prompted to save the file in a directory of your choice.
• Your resume will be exported into a PDF format and is ready to send out!

How to save as a PDF using Google Docs

Google Docs offers a streamlined process to save your documents as PDFs.

• Open your finalized resume in Google Docs.
• In the upper left corner of the screen, click “File”.
• About midway down the menu, mouse over “Download” to open a popup menu.
• Click “PDF Document (.pdf)”.
• Your resume will download automatically at this point as a PDF; it will appear in your “Downloads” folder by default.

Before you wrap up your resume and get ready to save it as a PDF, consider running it through our free Score My Resume tool, which will provide some quick, AI-powered tips to optimize your resume. As noted above, PDFs are harder to edit once saved so it’s good to have your resume finalized before you do it.

How do I manage my resume file size with images or complex formatting?

Avoid unnecessary high-resolution images and choose simpler formatting. Compress images without losing quality, if needed.

What's your advice on file size and compression for online submissions?

Ensure your file size is small for quick upload and download. Check if the job application has specific file size requirements.

How should I name my resume files?

Use your full name and the word 'resume'. If applying for a specific role, include the job title or reference number.

Can I use special characters in my resume file name?

Avoid using special characters. Stick to alphanumeric characters to ensure your file name is universally compatible.

How can I make my resume stand out?

Be concise, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and tailor your resume to the job description. An interactive resume can also help differentiate you.

Is there a preferred format for sending my resume?

Most employers prefer PDFs due to their universal compatibility. However, always follow specific instructions provided in the job posting.

Should you send your cover letter as a Word document or PDF?

Use Word or Google Docs to save your cover letter as a PDF, and send that. Avoid sending it as a DOC or DOCX for these reasons:

• PDFs are the most accessible, which means your cover letter will be able to be opened without hiring managers having to have Word installed.
• PDFs preserve your formatting, layout, and fonts, allowing you to make sure your resume looks exactly the way you intended.
• PDFs are harder to edit or be tampered with by external recruiters than Word files

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Pros & cons of adding an address to your resume: 2024 resume tips, 32 resume tips & tricks for 2024, keep reading, how to show bilingualism on your resume (with examples), oops what to do if there’s a mistake on your resume, getting the basics right: resume line spacing, subscribe to our newsletter.

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Resume Templates

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Choose a [Free] Resume Template

Pick one of our professional resume templates to get started on your job application. Just fill out your favorite resume template to create a flawless, ATS-friendly resume in under 5 minutes. Try out one of our 8+ free resume templates to make an impressive resume and land your dream job in no time!

Skill-Based

Traditional

Professional

Why Novorésumé?

Free AND Premium

We offer both free and premium resume templates, so whatever your budget might be, you can still take advantage of our resume builder.

Creative & Professional Resume Templates

Whether you’re a creative advertiser looking for an outside-the-box creative resume template, or a banker seeking a more professional resume template, we’ve got a template for you!

NO Hidden Fees

If you’ve tried other resume builders, you’ve probably experienced this: You spend hours creating a resume, and when you click “download,” you get hit with a paywall asking you to subscribe.

At Novorésumé, we don’t do that . We have NO hidden fees - upgrade to Premium ONLY if you LOVE our resumes!

ATS Friendly

All Novorésumé resume templates are built with the most popular Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) in mind. What this means for YOU is that whichever job you apply for, the CV filtering software they use will be able to read your resume (and NOT automatically discard it).

Expert Reviews

Oana Vintila

Career Counselor

For over 10 years now, I've been on both sides of the fence, career counseling, and recruitment, and let me tell you, the writer's block hits hard when it comes to drafting your resume.

Novorésumé not only offers you a smart and modern template for you to fill in, but their team has also crafted a winning combo of aesthetics and functionality that will inspire you to apply for the job you thought was out of your league. Give it a try!

Biron Clark

Former Executive Recruiter

Novorésumé is one of the few resume builders that I recommend online. Their resume templates are modern and eye-catching, and will grab an employer's attention. As a former Recruiter, if a candidate sent me a resume built with one of these templates, I would take notice and be impressed.

The software also makes it easy to enter your info and handles all of the formatting for you, so you can get your resume ready to send out as quickly as possible. I recommend these templates whether you're a recent graduate or experienced candidate.

Gabriela Tardea

Career Strategist, Coach & Trainer

When I consult people on resume writing, the most common question that I am asked it is about the content and what components to add or avoid, when they have less than 5 years of work experience.

On this platform, you not only have access to many options, but you get guidance on what to choose and why. When the work experience is less than 5 years, the other components such as languages, projects, volunteering experiences, hobbies etc, make a huge difference.

Resume Resources

What is a resume.

A resume is a brief summary of personal and professional experiences, skills, and education history. Its main purpose is to show off your best self to potential employers.

When applying for a job, you’re (in most cases) going to be asked for a resume accompanied by a cover letter.

If you manage to create a “good” resume, you’re going to 2x your chances of getting hired . Want to learn how? Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume .

How to Write a Resume With No Experience?

The process of writing a resume might seem super scary to you. After all, most resume examples you see on the web are 80% about work experience. So, what the heck can you include in your resume if you have none?

Well, here’s some good news. If you’re applying for an entry-level job or an internship, no one expects you to have ANY work experience.

Instead, you should focus on what you DO have: education, projects, volunteering experience, hobbies & interests.

For a complete guide on how to make a resume with no work experience stand out, check out our article.

What to Put on a Resume?

The most common sections on a resume are:

Contact information

Resume summary or objective

Work experience

If you want to personalize your resume a bit more, you can also include the following sections:

Volunteering experience

Hobbies & interests

For more information on how to place these sections on your resume, check out our article on what to put on a resume .

How to Format a Resume?

Here are the three most popular resume formats:

Reverse-Chronological Resume

Functional Resume

Combination Resume

In 99% of the cases, you’ll want to go with the reverse chronological resume format . That’s the format most resumes you’ve seen follow - its main focus is your work experience, written down in reverse-chronological order.

So, unless you’re a student with no professional experience or a career changer, we’d recommend sticking with this format.

If you want to learn more about three resume formats , check out our comparison guide.

How to Write a Resume For a Student?

A good student resume takes advantage of the education section to highlight the candidate’s skills and qualifications.

So, the first thing you should do is talk about all your academic achievements, including any classes you’ve taken that are relevant to the position.

As a student, hiring managers don’t expect you to have extensive professional experience, so you don’t have to worry about the work experience section missing from your resume. Instead, you can focus on highlighting your extracurricular activities , any volunteering you’ve done, and your awards or certifications.

This student resume guide has all the information you need to perfect your resume and land your first real job.

How to Write a Resume For My First Job?

If you’re applying for your first job, chances are you don’t have substantial work experience. That’s fine - hiring managers expect that from entry-level positions.

First things first, go for the reverse-chronological format. Instead of writing a resume summary, use a resume objective to highlight your skills and career aspirations. If you have any work experience, do include it on your resume.

If not, you should put more focus on the following sections:

Internships , where you should focus on what you learned and achieved

Extracurricular activities , where you should highlight your role, responsibilities, and achievements.

Volunteering experiences , where you should mention the organization name, and relevant tasks and achievements.

Projects , where you talk about any personal projects you’ve worked on (that are also somehow relevant to the job you’re applying for).

Check out this guide on writing a resume with no experience to learn more about the topic and get inspired by real-life examples.

How Long Should a Resume Be?

Short answer: one page. If you're a seasoned professional with a lot of work experience that's relevant to the position, you can create a 2-page long resume MAX.

Long answer: check out our guide on how long should a resume be .

P.S. all of our templates are one page long , so you shouldn’t have a lot of trouble sticking to the one-page limit!

How to Write a Resume Summary?

Your resume summary is a “hook” that goes on top of your resume. Think of it as an introduction to the rest of your resume. It should, in 2-4 sentences, explain what your background is, and why it’s relevant for the position you’re applying for.

To learn more about how to create a resume summary that stands out, check out our guide.

How to List Work Experience on a Resume?

Work experience on a resume is one of those things that’s easy to learn but hard to master.

Each work experience entry should contain the following information:

Company name/description/location

Achievements or responsibilities

Dates employed

Now, if you want to create a work experience section that stands out, you want to make your achievements quantifiable. What this means is, instead of creating a responsibility-focused entry, like:

“Carried out sales operations.”

You list your achievements:

“Hit and exceeded monthly sales KPIs for 5 months in a row.”

This shows the employer that you’re not just a random candidate, you’re an A-player! To learn more about how to list achievements in your work experience (and land the job), check out our article.

How to List Skills on a Resume?

Simply create a ”skills” section on your Novorésumé resume template, and list your top skills. We usually recommend going for a mix of hard and soft skills .

Not sure what skills to include in your resume? Check out these 101 essential skills for any resume .

How to Make a Cover Letter for a Resume?

You should always submit a cover letter along with your resume for any job you apply to. Here are some of our top cover letter tips on how to do this right:

Tailor your cover letter to the employer. The more personalized it is, the more likely it is for the recruiter to like you.

Outline your general background (work experience, profession, etc.) and mention your top 2-3 achievements to show off your skills.

If you really want to stand out, create a cover letter that matches your resume template. To do this, you can use one of our cover letter templates here .

If you want to learn more about how to write a convincing cover letter, check out our comprehensive guide.

What Is the Best Resume Template?

There’s no such thing as “the best resume template” - every recruiter/employer has their own personal preference. Our general recommendation is to do your research on the company and its values.

For example, if you’re applying for a position at a bank, you’d want a more traditional resume template. Or, if you want a job in a startup where they value innovation more, you could opt for a creative resume template .

Alternatively, if you want your experience and skills to do all the talking, you can pick one of these minimalist resume templates .

Finally, if you’re still not sure which type of template is right for the job you’re applying for, you can just use a simple resume template just to be safe.

Do I Need to Include a Photo on my Resume?

No, you don’t need to include your photo together with your other contact details. Companies hire based on merit, which means your physical appearance shouldn’t matter to the hiring manager.

Instead, in your contact information section, make sure to include the following:

Professional title

Valid phone number

Email address

Location/where you’re based

Link to website/ LinkedIn /online portfolio, etc.

What’s the Difference Between a Resume and a CV?

In most cases, when people are talking about a CV or a resume, they are referring to the same thing! The only difference is that it's called a resume in the US and a CV in Europe (and most other countries around the world).

Now, in the US, a CV is a very in-depth document that describes your career journey step-by-step, including all sorts of personal information . Depending on your amount of experience, a CV can range between 2 to 8 pages and it’s typically used when you’re applying for jobs in academia.

Check out our guide for a more comprehensive run-down of the differences between a CV and a resume .

6 Tips for Creating a US Resume (That’ll Land You the Job)

Looking to get hired in the US? Check out our tips for creating a US resume below!

Keep your resume between 1-3 pages . A one-page resume is preferable unless you’re a seasoned professional. In such a case, you can go for two or even three, if your experience is really relevant.

Use Standard American English . So, for example, write “color” instead of the UK version, which is “colour.”

Leave out personal information , such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin. They can be grounds for discrimination.

Don’t include references , unless the employer specifically asks you to.

Don’t list English as a foreign language.

Don’t list your GPA, SAT, TOEFL, or ACT scores on your US resume unless otherwise stated. Hiring managers usually don’t care.

Check out this guide for the full list of resume tips and tricks !

Get Inspired with Our Resume Examples

Resume templates faq, how to make a resume with novorésumé.

Follow these simple steps:

Choose one of our top resume templates above

Follow the tips & tricks built-in our resume builder

Fill in your work history and other experiences

Hit download and start applying to jobs!

What If I Am a Student?

All of our resume samples are student-friendly! If you’re looking for something a bit more tailored, we’d recommend picking the “college resume template”

Or, if you want to learn how to create a convincing student resume , check out our guide.

Do I Really Need a Resume?

Yes, you definitely need a resume!

Practically every job out there requires that candidates submit a resume and a cover letter, so if you want your application to be considered by the hiring manager, you definitely need a resume .

Are These Resume Templates Free?

Yep, all of the templates listed above are free resume templates.

However, our resume builder comes with a ton of premium features. So if you want to personalize your resume and make it truly yours, you can upgrade!

Who Created These Resume Samples?

At Novorésumé, we put extensive care in creating each resume template.

We interviewed recruiters and analyzed applicant tracking systems to create resume samples that will maximize your chances of getting hired.

Then, our professional graphic designer worked his magic to make the resume samples compelling, well-designed, and easy to read!

Which Template Do Most Employers Prefer for Resumes?

Typically, employers prefer simple, professional-looking resume templates that follow the reverse-chronological format and don’t surpass two pages MAX in length.

All the Novoresume templates above meet these requirements, so rest assured hiring managers will dig whichever one you choose.

Are These Resume Templates ATS-Friendly?

Yes! All Novorésumé templates are ATS-friendly .

Keep in mind, though, that using the right template is step #1. You should also optimize your resume content for applicant tracking systems. For more on that, check out our guide to creating an ATS-friendly resume .

Do You Offer One-Page Resume Templates?

Yep. All the templates you see above are one-page resume templates. They are, however, pretty flexible, so if you decide to go for 2 pages, our templates will get the job done!

Should I Download My New Resume In PDF or Word?

You should always download and save your resume as a PDF .

Here’s why:

PDF formatting never gets messed up.

It’s compatible with practically any system or device.

PDF documents look cleaner and are overall more professional.

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Best Resume Formats (With Examples and Formatting Tips)

How to Choose a Resume Format

• Chronological Resume
• Functional Resume
• Combination Resume
• Other Elements

How to Format Your Resume

Maddy Price / The Balance

The right resume format will grab the hiring manager’s attention immediately and make it clear that you’re the best candidate for the job while deemphasizing aspects of your career that you’d prefer not to highlight.

There are three basic types of professional resume formats:

• Chronological
• Combination

Some resume formats will work better than others for your situation. For example, if you have a  gap in your resume , a history of job-hopping, or a career path that’s taken some strange twists and turns, a  functional resume  might be the best choice because it emphasizes skills over linear job experience.

On the other hand, if you can show a clear progression toward your current job opportunity, a  chronological  or combination resume might be the best option.

Your choice will depend on your career level, work experience, and job history. The job description might also make a difference. So, be flexible when choosing a resume format.

If you create several versions of your resume, including a comprehensive, a targeted, and a short teaser resume, you'll have the flexibility to market your credentials quickly and easily.

Which resume format is best for you? We’ll break down the advantages of each type and offer detailed resume layout examples to help you make your decision.

Keep page length in mind as you format your resume. One to two pages is fine for most situations; three or more pages is relevant for senior-level, government, and academic positions.

Chronological Resume Example and Template

The most common resume format is chronological (sample below). It lists your work history in reverse chronological order, with your most recent work history listed at the top. You may also add a summary or objective, and you'll want to include your education and credentials as well.

The advantage of this type of resume is that it highlights a linear progression in your career. In other words, if you've been focused on one type of career and you want to show how you've progressed on that path, a chronological resume is the way to go. It's also standard for some types of jobs, like teaching or government positions.

To create your own chronological resume, you can download the chronological resume template below (compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word) or review the example.

Chronological Resume Example (Text Version)

Jennifer Elliot 1890 Grant Street Cleveland, OH 44109 555-123-1234 j.elliot@email.com

Career Summary

Analytical and detail-oriented legal professional leveraging recent JD training and 6 years of law office experience to excel as a Junior Associate Attorney with an established law firm. Well-versed in federal, state, and municipal court filing processes, rules, and deadlines, with direct experience in commercial litigation and specialized training in e-Discovery methodologies. Unparalleled multitasking and time management skills, deftly managing heavy caseloads from initial client intake through all phases of discovery, drafting, pretrial, trial, and appeal.

Professional Experience

US District Court, Cleveland, OH Law Clerk Intern , 2019-Present

• Serve as Law Clerk to the Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio.
• Perform legal research; draft bench orders, opinions, and memos, carefully verifying accuracy of all citations.
• Communicate with counsel to confirm deadlines and address case management issues.
• Use advanced verbal and written Spanish skills as court translator when warranted.

Hatchett, Garner, and Winn Attorneys, Cleveland, OH Paralegal , 2013-2019

Skillfully managed caseload of ~70 ongoing cases for national law firm specializing in commercial litigation. Scheduled and facilitated client interviews, performed legal research, prepared documents and exhibits for trial, and ensured timely submission of all pleadings and court filings.

• Proactively earned Certified E-Discovery Specialist certification from ACEDS.
• Researched, acquired, and trained firm’s attorneys in use of Symantec eDiscovery Platform.
• Entrusted by senior partners to prepare firm records for inspection during IT and cybersecurity audits.
• Served as Vice President of regional paralegal association (2014 to 2016).

Education and Credentials

Juris Doctor (JD), 2021 Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland, OH

Associate of Applied Business in Paralegal-Legal Assisting , 2013 Rhodes State College, Lima, OH

Certified E-Discovery Specialist (ACEDS), 2017

Technical Proficiencies: Microsoft Office Suite, LexisNexis Concordance, Symantec eDiscovery Platform, Westlaw, MyCase Legal Practice Management Software, Clio, and Photoshop.

Functional Resume Example and Template

Functional resumes focus on skills. They are organized by different types of skills or experiences, rather than by chronological work history. Functional resumes are good for people with gaps in employment history or whose work history is not directly related to the job.

With this type of resume, your skills are listed first. List the skill first, and then go into more detail about that skill. Follow your skills with your education and work history.

You can create a functional resume by downloading the functional resume template below (compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word) or by following the example.

Functional Resume Example (Text Version)

Jennifer Elliot 1890 Grant Street Cleveland, OH 44109 555-555-5555 j.elliot@email.com

Summary of Qualifications

Analytical and detail-oriented legal professional leveraging recent JD training and 6 years law office experience to excel as a Junior Associate Attorney with an established law firm.

• Legal Affairs : Well-versed in federal, state, and municipal court filing processes, rules, and deadlines, with direct experience in commercial litigation and specialized training in e-Discovery methodologies.
• Communications / Client Relations : Excellent verbal and written communications and legal drafting talents. Easily instills trust and confidence in clients stressed by challenging life events; handles private client data with 100% confidentiality and integrity. Fluent in Spanish.
• Information Management : Technical proficiencies include Microsoft Office, LexisNexis Concordance, Symantec eDiscovery Platform, Westlaw, MyCase Legal Practice Management Software, Clio, and Photoshop.
• Key Strengths : Finely-tuned analytical skills with a dedication to expanding subject knowledge and workplace competencies through continuous training. Unparalleled multitasking and time management skills, deftly managing heavy caseloads from initial client intake through all phases of discovery, drafting, pretrial, trial, and appeal.

Associate of Applied Business in Paralegal-Legal Assisting , 2012 R Rhodes State College, Lima, OH

Serve as Law Clerk to the Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. Perform legal research; draft bench orders, opinions, and memos, carefully verifying accuracy of all citations. Communicate with counsel to confirm deadlines and address case management issues.

• Utilize advanced verbal and written Spanish skills as court translator when warranted.
• Researched, acquired, and trained firm’s attorneys in use of Symantec e-Discovery Platform.
• Entrusted by senior partners to ready firm records for inspection during IT and cybersecurity audits.
• Served as Vice President of regional paralegal association (2015 to 2017).

Combination Resume Example and Template

Combination resumes are a mix of the chronological and functional resume formats. They provide a chronological list of one’s work history, but they also have a section that focuses on different types of skills. This format shows employers both your skills and your experience. It's a good choice if you're changing careers or if you have a varied but steady work history.

With this type of resume, you'd start with a section to show your skills. The next section would show your job experience, followed by your education.   You might also include an objective or summary at the beginning. You can download the combination resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word) or review the example below.

Combination Resume Example (Text Version)

Analytical and detail-oriented legal professional leveraging recent JD training and 6 years law office experience to excel as a Junior Associate Attorney with an established law firm. Well-versed in federal, state, and municipal court filing processes, rules, and deadlines, with direct experience in commercial litigation and specialized training in e-Discovery methodologies. Unparalleled multitasking and time management skills, deftly managing heavy caseloads from initial client intake through all phases of discovery, drafting, pretrial, trial, and appeal.

E-Discovery

Technical Proficiencies

• Microsoft Office Suite, LexisNexis Concordance, Symantec eDiscovery Platform, Westlaw, MyCase Legal Practice Management Software, Clio, and Photoshop.

Litigation and Records Management

• Skillfully managed caseload of ~70 ongoing cases for national law firm specializing in commercial litigation. Scheduled and facilitated client interviews, prepared documents and exhibits for trial, and ensured timely submission of all pleadings and court filings.

Legal Research

• As Law Clerk to the Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, performed extensive legal research, carefully verifying accuracy of all citations.

Communications and Outreach

• Utilized advanced verbal and written Spanish skills as court translator when warranted.

Work History

Law Clerk Intern, US District Court, Cleveland, OH, 2019-Present

Paralegal , Hatchett, Garner, and Winn Attorneys, Cleveland, OH, 2013-2019

Resume Formats With Headlines and Profiles

Studies have shown that recruiters spend only seconds reviewing a resume before sorting it to the “yes” or “no” pile and moving on. For this reason, many candidates choose to add a section highlighting their most relevant skills at the top of their resume. There are several ways to do this:

• Resume with headline :  A resume headline (also known as a resume title) is a phrase that summarizes why you are an ideal candidate. It usually appears near the top of your resume. Headlines can be used by a variety of candidates to highlight their best attributes and experience.
• Resume with headline and profile :  Including both a brief headline and a profile can provide the hiring manager with even more information about you.
• Resume with summary statement : A summary statement is a brief paragraph or two along with a short list of your strongest qualifications for the job. It is also known as a summary of qualifications.
• Resume with branding statement : A branding statement is a brief, catchy statement (usually 15 words or fewer) that showcases what you have to offer to a hiring organization.
• Resume with objective : A resume objective is a one to two sentence description of who you are as a candidate and what you are looking for in a position. Some employers prefer a resume profile or summary over a resume objective, but it's up to you to decide which option is best. While objectives used to be standard, today it varies by the industry and position you're applying for. A profile and/or summary statement serves the same purpose and is preferred by many hiring managers.

Employers want to hire candidates who are interested in their specific job opening, not just any job. Customizing your resume every time will make sure that your resume is tailored appropriately.

In addition to choosing a type of resume, you will also need to select a font and font size and make style choices (such as when to use bullets, bold, and italics). Choose a font that's easy to read and professional. Calibri, Times New Roman, Arial, and Tahoma are all good choices for a font.

Keep the font size large enough to be legible. The body should be a 10-12 point font, but you can use a slightly larger font for headings.

It’s also important to be consistent in your style choices. If you decide to bullet your experience, for example, do so throughout. Similarly, once you choose a font, stick with it for the whole resume.

Template for Writing Your Own Resume

Use the following template to generate the information you'll need to include in your resume. Next, you can revise your resume so that it’s in the format you want. It might take a few drafts to get it right, and it's helpful to have someone review your resume for typos and other issues.

Remember that this is only one example of a resume format. It's a starting point. You can add information not included here, including some of the introductory information listed above, and change the order of the resume as long as your contact information stays at the top.

Sample Resume Format

Your Contact Information

First and Last Name Street Address City, State ZIP Phone Email Address

Career Summary (optional)

This customized section of your resume lists key achievements, skills, traits, and experience relevant to the position for which you are applying can serve dual purposes. It highlights your relevant experience and lets the prospective employer know that you have taken the time to create a resume that shows how you are qualified for the specific job .

This section of your resume includes your work history. List the companies you worked for, dates of employment, the positions you held, and a bulleted list of responsibilities and achievements.

City, State Dates Worked

• Responsibilities / Achievements

Company #2 City, State Dates Worked Job Title

In the education section of your resume, list the schools you attended, the degrees you attained, and any special awards and honors you earned. College, Degree Awards, Honors

Skills Include skills related to the position/career field that you are applying for, such as computer skills or language skills.

References There is no need to include references on your resume or even to mention that references are available. Rather, have a separate list of references to give to employers upon request.

Key Takeaways

• The basic types of resume formats include chronological, combination, and functional resumes.
• Choose the best format for your personal and professional circumstances.
• Highlighting your most relevant skills at the top of your resume is a good strategy to showcase your most relevant qualifications for a job.
• Creating several versions of your resume will enable you to quickly and easily market your credentials.

CareerOneStop. " Select the Best Format ."

Monster. " How Long Should a Resume Be? "

Vermont Careers. " Resume Help ."

GCF. " Resume Formats: Choosing the Right One ."

The Ladders. " You Have 7.4 Seconds to Make an Impression ."

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary Sample ."

SHRM. " How to Write Powerful and Memorable HR Resumes ."

Monster. " Entry-Level Resume Objective Examples Are Outdated—Use a Career Summary Instead ."

Monster. " The Best Fonts for Your Resume Ranked ."

HubSpot. " Recruiters Reveal the 7 Best Fonts for Your Resume ."

Your Resume File Name Matters: How to Name Your Resume

Your resume file name is the first thing recruiters notice when receiving your resume. Make sure your resume is named appropriately for the job you’re applying for.

Customers Interviewed by:

When you’re job hunting, your desktop is likely full of documents with a unique resume file name to keep them distinguishable. But when it comes time to submit your polished resume , what should the final file name be?

The way you name your resume file can tell a lot about you, including your interest in the position, qualifications, and personality. We asked career experts to weigh in and give their advice on naming your resume file. 

Keep reading to learn:

• How to name your resume file.
• Why your resume file name matters.
• What to avoid when naming your resume file.

Table of Contents

How to name your resume file, tips to write a good resume file name, why does your resume file name matter, examples of poor resume file names.

Before you press submit on your application, look at your resume file name. While it may seem like an meaningless detail, Aiyaz Uddin , founder of TheStaffingCircle says it’s anything but. 

“Recruiters and hiring managers can see the name of your application documents, including resumes and cover letters, in various places throughout the hiring process. This means your file name acts as your first impression, potentially influencing whether your application gets noticed or tossed aside.”

There are a few acceptable naming conventions to choose from.

• FirstName_LastName_JobTitle.pdf
• FirstName-LastName-JobTitle.pdf

Your file could also be a Word document. Both are acceptable formats.

Remember that your resume file name is always visible, whether your resume is going to the hiring manager’s inbox, applying through a job portal, or submitting your resume from LinkedIn . 

Here are seven tips on how to properly name your resume file:

Tip 1: Follow the instructions stated in the job description

Some job ads aren’t specific about how they want candidates to name their resumes, but when they are, be sure to follow those instructions to a tee.

These instructions are usually to help recruiters review resumes more efficiently. But in many cases, they’re there because that’s how the applicant tracking system , or ATS, they use will scan resumes for the job.

Every time you apply for a role, your resume goes into the ATS, which houses your resume for hiring managers to organize.

Not following file naming instructions may cause your resume to be ignored or not seen at all by recruiters.

Tip 2: Include your first and last name

The best way to set your resume apart is to include both your first and last names when naming your resume file. 

For example, instead of writing, “Resume.pdf”, write, “John_Smith_Resume.pdf”. (If you have a common name like John Smith, you might also want to include your middle name as well). 

This way, recruiters can quickly tell the difference between your resume and those of other candidates.

Tip 3: Make your file name reflect your personal brand

If you are a seasoned professional with lots of expertise and qualifications, building a personal brand can help you stand out from other candidates.

This is particularly beneficial to those in creative industries or full-time freelancers who are always trying to attract potential clients and projects.

Here are a few tips on how to do it:

• Tell recruiters what you’re good at. Pay attention to how people describe you or what people say are your strengths – and then briefly yet descriptively include it in your resume file name.
• Have a clear value proposition. What is it that you can do that will make you a great asset to the company? If you’re applying as a fitness instructor, for instance, you might want to include “Fitness Coach” in your file name.
• Give a sneak peek at your story. Your personal branding is a story about you: your career journey, passions, accomplishments , and more. Your file name can give a brief preview of what you’re about.

Some examples of personal branding in a resume file name are:

• John_Smith_SEO_Expert_Resume.pdf
• Janet_Jobscan_Resume_Expert_Resume.pdf
• Jane-Doe-Life-Coach-Resume.pdf

Tip 4: Separate words with hyphens or underscores

To make your resume file clear and readable, separate words with a hyphen or an underscore.

Refrain from using any other special characters, like an asterisk or dash. These characters may result in ATS parsing errors.

Also, avoid combining all the words together, such as “JohnSmithResume.pdf”. Recruiters may have a hard time reading your file name like this. 

In addition, although using all lowercase letters won’t affect how your file is analyzed by an ATS, capitalizing the first letter of every word makes your resume file name easier to read.

Tip 5: Exclude version numbers

You should always tailor your resume to fit the job that you’re applying for. Because of this, you’ll most likely end up with several versions of your resume. 

However, you should NOT show recruiters that you’re sending them one among many of your resume versions.

File names that display the resume version, such as “Resume_2023_1” or “Resume-Sales-2” don’t look good from a recruiter’s perspective. Instead, convey that you’re submitting a resume that’s tailor-fit to the job.

For example, you can name your resume “John-Smith-HR-Manager-Resume.pdf”.

Here are other ways to manage resume versions:

• Keep a master resume file. Keeping a master file that contains all your work history and background will ensure that you don’t lose any information as you create several versions of your resume.
• Include the company name. Indicating the company name is another way to customize your resume file while making it easy for you to manage resume versions.
• Indicate the current year. Including the year can also further customize your resume and make it easier to keep track of which version is most current.

Tip 6: Keep your resume file name short

Your file name should be short yet descriptive. You don’t want it to be so long that recruiters won’t be able to read the whole name when viewing the file. 

To do this, make sure your file name is only around 24 characters.

You can also check whether your file name is too long by viewing the attached file in your email. The entire file name of your attached resume should be visible.

For example:

Tip 7: Name your additional documents the same as your resume

If you’re submitting additional documents, such as a portfolio or cover letter , you should name them the same way you would your resume.

Follow the format “FirstName_LastName_Portfolio” to make your file names consistent.

Doing this will ensure that any additional documents you send will be successfully parsed by an ATS.

Bonus Tip: Use a suitable file format for your resume

To make sure the ATS can correctly parse your resume, always save it as either a .doc, .docx, .rtf, or .pdf file. Any other file type may affect the readability of your resume and cause parsing errors.

Also, avoid using graphics, tables, charts, and other design elements in your resume. These can confuse the ATS, if they aren’t formatted correctly. It’s best to play it safe and not use those features at all.

To make sure that your resume’s file name and file format is ATS-compatible, consider using a tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner .

The scanner works like this: paste your resume and the job description into the tool and click “scan”. You’ll then receive a Match Report.

The Match Report scores your resume and gives you personalized feedback based on best practices for writing a resume, including file name and format.

Here’s an example of the “file type” section of the Match Report:

Make the fixes suggested by the Match Report to give your resume the best chance of making it into the hands of a hiring manager and getting an interview.

Make your resume stand out and get noticed

Upload your resume to see what’s missing and get a free match rate.

View full results and optimize your resume

Your file name may be the last thing you think about when writing your resume , but it matters more than you think. Here are three reasons why:

A polished resume file name is a good first impression

You don’t have to wait until the hiring manager opens your resume to leave a good impression. A resume file name can display:

• Professionalism
• Memorability
• Organization

Your resume file name hints at your qualifications

Put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes. What would you think of a candidate who sends in a resume with a file name that looks like this: “Resume(1)”? 

You might think that candidate is careless, unqualified, or simply not interested enough in the job to bother to name their resume file correctly. 

On the other hand, a well-named resume communicates strong interest, enthusiasm, and a keen attention to detail.

“A clear and concise file name reflects attention to detail and professionalism,” Uddin explains “making a positive first impression before recruiters even open your resume.”

A good resume file name sets you apart from other candidates

The way you name your resume file can make it easier for recruiters to differentiate you from other candidates, even before they go through what’s inside the document. 

It also makes locating your resume faster, so when your application comes to mind, recruiters can quickly access your file.

What’s more, using a file name with unique details about your qualifications or personal brand can help make your resume easier to remember.

If you’re standing out among the rest of the applicants with file names like “resume.docx,” you’re more memorable to the hiring team. 

A polished resume file name also has another benefit: it puts you in the hiring manager’s good graces right off the bat. Uddin shares his insight that “when dealing with numerous applications, recruiters appreciate clear file names that make sorting and searching efficient.”

A clear resume file name has practical benefits to your job search

When you apply for jobs among hundreds of other applicants, a clear resume file name benefits:

• Targeted applications
• The applicant tracking system (ATS)

Including the job title in your resume file name targets your application for the role you’re specifically applying for, which can increase relevance.

Your file name could impact how your resume is read by an ATS

When the hiring manager inputs keywords into their ATS search, resumes with these keywords rise to the top. Uddin shares that this can also apply to file names. 

“Some ATS use keywords from file names to filter applications, so including relevant terms can boost your visibility.”

When you send a resume with a file name that ATS has trouble reading, it could create a file name with words mixed up or that’s hard to read. 

With a clear, easy to understand file name, it’s easier for the hiring manager to retrieve and revisit later. 

Jobscan’s resume builder creates an ATS-friendly resume that’s easy to download as a PDF or save as a base resume. After you build your resume, you can rename your file before or after you download.

Now that we know how to properly name your resume file, here are some examples of resume file mistakes to avoid:

• RESUME.docx
• Resume.version2.docx
• Resume-2023.docx
• Resume-latest version.pdf
• Resume_current.pdf
• johnsmithresume.pdf
• John|Smith|Resume.pdf
• Janet-Parker-SEO content creator, blogger, and travel enthusiast.docx
• Final Resume.pdf

Remember that your resume file name may not be the deciding factor for whether you get hired, but using one that’s clear, descriptive, and specific can boost your chances of standing out and making the right impression.

How should you name your resume file?

According to Uddin, when in doubt, use the following best practices to help you name your resume file appropriately:

• Include your full name : This identifies you clearly.
• Mention the job title : Shows relevance and targeted application.
• Use relevant keywords: Align with the job description and potential ATS filters.
• Keep it concise and professional : Avoid jargon, emojis, or excessive capitalization.
• Maintain consistency : Use the same format for all application documents.

Example: John_Doe_Resume_Software_Engineer.pdf

What file should a resume be in?

A resume is typically submitted as a PDF or Word file . PDF is a universal file format that preserves the formatting of your document and ensures it looks the same across different devices and operating systems. 

It also helps maintain the layout and design integrity of your resume, preventing any unintended changes that may occur when opening the file on different computers or software applications.

Submitting your resume as a PDF ensures that:

• Formatting is Preserved : Your resume will maintain its original layout, fonts, and styling, regardless of the device or software used to view it.
• Compatibility : PDFs can be opened and viewed on almost any device or operating system using free PDF reader software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, making them accessible to recruiters and hiring managers.

You can also submit your resume in other formats such as Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx). However, read the job description closely to see if there’s a preferred file format for resume submissions.

Should my resume be a PDF?

A PDF is an ideal way to submit your resume. Here are several reasons why:

• Protection from Alteration : PDF files are typically “read-only,” meaning they cannot be easily edited or altered. This helps to prevent unauthorized changes to your resume content or formatting.
• Ease of Printing : Recruiters or hiring managers may want to print your resume for review or to share with others. PDFs ensure that your resume prints consistently and accurately, preserving its visual appeal.

While some employers may request resumes in other formats such as Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx), providing your resume as a PDF unless instructed otherwise is generally considered a best practice in the job application process. It helps to ensure that your document is presented professionally and consistently across different platforms and devices.

NOTE : If you’re building your resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume builder . There are no hidden costs and it allows you to build an ATS-compatible resume in no time!

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Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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How to Write a Resume Job Description (Examples Included!)

Hiring managers receive anywhere from dozens to even thousands of resumes and job applications daily. That's why a well-crafted resume is crucial to helping you stand out from the competition. And your experience section in particular—where your resume job descriptions live—really needs to shine.

This section highlights your previous experiences—whether in a formal job, internship , volunteer work , or other roles—demonstrating your achievements and capabilities.

To make an impact, you need to strategically tailor your experiences and skills to align with the job you’re applying for, showing recruiters that you’re a perfect fit for the role.

Below, you'll find key tips on how to write job descriptions for resumes and examples to guide you through it.

Get that resume out there! Browse open jobs on The Muse and find your dream job »

Job descriptions for resumes: Why does it matter?

When you apply for jobs , you'll see a description of the role and what the company is looking for. To really stand out, your resume should match those requirements as closely as possible. That’s where the job description section comes in handy. It’s your chance to highlight past experiences and make sure they align with the job you’re aiming for.

Your resume job description should include:

• Company name
• Date of employment
• Responsibilities and achievements

Of course, this section alone won't land you a job—your whole resume should be written to impress the recruiters. However, when you're an experienced professional, even if you're not a senior in your position yet, well-written job descriptions can at least guarantee you some interviews .

How to write a resume job description in 4 steps

The following tips will give you some insights into what this section of your resume should look like—and what hiring managers are looking for in candidates' resumes.

1. Start with a clear heading

If you're not new to resume building, you probably know that each section of the file should have a heading . It should be clear and concise, telling the recruiter exactly what they're going to read next.

Here are some examples:

Work Experience

• Professional Experience

2. Lay out basic info about your role

Next step is filling out the experience section —or whatever you decide to name it—with your professional background. You'll always start with basic information from each job (or internship, volunteer work, and such), like your title, the company name, location, and date of employment.

For example:

Sales associate

Orlando, FL

July 2022-August 2024

You can change the order as you see fit—for instance, putting the company name first and your title second. However, it's important to keep the same formatting throughout the resume, so be sure your choice works well for every experience.

There's no set amount of experiences you should include in your resume. But keep in mind that, ideally, it should only have relevant and recent experience, listed in reverse chronological order (from the most recent to the least recent). Additionally, most recruiters prefer a one- to two-page resume , max.

3. List achievements instead of tasks

Now, it's time to write the actual job descriptions. It's typically ideal to use bullet points and one to two sentences for each. As a standard, most resume templates have three to four bullet points for each experience, but you can use more (or less) as long as the information is relevant and you're not simply trying to fill out the page.

In describing your role, avoid falling into the trap of only listing job responsibilities. Muse career coach Andrea Gerson says that candidates should expand task-focused language into action-driven, accomplishment-oriented information.

For example, instead of writing “Performed X, Y, and Z,” try “Performed X, Y, and Z, which led to [achievements].” “This information showcases your capabilities—which is exactly what employers want to see,” Gerson says.

A commonly used formula to describe accomplishments within your roles is the context-scope-outcome strategy. You start with action verbs , show how you fulfilled each responsibility, and finish with an achievement that resulted from those actions. If possible, present your achievement with a quantifier , meaning metrics or numerical data that illustrates the impact of your work.

If you have a hard time identifying your impactful actions and accomplishments within your job responsibilities, Gerson suggests asking yourself these contextual questions:

• What was the setting I was working in?
• Was it a fast-paced pizzeria? If so, how many customers were served on a daily/weekly basis?
• If it's a smaller company that's not very well-known, what products or services did they provide?
• What was their scope of operations? Local, regional, global?
• Who was their target customer base?

4. Describe the company in the first bullet point

Your resume job description could also benefit from including some relevant context about the companies you previously worked for, such industry, size, or differentiating factors. You can add this info within the first bullet of a position—which is called an introductory bullet.

“These introductory bullets should highlight your most impressive or transferable responsibilities in the context of the company that you were working for,” Gerson says. The following job responsibilities templates show examples of introductory bullets you can adjust for your resume:

• “Contributed to [ achievement, outcome ] on behalf of [ company ]”
• “Managed key aspects of [ project responsibilities ] for [ company ]”
• “Assisted in [ a project ] on for [ company ]”

Here are examples of how these templates would look like filled out:

• “Billed 50 clients on behalf of the company's national and international enterprise clients ”
• “Managed key aspects of product development and management on for the national launching a hair care brand ”
• “Assisted in the development of the rebranding and repositioning of a dating app with 5+ million users for a international tech company ”

Bonus tip: Use keywords from the open job description

These days, most hiring managers use application tracking systems (ATSs) to segment and quickly scan resumes to select the best based on their similarity to the open job description. This similarity is determined by keywords .

Keywords are specific phrases or terms within a job description precisely used to describe or explain responsibilities, skills, abilities, and knowledge the employer is looking for. These terms usually repeat throughout the job listing, signaling their importance for that specific role.

For this reason, you should do your best to incorporate keywords from the open job description on your resume, wherever it accurately reflects your prior work experience. “It not only makes your resume stronger but encourages you to think deeply about what the position is asking for and how your skills match,” says Muse career coach Lauren Wethers .

Review the job description you want to apply for and segment phrases that explain the specific duties or skills required for the role, which could be technical skills or transferable skills. For example:

If the company's job description for an account manager says:

The employee responsibilities are:

• Creating a market specific sales plan that meets set sales goals
• Educate the community on the company's values
• Meeting regularly with sales market's customers to understand their needs
• Identifying local marketing needs to enhance presence and grow sales

You could write your job description like this:

• Created a market specific sales plan to meet company's set sales goals for a skincare brand
• Educated the community on the company's value by meeting regularly with customers to understand their needs
• Enhanced presence and sales by 20% by identifying local marketing needs and implementing a new sales strategy

Be sure to use the exact same language as is used in the open job description, because the ATS machine might not understand synonyms. “The computer doesn't know the difference between ‘coached’ and ‘advised’ on your resume—it's looking for one over the other,” Wethers says.

Resume job description: Examples

Here are some examples of job descriptions for resumes for different roles you can adapt for yourself:

Example #1: Cashier job description for resume

Head Cashier

Star Market

Oct 2021 - Jan 2024

• Streamlined checkout and return transactions on behalf of a multinational chain with 10+ locations in Florida working simultaneously
• Supervised and trained front-end cashiers for two consecutive years, enhancing 15% crew performance in PoS transactions and reducing shrink
• Provided excellent customer service and assistance to customers, processing 155+ transactions per shift while identifying selling opportunities for cross and up-sells
• Balanced cash drawers with a 98% monthly accuracy, handling $119,000 of annual revenue

Example #2: Server job description for resume

Restaurant Server & Crew Member

Blu Trattoria

Jan 2022 - February 2023

• Performed table management on behalf of a family-owned, award-winning Italian restaurant from downtown Denver
• Picked up and delivered patrons' orders from the bar and kitchen, satisfying +75 patrons per shift
• Collaborated with Head Chef to streamline order communication processes, inventory shortages, and event assistance, reducing 25% of overall waiting time
• Provided excellent customer service with a 96% NPS while calculating multiple patron’s accounts & payments through cash, PoS, and e-wallets

Example #3: Customer service job description for resume

Customer service representative

May 2017 - July 2022

• Responded to thousands of calls each month on behalf of one of the fastest-growing CMS companies worldwide, generating 15% in revenue or serving 5.000 customers each year
• Worked closely with the IT division to address and resolve a high volume of customer issues pertaining to software functionality and technical issues, achieving a 97% NPS score
• Contributed to the development and implementation of upselling and cross-selling strategies which led to over $35,000 in new annual revenue
• Leveraged CRM tools to improve response times by nearly 25%, impacting nearly 1.000 customers/accounts

Example #4: Sales associate job description for resume

Sales Associate

Blake Auto Co.

Portland, OR

Jun 2018 - April 2024

• Managed sales initiatives on behalf of Fortune 500 manufacturing companies generating over $12M in annual revenue, specializing in car sales
• Achieved 35% increase in lead conversion rates, working to qualify over 500 customers each month
• Negotiated contracts valued at up to $1 million, interfacing with 35+ major accounts

Example #5: Caregiver job description for resume

Senior Caregiver

Rainfall Care Nursing Center

Oct 2015 - March 2019

• Worked with over 50 adults on behalf of a specialized health center, focusing on cardiac patients
• Worked closely with patients and family members to ensure high quality of life, providing weekly reports on the patient's health status
• Contributed to 45% reduction in emergency room visits during tenure, closely monitoring patient conditions throughout short-term and long-term stays

Example #6: Housekeeping job description for resume

Apartment Housekeeper

Fresh Clean Agency

Raleigh, NC

Feb 2013 - Sep 2016

• Provided monthly housekeeping services on behalf of a specialized cleaning agency for apartments and small houses
• Cleaned over 150 apartments and houses resulting in a satisfaction rate of 97%
• Achieved a 95% rate of returning clients by performing cleaning and maintenance tasks, along with preferred requests solicited by clients
• Assured high-standard quality cleaning process on each property, decreasing by 15% the agency’s average apartment turnaround time

Bottom line

Writing resume job descriptions can seem difficult at first, but the key is going beyond responsibilities to list accomplishments , starting with a strong action verb (e.g. “implemented,” “created,” “managed”) and following up with quantifiable results. Remember to only include experiences that are relevant for the position you're applying for, use keywords from the job listing, and use a simple and clean formatting to make your resume ATS-friendly. That’s all there is to it—now go out there and get that dream job !