The Do's and Don'ts of Resume File Names

When applying for jobs, every detail matters.

 

From crafting the perfect (and tailored) resume to fine-tuning your cover letter, it's easy to overlook seemingly minor details in the rush to submit your application. One often overlooked detail is the name of the document containing your resume.

Believe it or not, a poorly named file can make a big difference in how your application is perceived. 

Pour a cup of tea because it’s story time! 

Imagine a hiring manager, Sarah, who receives hundreds of resumes for an open position. She downloads each file to review later. Among them is a file named "Resume_Final_Version_Updated_July_2023.pdf." Another file is simply named "Document.pdf."

Which one do you think Sarah will find easier to identify and open quickly? Unfortunately for Lisa, the applicant who named her file "Document.pdf," her resume might end up lost in Sarah's sea of applications, overshadowed by those with clear and professional file names.

The DO's

✔️ Include Your First Name and Last Name
Make it easy for the recruiter to identify your resume at a glance. Include both your first and last name to avoid confusion.

Example: Jane_Doe_Marketing_Manager_Resume.pdf 

✔️ Use the Word "Resume"

This ensures that the file's purpose is immediately clear, even if it's separated from your application email. It prevents your resume from being mistaken for another document.

Example: Lauren_Durbin_Resume_Software_Engineer.pdf

✔️ Include the Job Title
If you're applying to a specific position, adding the job title can demonstrate that you've tailored your application and help the recruiter quickly categorize your application. It also makes your resume easier to find during a keyword search.

Example: Emily_Brown_Resume_Financial_Analyst.pdf

✔️ Keep it Concise
Recruiters often scan through numerous resumes, so a shorter file name is easier to read and remember. Aim for 25-35 characters to ensure the full file name is visible in email previews and file directories.

✔️ Use Underscores as Separators
Underscores create clear separations between words, enhancing readability. Avoid spaces, hyphens, or other characters that can cause formatting issues or appear unprofessional.

Example: Sarah_Johnson_Resume_Project_Manager.pdf

The DON'Ts

❌ Generic Names
"Resume.pdf" or "MyResume.pdf" are forgettable and don't provide any information about the applicant, failing to distinguish your resume from countless others.

❌ Combine Words Without Separation
Combining words can make the file name difficult to read. Use underscores to clearly separate words.

For example, Jane_Doe_Resume.pdf is easier to read than JaneDoeResume.pdf.

❌ Include Version Numbers
Version numbers suggest multiple applications or revisions, which may raise doubts about your candidacy. Submit your most polished version to avoid creating a negative impression of indecisiveness or multiple rejections.

❌ Special Characters
Special characters like !, @, #, $, %, etc., can cause compatibility issues and make your resume appear unprofessional. Stick to letters, numbers, and underscores to avoid technical problems or negative perceptions of your attention to detail.

❌ Typos or Abbreviations
Proofread your file name carefully to avoid embarrassing errors. Use full words instead of unclear abbreviations to avoid signaling a lack of care and confusing the recruiter.

💡 ADDITIONAL TIPS

✅ Follow Instructions
If the job posting provides specific file naming guidelines, adhering to them demonstrates your ability to follow directions and attention to detail. This small step can leave a positive impression on the recruiter even before they view your resume content.

✅ Be Consistent with Other Documents
If you need to submit other documents such as a cover letter, use the same format for its file name to ensure consistency.

Your resume file name might not be the first thing you think about, but it's an easy way to make a good first impression. By putting a little effort into creating a clear, professional file name, you're showing the recruiter that you're organized, detail-oriented, and enthusiastic about the opportunity. 

Plus, a well-crafted file name makes it easier for them to find and remember your application, increasing your chances of getting that call for an interview! It's a simple step, but it can make a real difference in your job search.

Good luck with your job applications!

P.S.

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