But how complicated could it be? All you have to do is print it, right? Basically, yes. But, as is the case with everything else in the job-search process, there are more effective ways to do this—and ones that aren’t so effective.
Let the same principles that you followed to design your resume as you prepare to print your resume. Let's review. Make sure your resume is:
- Easy to read.
- Neat.
- Lots of white space.
- Clean.
First choice: Create and Print on a Computer
Is there a "best" method for producing your resume? We think so. We recommend that you use a personal computer to create your resume, and a high-quality computer printer to reproduce it. This option gives you these advantages:
- You can make changes instantly. You won't have to retype the entire resume because of one correction, as you would if you were working on a standard typewriter. You can play with different elements, like changing headings, adjusting margins, and rearranging information, until you get the exact look you want.
- It’s simple to update your resume or modify it to respond to specific job opportunities. You can create and store a template of your resume and easily customize it as the need arises.
Ideally, your computer system should be equipped with a word processing program and have the capability to print an appropriate serif typeface, such as Times Roman. You'll also need a laser printer or high-quality inkjet printer. Although you can use dot-matrix or so-called "letter-quality" printers to generate working copies of your resume—copies used in your writing and editing stages—these lower-end machines aren't acceptable for producing final copies you send to employers or networking contacts. They tend to produce type that is faded and difficult to read.
If you don't have a personal computer, beg access (and some operating assistance, if you're not very computer-literate) from a friend who has one. If the system you use doesn't have a laser or inkjet printer, you can store your resume on a computer disk and ask a friend who does have the right equipment to print the resume from your disk. Most commercial copy centers and printers offer this document-printing service as well.
Other Means of Reproducing Your Resume
If you're not fortunate enough to have access to a personal computer system, you have a few different options.
Creating Originals
To create master copies of your resume, you can:
- Use an office-quality typewriter. If possible, use a newer-model machine that has memory capabilities. Don't use a manual typewriter or an older electric model. These machines often distribute ink unevenly, creating a splotchy, faded effect. If you have trouble finding a good typewriter, contact your public library. They may have a machine you can use or know where you can find one.
- Hire a professional word processor. If you are truly a klutz at the keyboard or simply don't have the time or means to produce your own resume masters, there are plenty of people who will be happy to do the job. Look for a professional who can give you a copy of your resume on computer disk as well as a hard (paper) copy. Be sure to agree on a price up front, and provide a list of exact design specifications. And proofread the finished product closely! You, not the word processor, are responsible for any errors.
- Have your resume typeset. Commercial copy centers and printers can professionally typeset your resume from a handwritten or typed document. This option, although it will produce a fine resume, is expensive. And you won't be able to make changes easily and inexpensively, as you will if your resume is computer-generated. Because few people will notice a huge difference between a typeset document and one produced on a laser printer, you're better off to have your resume created by a professional word processor and then output on a laser printer.
Making Copies
To print copies of your original, your best option is to head for a commercial copy shop, also known as a "quick printer" or "offset printer." These printers generally offer a wide range of paper stocks and can print your copies while you wait or within a few hours. You may be offered a choice of ink colors; stick with black. Not only is it the least expensive, it's the most readable and most professional.
You may be contemplating printing copies of your resume on that copy machine in your office or at the library or drugstore. Don't! These machines typically are not well-maintained. You may end up with a resume that has smudges, streaks, or inconsistent ink coverage.
Printing don'ts
In addition to the rules we already mentioned regarding typewriters and low-end computer printers, your resume should absolutely, positively, never be:
- Handwritten
- Copied on a Ditto machine
- Duplicated by carbon paper
- Mimeographed
Paper Stock: The Finishing Touch
When selecting the paper stock for your resume, keep readability in the forefront of your thoughts. (Remember, easy to read, lots of white space, neat and clean.) In addition, your resume should look professional and conservative.
The best way to convey these characteristics?
- Select white, off-white, ivory or buff-colored paper. These colors not only ensure easier readability, they're the least likely to inflame personal bias. (Don't run the risk of sending your resume straight to the reject pile because the hirer hates pink...or gray...or blue.) If you are having your resume copied by an offset printer, be sure your master is printed on the brightest, whitest paper you can find. This will ensure the best reproduction.
- Choose a good-quality, medium-weight paper. Use 24-pound weight paper, which is a little heavier than standard copy paper. Most printers carry this paper stock, and you can usually find it at large office-supply stores like Office Depot and Staples. You should have no trouble finding a paper stock that feels expensive but isn't.
- Select a paper stock with a conservative finish. A textured paper is okay as long as the texture is simple and does not hinder readability.
- Make sure matching stationery and envelopes are available. You need matching stationery for your cover letters and matching envelopes to complete the professional look of your resume package. (Putting together your cover letters and mailing out your resumes is coming up next!)
Don't touch it once it's done!
It's finished...your resume, your baby. Don't make a single mark on it! Don't pencil in a note, write in an updated phone number or try to cover up a spelling error with correction fluid. If you must change something on your resume, go back to the computer, the typewriter, or the printer. The resume you send out must be perfect, flawless, pristine, virgin, untouched.
Yes, of course employers will spill coffee, fold, mutilate and scribble notes all over your masterpiece. But you can't. We never said life was fair.
