Which resume paper is best?

What resume paper should I use?

Resume Writing Ideas October 14, 2020

Which resume paper is best?

Resume Paper

Which resume paper is best?

​In recent years, job search methods and practices have become increasingly digital. However, as you move forward with your job search efforts, you will soon learn that hard copies of your resume still play a significant part in your success.
 
Two of the most common scenarios where you will need hard copies of your resume are when you attend a job interview or a job fair and most people tend to overlook the actual paper they use to print their resume.
 
Many people wonder “how to write a resume that will stand out”. Of course, the content of your resume matters more than the resume paper. But let’s not forget that you are in a competition. It is when you go the extra mile and learn how to choose the right resume paper that you will make your resume stand out from the crowd. Not to mention resume paper lasts much longer than regular paper. 

Below are brief descriptions about the varieities in style and quality when it comes to choosing resume paper. 

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What resume paper should I use?

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Resume Paper Color

The available shades are usually white, light grey, ivory, and even blue/grey.

• White resume paper - This could be a very conservative look. While other colors may help you stand out, many job seekers choose this color.
• Ivory resume paper - The ivory shade is readily available and it could be your safest choice if you want to stand out a little. Many job seekers and employers alike prefer this shade.
• Resume Paper in other colors - If you search for it, you will probably find that resume paper is available in many shades and colors. Experts’ opinions remain controversial because many employers find color paper to be unprofessional. Although for some professions—often in creative fields--colored resume paper could be a better choice. Of all the colors, aside from white and ivory, light gray may be the safest.

Resume Paper Weight

Resume paper quality is usually categorized based on weight and the varieties that you may find often available are 24lb/m2 OR 32lb/m2. The weight varies based on paper thickness. You will also find that they are substantially different in price.

​We recommend the 24lb/ m2 because it is a little thicker than standard copy paper but it is not as thick as a business card. The 24lb/ m2 also goes through most home office printers without complication.

Resume Paper Texture

There are many textures available and they vary in the weave and finish of the paper. More often than not, you will find linen or cotton. Other kinds include coated, uncoated, laid, etc. As you will shop for resume paper, feel the different textures to find out which you prefer.

​We recommend the cotton paper as it is more often used as a popular choice for resume paper and it has a smooth finish. On the other hand, linen resume paper feels like an embossed paper because it is woven-like. 

Resume Watermark

Watermark is used on high-quality paper. As you use any brand of resume paper with watermark, make sure the watermark is only visible under the light because you do not want the watermark to distract attention from your resume content. Next, make sure your resume is printed right side up. In other words, when you're holding the resume as you're reading it, the watermark should be readable (I am not saying visible, but when held under the light, the watermark should be seen the right side up and not backward).

​Of course, this is not a deal-breaker obviously but why take the risk of recruiters noticing that your resume is printed backward and thinking you are sloppy?