In what format should one submit a resume electronically?

Submitting a resume in PDF format is highly recommended because it preserves the layout, fonts, and overall formatting of the document, ensuring that it appears exactly as intended to the recipient, regardless of the software they are using. PDFs are also less likely to be altered inadvertently by the recipient, maintaining the integrity of the content.

In addition, PDFs are widely supported across different operating systems and devices, making them a universal choice for electronic submissions. Employers often prefer this format as it reflects a level of professionalism and attention to detail.

While other formats, like Word documents, can be acceptable, they may lead to formatting issues when opened on different systems, as variations in software versions can change how the document is displayed. Plain text files strip all formatting and may not showcase the candidate's work in the best light. Using a PowerPoint presentation format for a resume is unusual and may confuse recipients, as a resume is typically a text-focused document rather than a visual or slide-based format.