PDF Advantages
- Preserves formatting exactly as designed
- Looks the same on every device and operating system
- Cannot be accidentally edited by recipients
- Most modern ATS systems can parse PDFs effectively
DOCX Advantages
- Some older ATS systems prefer .docx format
- Easy for recruiters to copy text or add notes
- Required by some job application systems
- Smaller file size in most cases
Best Practice
Submit as PDF unless the job posting specifically requests a Word document. If a system allows both, PDF is the safer choice for preserving your layout and design. Always have both versions ready.