what is the paper size of resume

How Do I Pick the Right Resume Paper? [All You Need to Know!]

If you’ve only ever applied for jobs online, resume paper has probably never crossed your mind as a term before. 

Resume paper, however, is very much a thing, especially if you go to a job fair or a job interview and are required to bring a printed copy of your resume. 

Essentially, the right resume paper can make you look professional and attentive to detail, both of which can award you some extra points with recruiters by helping you stand out. 

That said, chances are you’re not so familiar with resume paper - let alone what the right one is in terms of color, weight, texture, and size, or what recruiters commonly prefer. 

Well, that’s totally normal. In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about resume paper. Read on to learn about:

• What Makes a Good Resume Paper?
• Resume Paper Color

Resume Paper Weight

Resume paper texture, resume paper size.

And much more!  

What Is Resume Paper?

Resume paper refers to paper specifically designed for resumes and cover letters . 

Compared to regular paper, resume paper usually comes in various colors and is thicker, heavier, and of higher quality. 

Although resume paper is usually not necessary (because the majority of job openings accept virtual applications), there are some cases when you should definitely consider it. These include: 

• When you’re required to mail a physical copy of your resume
• When you attend a job interview
• When you go to a job fair

Since many job-seekers don’t pay a lot of attention to resume paper, they can be a bit hard to come by, so we recommend ordering them online:

The type of resume paper doesn’t matter if your resume is not convincing. Use Novorésumé to create a job-winning resume within minutes!

What Makes a Good Resume Paper? 

Before you go on to buy a resume paper, you need to have a clear idea about what will work best for you. 

To make an informed decision, there are several things to take into consideration, including: 

• Cotton Content

Below we discuss each resume paper aspect separately, as well as offer you some insight on what the best choice might be for you based on your resume , profession, etc. 

Resume Paper Color 

The first thing to consider is the color of your resume paper. To choose the right one, you need to consider the job position, the industry, and your resume’s specific design elements. 

The most common resume paper colors are: 

• Ivory. Ivory resume paper is classy and timeless, with earthy tones that are perfect for more conservative industries such as law and business and senior professionals like managers, CEO -s, etc. Regarding your resume’s color palette, ivory looks great when matched with dark, contrasting colors and white spaces.
• White. White resume paper is easy to read and can make the colors of your resume pop out distinctively. While white is fitting for almost every job and industry, it’s particularly great for designers, artists, or anyone with a visual resume that contains graphs and resume icons. White color resume also looks great for resume designs that use light shades like gray or blue. 

While both resume paper colors are highly recommended, go for ivory color if you want to look sophisticated and stand out from the crowd and for white color for a safer, yet professional look. 

After you’ve decided on the color of your resume paper, it’s time to choose the right paper thickness or weight. Typically, resume paper comes in three different weights, namely: 

• 20 lbs (75 gsm). This is the standard weight for office printing paper. Although there’s nothing wrong with 20 lbs weight, it’s more see-through than the other two options and easier to crumble. Although this is by far the most economical choice, it’s also the least professional one, as it doesn’t compliment high-quality color or texture.
• 24 lbs (90 gsm). This weight is budget-friendly yet still a professional option. Although it’s more transparent and frail than the 32 lbs option, it’s much more professional than standard office printing paper and a perfectly acceptable option if you want to save some money.
• 32 lbs (120 gsm). 32 lbs resume paper is the most professional, qualitative, and expensive choice when it comes to paper weight. It’s thick, brightly colored, and the least transparent out of the three options, so if you have the budget don’t hesitate to go for it!

Most standard printers can’t usually handle 32 lbs of paper, so consider going to a printing shop or office supplies store to get the best printing results. 

You’ve probably realized by now that resume paper quality isn’t something to take lightly. And if you haven’t, you will after reading about how important texture is in making your printed resume look professional. 

The texture of your resume paper will define how your resume feels to the touch, which can in turn make it more or less memorable. 

Below, we have listed the pros and cons of the most common resume paper materials out there:

#1. Plain Resume Paper: Pros & Cons

Plain resume paper is a common and safe choice that’s basically used in every office and for most printing purposes. It’s a material that everyone is familiar with, it’s economical, and it’s overall an acceptable choice, especially if you’re on a budget. 

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of a plain resume paper:

• Standard and “safe”
• Works with the majority of resume designs
• Small chance of ink spills
• Cheap price
• Not so memorable
• Lowest quality material

#2. Parchment Resume Paper: Pros & Cons

Parchment paper is all about class, elegance, and history. 

It’s no wonder that all the important documents were historically printed on parchment paper . Although there’s no denying that the appeal of parchment paper is timeless, this can be a two-edged sword with recruiters. While some may love it, others may find it pretentious and a bit outdated. 

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of parchment resume paper:

• Official appearance
• Classy and elegant
• Not a common material choice
• Requires high-quality printer
• A pretentious choice for some recruiters

#3. Granite Resume Paper: Pros & Cons

Granite paper represents the perfect balance between a speckled and a refined texture that feels like sandpaper but still isn’t too rough to the touch. 

This material effectively highlights darker colors, it’s easy to grip, and can set you apart from the competition with its elegance and originality. Not to mention, granite paper is mainly made from recyclable materials, making it an eco-friendly option. 

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of the granite resume paper:

• Suitable for most printers
• Environmentally friendly
• Original yet classy 
• Not suitable for light-colored resumes

#4. Laid Resume Paper: Pros & Cons

Laid paper comes with embossed lines on its surface that look like rolling waves. Today, we see paper as a flat surface, whereas laid paper aims to imitate how the paper looked when it was first invented. 

This alone makes it a memorable choice for your resume paper’s material, especially in an industry or job position where originality is appreciated.  

That said, laid is also the material that’s more likely to bring out printing errors and mess up your resume’s text and font quality - especially if your resume uses a dark-colored palette or if you don’t have a good printer handy. 

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of a laid resume paper: 

• Original and classy
• Nice to the touch
• Very costly
• Likely to cause printing errors

#5. Linen Resume Paper: Pros & Cons 

For a thick and durable material, you should choose linen as your resume paper material. It’s weighty, easy to grip, and soft to the touch, all thanks to its unique cross-hatch style texture and natural thickness. 

Much like granite, a linen resume paper is guaranteed to make your resume stand out. Here’s an overview of its pros and cons: 

• Authentic and classy look
• Works with most printers
• Durable and nice to the touch
• Prone to wrinkling easily

This is probably the easiest resume paper aspect to get right. 

As a rule of thumb, the right resume paper size is the standard paper size in your region. In the US, that’s the letter size (8.5 x 11 inches). 

In Europe and much of the rest of the world, that’s the A4 size (8.27 x 11.69 inches). 

Remember that not following your region’s standard paper size won’t help you stand out from the competition - it will only make you look uninformed and careless. 

Cotton Content on Resume Paper 

Last but not least comes cotton content. 

To understand how important cotton content is for resume paper, just take a look at what it affects:

• Paper quality and durability
• Color richness and depth  

Basically, you could have picked the perfect color and material for your resume paper and still leave recruiters unimpressed if the cotton content is low. Meanwhile, if you opt for a medium-quality weight, for example, like the 24lbs one, but with high cotton content, the result is going to impress recruiters much more. 

4 Tips to Choose the Best Resume Paper

At this point, you pretty much know everything there is to know about what makes a resume paper really great. But how exactly do you make the right choice for yourself?

Here are 4 tips for choosing the best possible resume paper for your professional stage: 

• Consider the design of your resume template : Does your resume template use dark, contrasting colors or lighter shades of gray and blue? Will it take a lot of ink to print, or does it follow a simplistic design? These details can help you determine what color, material, and the weight you should go for. 
• Print out several options: This might be slightly unrealistic if you’re on a budget, but printing out several resumes to use in different situations can be quite beneficial. You can use, for example, ivory parchment paper weighing 32lbs for more traditional positions, or white linen weighing 24lbs for more casual, creative industries. 
• Use high-quality paper for executive positions : If you’re applying for executive positions, nothing but the best will cut it. Go for 32lbs, ivory, linen resume paper to make your resume look sophisticated, unique, and professional. 
• Adapt to the industry: Being original is one thing and being the black sheep among all other applicants is another. Try to find a balance between originality and conventionality by taking into consideration what your industry finds “acceptable” (e.g. creative industries leave more space for experimenting with the resume paper color and material, whereas more conservative industries undoubtedly prefer more minimalistic and high-quality choices, especially in terms of cotton content and paper material). 

Bottom Line: What Is the Best Resume Paper? 

If all these resume paper options left you feeling a tad confused, don’t worry. 

Although there’s a place and industry for every resume paper, a study comparing different resume layouts showed that traditional paper performs better than more creative options .

The traditional resume printed on white paper performed better than all other options used in the study.

Nonetheless, the message is clear. If you’re on a budget or otherwise conflicted about the resume paper you should use, white paper with high cotton content is a commonplace, safe choice that is unlikely to harm your chances of getting the job. 

Resume Paper FAQ 

If you still have some questions regarding resume paper, you can find our answers to some questions we haven’t covered yet below: 

#1. Can I Put My Resume Paper in a Normal Printer?

Although most standard printers can print out resume paper, you’ll have to first check the printer’s manual to make sure it will print resume paper. After you make sure your printer can print resume paper, read the instructions for any specific steps you need to follow. 

If your home printer can’t print resume paper, you can try printing it at a printing store or office supply store.

#2. Can I Use A4 for My Resume?

In most cases, the A4 size is perfectly suitable for your resume paper. 

Actually, your printed resume should follow the standard paper size by region. In most of the world, that’s the A4 size (or 210mm x 297mm), whereas in the US and Canada it’s Letter size paper.

#3. Should I Staple My Resume?

Most recruiters are not fond of stapled resumes for the simple reason that staples make it difficult to take the resume apart. Not to mention, as a rule of thumb, most resumes shouldn’t be longer than one page , which means you don’t even need to staple it. 

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! You should have all the info you need in order to pick the right resume paper for you. 

Before you go, though, here are the main points we covered in this article: 

• Resume paper refers to paper specifically designed for resumes and cover letters. In comparison to regular paper, resume paper usually comes in various colors and is thicker, heavier, and of higher quality.
• You need to think about resume paper when the job position requires that you submit a printed copy, when you go to a job fair, or when you attend a job interview. 
• Resume paper quality depends on several factors, including quality, color, texture, size, weight, and cotton content. 
• Keep in mind that most standard printers can’t handle the highest-quality resume papers, so make sure to go to a printing office to get the best printing results. 

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5+ Best Resume Paper Types

When you write a resume what paper you’ll use might not be your biggest concern. However, the paper you choose to print your resume on will affect how it looks and feels in the hands of a hiring manager.

As featured in *

What is resume paper?

Where to buy resume paper, choosing the best resume paper, resume paper color, resume paper weight, resume paper texture and material.

What's the best resume paper size?

Resume paper comparison

Where can i print my resume.

Using a professional resume paper is one of the best ways to leave a positive, lasting impression, and it will communicate that you’re serious about the role.

Our free-to-use resume builder can make you a resume in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

Resume paper is high-quality paper specifically designed to print your resume or other important documents on.

Many job seekers believe that resume paper and regular printer paper are the same. This is incorrect.

Resume paper vs. regular paper

Resume paper is thicker, heavier, and higher quality than regular printer paper. Resume paper also features a more refined color and comes in various types and styles.

Is resume paper necessary?

Usually, resume paper isn’t necessary. Nearly all jobs now accept online applications in PDF or Word Doc format.

However, there are still some situations when printing a hard copy of your resume is necessary:

• You’re attending an in-person interview
• You want to check out a job fair
• You’re mailing a physical copy of your resume

Moreover, when printing your resume is necessary, you’ll want it to look professional, have good color, and have a fancy, nice look-and-feel to it when employers are holding it.

Using high-quality paper ensures your resume looks top-notch and that you leave a great first impression with the hiring manager.

The best resume templates for 2024

One of the best ways to make your resume is by filling out one of our free resume templates. All our templates are designed by experts and free to download for Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

You can find basic resume paper at any big brick-and-mortar store like Target, Bestbuy, or Walmart. For more options, office supply stores such as Staples, FedEx, and Office Depot boast a more comprehensive selection of resume paper with different colors, weights, and stocks.

• Office Depot

What are the best resume paper brands?

If you’re on a budget, companies like HP produce affordable resume paper.

But if you want your resume to pop, Southworth resume paper is the industry standard and is widely available.

At Resume Genius, we believe the best resume paper is linen 100% cotton (32lb) for most people. But, that doesn’t mean it’s the only option.

If our pick sounds confusing, keep reading, and it’ll be thoroughly explained.

First, you need to know that resume paper differs in four distinct aspects:

You’ll need to decide what color paper to print your resume on before doing anything else.

Ivory vs. white paper

The two most common resume paper colors are ivory and white, and whichever you decide to use will affect your resume’s look and color depth.

White resume paper is crisp, easy to read, and makes the colors on your resume pop. It’s also great for graphic designers , artists , or anyone making a visual resume with designs and graphs to display.

Meanwhile, ivory resume paper has an earthy tone and conveys a refined, timeless look that’s best for those making a more conservative resume, such as office managers  or anyone working in a corporate environment.

Here’s a color comparison of both white (pictured left) and ivory (pictured right) resume paper:

While you can’t go wrong with either paper color, we recommend using ivory resume paper because its unique earthy color looks highly professional, and can make your resume stand out from others in a pile.

Our verdict: choose ivory resume paper to help your resume look distinctive.

Using the right color palette is the first step toward making a great-looking resume design that draws attention.

Another important factor that can affect the hiring manager’s opinion of your resume is the thickness of the sheet, otherwise referred to as the weight.

Paper typically comes in three different weights: 20, 24, and 32lb, with 20lb paper being the standard for office printing paper (the weight is measured per each package of 500 sheets of paper, otherwise known as a ream).

Meanwhile, your typical resume paper is usually the heavier 24 or 32lb version, which makes it thicker and more durable.

Should you choose 24lb or 32lb resume paper?

For most people, the decision over whether to choose 24lb or 32lb resume paper comes down to price.

If you’re okay spending more, 32lb resume paper is the best option. It’s thicker, more weighty, and will give your resume an impressive, official feel when someone is holding it.

On the other hand, 24lb paper is more transparent and flimsy. However, it’s still an acceptable option if you want to save money, and will always be better than printing your resume on standard 20lb office paper.

Our verdict: buy 32lb resume paper if you can afford it.

Some cheaper printers are unable to handle 32lb paper. When printing your resume, go to a professional printing shop to make sure you get the best results.

Next, you’ll need to consider both the material and texture your resume paper is made of.

Resume paper material

Regarding your resume paper material, there’s only one aspect most people need to worry about – cotton content.

Basically, the cotton content of your resume paper will affect the sheet’s:

• Color saturation and depth
• Weight and thickness
• Crispness and softness

You nearly always want to go for a higher cotton content (75% or above). This will ensure your resume not only looks great but is also nice to hold.

Unfortunately, higher cotton resume paper will be more expensive, but if you’re looking to print a professional-looking resume, it’s a necessity.

You can also find more-niche materials to make your resume out of, such as recycled paper or even parchment (although using parchment isn’t recommended because it’s the same material baking paper is made out of.)

Resume paper texture

Now that you’ve figured out your cotton content, you need to tackle your resume paper texture. Luckily, there’s a wide array of paper textures that you can choose from.

Along with the material (cotton content) you choose for your resume paper, the texture will also play a role in how it feels in the hiring manager’s hands.

Depending on which texture you choose, you can make your resume feel smooth or rough to the touch, all of which can make your resume more memorable.

Plain (Standard Cotton Paper)

Have you printed anything recently? It was likely printed on plain paper.

Plain is always a safe choice because it’s the paper texture everyone is most familiar with. Plain paper is used in most offices worldwide to print everyday documents, making it the cheapest and least flashy option for your resume paper texture.

If money is an issue, and you’re not concerned with making your resume paper’s texture stand out, going with plain paper is absolutely fine.

Linen paper has a unique cross-hatch style texture that makes it weighty and easy to grip (similar to granite). You can think of it as having the feel and consistency of a rugged matt, but with a soft touch.

Linen is an excellent choice for your resume paper if you want your resume to be thicker and more durable.

Next, we have granite. Choosing granite-textured paper will give your resume a speckled and semi-rocky feel to it. Granite textured paper feels like very light sandpaper, but fine enough that it’s not too rough in the reader’s hands.

Additionally, granite will give off a darker color compared with plain resume paper.

Choose granite if you want an original and elegant-looking resume that’s easy to grip and feels nice in the hiring manager’s hands.

Finally, there’s laid resume paper. Laid paper has embossed lines that will appear as tiny rolling waves on the surface of your resume. It’s meant to emulate how paper initially looked before production advances evolved it into the flat surface we see today.

Choosing laid paper texture can provide your resume with a sophisticated look and feel. However, after printing, ensure you double-check that the raised lines don’t negatively affect your resume’s text and font quality.

What’s the best resume paper size?

One of the last things to consider when buying resume paper is the size of the page.

In the U.S., always stick with 8.5 x 11 inches for your resume paper size unless stated otherwise by the employer.

Otherwise, you’ll likely be disqualified by a hiring manager as a candidate for the job immediately.

If you’re still wondering what paper to print your resume on, don’t worry. To help you decide, we went out and purchased the top 6 types of resume paper from Kinkos and rated them on their look and feel.

1. Linen 100% Cotton (32lb) ★★★★★

In our opinion, 32lb linen was by far the best resume paper we tried.

The linen finish has a unique, premium texture that makes holding the paper enjoyable. Additionally, standard linen paper is 100% cotton and weighs 32lb, making it durable.

Linen paper is the best choice to give your resume a sophisticated look and make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

When printing your resume, remember that most textured paper usually only applies the features to one side.

2. White 100% Cotton (32lb) ★★★★☆

If you want to play it safe, 32lb white cotton paper is the perfect choice for printing your resume on.

Being textureless and having a plain-colorless stock, 32lb white cotton paper keep distractions to a minimum, making your resume look crisp and formal. Meanwhile, the heavier weight also gives it a nice heft.

The only thing 32lb white cotton resume paper lacks is something that sets it apart from the competition, like a distinctive texture or color.

Due to its conservative style, white 100% cotton paper is a great choice for printing a minimalist resume .

3. White 100% Cotton (24lb) ★★★☆☆

To further highlight the difference resume paperweight can make, we also bought white 100% cotton paper in 24lb variety.

Immediately, we noticed the paper is flimsier, less impressive, and more likely to get crumpled than its higher-quality 32lb counterpart. However, this resume paper is still an acceptable choice if you need something understated and formal on a budget.

4. Ivory 25% Cotton (32lb) ★★☆☆☆

Sophisticated and subtle, ivory 32lb paper is a great choice if you need a resume paper with some flair. The warm ivory color stands out and gives your resume a timeless, chic look.

However, the low cotton content prevents us from wholeheartedly recommending this resume paper. At 25% cotton, it lacks the premium feeling and pleasant texture that 100% ivory cotton paper has.

5. Ivory 100% Cotton (24lb) ★★★☆☆

This 24lb ivory resume paper is nearly identical to the previous 32lb version, except that it boasts a higher cotton content — and it makes a big difference.

While the previous 32lb ivory resume paper weighed more, we found that the higher cotton content of this 24lb version made a big difference.

A higher percentage of cotton toughens the paper, making it harder to tear and crease. Additionally, the cotton adds a pleasant texture, making your resume feel more premium.

Remember, paper with a higher percentage of cotton lasts longer . This is a solid option if you need a durable resume paper with a classic look.

6. Ivory 25% Cotton (24lb) ★★☆☆☆

This 24lb, 25% cotton ivory paper was the least impressive resume paper option we purchased.

While ivory looks timeless and classy on higher-quality paper, the colors are washed out on this lower-cotton sheet. The printed resume’s colors actually look like they’re stained.

Additionally, the lighter weight is noticeable. Compared to a 32lb ivory sheet, this 24lb variety of ivory resume paper feels flimsy and cheap.

Although it improves 20lb regular printer paper, we can’t recommend this resume paper.

If you don’t own a printer at home, you can easily get your resume printed on the paper of your choice at these shops or locations:

• Your local public library

Ida Pettersson

Career Coach and Resume Expert

Committed to empowering job seekers of all experience levels to take the next step in their careers, Ida helps professionals navigate the job hunt from start to finish. After graduating from New College of Florida with a B.A. in Philosophy and Chinese Language and Culture, Ida moved to Hong Kong to begin her own career journey and finally settled in Taiwan. Her insights on resume writing, interview strategies, and career development have been featured on websites such as LawCareers.net, Digital Marketer, and SheCanCode.

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Resume Paper Guide: Best Size, Color & Type

With job searching and recruitment moving almost entirely digital, you may have never considered resume paper. This article will show you why printing your resume can help.

Hold on, resume paper? Why would anyone care about that when we all apply for jobs online? While mostly true, let’s not forget about career fairs or applying in person for local jobs. Both of which are great opportunities to find your next place of work.

And one of the worst things you can do is bring your resume printed out on some old, wrinkly paper.

This guide will show you:

• How to choose the best resume paper type.
• What size should your resume paper be?.
• Should resume paper be white, colored, or textured?.
• Whether to use cotton or card stock when printing on resume paper.

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Learn what to write on your resume paper from our guides:

• Best Ways to Start a Resume
• Education on Resume—Guide
• How to List Certifications on a Resume
• How to Write Resume Objective Statements
• PDF or DOC File for Resume?
• Resume Keywords You Should Use
• Resume Mistakes to Avoid
• Reverse Chronological Resume Format
• What to Include on a Resume
• Work Achievements on a Resume

What is Resume Paper?

Before we go in-depth into the subject of resume papers, we need to define what it actually is. After all, we’re not just talking about any old paper. So—

Resume paper is a specialist paper designed for printing resumes, cover letters, and other professional documents. It’s a high-quality paper that weighs 32 lbs. Ideally, it’s comprised of 75-100% cotton. You should always print your physical resumes on high-quality paper.

What Characterizes the Best Resume Paper?

Several factors come into play when considering the best resume paper. Those are:

• Cotton content

And now, let’s discuss each one of these factors.

Expert Hint: Not even the best resume paper in the world can save your application if poorly written. Learn how to write a resume from our expert guide to ensure you pass and get the interview.

1. Resume Paper Weight—Which is best?

When defining resume paper, we have already stated that the best resume paper is 32 lbs. (120gsm). But is it the only acceptable weight?

Of course not. Let’s take a look at the most popular options and see which one you should choose:

• 20 lbs paper : This is by far the most common type of paper. Commonly referred to as “office paper,” it’s most likely what’s currently inside your printer. And it’s also what we don’t recommend you use as a resume paper. It’s weak and transparent, and it crumbles way too easily.
• 24 lbs paper : Not ideal, but still a better solution. It’s more professional than regular office paper. It is also more sturdy and a bit less transparent. If you can’t catch 32 lbs paper anywhere, go for this one.
• 32 lbs paper : This is the highest-quality resume paper. The 32 lbs paper is thick and reliably crumble-resistant. It is also almost non-transparent. Choose this paper for the most professional and formal look.

But before you stuff your printer full of 32 lbs paper, make sure your printer can handle it. Many commercial printers are not able to print on paper this thick. If that’s the case for you, we recommend visiting a local print shop.

2. Resume Paper Color—White vs. Colored

You can buy 32 lbs paper in almost any color. But, the resume paper needs to be professional. This factor instantly eliminates most color choices, leaving you with white and some off-white colors to choose from. Most commonly, it’s a battle between white vs. ivory (off-white yellow).

• White : White is always the safest option. A plain white paper is an excellent choice for every resume format .
• Ivory : This is a good choice for those resume layouts with strong contrasting color accents, such as a large sidebar or resume header section.

This means that the choice between these two resume paper colors comes down to the resume template of your choice and your personal preference. But if you’re on the fence about choosing the color of your resume paper—stick with white.

3. Best Resume Paper Size

There isn’t much to say here. Always print on A4 paper, which is 8.5x11in. Too small of a resume paper will mean you will either have to increase the length of your resume or decrease the resume’s font so much that it will become barely readable. At the same time, imagine the recruiters' frustration if they can’t fit your resume into their briefcase if you printed it on a larger resume paper.

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4. Resume Paper Texture—Which One to Choose?

Textured resume paper can add some additional flare to your application. And it’s not just visual. The feeling of the resume also changes, making it that much more memorable.

With resume paper textures, they will be most visible on colored resume paper. Below you’ll find a list of the best resume paper textures, with their pros & cons analyzed. And here is a study that proves choosing the right resume paper is greatly beneficial.

1. Plain Resume Paper

The good old inoffensive plain texture. It doesn’t add much pizzazz to your resume, but sometimes the safest choice is the best choice. It’s also the most wallet-friendly option out there.

Here are the pros & cons of the plain resume paper:

• The safest option
• Works with every resume design
• Very low chance of ink spills during printing
• It doesn’t do much to make the resume memorable
• Lower quality compared to others

2. Granite Resume Paper

The granite resume paper texture is very grainy, like sandpaper. It has this pleasant feeling of touching something that’s slightly rough. This texture is not only lovely to the touch, but it’s also easier to grip with fingertips when compared to plain paper.

Here are the pros & cons of the granite-textured resume paper:

• Many printers have no problem with it
• Eco-friendly. Made from recycled materials
• Professional-looking
• Bad with light-colored resumes

3. Laid Resume Paper

Laid paper texture simulates the look and feel of paper made with historical methods. This means this resume paper’s surface is one of the slight waves forming on the page.

Here are the pros & cons of the laid-textured resume paper:

• Professional & unique looking
• Pleasant to the touch
• The highest chance of printing errors
• Very expensive

4. Parchment Resume Paper

Parchment paper has a timeless elegance to it. But this can sometimes backfire in the modern world and make you seem old-fashioned. This resume paper type is also pleasant to the touch. Parchment paper with an ivory color can, in some cases, appear dirty and not textured.

Here are the pros & cons of the parchment-textured resume paper:

• Classy look
• Can be appreciated for formal jobs
• May seem pretentious
• Can sometimes look dirty

5. Linen Resume Paper

In the next part, we’ll discuss the cotton contents resume paper should have. But what if we printed a resume on linen paper? Linen resume paper is a bit weighty and is good to grip and hold. However, it gets wrinkled quickly.

• Unique look and feel
• Low chance of print errors
• Very durable
• Wrinkles easily
• Is expensive

Expert hint : Remember first to choose a template you want to use for your resume. Our simple resume templates will work well when paired with textured paper.

5. Resume Paper—Best Cotton Content

Now it’s time for the real game-changer—

Cotton resume paper. content.

The amount of cotton used to make resume paper directly influences the most important aspects of it. High cotton content increases the paper’s durability, color intensity, and richness and gives the paper a soft feeling. Compared to the standard form made from processed wood pulp, which is generally weak, bland, and reflects light from its hard surface.

So, what is the best percentage of cotton content in a resume paper? The higher number, the better. For the best results, go for 75% cotton at least, and for 100% cotton for the absolute best outcome.

And as a bonus point— cotton is sustainable . So buying cotton paper over the classic type helps the environment. What’s not to love?

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

To choose the best resume paper, which will result in the perfect resume , keep these points in mind:

• Have your resume printed out when going to a career fair.
• Print out your resume on A4-sized paper.
• Choose white or off-white paper, depending on your preferences and the template you’re using.
• Pick a nice-looking texture to help your resume stand out.
• Go for a resume paper that consists of at least 75% cotton.

Thank you for reading this article! Do you have any questions regarding the resume paper? Looking for the best format-color-texture combination? Ask in the comments section below. We’ll happily help!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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How to choose the best resume paper

Is resume paper still a thing? The answer is yes — resume paper is a relevant subject today for the same reasons it was in the pre-digital age, even if printed hard copies are needed far less often. In fact, the number of considerations for making informed choices about resume printing paper may surprise you, both on the practical and esthetic side. 

That the overall quality of resume paper is better than ordinary printer paper is fairly obvious. Typically, it feels heavier and looks noticeably nicer than regular printer paper. But with so many different types of resume paper available, comparisons among them are less straightforward. In the following guide, we will be covering: 

• What resume paper is
• The best color, weight, material and texture of resume paper
• Expert tips and insights on how to choose the right paper.

What is resume paper?

It’s easy to explain what resume paper is not . Except for the letter-size dimensions, resume paper is not the same as ordinary printer paper (sometimes called “copy” paper — as in office copier). Resume paper is designed specifically for printing resumes and cover letters, and may also be used as stationery for a wide variety of other specialty purposes. 

One size does fit all Your only choice for resume paper should be the letter-size standard — 8.5 by 11 inches in the U.S. or A4 in other parts of the world — the same as ordinary printing paper.

What do you need resume paper for?

Of course, the content of an outstanding resume should always be worth more than the paper it’s printed on. But there’s no question the document’s look and feel when placed on a desk or in someone’s hands can make a critical difference, for better or worse. 

So when exactly does this matter? With online job applications being the norm nowadays, how likely is it that anyone in the hiring organization is going to print your resume on special paper, if they even print it at all? Shouldn’t the PDF version be your only preoccupation when it comes to resume design elements?

There are three modern-day situations where job seekers need printed copies of their resume, on the best quality resume paper they can afford:

• Mailing or hand-delivering your resume to an employer.
• Handing out during a face-to-face job interview — either your resume alone or prefacing a portfolio of work samples.
• Leaving your resume with recruiters at a job fair.

Your choice of resume paper will affect the overall impact on those who first notice the printed copy you’ve provided and hold it in their hands while reading. What do you want recruiters to see and feel? Optimizing the way your printed resume will be “experienced” by the target employer is the goal of selecting the best resume paper. 

What is the best paper for your resume?

As a key takeaway from our occupation-specific writing guides and resume examples , we emphasize the importance of tailoring every version of your resume to the specific job you are applying for, along with the employer and industry. Then take the same customized approach a step further in choosing a resume design template with cohesive formatting elements, perhaps harmonizing with the employer’s visual identity. 

Resume paper options add one more layer of compatibility considerations. Take cues from your resume design template in finding the best resume paper fit. Just as financial or legal professionals are well served by a meticulously buttoned-down resume design template, a resume paper that emits minimalist, premium-quality vibes would do justice to their printed resume document. 

Resume paper for a management or executive job application should convey a polished sophistication that reflects attention to detail . An understatedly simple look on paper — without sacrificing quality — would be just fine for most entry-level job applicants. There’s more leeway in creative and artistic fields to consider less conventional resume paper colors and textures. Other resume papers lend themselves to manufacturing or high-tech job markets.

So how do you choose which paper to print your resume on?

Choosing the best resume paper is largely a matter of personal preference — not just your own, but also your best guess about those on the receiving end of your resume. HR research data can be somewhat helpful in determining which printing paper is your safest bet or could land your resume in the reject pile without being read. But it still comes down to subjective assessments when people are asked to pick this or that favorite. 

The good news is that each of the following decisions you make about the perfect resume paper need not be complicated. We’re going to keep it simple as possible so overthinking doesn’t bog you down. 

While HR research has yielded no conclusive verdict on any overall “best” choice of resume paper, the consensus on these two characteristics is solid.

• Weight: 32lb.
• Material: Cotton content should be at least 75%, and ideally 100%

Resume paper color: one or the other

White or ivory? Seldom should a passing thought be given to any other resume paper color… and then pretty much only in special creative circumstances when you’re certain the employer would be enthused. Notwithstanding the dozens, or even hundreds, of different white and ivory shade variations, your paper color can be narrowed down to this “either-or” choice. 

But not so fast … because the white-versus-ivory question is often not simple or obvious at all. It may require a tougher judgment call than any other resume paper consideration. 

Deciding whether your resume looks better on a white or ivory background depends on the resume design template you’ve chosen, alongside the image you want to project. Experimenting with both paper colors is the only way to be sure. 

New York resume template

Our New York template is monochromatically clean and refined with elegant graphic touches. You could never go wrong with white or ivory paper, but ivory might give you a distinctively worthy edge.

Sydney resume template

Sydney makes a vibrantly modern statement by adding a side column of transparent text and graphics against a solid dark-colored fill. White or ivory paper are equally effective, but ivory shows more originality. Be sure your printer is up to the task of producing color true and deep enough for high-quality results. 

Amsterdam resume template

Our Amsterdam resume template also features a side column with a solid background fill. But instead of a 100% dark color, it’s a light shade of grey that does not show up as well on the ivory paper. So in this case, white resume paper is a better choice.  

With leading job search experts yet to rule unanimously on a verdict favoring white or ivory resume paper across the board, we can only offer these general areas of consensus.

Resume paper weight: worth your weight in words

This may actually be your least weighty decision about the best resume paper for printing. Paper weight refers to thickness and density characteristics affecting the printed appearance, as well as the feel and durability. Thinner, lighter-bodied sheets of paper are more transparent and less crumple-proof.

Increases in paper weight come with improved product quality and professionalism — real and perceived. A resume that looks and feels firmer and less flimsy will stand out in the stack with good reason, psychologically lending solidness to the job application.

Printing paper weight is measured in pounds per “ream” — equal to a package of 500 sheets. With 20 lb. being the standard printing paper weight, resume paper is generally also available in two heavier weight options: 24 lb. and 32 lb.. 

Of the three resume paper weight options typically available — 20 lb., 24 lb. and 32 lb. — you’ll never regret splurging on 32 lb.

Resume paper material: the content you write on, not about

Resume content takes on a whole new tangible meaning when we talk about what the paper itself is composed of. Paper material is a key quality indicator of your printed resume document, sometimes relevant to the weight and texture.

The most significant make-or-break impact of resume paper material comes from the percentage of cotton content. From 0% to 100% in relation to standard wood pulp composition, the higher the cotton content in your resume paper the better the quality and durability. With less light reflection, cotton enhances the richness and depth of ink color. It contributes both softness and crispness to the paper feel. 

As a preferred resume paper material, cotton scores extra marks for eco-friendliness. Other environmentally sustainable materials include bamboo and linen, the latter appreciated for its lovely resemblance to the woven cloth made from the same flax plant source. 

Not sure which resume paper to pick? Feel it an see! 

Often, when you're ordering things online, you don't see (and feel) them until they arrive. However, if you're stuck choosing between different types of resume paper, it may help to touch the options. Head to a retailer and test out the different varieties.

Resume paper texture: the full finish

We’ve saved resume paper texture until last to address here, but by no means is it the least important. Resume paper “finish” — in both visual and tactile senses of the word — can make the biggest difference in achieving the finished product you desire.

Again, your decision should reflect your resume design template , particularly graphic elements whether it incorporates colors other than black. Experiment with a variety of paper textures to assess which one will achieve the desired effect.

Plain resume paper is self-explanatory in terms of the texture it lacks, as opposed to having any distinctive finish. Its plainness is familiar to everyone as a staple in every office. It’s a failsafe choice for showcasing your printed text and graphic elements without detracting or sacrificing legibility.

But by no means is plain paper synonymous with bland. As discussed in the previous section, the higher the percentage of cotton composition, the more striking the impact.

The unmistakable resemblance of linen to a finely stitched canvas or woven tablecloth is what makes it such a popular choice of paper texture. The look and feel of linen imparts a sense of premium quality, lending itself to virtually any resume template. 

In this context of resume paper finish, bear in mind that the paper material need not be linen (see previous section). In fact, the subtly embossed crosshatch pattern is often achieved using 100% cotton paper. 

The vintage elegance that makes parchment paper an obvious choice for official documents, diplomas, formal invitations and special event programs makes it an iffy option for resumes. Employers could very well be impressed — but not always in a good way. In the eyes of some beholders, parchment imparts formality and class. Others are turned off by what they perceive as trying too hard, if not pretentious.

The marbled effect of parchment-textured paper makes it unreliable for resume design templates with non-black text and graphic elements, which can be obscured. Beware also that some parchment paper colors may have greyish or greenish overtones.

Resume paper with a granite finish can be the best of both worlds for a look that’s refined and understatedly original. There’s a sense of style and substance in the appearance and touch. The quality of printed text and graphics on the smooth, fleck-patterned surface is generally good. One possible drawback is that the paper shade may be darker overall.

Resume paper with a laid finish replicates the Old World look of paper when the manufacturing process was first invented. The embossed “chain line” pattern is similar to the impressions made by antique machinery.

The main drawback of laid paper for resumes is the very thing that makes it unique and sophisticated. Those texture-defining raised lines can interfere with printing quality, and even cause missed spots. Laid paper is not recommended if your resume contains many solid dark areas.  Access to a high-caliber printer is vitally important. 

Where to buy resume paper

Once you’ve decided which type of resume paper to use, shopping for it should not be too difficult. You can either head to the stores and find the resume paper you need, or shop for it online. Here's a quick breakdown of where you can get the best resume paper:

• Local retailers like CVS, Walmart, Target or Walgreens should have a decent selection of basic resume paper.
• For a much wider variety of paper colors, weights and finishes, visit your nearest office supply store such as Staples, Office Depot or FedEx Office.

Heading to a stationery retailer? Don't miss this trick. 

Consider printing your resume at one of these locations while you are at it, even if you have a printer at home. An office supply retailer can be a convenient, affordable and dependable option for professional-quality results.

• The Paper Mill Store
• Goulet Pens
• Office Depot

Key takeaways

• The predominance of online job applications has not rendered resume paper obsolete. Printed resumes are still needed for mailing or hand-delivery to an employer, in-person job interviews and job fairs.
• Resume paper quality can make or break the recruiter’s first impression of a job applicant’s professionalism and attention to detail.
• Besides affecting the overall impact of your resume, the paper color, weight, material and texture can influence the appearance of text and graphic graphic elements, for better or for worse.
• With resume paper choices largely subjective, there are no hard and fast rules, only general guidelines. Strive for compatibility with your resume design template, which should already be a good fit with the occupation, employer and industry.

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There’s so much to consider when creating the perfect resume . When writing one, you have to think about every little detail – wondering if you have chosen the right font size, the correct spacing, and if the template you have chosen is appealing enough. You even have to think about the paper you choose, whether it is the right weight or color.

Many are under the impression that there is no need to have a hard copy of your resume because everything is done online . Even if this is the case, keep in mind that many interviews take place in person. When getting ready for an interview , you have to ensure that you are well prepared, meaning you will need a printed copy of your resume.

Here you will learn more about what a resume paper is and how to choose the best one for your resume.

Key Takeaways:

When creating your resume , the two main colors that you should consider the paper being are white and ivory.

When choosing the right resume paper make sure you consider your resume template and your printer type, research the company, and buy multiple kinds to test which works best.

Always keep your primary goal in mind, which is making sure your resume looks presentable and well organized .

What Is Resume Paper?

Different types of resume paper, how to choose the best resume paper, resume paper brands you can use and where to buy them, why choosing the right resume template is important, final thoughts.

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A resume paper is a paper that is specifically designed for candidates to print hard copies that break down a person’s work experiences . It comes in different kinds of materials such as cotton, linen, recycled paper, parchment, bamboo, etc.

It might be hard to believe something as simple as choosing the right type of paper can increase your chances of getting hired. The reason for that is this paper will help your resume stand out amongst the hundreds of different applicants.

Using high-quality paper can show prospective employers how serious you are about the job and demonstrate that you are willing to go the extra mile to do what’s needed.

Make sure that when you print your resume, you keep it in a folder . Nothing screams unprofessionalism like a wrinkled page . One of the advantages of using a resume paper is its durability. Typically, resume paper is more durable and less susceptible to wrinkling or creasing.

As mentioned above, there are many different types of resume paper. These papers can vary in color, material, texture, and weight.

Color. Even though resume paper comes in a variety of colors, tread lightly. Choosing the wrong shade of paper can come off as unprofessional. When selecting a paper color, however, you also need to consider the industry you choose. Some companies or organizations have specific expectations when it comes to resume papers. One of the safest choices for a resume paper is natural colors.

White. If you plan on using colors other than black for graphics or text, white will make sure that is is easily read and will make those colors stand out.

Ivory. Many employers recommend that candidates use off-white colored paper, such as ivory. This works well if you have minimal colors and graphics on your resume. Using ivory instead of white can give your resume a classic, professional look.

Other colors. Using colors can be seen as unprofessional in certain industries but some jobs such as design positions are more accepting of colors. Colors such as light blue, brown, green, or yellow paper can work if you are looking to put a little flair to your resume.

If you are looking to add color to your resume, try including in in shaded columns, colored borders or backgrounds. What ever colors you chose will affect the color of the paper you should choose..

Material. The material you choose is just as vital as anything else. It is something that will help set your resume apart from every other candidate.

Cotton is one of the most recommended materials – not only does it give your resume an overall clean look, but it is also more environmentally sustainable.

Linen is another great material to use for your resume. This material gives your resume a clean look and has an excellent texture, which makes it look very professional.

Parchment is fine paper that goes through a chemical process to look older and more classic.

Recycled has started to become more in demand with the increased focus on the environment. If you chose to use recycled paper, try eco-friendly bamboo paper.

Texture. Using textured paper will give your resume an elegance and professionalism than plain copy paper can never do. Textured paper comes in different finishes such as satin, woven, matte, linen, etc.

Using textured can display elegance and can help make your resume more memorable to the hiring manager .

Weight. Though the weight of the paper you use is not something you have ever considered before, now would be the best time to start. The weight of the paper often refers to the thickness. Having thicker paper will decrease the chances of your resume getting wrinkled or creased. Most professionals would recommend using:

24-pound paper. This is the most common choice for resumes. It is slightly heavier than the standard paper and helps it appear thicker and stand out among regular resumes.

32-pound paper. This weight is better at handling the printing of graphics and saturated colors. The heavier weight makes your resume mees more professional. It also stands out from all the other resumes since it thicker and heavier.

Size. Keep in mind that the size of the paper is also something to consider. If you pick a paper that is too big or too small, it can be taken the wrong way. The ideal size for a resume paper is 8.5 x 11 inches.

Now that you have a better understanding of what resume paper is and the different kind there is, your next step is to choose the paper that will best serve you in the long run. Remember that choosing the right paper will help you stand out among hundreds of other applicants.

Consider your template. Before you decide what paper you are going to use, know what template you want to use. Some templates will look better on white paper and some will look better on ivory. If you just have a standard black text going on your resume, then go with an ivory colored paper. But if you need graphics and lots of color, try a white paper or even a colored paper.

Buy multiple styles of paper. To know which would be the right paper for your resume, you might want to consider buying multiple reams of papers to test which one will serve you better. Print your resume out, trying each one of the papers you have purchased. That way, you will know with certainty which one will work.

Research the company. Before you start printing your resume, remember to do your research correctly, gather as much information as you can about the company or organization you are applying to. Perhaps this is an entirely green company. They might have a preference for recycled paper.

Know your printer. Remember that you should also use the high-quality setting on your printer when you are printing your resume. Keep in mind that if you do not change this setting, the quality of the paper you have chosen will not do much if your resume looks blurry. This will use a significant amount of ink. However, it will guarantee a more professional-looking resume .

If you do not have a place to print out your resume by chance, you can always go to a printing service store, a Staples, Office Depot, FedEx, or perhaps your local library. Remember to properly format your document in either a Microsoft Word Document format or a PDF.

Now that you know which things you will need to take into consideration when choosing a resume paper. Here is a list of paper brands you can consider when picking a ream of paper:

Southworth specialty paper. Created for special occasions, this high-quality paper would be an excellent choice for you to use for your resume. This paper’s brand comes in a variety of materials, such a parchment, linen, and granite.

Magnum opus. Designed to help you make a great first impression , this high-quality paper comes in a whole array of colors. The Magnum Opus resume paper weighs 28 pounds typically.

HP printer paper premium24. Because of this paper’s quality, you will be able to print brighter, more vivid colors. Another excellent quality of this paper is how affordable it is compared to other reams of paper.

Mohawk 54301 copier 100% recycled paper. Known as one of the ultimate recycled papers, this paper will guarantee a quick, efficient, and high-quality copy of your resume that is 100% recyclable.

You should know that you do not need to go to a specific paper store to purchase your ream of resume paper. You can either buy the resume paper online or at a run-of-the-mill retail store such as:

Office Depot

Once you have gone through all the motions of choosing the right resume paper, the next thing you will need to do is choose the best template for your resume. Your resume says a lot about you. It is a document where you print a breakdown of a person’s work experiences.

Picking out the right template can show how organized your resume will look and ultimately help you land a job .

When creating your resume, be sure that you have done your research correctly. Make sure that the resume is specially tailored to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to become a paper processor , you will need to list your experiences closer to this position, like being a receptionist or a logistics processor.

Remember to keep things simple. Many people make the mistake of trying to make their resume sound overly sophisticated. This can actually work against you making it seem unprofessional and wordy.

Another thing you need to keep in mind when writing your resume is the language that you use. Many companies use what is known as a tracking system . This program picks up on specific words and forwards it on to the hiring manager.

You should also take the readability of your resume into account. Though you might be tempted to choose an elaborate and fancy font, try to remember that it is essential for the hiring manager to be able to read your resume. Most employers recommend that you use Arial, Calibri, and Times New Roman for your fonts – it should also be between sizes 10 and 12.

In the end, when you are deciding how to write and format your resume , you need to keep an eye on every single detail . This means you will need to choose the adequate paper, font, and template to help you stand out amongst the other applicants.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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• Resume Paper

What type of paper should you use for your resume?

Though job boards and applications have mostly moved online, there are still reasons to print your resume on an actual piece of paper. Job interviews, job fairs, networking events, and mail applications are all situations where a paper resume is important.

Just like when you apply for a job with a PDF, it’s important to make sure that your paper resume stands out from the rest. This requires not only great resume content with an attractive layout , but paper that shows professionalism and style. In this article we will discuss the different types of paper you can use to print your resume.

Recommended links:

• Our collection of 500+ professional resume examples .
• Our gallery of 20+ downloadable resume templates .
• Our cover letter examples
• What is resume paper?

Resume paper is a heavy, high-quality, and often off-white paper used for resumes and other important documents. It tends to be sturdier and longer-lasting than regular printer paper. Resume paper gives your resume a professional feel, and evokes a high standard of quality that employers appreciate.

You could, of course, print your resume on whatever standard paper you already have sitting in your printer. Many job seekers do this. But to stand out, better quality paper goes a long way.

• What paper should you print your resume on?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a paper type. The weight, colour, material, and texture will all affect the appearance of your resume.

Paper weight

Paper weight is a measurement of a ream, or 500 pages, of that paper before it is cut down to size. Paper weight tells you the thickness of the paper. The heavier it is, the thicker it is.

Typical printer paper is 20lb. For a resume it is better to use a heavier paper stock, such as 24lb or 32lb. The heft and thickness of these weights gives the paper a feeling of importance and professionalism. Where regular 20lb paper is flimsy and tears easily, 32lb paper feels sturdy and important. With a heavier paper weight, your resume will feel like something made to last.

Paper colour

Many job-seekers wouldn’t think to use a colour other than white to print something. When it comes to printing a resume, however, plain white isn’t the only option. The two main colours used for printing resumes are white and ivory.

White is the colour of typical printer paper. It will work well for any resume design, as the white background won’t interfere with the colours of the resume.

Ivory is a warm, off-white colour that can give your resume a classic feel. It works best with traditional resume designs, like VisualCV’s Monte template . A classic, professional resume template paired with high-quality ivory paper makes for an impressive resume.

However, if your resume has large coloured sections, like VisualCV’s Avant template , the off-white colouring of ivory paper may interfere with the colours. Simple designs and dark colours will look best on ivory paper. Make sure to test different papers before sending your resume along to an employer so you know your resume layout still looks as good as it can.

Other colours

Paper is, of course, available in many different colours. For the purposes of resume paper, however, it is safest to stick with white or off-white. More colourful paper may be difficult to read, or stand out for the wrong reasons. Employers won’t be interested in reading a bright red resume.

If you are in a particularly artistic field like graphic design or illustration, you may prefer to use coloured paper to demonstrate your creativity and really stand out. If this is the case, make sure the colour is subtle, like light blue or a gentle yellow. The colour should be mild enough that it complements the resume design, and the resume should still be easy to read.

Paper material

The ingredients that make up your paper affect how the paper feels. The right materials can make a big difference. As you research paper materials for your resume, the important thing to look for is cotton content.

Cotton paper is a strong, durable type of paper that is commonly used for important documents like resumes. It is soft to the touch, making it pleasant to handle, and it lasts longer than typical printer paper. Printing your resume on 100% cotton paper will ensure that it is sturdy and impressive.

Typical printer paper is made using wood pulp. As long as it is thick and high-quality enough to print well without the printer ink bleeding through, the paper in your printer can handle a resume if necessary. When it comes to printing a document this important, however, higher quality cotton paper will improve the appearance and durability.

Paper texture

Many producers offer different paper textures, called finishes. Parchment paper, woven paper, linen paper, and velvet paper all have slightly different textures and appearances. A popular choice for resumes is linen, which is a pleasant woven texture meant to feel like the fabric it is named after.

Adding unusual textures to your resume can be risky, however. The added ridges may make your resume more difficult to print, and some employers may find the texture to be a distraction rather than a refined touch. If you particularly like the look of linen paper—and your printer can handle it—then it is an acceptable choice, but for most job-seekers a resume without a finish is ideal.

Your resume should be the standard paper size for your region. In The US and Canada, this is Letter size paper, or 8 ½” x 11”. In Europe and much of the rest of the world, use an A4 paper, or 210mm x 297mm. There shouldn’t be any need to do research here, as the paper already in your printer—or at your local print shop—will likely already be in the regular size.

• What Color Resume Paper is the Best?

Ivory or White colored resume paper is generally the best for most resumes. They both support most font colors very well and reduce the risk of your resume’s text becoming too hard to read.

• How thick should the resume paper be?

We recommend that your resume paper should be between 37 gsm to 47.36 gms. To find this resume paper, look for 25lb and 32lb text paper respectively.

• Is Blue resume paper OK?

Blue resume paper is okay as long as the text is readable to the hiring manager. We commonly see blue being used and accepted in the case of creative job applications.

• Should I use White or Ivory resume paper?

While using a resume paper, Ivory colored resume paper leaves a much higher impact when it is used for a traditional job application. A white resume paper on the other hand is a great fit for the majority of the job applications.

• Can you put resume paper in a normal printer?

Yes, you can place a resume paper in a normal printer. If your resume paper is watermarked, you need to print a sample to see if the output is as you expected. Once you are sure, you can go ahead and print your resume on the watermarked resume paper using your normal printer.

• What is the difference between resume paper and regular paper?

A resume paper is much stronger and more durable than a regular paper. A regular paper feels weaker when handed over to a hiring manager, whereas a resume paper would leave a higher impact.

• Should resume paper have a watermark?

Watermarked resume paper displays that an applicant cares enough about the job application that they end up picking a higher quality paper.

• What is the weight of the resume paper?

A resume paper typically has a weight between 25 lb to 32 lb.

• The Bottom Line

That’s a lot of information for something so everyday as paper! At the end of the day, what type of paper should you use for your resume?

When it’s time to print your resume, 32lb, 100% cotton, ivory paper is likely your best bet.

If your resume is colourful, you may not want to use ivory, and if you can’t afford 100% cotton paper, a lower percentage will do. Even 24lb or 28lb paper is sufficient if you can’t find 32lb paper. The important thing is that your paper is slightly heavier and higher quality than typical paper. When every other candidate submits plain, 20lb printer paper, your thicker, finer paper is sure to stand out.

Community Success Manager & CV Writing Expert

Ben is a writer, customer success manager and CV writing expert with over 5 years of experience helping job-seekers create their best careers. He believes in the importance of a great resume summary and the power of coffee.

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Resume Paper: Why You Still Need It and How to Pick the Best

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• Updated November 10, 2023 9 min read

Resume paper is a special type of paper to print a physical copy of your resume on. 

Do resume papers still matter in our digitalised world? Short answer, yes. They are not completely retired yet, and you are better off using one. Sure, it is very niche — but why not increase your chances of standing out and being hired?

Why can't I simply print my resume and go about my day, you ask? Because everything that you do or don't do during a job interview, says something about you. Yes, even the resume paper you are turning in. In other words, first impressions matter — a good resume paper is only going to help you.

Wait, so there are multiple types of resume paper? Well, yes. But don't panic. You will find everything you need to know, useful tips, recommendations and quick links here. We know time is money so let's get to it.

It's not just a piece of paper.

Express your personality with a standout resume.

• When will you need a hard copy of your resume?

Today, most job applications only require a PDF version of your resume, which means that a hard copy isn’t always necessary. Still, there are scenarios when a physical copy (or copies) of your resume can come handy.

It is especially in those situations when you come into personal contact with recruiters or hiring managers:

• Career and networking fairs. Your resume is the most important item you should bring with you. Make sure to print at least 20-40 copies (depending on the size of the event and the number of companies that you’d like to meet with).
• Job interviews.  It isn’t always expected. And yes, they've already read your resume. But it’s good to remind them of your credentials by giving them a copy to have in front of them throughout your conversation. Moreover, it makes you look prepared for anything. Ideally, you should bring about 3 copies of your resume.

They may also ask you to  mail a physical copy  of your resume before you’re invited for  your interview . 

If you want to make a great first impression in all the situations above, using professional resume paper is a way to go.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

Best resume paper - our choice

Color, weight, material, size, texture — often depends on the job, where to buy resume paper, where to print your resume.

As you can learn in the following paragraphs, there are many types of resume paper — some of them will suit a certain type of job better than other. This is why it is ultimately up to you to choose from.

In any case, we did the research so that you don't have to.  This is our winner:

Best resume paper: Kickresume’s choice

• Color: ivory
• Weight: 32lb
• Size: US letter — 8.5 × 11 inches (US, Canada, SA), A4 — 8.3 × 11.7 inches (everywhere else)
• Material: 100% cotton
• Texture: plain

And why do we think it's the best?

Color: Ivory — immediately stands out in a pile of white resumes

Weight : 32 lb — firm, durable, will not crease, not see-through

Size: 8.5 by 11 inches in the US, Canada, South America (A4 everywhere else)

Material: 100% cotton — does not reflect light, great color pay-off

Texture: Plain — professional, safe and classy

You can buy it on Amazon .

There are a few parameters which you should consider before choosing your resume paper: color, weight, material, size, texture.

Even though choosing the best resume paper is subjective to your own personal preference, some jobs requires a specific type of resume paper.

Resume paper color

Generally, you should stick to neutrals . Especially different shades of white. White is logically the most used paper color —  text is easily readable, colorful infographics stick out and it's easy to get a hold of.

But since it's the standard color, it may seem a bit boring — everyone naturally goes with white paper.

Remember, the whole resume paper "science" is about you making an impression and standing out. This is why going for a slightly different shade can help.

We recommend off-white and ivory as go-to colors. Using these instead of white will make your resume immediately stand out in a pile of basic white paper sheets.

If you used colored elements in your resume, bear in mind that colors show best on white. Because of that, try to go with the most subtle shade — this will keep it elegant and ensure good color pay-off.

Other colors such as grey, pastel blue or pink may seem even better at catching the eye. Nevertheless, there is a thin line between standing out and seeming unprofessional.

Colored resume paper can, however, work for people who need to show their creativity (such as designers or people in the arts).

Resume paper weight

We mean thickness but it's called weight because it refers to how much 500 sheets of paper weigh.

With weight it is pretty straight forward. A very thin resume paper is going to seem flimsy. Try going for 32 lb paper, which is slightly thicker than your usual paper.

It will not crease in the pile of resumes, it is durable and it is not see-through. In the hands of your potential employer it will feel professional and firm.

A slightly thinner option is 24 lb. This is still heavier and firmer than your regular printing paper. This is a pretty decent, more affordable option.

Resume paper material

Cotton with the content of 75% or higher . The advantages of high cotton paper include: overall durability, extreme smoothness while having a subtle texture, it does not reflect light. Most importantly colors look great on these!

Some rather unconventional choices are linen and parchment. One word — overkill. I mean c'mon... Imagine someone walking in with a parchment resume.

An interesting choice for someone working in Sustainable Development or Environmental and Conservation Sector is recycled resume paper. This eco-friendly choice is never a mistake.

Resume paper size

If you're applying for a job in the North and South America, use a  US Letter-sized paper (8.5 by 11 inches) .

However, if you're applying for a job anywhere else —   A4 is the standard and we recommend using it. Yes, yes standing out from the crowd and all... But having a different size than A4 will probably just make everybody's lives more difficult.

Do not experiment with paper sizes, unless your potential employer explicitly requires a different size resume paper.

Resume paper texture

Here we have several acceptable choices. However, in our opinion only one of them is safe (yet classy).  Go with plain cotton resume paper texture.

Here's why: it's a conventional safe choice and it won't feel weird to any potential employer, plus there's zero risk of faulty printing.

Other options are somewhat unconventional, but that does not mean that they can't work for some people.

Linen paper bears resemblance to woven fabric. The quality of linen paper ranges from a very subtle finish to a more pronounced one. This type of texture could work for someone who wants to be really extra and is looking for an extra job. Other than that it's just unnecessary.

Laid paper can look quite elegant thanks to the symmetrical horizontal chain line pattern. However, it's prone to ink smudging and bleeding. We do not recommend taking the risk of ruining your resume.

Granite paper is usually made of recycled material and is, therefore, an attractive and environmentally sound choice. Again, if you work in Sustainable Development this is going to make a very good first impression.

Usually you should be able to find resume paper at any office supply or stationary retailers such as Office Depot, Costco and Target, or Staples and Ryman (if you shop in the UK).

However, shopping online saves a lot of time and often you have a wider choice of products:

Southworth is a very high quality resume paper brand recognised by the National Resume Writers Association . But keep in mind that most of their papers are watermarked. On the other hand, some people may take that as an opportunity to show off a little.

Southworth offers a variety of different resume papers — cotton, linen, granite, laid and even ... parchment. All in either white or ivory, and either 24lb or 32lb version (go with 32).

Shop for Southworth resume papers on Amazon or Walmart

• 100% Cotton, Ivory, 32 lb, Plain paper —  Amazon link
• 100% Cotton, Ivory, 24 lb, Plain paper (a cheaper option) —  Amazon link , Walmart link
• Recycled, Granite, 24 lb resume paper (an environmetally conscious choice) —  Walmart link , Amazon link

The most convenient and affordable option for printing on your own resume paper is probably your own printer.

However, be mindful about printing on different textures! Laid and linen textures can make your printer ink bleed — and you don't want your resume ruined.

If you don't own a printer — try one in your university campus or your local library . Bear in mind that it can be tricky to print on your own paper on public printers.

Other options include:

• FedEx Office
• Staples Cloud Printing
• OfficeDepot

If you want to support local businesses — try finding a Copy and Print shop near you by typing: "copy print shop [zip code]"

Christy's word of advice

There are times when a printed resume is needed or at least strongly recommended. It’s a good idea to take a copy with you to an interview, in case you need to refer to a specific point, or the recruiter doesn’t have a copy. Or if a company asks you to drop off your resume in person or by post. In these cases, clean white A4 paper will always come across as professional. On the other hand, if you’re in a creative field where visual design skills are important, feel free to channel your inner Warhol and go with something that matches your professional personality (at a company I used to work at, a graphic designer presented theirs in an A6 pack-of-cards format. Brilliant, original, and still memorable many years later!).

Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

Key takeaways

It may seem like a waste of time and money to speculate about resume paper nowadays.

But the truth is, we live in a very competitive environment. Even if you're extremely competent, there's probably someone just as competent as you.

This is why you should increase your chances of being hired in any way possible. A high quality resume paper can help you stand out and make a good impression — it shows that you put in the little extra work.

Anyway, just to summarize, our recommendation is stick to neutral colors (ivory, off-white) or go for a more unconventional color if you work in a creative field. Try a heavier 32 lb paper for a firm grip, or go for slightly thinner and more affordable 24 lb version.

When it comes to textures and material — moderation is key. The 100% cotton material and plain texture ensures high quality printing. You can also try recycled paper if it's relevant to the job you're applying for.

Concluding thought — all things covered in this article are irrelevant if the actual content of your CV isn't as exciting as the resume paper.

We have got you covered. Check out these related articles to help you amp up your resume game:

• A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write a Professional Resume in 2020
• Resume Format: How to Pick the Best and Get Hired in 2020
• How to Prepare Your Resume for Job Search During the Coronavirus Outbreak
• 7 Quick Tips to Prepare Your Resume for World with Coronavirus [Infographic]
• 7 Quick Tips on How to Find a Job After College in Under 30 Days

Ivory, white, textured?

No matter which you choose, your resume will always stand out.

Gear up to make a digital impact! Convert your LinkedIn profile into a standout resume using our user-friendly tool and be ready for any application process, paper or digital.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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Best Paper for Resumes: A Complete Guide

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Choosing the right resume paper is important to make a lasting impression. We broke down everything you need about resume paper, including the best texture, weight, color and size. For more insight you can also take a look at our resume formats.

What is Resume Paper?

Imagine you’re attending a job fair or an interview, wondering — “ what paper should I print my resume on ?” If not, you should! Resume paper is a paper designed explicitly for resumes and cover letters . It’s thicker, heavier and of higher quality than regular printing paper. 

Is resume paper necessary?

Resume paper is typically unnecessary since most job openings are online. However, there are situations in which you need a hard copy of your resume: 

• I n-person interview
• Mailing a copy of your resume 

In these cases, using resume paper lets the employer know you mean business and go the extra mile to make a good impression. Using professional resume paper helps to avoid ink bleeds and smudges and makes your resume stand out among a stack of resumes using regular paper. 

What Makes a Great Paper for Resumes?

There are five characteristics to consider when choosing your resume paper: 

• Cotton Content

We’ll discuss each aspect in detail below. Or you could also try our ATS-ready resume templates.

Resume Paper Color: Ivory or White?

The correct paper color for you will depend on the job role, industry and specific design elements you’ll use. There are two options to consider: 

An ivory resume paper conveys a timeless and classic look suitable for positions in law, business and corporate. We recommend pairing it with dark colors and white spaces. 

This color is perfect for creative roles like graphic designers and animators because it makes colors pop and is easy to read. A white resume paper is best for using bold colors and graphs. 

Resume Paper Measurements

Resume paper weight.

Next, consider the weight or thickness of your resume paper. There are three options: 

• 20 pounds: This is the cheapest option but the most see-through and frail, so it doesn’t complement bold colors or graphic design elements well. 
• 24 pounds: This is a perfectly suitable option if you’re on a tight budget but still want a sleek and professional look. 
• 32 pounds: Though expensive, this weight is the most professional and the least transparent of the three. Its thicker composition is an excellent option for bright-colored designs. If you have the money, we suggest you go for it. 

Resume Paper Size

This one is easy. Just go for the standard size in your region, which would be letter size (8.5 x 11 inches) in the U.S. and A4 (8.27 x 11.69 inches) in Europe and the rest of the world. 

Resume Paper Texture: Pros and Cons

Before jumping into paper texture, we must discuss cotton content because they go hand in hand. The cotton content in your paper’s texture will affect the sheet’s: 

• Color depth and saturation
• Thickness and weight
• Crispness and softness

If you want a resume that feels professional and pleasant to the touch, go for cotton content that is 75% or above. Each of the textures we’ll explain next will offer different options for cotton content, so keep this in mind.

Plain (Standard)

Plain resume paper is used in all office settings, and it’s best for candidates on a budget. Here are the pros and cons: 

• Everyone is familiar with it
• Works with most resume designs
• Lowest quality material
• Not that impressive 

Linen resume paper has a soft and weighty feel thanks to its cross-hatch style texture. Here are the pros and cons: 

• Gives a classic look
• Wrinkle prone 

Granite resume paper highlights darker colors and gives your resume a semi-rocky feel. It’s light like sandpaper but soft to the touch. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials! Here are the pros and cons: 

• Eco-friendly
• Lightweight 
• Easy to grip 
• Not suitable for light colors 

Laid resume paper has embossed lines that look like rolling waves, meant to emulate how paper initially looked when it was first invented. Here are the pros and cons: 

• Sophisticated  
• Nice to the touch
• Likely to cause errors in text and font quality
• Not suitable for dark-colored palettes 

How to Choose the Best Resume Paper

We covered texture, size, cotton content, weight and color, but how do you know which suits you best? Follow these tips to select the best resume paper: 

While creative jobs tend to encourage experimentation, conservative industries expect minimalist and traditional alternatives. Keep that in mind when evaluating paper texture and cotton content. 

Your choice of paper should complement your design. If your design has bold, contrasting colors, go for white linen or granite paper, whereas if your design is minimal with lighter shades, you can opt for ivory-laid resume paper. 

If you’re on a tight budget but want a sophisticated look, consider going for a lighter weight or lower cotton content with a high-quality texture. See which combination of all the elements optimizes your budget best. 

Key Takeaways

Now you’re ready to go and find the best paper for your resume, but before you do that, let’s review some key points: 

When choosing paper for your resume, there are five elements to evaluate: color, weight, size, texture and cotton content. 

Ivory paper is best for traditional industries like law and finance, while white paper suits creative roles that use bold colors in their resumes. 

We recommend opting for a 24- or 32-pound resume paper to achieve a professional look. 

If you live in the U.S., use a letter size paper, but A4 is the standard paper size if you live anywhere else. 

Always go for cotton content 75% or above to ensure better color depth, saturation, durability, softness and thickness. 

There are four textures to choose from: linen, plain, laid, and granite. Each has pros and cons, so consider your resume design, budget and industry standards when selecting yours. 

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How to Choose the Best Resume Paper

10 min read · Updated on January 15, 2024

Is resume paper important, considering the digital age of job applications? Yes! Yes, it is!

You've been applying to jobs non-stop for a while now and have been invited to attend a career fair or job interview. That means you'll need a printed copy of your resume. If printing out your resume has never occurred to you, now is the time. You definitely don't want to print it out on regular old printer paper. That will do nothing to help you stand out from the crowd. Using plain paper also bears witness to the idea that you don't pay attention to details. 

Those negative connotations are easily avoided by choosing the right resume paper. 

How do you choose the best resume paper? 

Is color, texture, and weight important?

Should you use cardstock to print your resume? Spoiler alert: No.

Where do you buy resume paper?

Is the brand of resume paper important?

There's a maze of options that needs to be explored, especially since handing over your printed resume to a recruiter or hiring manager is a moment that demands attention so you can leave the best first impression. 

What is resume paper?

Aside from the glaringly obvious answer of '"t's paper that you print your resume on,"  resume paper is a subtle part of the job application process that backs up the praises contained in your professional narrative. 

Picture this: You walk into an interview room and see that the hiring manager has a copy of your resume printed out on plain white paper. Then, you hand them a copy of your resume on resume paper. Their eyes light up, because you've just signaled that your professionalism extends beyond what is written on that piece of paper. 

This specialized type of paper is designed specifically for printing resumes and goes beyond mere utility. When you use resume paper, you provide the hiring manager with a visual and tactile sense of your professionalism because this type of paper is thicker, has different colors, and feels different – softer – than standard paper. The texture and color elevate the reading experience and provide a tangible quality that engages more of the hiring manager's senses. 

How do you know if the resume paper you're buying is good?

So far, you've learned that having your resume printed on resume paper will make you appear more professional. Now, let's talk about what to look for in the resume paper you choose. There are several key attributes to consider:

The good news is that all of the information about the paper you choose will be printed right on the box of paper. 

Resume paper weight

The weight of resume paper is measured in pounds (lbs) per square meter and is heavier than regular printing paper. The weight typically ranges from 24 lbs to 32 lbs and helps your printed resume to have a sense of substance. It also makes your resume more durable. 

Choose 24 lbs if you're trying to make a cost-effective decision that still conveys professionalism.

When you're applying for an upper-level or executive position , the decision to buy 32 lbs will probably be more appealing as it's a more luxurious paper that provides greater formality. Basically, the heavier weight makes a bolder statement.

Fortunately, no matter which weight you choose, it'll be something even the most common printers can handle. 

Brightness and color

The two most popular color choices are white and ivory. Many people feel like those are boring, but just like using the regular old reverse-chronological format for your resume, it's what hiring managers expect. 

Both white and ivory exude a clean and professional feel; the best part is that the neutrality of these two colors falls into the it's-a-safe-bet category. Of course, resume paper comes in different colors, like gray or beige, if you want a contemporary touch. However, those colors should be leveraged only when you're applying for a creative role or are in an industry that values modern or unconventional approaches – think graphic design , marketing , or creative writing.

In fact, your color decision should be based on the type of role you seek. For example,

White and ivory are perfect for most professional settings and traditional industries like finance, law , healthcare, and administrative positions

Blues and darker grays can be used when you apply for roles where confidence and boldness are critical, like sales and project management

Pastels should really be avoided unless you have a rapport with the company you're interviewing with and want to have fun

In addition to the decision you make about the color of your resume paper, you have to consider the brightness. Resume paper brightness is measured from 1 to 100 – the higher the number, the brighter the paper. Consider the design of your resume.

Do you have any contrasting text on your resume?

Have you built header sections that are highlighted with a dark color?

Are you using colored text for things like company names or position titles?

All of these factors will be affected by the brightness of your paper. The brightness of your resume paper can enhance the contrasting text and shaded sections, or it can mute those design elements. 

The texture of your resume paper

When we talk about adding a tactile response to your job application, we're referring to the texture of your resume paper – and there are quite a few to choose from, including:

Smooth and linen finishes are great for formal and traditional industries that embrace conservative approaches. Cotton is often chosen by executives, because it has a more luxurious feel, and parchment is suitable for creative fields that value uniqueness. When you want to venture into a job interview or attend a career fair and leave a lasting impression of warmth with a hint of flair, then you should opt for a felt finish on your resume. It should be noted that felt texture is probably not going to go through your printer very well.

At the end of the day, the texture of your resume paper should be something that is distinctly you. There should be a hole in the box where you can feel the paper before you buy it. 

Does it give you the heebie-jeebies when you touch it? 

Is the texture memorable? That is, after all, what you're going for when you apply for a new job.

Does the texture align with the expectations of your industry?

It may seem weird to associate emotion with paper, but since your resume is an extension of you, the choice should resonate with your professional identity.

Texture comes from the material of your resume paper

Unlike regular printer paper that's made from wood pulp, resume paper can be made from a variety of materials, like:

Cotton or a cotton blend

Linen blend

Recycled paper

Premium bond paper

Well, what's the difference?

Most of the difference has to do with durability and texture. For example, the cotton, cotton blend, and linen varieties are durable and offer a premium presentation, while premium bond paper is known for having a high-quality finish and offers a more polished presentation. Pick the material of your resume paper based on the type of first impression you want to make. 

How do you choose the right resume paper? 

While a lot of what goes into picking your resume paper will depend on your personal preferences, you have to consider things like industry norms and how the paper will mesh with the design elements of the text that will be printed on the page. 

Oftentimes, you'll see advice that indicates 32 lb linen is the best resume paper. However, if you're applying for a role or are in an industry where distractions should be minimized, you would opt for 32 lb white cotton resume paper. 

Don't worry if you're on a budget, though. You can wow a hiring manager with 24 lb cotton paper that falls on the cheaper side of the resume paper spectrum. The main idea is that you choose something that isn't plain white printer paper. 

Expert tip: If you're on a budget, you can sometimes get free resume paper at your local library or the career services office at college (if you're a student). 

Resume paper frequently asked questions

Great, so you have to buy resume paper to match your personality, the design of your resume, and the norms of your industry. What else should you know about resume paper? Let's address some FAQs:

Where can I buy resume paper?

You can buy resume paper pretty much anywhere, including big box retailers like Target and Walmart, office supply stores like Office Depot, and even Amazon. Feel free to comparison shop, too, to find the best price, because Amazon's resume paper is no different than the resume paper at Office Depot.

What are the best resume paper brands?

There are basically four major brands of resume paper – Southworth, Neenah, Wausau, and Hammermill. Southworth stands out as the industry standard for high-quality resume paper, while Hammermill comes in as a more affordable option.

Should I print my resume double-sided?

This is a common question for people who want to save money, but it's just not a good idea. Printing your resume on the front and back of the paper compromises the readability and minimizes the professional appearance. It's best to print your resume on two separate pages. 

Should I staple the pages of my resume together?

Stapling your resume is another thing to avoid, because the hiring manager is going to pull it apart anyway. Most of them want to be able to put your pages next to each other as a way to be able to quickly reference the content when they're asking you interview questions . 

Should I print my resume on cardstock?

The answer to this question was spoiled at the beginning of the article. The first thing to consider is that cardstock will probably not feed through your printer very well. Additionally, because of how thick it is, a hiring manager or recruiter may not be able to stack it well with the other resumes they have to go through, leading them to be frustrated – not an impression you want to leave. Also, cardstock is more expensive than resume paper. 

Does all resume paper have a watermark?

Generally, only the premium resume paper options have a subtle watermark. It's a way for the manufacturer to display the authenticity of the paper. Most resume papers do not have watermarks. Either way, it should say right on the box whether there's a watermark or not. 

Will resume paper feed through my printer?

The short answer is, "Yes." Of course, you'll want to check the specifications of your printer, but resume paper is designed to be printer-friendly. You'll probably even see that it'll say “printer-friendly” on the package of resume paper. 

Why does all of this matter?

Is it really worth the effort to pay more than double for a small box of printer paper than you would if you were buying a 500-page ream of printer paper? 

When you consider that everything you put into a job search is an investment in your future, the decision is clear – you should spend the extra money on resume paper, because you never get a second chance to make an outstanding first impression. 

It's obvious that there will be times when you must have a printed version of your resume. Using the right resume paper is the best way to make a tangible and positive impression. Not only does the right resume paper signal that you're keen on details, but it's a subtle way to build a personal brand that showcases your value to hiring managers. 

Before you print your resume, we'll check to make sure that it has the right keywords and layout to impress hiring managers – and we'll check it for free. Upload it here .

Recommended reading:

The Truth About Resume Writing

The Best Times of the Year to Look for a Job

Resume Examples & Samples for Every Career

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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What’s the Actual Standard of Resume Paper

Posted on 15 sep 2020.

When creating a resume, people often focus more on the content, and less on the resume paper that the content is printed on.

Presentation is key to producing a powerful and appealing resume, and so choosing the right paper for resume is just as important a consideration as font, format, and style. Even in today’s digital age where a large percentage of resumes are sent via email, one’s choice of paper still matters. Based on our extensive experience in resume writing service , we know for a fact that many recruiters and hiring managers still prefer to read physical resumes over scrolling through a screen.

Needless to say, aside from sending your resume through email, you also have to print it out on paper and send it out to the appropriate person. But you shouldn’t just use any type of paper for your resume—you need to use resume paper.

What is a resume paper?

As the name suggests, resume paper refers to a type of paper used for resume writing. It is thicker, weightier, and more opaque than regular 20-lbs copy paper that people use for printing office documents. Resume paper can come in different materials, colors, and textures as well.

Though you can always use any type of paper for your resume, rule of thumb dictates that you must use quality paper that prints better, is made of high-grade material, and looks professional, and resume paper checks all these boxes. It goes without saying that if you want your resume to be taken seriously by recruiters and hiring managers who read it, then you absolutely need to use resume paper.

Of course, there’s more than one type of resume paper that you can use. Below are some of the considerations and options you have when choosing the right resume paper for your needs.

The material you choose for your resume is crucial, as it immediately conveys whether the paper is of high quality or not. Some of the best options for resume paper material include cotton, linen, and granite. Cotton is the more widely accepted material, as its crisp and clean appearance instantly makes it a great professional-looking paper choice. Cotton is also an environmentally sustainable material, making it the best paper for resume for many.

Linen, on the other hand, adds a nice texture while retaining an all-important professional appearance. Granite comes with dark speckles, which lend a unique quality to a resume without sacrificing a formal tone.

The choice for resume paper weight often falls between 24 lbs. or 32 lbs. Many consider the standard 20-lbs. paper unacceptable for resume writing, as it is far too bland and common, and makes a resume look cheap and sloppy. 24 lbs. paper is the most common choice, as it can adequately handle frequent handling and prints. Most of the formal papers sold in the market come in 24 lbs. weight. However, many believe that 32 lbs. the paper gives a resume better ‘gravitas,’ which helps make the paper feel more important. Proponents of the use of 32 lbs. paper for resume writing cites the official appearance of diplomas and certifications—which use weightier paper—as good reasons.

You might think that white is your best resume paper color choice, and you’d be wrong. Though white works for most occasions, you’ll want to take into consideration the industry you want to work in, and if some artistic merit is warranted. Subtle shades of blue, brown, green or yellow can work for more creative positions, such as web designers or graphic illustrators. Likewise, an off-white or ivory paper will still appear formal while giving your resume a distinguishing factor that helps you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

Although you have many choices in terms of material, weight, and color, you only have one resume paper size option: 8.5 x 11 inches. Go smaller or larger, and you risk your resume getting looked at unfavorably. Leave the best impression by sticking to the tried-and-true 8.5 x 11-inch resume paper size.

Professional paper comes in two general textures, coated and uncoated. Examples of the coated paper include matte, dull, satin, and glass, while uncoated paper types include wove and laid. Although any of these will work for your resume, you don’t want your paper’s texture to be too distracting. Regardless of the texture of the paper, you decide on using, make sure to check the final printed product before sending it out. If the texture takes the focus off your resume’s content, replace it with something subtler.

Printing considerations

Your choice of high-quality resume paper will be for nothing if you don’t print your resume using an equally high-quality printer. If you plan on printing your resume at home, make sure to use an inkjet photo printer for best results. And do consult your printer’s manual if it supports the thickness of your preferred paper for resume, and if there are any special steps you must take to ensure your resume prints correctly.

If your home printer is not up to standards, you can visit an office supply store, printing service store, or your local public library to have your resume printed. Don’t forget to bring with you your flash drive containing your resume. And save your resume in different file formats including *.doc, *.docx, and *.pdf if you’re not sure which ones the printing service will accept.

Don’t compromise on quality

Your resume represents you, that’s why your choice of resume paper has a major impact on how recruiters and hiring managers will view you. A high-quality resume paper serves as the proper background for a well-written, well-structured resume. Keep the considerations above in mind when choosing the right resume paper for your needs.

Let Resumeble work on your resume’s content

Match your high-quality resume paper with resume content that not only catches the attention of recruiters but also sustains it. Resumeble’s professional resume writing service comes with a 60-day interview guarantee after finalizing your resume. Give yourself a better chance of getting your foot in the door. Have us write your resume today.

• 7 seconds: this is how long your resume has either to impress or be ignored by the recruiter
• 300+: average number of applications one corporate job opening posted online receives
• 3%: number of sent resumes that result in interviews

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Writing a resume is not easy.

You have to take care of every detail, such as using a professional font, current font size, line-spacing, keywords, and many other things.

But have you ever thought about which resume paper to use in printing your resume?

Since the inception of the internet, many people assume that you no longer need a physical copy of a resume.

However, the truth is that most interviews nowadays happen face-to-face, and the recruiters expect you to bring a hard copy of your resume during the interviews.

While providing a hard copy of your resume to the recruiter, you must remember that it should look presentable.

The paper should be of high quality, without bends or wrinkles. It would surprise you to see how a high-quality resume paper makes you more presentable and likable in the eyes of a recruiter.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about resume papers in 2022.

• What is a resume paper?
• Is a resume paper necessary?
• What are the different types of resume papers?
• Tips for choosing the best resume paper?

What is a Resume Paper?

Resume paper is designed to print resumes and cover letters. It's more durable than regular copy paper but not as heavy as card stock.

If you're looking to print your resume or cover letter, resume paper is a good choice because it is sturdy enough to stand up multiple copies without tearing or smudging.

It's also important because it makes your first impression extremely good in front of the recruiter or an employer.

Poor quality resume paper can get wrinkled or bent, and it may make you look slouchy and schlumpy.

**Also Read: ** What are the 14 Best Fonts For Resumes in 2022?

Difference Between Resume Paper & Regular Paper

A resume paper is thicker, more durable, and more high-quality than a regular paper. Depending on your requirements, it also comes in different sizes, features, and colors.

Many people think resumes and regular papers are the same, which is incorrect.

Is Resume Paper Necessary?

The resume paper is unnecessary if you are applying virtually and giving the interviews virtually.

However, there are some situations where a resume paper is necessary. Such as:

• When you're attending an in-person interview
• If you are applying for a job at a job fair
• If you're physically mailing a copy of your resume to a company

In these particular cases, you need a resume paper if you want to look professional.

A high-quality resume paper makes your resume stand out and leaves a great first impression on the hiring manager,

**Also Read: ** What are The 10+ Best Resume Formats in 2022?

What are the Different Types of Resume Paper?

There are multiple types of resume papers in the market. Different resumes can have different colors, textures, materials, weights, and sizes for different jobs, industries, and companies.

Resume papers can come in various colors. It's your responsibility to choose the right shade of color when picking a resume paper. A wrong choice of color can make you look unprofessional.

Here are some standard colors to use in a resume:

This is the standard color of a resume paper. And the safest option. If you have no idea what color to choose for a resume paper, ‌go with a white resume paper with your eyes closed.

Ivory is also a popular color choice for resume papers. It has a slightly toned off-white look. It can work well if you follow the material or minimal design for your resume. Ivory color can give your resume a classic professional look.

3. Other Colors:

It's not recommended to use other colors in your resume paper. However, you can use colorful resume papers to showcase your talent and skill for some creative jobs such as graphic designer, UI-UX designer, etc.

However, the choice of color, variety of colors, and the template you use should be complementary to one another and should not look out of place.

Always print the colored resume on paper, and see if the hard copy looks better or not before sending it to recruiters.

Also, when selecting a resume color, you need to consider the industry you're applying for.

Some companies may require a formal application. For these types of industries and companies, it's best to use white color resume paper.

Deep colors such as blue, brown, green, and yellow do not look good on hard copies .

There are three main types of resume papers:

Cotton is the most popular choice and expensive for resume paper material, as it's made with cotton fibers woven together to create a smooth surface for printing on.

2. Recycled Paper:

Recycled paper has become popular because of the current focus on the environment. These have similar properties to Cotton since it's made with recycled cotton papers.

3. Parchment:

Parchment papers look and feel vintage and classic. So, if you want a classic vibe in your resume, you can choose a parchment resume paper.

A textured paper gives the paper a classic feel. Depending on your choice, it can be rough, semi-rough, or smooth. Here are some of the popular textured papers for your consideration:

1. Linen Resume Paper:

Linen is a premium-quality textured paper. You can choose a variety of linen finishes to get the perfect feel you want.

Laid is also a premium texture, which gives the paper a sophisticated look. However, you need to test and review the final print of your resume to ensure the pattern in the resume paper doesn't affect the print quality.

3. Granite:

Granite textured papers are made with recycled paper. And the color of these papers is on the darker side than regular paper. This dark speckled look gives the paper a unique look, and if you can use it in the right context, it can draw the recruiter's attention extremely well.

Resume Paper Weight

The weight of the paper also plays an essential role in the look and feel of a resume paper.

The weight of the paper comes from the paper's thickness. The thicker the resume paper, the more difficult it is to bend or wrinkle the resume. So, most professionals will tell you to use a 24-pound or 32-pound resume paper.

Resume Paper Size

The size of the resume paper also matters. The size shouldn't be too small that, you can’t fit all your content on one page. It shouldn't be too big either. The ideal size for the resume paper is 8.5 * 11 inches.

**Also Read: ** What is The Best Resume Layout in 2022?

Tips For Choosing The Best Paper For Resume

Here are five tips to choose the best resume paper:

1. Consider Your Resume Template

You may decide on different resume papers based on the different resume formats. For example, the functional resume format and chronological resume format look good on ivory papers.

Combination resumes and creative resumes stand out more on white paper.

2. Purchase Multiple Styles of Paper

If you're unsure which type of resume paper will work best for you, consider purchasing multiple types and testing them on your printer before printing hundreds of copies.

3. Use High-quality Paper For Management And Executive Positions

If you're applying for management or executive positions, consider using high-quality resume paper such as linen or cotton that feels nice in the hands when reading through applications at high-end companies like Google or Apple Inc. It also shows that you are a detail-oriented person.

4. Compare Your Resume Paper to Your Industry

When it comes to choosing the perfect resume paper for your industry, there are many factors at play.

For example, if you're applying for an executive position in finance or insurance, you might want to use a heavier weight of paper with more texture — because these industries tend to use heavier stock than other industries.

On the other hand, if you're applying for an accounting position in an investment bank, it's probably best to stick with regular-weight paper because those companies usually prefer something lighter that can easily be filed away in a folder or file cabinet without weighing down the folder too much.

5. Create a Unique Experience for Recruiters

To get your resume noticed by the recruiter, you need to create a unique experience for them. So, send the resume in a nicely chosen 24 or 32-pound resume paper. Recruiters will notice the weight difference among other resumes and surely will pick your resume.

**Also Read: ** What are the top 5 Essential Resume Sections in 2022?

Key Takeaways

We bet you didn't know that a resume paper has so much influence on the recruitment process.

Here are some of the key information we can revisit from the blog:

• Always bring 3-4 copies of your resume during job interviews
• Use ivory, 32lb 100% cotton resume papers to give the resume to interviewers
• You can use a 24lb or 28lb paper if you can't find a 32lb paper

Visit Hiration's 360 Degree Career Platform to create your professional resume and cover letter. Download it in PDF and Word format to print and send to recruiters.

If you have any questions, reach out to us at [email protected] . We provide 24/7 online chat assistance for our AI-powered tool.

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The Best Resume Dimensions, Margins, and Layouts for 2022

Brandi Glass

• 5 min read.

One of the most frustrating resume errors is the margin that’s too small. It’s often a result of an ambitious candidate keen to fit as much valuable information as possible into their resume. The result, however, is almost never what they were hoping for.

Rather than reading all that meticulously crafted text, most recruiters will take one look at this cluttered resume and put it to one side. Simply put, get your margins (or any other resume dimensions) wrong, and your resume will be hard to read. With hundreds of resumes on their desk, most recruiters will simply move on to the next one.

In contrast, a well-designed resume will encourage recruiters to spend longer on it, and potentially net you more invites to interviews. Fortunately, there are some time-tested rules to resume dimensions, margins and layouts. Let’s break them down.

Resume Dimensions that Will Make Your Resume More Attractive

Resume paper dimensions.

Your resume should be designed to be printed out on the standard paper size where you live. Be careful if you’re applying for roles abroad: in most of North America, Letter (8½” x 11”) is the standard paper size. Meanwhile, in Europe, A4 (210mm x 297mm) is more common.

Don’t be tempted to send an A4-sized resume to a company in the US. You might submit it via email, but chances are they’ll print it off in the office. As a result, your carefully planned formatting will be ruined.

Resume Margins

The standard resume margin is one inch. Although you might be able to get away with narrowing your margins by 1/16th or 1/8th of an inch without it being noticeable, it’s rarely a good idea. Only do it as a last resort.

Number of Pages

In the US, most resumes will fit on one page, although there is a growing trend of submitting two-page resumes. If your resume doesn’t fit onto one page, pay close attention to the page breaks.

It’s worth creating a manual page break rather than relying on your word processor’s page breaks. You should also double-check to see if the page break falls differently across different file formats, e.g. DOCX (Microsoft Word) vs PDF.

The Best Resume Layouts and Style for Reader-Friendliness

White space.

When creating your resume, you want to maximize the amount of white space without cutting out valuable information. Resumes with lots of white space are more reader-friendly, and as a result, more attractive to recruiters and employers. Most of the points in this section are designed to help you achieve a reasonable amount of white space.

Although there are a few situations where multiple-column resumes can work well, they’re normally a bad idea. They’re not as machine-readable, and with more and more companies using applicant tracking systems , that can seriously disadvantage you.

Additionally, surveys using eye-tracking software have found that recruiters spend less time reviewing resumes with multiple columns. Not only is your resume less likely to make it through to the recruiter, but it’s also harder for you to impress them.

In short, avoid columns to increase your chance of a positive response from recruiters.

Paragraph Spacing

Generally speaking, your resume shouldn’t contain many paragraphs. You have limited space, meaning that bullet points and headers should dominate. However, you should still pay attention to paragraph spacing, since it will decide how much space there is between your headings and lists.

Don’t be tempted to reduce spacing in order to squeeze more information onto your resume. It will backfire as the reader-friendliness falls. As a general rule, the paragraph spacing should be at least twice the font size — i.e. the same paragraph spacing that we’re using in this blog post. Additionally, the space between sections, e.g. “Education” and “Career History” will often benefit from being increased.

Line Spacing

Just like with paragraph spacing, line spacing is important for improving readability. For most font styles and sizes, a line spacing of 1.5 will be ideal.

Headers structure your resume, direct the recruiter’s attention and ensure your resume is easy to read. When we speak about headers, we often have a hierarchy of headers. In your word processor, these will typically be referred to as header 1, header 2 and so on. Header 1 is the biggest heading, with other headings designed to be nested beneath it.

You want your headers, especially your bigger ones, to jump off the page. The recruiter should be able to instantly find your education section, skill section and so on when they look at your resume. So make sure to use a large font size, e.g. 14–16 points. Don’t be tempted to use a smaller size and instead change the color of your headers: many recruiters will print out your resume in black and white or grayscale.

You can also use smaller, nested headers for specific job titles. This is particularly helpful when you have extensive professional experience.

The standard font size for regular text on resumes is 12 points. Although you might be able to adjust the font slightly if you have a particularly large or small font style, it’s not generally a good idea to deviate too much. If the font is too big, it wastes space and can look juvenile. Too small, and it becomes hard to read.

Your resume is not the right moment to experience with font styles (unless, of course, you’re applying for a design-based job). There’s a reason Times New Roman and Arial are the most common font styles: they’re easy to read. Stick with them for the best results.

Bullet Points

Bullet points will create more white space on the page and allow you to write more concisely. They can be used anywhere except for your professional summary. Just make sure they are all identically formatted.

Templates Take the Guesswork Out of Resume Building

There’s lots to consider when building a resume: dimensions and margins, sections and headers , machine readability … And that’s without considering how to best frame your professional background, education and skill sets.

It’s important to get your resume right. A well-structured and professionally written resume will help you impress recruiters, get invited to interviews and potentially negotiate a higher starting salary .

Building your resume can be easier than you might think, however. All you need is a good template that you can customize to your personal situation.

Here at Rocket Resume, we have millions of resume templates that you can use as a starting point. Whether you’re a recent college graduate, workplace returner or an experienced professional, our templates will help you show off your skills and experiences.

Moreover, our resume builder will suggest the ideal structure and style based on your background. You’ll even get recruiter-approved suggestions for the best phrasing to use.

Each resume is machine-readable, comes with pre-set dimensions and margins, and can be built in just 10 minutes. Take the stress out of resume building and create yours now .

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Resume Margins, Fonts, Style & Paper Selection

Building a resume is a process that requires finesse. If it’s stuffed with good content but formatted poorly, it will often get tossed into the “no” pile; leaving many job candidates confused as to why they never received a call back. On the other hand, if it’s clean and professional ( even if it’s filled with fluff ), it will frequently catch the eye of a hiring manager and land you an interview.

Although content is ultimately the most significant element of your resume, it’s important to not underestimate the power of appearance. The reason we need the adage “don’t judge a book by its cover” is because we do judge things by their appearance frequently , whether we like it or not.

This guide will help you take advantage of that fact . Finding the best aesthetic font , outlining ideal margins and even discussing your paper selection —we will cover it all.

• Best font for a resume: Style, size & color
• Resume margins, length & alignment
• Style Elements
• Resume paper: Color, weight, size & texture

1. Best font for a resume: Style, size & color

Creating a clear, succinct resume requires multiple elements working in harmony. For this to happen, one thing is certain: don’t use Comic Sans . Choosing an aesthetic font might seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. People often ask us: is there a best font for a resume ? We’ve crunched the numbers, and we have an answer. The best font for a resume is…

Tricked you—there isn’t truly a single best font, but there are several options that stand out amongst the rest! We will give you some solid choices and you can take it from there.

First, consider this: how will you be sending your resume? Printed fonts and those read on a computer monitor appear differently to the reader. There are two key groups of fonts used globally: serif and sans-serif (i.e. “non-serif”).

Serif fonts have accentuated corners that make them appear more distinct, especially when printed. Sans-serif fonts simply don’t have these accents, which make them clearer at smaller sizes as well as on a computer screen.

Keep these ideas in mind when constructing your resume. Here’s a breakdown of our top three serif and sans-serif options:

Top 3 serif choices:

• Times New Roman : Times New Roman is a classic serif that looks good both on paper and on a computer screen. It’s a safe, standard choice for any resume.
• Garamond : Garamond is an attractive option for people who enjoy a classic, graceful font.
• Georgia : Georgia is also a popular choice. Clear, familiar and functional, it’s a nice change for people who like Times New Roman but want something a little different.

Top 3 sans-serif choices:

• Arial : An excellent choice if you prefer the sans-serif style. It is easy to read, and familiar to many people due to its appearance on commonly used web applications like gmail.
• Calibri : Popular amongst professionals. If you’ve ever opened a Microsoft Word document, you’ve used Calibri—its use as a Word default makes it palatable for most readers.
• Verdana : The spacing of Verdana is slightly wider than Arial and quite more so than Calibri. Choose this style if you’re aiming for ease-of-reading.

Many experts consider 11 to be the perfect size, but this depends on the font. The most important thing is that it’s clear and large enough to read . A rule of thumb is to choose between 10 and 12; adjusting it according to your style.

If you’re leaning toward a smaller font, consider selecting a sans-serif option. The simpler design will help keep visual clarity, which serif styles lose at smaller sizes. Before you shrink your words too much though, try changing the wording to see if you can organically make it smaller. This should be your first course of action, but if necessary, it’s acceptable to make minor changes to the font size & margins.

The majority of resumes use a standard black and white format. There is a reason for this– bright colors are distracting and take away from your actual content.

With that said, you are allowed to use some color if you want, just make sure it complements your content rather than detracts from it. Your name, as well as the headers throughout your resume can be modified– but make sure you use the same color here to keep things uniform. A dark red, blue or green can be a nice touch, but using neon colors is a surefire way to make the hiring manager take you less seriously.

2. Resume margins, length & alignment

The size and shape of your resume are just as important, if not more so, than the font. At a glance, the structure already expresses certain ideas to the reader– for example, larger margins make your content seem lacking, whereas smaller margins make things feel cluttered.

You don’t want your resume to get noticed for its formatting. Playing it safe is advisable. Avoid extremes and you’ll be in good shape (pun intended).

Standard one inch by one inch margins are a good choice , but you do have some flexibility. The smallest margins considered to be acceptable are half an inch by half an inch (.5 by .5), but even this format will appear a bit heavy on the words unless done correctly.

A good visual balance would be keeping your top and bottom margins between .5″ and 1″ , and moving between .6″ and 1″ for your left and right margins . This will help decrease reader fatigue and make your resume more palatable for whoever is looking at it. Take a look at the following sample to get an idea of good, balanced margins:

The next image is a snippet of a resume with extremely narrow margins. Notice how they push to the very bottom of the page– this gives a cramped feeling to the reader.

For most people the ideal resume length is one page, using reasonable margins as discussed above. Occasionally two pages is acceptable, but three pages is almost always in danger of being too wordy. Here are some reasons you may need to make yours longer than one page:

• You have a large quantity of relevant experience. Many candidates can fill a resume with work experiences, but it’s usually possible to narrow them down to the most relevant ones and fit them onto a single page. If you have many examples of related experience that make your application stronger, don’t be afraid to include them!
• You are a published scientist or academic . Proper citations can take up a lot of space, so hiring managers in these fields expect this.
• Landing an executive position is your goal . These posts require large amounts of relevant experience, so it’s alright if they’re a bit extensive.

Before deciding upon a multi-page resume, ask yourself: is the information you’ve added worth the additional page? Or will the hiring manager find it unnecessary?

Your resume is a tool to efficiently convey your qualifications to a potential employer so you can proceed to the interview process– you don’t need to list every piece of work you’ve ever performed. Quality is more important than quantity.

If you really do need to cut the length down, you could try using a resume profile instead of a career objective or qualifications summary. Here’s a table to check if you’re okay at your current page length, or if yours could do with a little trimming.

The best alignment makes your resume easy to read. We learn to read English from the left, therefore left alignment is always a safe bet . Your name and contact information is usually centered , but the headers (“Professional Experience”, “Education”, “Additional Skills”) and your introduction/objective can be left aligned or centered. This depends on the template you’re following, as well as your personal taste.

3. Style Elements

Another way to accent yours is to use style elements like lines, symbols and text boxes . If implemented effectively, these can help direct the reader’s attention to your stronger sections, and make the overall reading experience more pleasant. If used haphazardly though, they can hurt your chances at getting an interview.

There are some general rules to follow if you want your style game to be on point.

Lines, like many things, must be enjoyed in moderation. Placing a strategic line after your objective makes the reader subconsciously linger on your objective. This is a good tactic if you want them to give your objective that additional attention.

Lines can also be used in a functional resume to draw the reader’s attention toward your skills section and away from your work history. Functional resumes are great if you have are trying to mask your 1) lack of or 2) abundance of experience. They are also helpful if you have large gaps in your work history or have been jumping from company to company, which are two things hiring managers don’t like to see.

Whether you’re inexperienced, over-experienced or just have a tendency to job-hop, you can use our wide range of free career and life situation resume templates to learn how to cover employment blemishes and emphasize your strongest areas.

Pugs are cute, but this is not the time to put a clip art image of an adorable little Pug puppy on your Veterinarian resume. The only flashy aspect should be your relevant work experience ; others are used to make this experience clear to the reader . This holds true for symbols.

Bullet points come in different shapes and sizes, and are the primary symbol used in a resume because they draw the hiring manager’s attention to your achievements and skills. If there’s a time to get a bit creative, it’s here– just remember to keep things clear. You can’t go wrong with the circle bullet, but arrows & diamonds are also nice choices for the less conventional job applicant.

Some experts advise against text boxes because they are worried the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) will skip over the content placed inside, but this bias is a bit outdated. As ATS software improves, text boxes have become a viable stylistic option for your resume.

If you’re feeling conservative then feel free to steer clear of them, but if you do want to use a text box or two (or several), go for it! Text boxes can be an ally in your quest to achieve aesthetic harmony.

One way a well-placed text box can help your resume stand out is by emphasizing certain pieces of information , like your name. Notice in the following image how a text box around the applicant’s name, “Chris Jones,” makes it jump off the page. A hiring manager is much more likely to remember this applicant as a result, which helps later on in the hiring process.

Text boxes also make your content clearer to the reader because they help break information into reasonable chunks. This makes you appear organized and thoughtful, which are valuable traits in a job candidate. They also improve overall readability. Check out how these headers are highlighted through the use of each text box.

Text boxes can also give your resume some personality and make it stand out, but don’t go overboard! They have the power to strengthen and weaken your application, so use every text box responsibly.

4. Resume paper: Color, weight, size & texture

Woah, now. Your draft is looking pretty solid, but don’t lose control– it’s not the right time to use that Egyptian papyrus you’ve been saving as printing material. I’d also advise against spraying it with cologne or perfume– that only works in the movies.

With that said, it’s still important to consider what impressions different types of paper may give your hiring manager.

Paper color

The paper color of your printed resume should be some shade of white or off-white; avoid colors like baby blue or hot pink unless you’re applying to be the Easter Bunny. Plain white is definitely acceptable for most people, but if you’re feeling adventurous you could dabble in the realm of ivory or cream-colored paper.

Off-whites stand out a bit from run-of-the-mill paper, without standing out too much. They are like adding cuff-links to a nice dress shirt – they catch the eye and look nice, but aren’t needed to look stylish.

Paper weight, size & texture

Have you ever felt 100% cotton, 32lbs linen paper? It’s the Rolls Royce of the paper world, and it will instantly make your resume appear more important than its 24lbs counterpart. It’s soft yet sturdy, and gives the holder a strong urge to never let go.

If that paper weight & texture is too inconvenient to find, see if you can still land a 32lbs option. 24lbs is better than your standard printer paper, but not by much. Use some serious paper to show that you’re a serious job applicant.

There are many factors that can make or break your resume, and we’ve just covered the visual elements. If it’s well-honed, it can be a valuable tool during the job hunt. Try not to underestimate the importance of good aesthetics ! If you’re ready to start, you can take a look at our free resume templates, or use our free resume builder to construct a professional resume in minutes.

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Resume sizes.

The resume sizes are often overlooked, but the right size opens opportunities and may advance you to the next level. Resume sizes differ in the US and Europe, so make sure to choose a stationery size that works according to your location’s standards.

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What Size Should Your Resume Margins Be?

Your questions about resume margins and formatting answered by hiring managers, plus what you can do to fit more on one page.

3 years ago   •   5 min read

Looks aren’t everything — but when it comes to your resume, appearances do matter. A good resume shouldn’t just be impressive to read, it should also be nice to look at, which means hitting a good balance of content and white space. If this sounds shallow, it isn’t — formatting, headings, and design can all massively impact readability, which means something as simple as margins can make or break your resume.

The right size for resume margins

Resume margins should be one inch on all sides. This rule applies to your left, right, top, and bottom margins. If you need slightly more space on your resume, you can reduce your margins to around 0.5 inches (half an inch). Don't go any lower than 0.5 inches — it'll make your resume too hard to read.

Pro Tip: One inch margins are the default on most programs. If you're using Microsoft Word or Google Docs, there's no need to mess with the margins — just leave them as they are!

Why resume margin size matters

Margins that are too small (less than half an inch) result in a cluttered resume, making it hard for recruiters to skim. On the other hand, margins bigger than one inch can give your resume an empty feeling and lead hiring managers to conclude that you don’t have much to say. Either way, it’s not a great first impression — and it could mean the difference between staying in contention or being discarded immediately.

Getting your resume margins right means that:

• Your resume is easier to read
• Important information stands out at a glance
• It looks polished and professional
• Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can process your resume correctly

Pro Tip: The best way to get your resume past ATS is to keep it simple — that means no fancy formatting! Check out our guide on how to beat ATS for more tips.

How to set your resume margins

If you're writing your first ever resume — or if you just want to keep it simple — take the easy route by using one of the free resume templates . These all come pre-formatted and are optimized for ATS, including proper resume margins.

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure if you’ve used the right margins for your resume, upload it to the tool below — it’ll let you know if your resume is formatted correctly with the right margins. It’ll also score your resume on key criteria such as resume length, spacing, and font size and style.

In Microsoft Word

To set your resume margins in Word:

• Select Layout or Page Layout at the top of the screen.
• Click on Margins.
• Set your margins to Normal — this is pre-set to one inch.
• If you want to choose a different size, click Custom Margins to set your own.

In Google Docs

The default margins in Google Docs are set to one inch, so you probably won’t have to change them. If you do:

• Click File.
• Choose Page setup.
• Go to Margins.
• Set your preferred margins in the relevant text boxes.
• Click OK to set margins for this document only or Set As Default for all future documents.
• Or click and drag side margins by locating the ruler at the top of the document and moving the upside down triangle.

In Open Office

If you use OpenOffice or LibreOffice:

• Select Format from the drop-down menu at the top of the screen.
• Click on the Page option.

How to format resume margins for print

Just because your resume looks good on a screen doesn't mean it'll look good on paper. Here's how to format a printed resume:

• Set your resume margins to standard (1 inch) to avoid cutting off text.
• Select a print-ready font. While sans serif fonts like Arial and Verdana tend to look better on a screen, serif fonts like Garamond or Times New Roman work better for printed text.
• Check your paper size. Standard paper size is 8.5 by 11 inches (A4).
• Use good quality white or ivory paper.
• Before committing, use the "print preview" function to make sure your formatting is intact.

Pro Tip: When you're done, always save your resume as a PDF ! This preserves your formatting and ensures that your margins will look the same to a hiring manager as they do to you. If you've used small margins, make sure that no information is cut off from your resume when you generate the PDF.

Other resume formatting tips

Getting the margins right isn't the only key to a professional-looking resume. Here are some of the best resume formatting tips from hiring managers:

• The standard resume length for most job seekers is one page. It’s good to stick to this if you can, but it’s better to send in a two-page resume than one with quarter-inch margins and size 9 text.
• Keep your text aligned to the left — don't center it! This looks more natural and keeps the focus on the most important parts of your resume, like headers pointing to your work experience, skills, and education.
• When it comes to line spacing , 1 or 1.15 point spacing for normal text and double spacing for headings and subheadings is a good rule of thumb. This isn't a hard and fast rule, but make sure there’s enough white space and your resume is easily readable.
• The best resume fonts are clear and readable. If in doubt, stick to a standard font like Arial, Calibri, or Georgia.
• Just like you shouldn't go too small with your resume margins, don't mess around with your font size. 10, 11, or 12 point text is ideal, depending on what font you choose.
• Avoid special characters — ATS find them hard to read, which means your resume may come out as gibberish. The same rule applies to images and other "creative" formatting.
• Adding a horizontal line in Word is an acceptable way of separating different sections of your resume. If you're not sure how to correctly format lines on your resume, simply add an extra space between sections instead.
• Whatever format you choose — font, size, spacing — use the same formatting throughout your entire resume. When it comes to margins, your left and right margins should be identical, and so should your top and bottom margins. For example, if you choose your left margin to be 0.5in, then also set your right margin as the same (0.5in).

Pro Tip: For even more help with resume formatting, including the perfect font choice, check out our guide on what font to use on your resume and other tips.

A note about creative resumes

Creative resume formats might look fancy, but they’re unnecessary. The vast majority of hiring managers prefer a standard resume format — even those hiring for creative positions.

Even more reason to keep your resume simple? Not only are fancy resumes hard for recruiters to read, they’re even harder for ATS . Machines have a tougher time reading things than people do, so avoid anything that’s likely to confuse them, like images and downloaded fonts.

If you're worried about 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.

Pro Tip: Using a free ATS resume scanner can take the guesswork out of applying for jobs. Simply upload your resume and let our AI-powered software do the rest!

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Listing an unfinished degree on your resume [+ 10 examples], banish boring subject lines with these key email tips, 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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10 expert-recommended online resume writing services to use in 2024.

In the mix of college assignments and perhaps your 9-to-5, piecing together an attractive resume for employers can be a difficult feat.

Not only is this one-pager the bread and butter of what will lead to a first-round interview (fingers crossed!), but it’s an excellent portrayal of your skillset, employment history and unique skills that help a company’s HR department gauge if you’re the right fit.

Let’s cut to the chase — more specifically, let’s answer the question, “ How can I make my application stand out? ” One of the most influential steps is, without a doubt, rendering your resume to tip-top shape. And fortunately, there are some of the best online resume services like TopResume and Resumble out there to help.

Best Overall: TopResume

Best budget: resume companion, best optimization for applicant tracking systems: resumeble.

• Best Customizable : Brand Resumes
• Best with Career Consulting: Top Stack Resumes
• Best for Quick Hiring : ZipJob
• Best One-on-One Collaboration : Upwork
• Best for Cover Letters : ResumeSpice
• Best Budget : Craft Resumes

Whether you’re a senior in college applying for your first full-time job or you’ve been in the biz for years and are looking to segue into a different role, we rounded up the top online resume writing services you can use to help get your application in tip-top shape. Plus, we’ve enlisted Shannon Conklin, director of career and leadership development at The College of New Jersey to help!

Hop to her picks below or check out our FAQ for more details on things to look for when picking the right resume builder for you.

• Packages with unlimited resume revisions
• Free resume review
• 60-day interview guarantee
• Several customers who wrote reviews on Trustpilot mention having poor communication with their resume writers

TopResume is a beloved favorite — and for a good reason. It has four different packages depending on your career goals, some of which include unlimited revisions, a LinkedIn makeover, a cover letter and two interview prep sessions.

“TopResume continues to be a solid option,” Conklin shared. “It has strong descriptions, where the website and interface are easy to navigate to understand its process, its three packages, as well as testimonials.”

She also loves TopResume’s FAQ section, coupled with the various packages, that make its process clear and timeline. “There is also plenty of mention about AI and ATS technology,” she added. “If you need a resume quickly, one that accounts for technology, and a budget of only about $150, it looks like this service would be one to strongly consider.”

With TopResume, you’ll also get a 60-day interview guarantee. If you don’t get twice as many interviews, the platform will rewrite your resume for free. It’s pretty top tier, to say the least, and is a minimal investment for those hoping to find free resume-writing services.

• Self-directed service
• Template-based
• Must renew a subscription to edit resume in the future

“Resume Companion is a clean website with a clear message — build a resume quickly!” Conklin highlighted. “It offers templates, examples and advice on how to craft a resume, as well as a cover letter, as a self-directed service within about 15-minutes.”

What’s more, the service also makes it clear it offers a variety of templates based on industries and functions. “This can really help if you are trying to transition to a new field or your resume needs to be updated to reflect the latest in your industry,” she added.

With Resume Companion, you’ll be able to build your resume step by step, from selecting a professional template to answering a few simple questions to have your experience and skills added directly to your digital file. Namely, if you’re not much of a writer, you’ll appreciate its pre-written work experience bullet points to craft your resume in minutes and then apply away.

Not to mention, it’s only $8 a month, so if you want a one-and-done service, this one’s your best bet. Keep in mind that you will have to renew your subscription to edit in the future, but it’s a great budget-friendly option to pursue if you don’t want to be completely in the dark.

• 4-day turnover on resume drafts
• Three free revisions with standard resume package
• Only the premium resume package includes a job guarantee

Resumeble is not only has a fun name, but it includes a resume and cover letter in its baseline package. If you’d like to upgrade, you can receive a LinkedIn write-up, a second resume version, thank you and follow-up notes and cold emails to recruiters.

“Have you applied to dozens of jobs, only to never get through?” Conklin questioned. “If this resonates because your resume is not optimized for ATS platforms, Resumeble might be the choice for you. Mention of ‘ATS,’ as well as their outcomes and ROI, are weaved throughout its site.”

Conklin told The Post that she’s seen many clients apply to dozens and dozens of companies, only to be vetted out due to ATS. “When that happens, I often advise networking to complement a revised, ATS-optimized resume.” she tipped off. “This brings me to one other noteworthy element to their various packages, they support your full professional profile; resume to LinkedIn to recruiter communication support.”

For those who want to spend less than $200 for online resume writing services, this all-in-one option is fairly priced, making it one of the best affordable resume writing services. If you’re only looking to refresh your LinkedIn, you’ll just pay a one-time $99 fee. For just your resume, it’s a one-time purchase of $129 for the service.

Best Customizable: BrandResumes

• Has a self pace job search course
• Helpful step by step resume building guide
• Some customers who reviewed the service on Trustpilot report time delays in receiving their resume

BrandResumes made the cut as one of our top choices for online resume services for a few reasons: it’s one of the platforms best for ATS keyword optimization and formatting for interviews, LinkedIn branding and a customizable interface. If you buy the deluxe package, you’ll have your resume distributed across the 60 top job boards (including industry-specific ones), so you’ll spend less time applying.

“Learning the fundamentals of resume writing is a skill that will carry you throughout your career, and BrandResumes offers courses and resources to accomplish just that,” Conklin highlighted. “Once you understand how to format a strong bullet point, or the style you find reflects your story and values, you can start crafting various resumes to appeal to different audiences and fields.”

BrandResumes also offers resources to launch your own resume writing business — a tool that can be valuable for career experts seeking professional resume writing services. “If you’re seeking to dig into how to revamp your resume, or you find yourself (like many in HR or career services) consistently asked to help a friend or family member with their materials, this service will align with your goals,” she added.

Best with Career Consulting: TopStack Resume

• Pay only after you’re satisfied with the resume
• According to TopStack Resume’s site, resume complete takes up to 2 weeks

TopStack Resume is a force to be reckoned with in the career development sphere. Notably, it’s one of the only services that provides career consulting. So, in addition to resume and cover letter formatting, you have the option to partake in one-on-one sessions with a career advisor.

“Five steps is all you need to follow for your resume review by TopStack,” Conklin put it simply. “The simplicity of this service and the range of offerings (from a resume for $139 to career consulting for its Premium Package ) can be valuable for any job seeker or career explorer.”

Moreover, if you find yourself in need of more career support, maybe you’re changing fields or returning to work after time off, this is a strong contender. “Be mindful of your budget and timeline, so you take full advantage of a career consultant; a solid service should focus on the process, as much as a strong career outcome,” she added.

Plus, TopStack Resume is unique in that it has a team of well-qualified writers to ensure your one-pager is the best it can be. At a fair price point, you can always upgrade to add on more benefits in the future.

Best for Quick Hiring: ZipJob

• Fairly priced for the quality and swiftness of deliverables
• Optimizes for ATS so you’ll have better odds of visibility before your resume lands in human hands
• May be more difficult to ask for revisions if need be, due to the service’s robust turnaround time and automation

While no resume writing service can guarantee you landing your dream job, ZipJob has a unique offering in one of its packages that makes it a standout from the rest.

Ideal for candidates who are rapidly seeking their next role in a flash, ZipJob combines expert resume writers with the exact same tech employers to optimize your one-pager. The kicker? Its most popular plan, Fast Track, includes a professionally written resume, ATS optimization and direct writer messaging — but that’s not all.

Impressively, the Fast Track package for $189 also includes a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee. That’s how confident ZipJob is that you’ll get hired, and get hired quickly.

For $299, its Premium package includes a LinkedIn profile update to help maximize your chances and expedited delivery for super speed. If you want swiftness but don’t wish to compromise the quality of your application, you won’t have to worry with ZipJob.

Best One-on-One Collaboration: Upwork

• Several projects to choose from with unique writing strengths you may desire
• Typically budget-friendly
• Some options will have your resume written in only one business day
• Price points vary and quality of work varies depending on which project provider you select, so take caution and read reviews before working with a given person

Individual-driven platforms like Upwork allow you to shop around for a resume writing service that matches your specific needs and budget. Similar to platforms like Skillshare where talented, qualified creators host a course offering or a service, Upwork allows you to select from a variety of different projects where you’ll have one-on-one attention. Consider it akin to being matched with an online counselor.

Generally budget-friendly, most of Upwork’s providers only take one business day to deliver. The majority of providers also have thousands of positive, near-five-star reviews, so it’s surely a service to consider.

The one downside to Upwork is that quality of work may differ slightly, though that’s a given with its platform structure. This differs from some other services like TopResume where the company at large has its own writing structure, so it’s just something to take note of. However, for its affordability and speed, it’s a great dip into the pool of resume writing and related services, without spending more on a professional-grade platform.

Best for Cover Letters: ResumeSpice

• The baseline package offers a lot more than competitors, including phone consult, optimized draft and two edits
• Cover and thank-you letters are added to packages at an additional charge

ResumeSpice is ready to add that much-needed spice to your resume. It doesn’t just provide three different package options, but it specifically tells you which one would work best for you. For example, if you have no more than two years in the workforce, you should select its baseline package ($449). This package includes a phone consultation, an eye-catching resume format, keyword optimization, a personalized draft, two rounds of revisions based on your feedback and finalized versions in both Microsoft Word and PDF formats.

“Solid service is evident across ResumeSpice, and its focus on Executive Resume stands out from others,” Conklin pinpointed. “If you find yourself wanting to get to that next level in your career, you really do need to consider an executive coach with an eye towards that goal for your materials.”

You might, for example, realize you have decades of experience and are unsure where to start to consolidate — Conklin offered. “This is one of the most frequent concerns when making this transition, and a third party like ResumeSpice can be an invaluable resource and sounding board,” she added. “Finally, its site is clear in terms of turnaround, which shows they value your time and manage expectations — a positive sign on what you can expect service-wise.”

ResumeSpice offers other à la carte services, too, including cover letter help, LinkedIn profile revamping, interview preparation and career coaching.

Best Budget: Craft Resumes

• Unlimited revisions
• 5 day delivery
• Some reviewers mention time delays

Craft Resumes has an engaging, user-friendly interface that makes resume-building a fun, less stressful process. With ATS keyword optimization and a dedicated writer on your resume, rest assured that it will be in a healthy state to pass along to recruiters and job posters.

“Craft Resumes cleary focus on the ‘craft’ and design of writing resumes, where a distinguishing factor that caught my eye is their unlimited evaluation ‘at any reason’ for four days,” Conklin said, recommending the service. “This is valuable for job or graduate school seekers and career explorers, as you’ll likely have questions once you find an opportunity of interest.”

Similar to other services here, there is a one-on-one aspect that can be quite valuable, especially if you have the time. “There are also a variety of services and prices, not just resume writing,” she noted. “This is helpful for you budget, and evolving needs. Often times once you get a resume underway you start to realize that you’ll want other materials to be updated and aligned with your personal brand.”

For its most popular package, The Basic, you’ll have access to a single writer and unlimited revisions (which is a score compared to some other services on this list), strong and optimized words, unique formatting and a cover letter to increase your chances of landing an interview. However, Craft Resumes has other great packages worth exploring.

Best Resume Writing: Let’s Eat, Grandma Resume Service

• Consultation included with every package
• Executive Concierge Service that includes 10 days of unlimited revisions
• Quality writers and customer service, based off reviews
• No academic CVs or federal resumes

Humorous name aside, resume service Let’s Eat, Grandma has a laser focus on punctuation (as you can tell because nobody intends to write that they’d like to eat their grandmother on a professional document) — as well as resume formatting. What’s great about this platform, specifically, is its vast packages, ranging from drafting your resume to offering cover letters and networking services to help boost your career trajectory.

“Let’s Eat, Grandma hones in immediately on its ‘custom-tailored’ approach,” Conklin said. “While every resume review should be tailored to account for your story (as mentioned above), it’s clear this is a value of this service. Client outcomes are also front and center, where a mix of employers and schools are listed; this is notable if continuing education is a goal of yours.”

With four packages available, and FAQs on the homepage highlighting its range (i.e. academic, federal government and more), Conklin appreciates how it’s clear that this service is distinguishing itself from others, especially given the range of specialty materials they can help you create. 

What’s more, you’ll be assisted by a team of highly skilled writers who create targeted documents to help boost your chances of getting an interview. They’ll also speak to your unique strengths — and, therefore, amplify them on your resume — to tie your entire professional portfolio of experience together. They also have a package tailored for executives, making the platform a solid option for those needing executive resume writing services.

Which resume service is best?

The golden question, right? This depends mostly on your career goals. A range of services are available, and many are now even offered through LinkedIn. 

“When considering a resume service, it is important to consider the extent of guidance you are seeking,” Conklin, who has 15 years of experience in higher education — told The Post.

“Are you overhauling your resume? Are you transitioning industries and need to consider a different format or approach? What are your financial resources to pay for one, or should you explore services offered from your alma mater or current institution if you are a current or graduate of higher education?,” she questioned.

You’ll also want to consider the resume services’ reputation, Conklin suggested: Are there reviews or endorsements of a service, especially if you are paying for one? What is the background, and is the resume service aligned with your industry of interest? 

Is it worth paying for a resume service?

“It depends on the service and one’s circumstances as to whether it is ‘worth’ paying for the service,” Conklin said. “There are very reputable services out there, especially for more experienced career seekers. If you’re transitioning to a new field, or you are seeking to move to a senior or executive level, it could definitely be worth the cost.”

As a preliminary step, Conklin advised to really make sure you are an informed consumer when considering a resume service, and if you should pay or if you have a network or connections you can leverage for advice first. 

How much does it cost to have someone write your resume?

“When an individual pays for a resume service, there may be a flat rate, or it is calculated on an hourly rate and requires at least two sessions,” Conklin explained. “For example, it could cost $150 for a single session.”

However, there are resume services that can significantly exceed that rate and are part of a package that might include a quick return and other support, from LinkedIn to interview coaching, that is over $600, she highlights.

What to include on your resume, according to an expert

“Your story is the focus of your resume, and it is critical to be honest and reflect on how you want to tell that, ultimately,” Conklin noted. “The order also depends on the stage of your career (early, mid, senior, executive) and the industry you are seeking.”

In academia, for example, you’ll see a curriculum vitae (CV) that is pages long to reflect one’s research, publications, and roles held. In financial services, you would have a one-page resume until you have significant work experience. Or, in the creative fields, you may have a one-page resume and then an online portfolio or website that exhibits your work to complement your resume, she explains.

“No matter the field you are pursuing, you always want to make sure you list your experiences in reverse chronological order, you include your education/training, think of the keywords and skills (and make sure those are prominently displayed and included), and also think of what is most relevant,” she listed. “The most relevant should be at the top.”

It is also key to consider Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), automated review systems that scan resumes as part of an organization’s vetting process. “The format could align or cause issues with an ATS system,” Conklin added. “This is why it’s important to do your research, leverage any connections you have to gain insights into a field and their preferred format and get advice on keywords, skills and experiences to include.”

“If you do your homework, you should find clues to answer the questions above and guide your resume writing approach,” Conklin shared.

How we chose resume services

At Post Wanted, here’s what we keep in mind when researching and hand-selecting resume services:

• Customization : The best online resume services offer tailored resumes with personalized resume writing, in contrast to generic templates you can find for free.
• Consultation : Some services offer a one-on-one consultation with your writer so they can scope out your specific attributes, career highlights and other aspects to your curriculum vitae you want to spotlight.
• Comprehensive Packages : In addition to resumes, some services offer cover letters, LinkedIn profile optimization and career coaching. To some, this is worth the investment, though it may come with a higher price tag.
• ATS Optimization : A great benefit to online resume services is the focus on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), as human recruiters typically use this software use these screening systems before it lands in their hands.
• Turnaround Time : For some, there’s no time to be wasted when it comes to hunting for a new job. Looking at flexibility and speed is important; some services offer rush options for individuals who need a complete and optimized resume quickly.

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Hunting for a headline-worthy haul?  Keep shopping with Post Wanted .