The age-old question: .doc or .pdf? For your resume, the answer isn't always clear-cut. Choosing the wrong format can mean the difference between a recruiter's inbox and the digital trash bin. Let's break it down.
Hey everyone! So you've painstakingly crafted your perfect resume using RebuildCV’s AI resume builder, and now you're staring at the final step: choosing a file format. .doc, .docx, or .pdf? It might seem minor, but this decision can seriously impact your job search. Let's dive into the details.
Editable Resumes (.doc, .docx): The Flexible Friend
Editable formats like .doc and .docx offer flexibility. Recruiters can easily edit and copy-paste information, which can be useful if they want to make notes or integrate your details into their database. However, this flexibility comes with a downside: formatting can easily get messed up during the process. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) sometimes struggle with these file types, potentially leading to your resume getting lost in the system.
PDF Resumes (.pdf): The Reliable Workhorse
PDFs maintain your resume's formatting perfectly, regardless of the device or software used to open it. This is crucial for ensuring your resume looks exactly as intended, especially considering that ATS systems and different software sometimes interpret formatting differently. This consistency is a huge advantage. The downside? Recruiters can't easily edit or copy-paste information from a PDF, which can make collaboration a bit more cumbersome.
Which Format Should You Choose?
The best format depends on the specific job application:
Pro Tip: Always tailor your resume to the specific job description. If a company uses a particular ATS, ensure your resume is optimized for it. Check out our guide on /knowledge-center/how-to-write-an-ats-compatible-resume-in-2025 for more info. Also, consider using RebuildCV's AI resume checker to ensure your resume is ATS-friendly, regardless of the file format you choose.
The Bottom Line: Optimize for Both Worlds
Ideally, you should have both versions—an editable version for smaller companies or when specifically requested, and a PDF for larger companies and online applications. RebuildCV makes this easy. You can easily download your resume in both formats with a single click, saving you time and stress. Remember that according to LinkedIn Talent Solutions, using the right resume format can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed.
Always save a copy of your resume in both editable and PDF formats.
Use RebuildCV to create a visually appealing resume that also plays nice with ATS systems.
Before submitting, double-check the file type requested in the job description.
Yes, most word processors allow you to easily save your document as a PDF. RebuildCV also offers direct download options for both file types.
Generally, PDFs are preferred for ATS compatibility, as they preserve formatting and prevent errors during parsing. However, ensure your resume is ATS-optimized regardless of the file type, using keywords and clear formatting.
AI is changing the job search game, and choosing the right file format is part of that change. While AI can help create a stellar resume, ensuring its compatibility with ATS systems is crucial. RebuildCV's AI helps you optimize your resume for both human recruiters and ATS, regardless of whether you choose a PDF or an editable format. The key is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each file type and choose accordingly.
Apply these tech tips strategies with RebuildCV's AI-powered optimization and join 100,000+ professionals who've accelerated their careers