CV in word doc or pdf?

lhwjud

I came across some agency which require CV to be in word doc rather than pdf, for a number of reasons. The most common one being the pdf CV is not compatible with their system, or potential employer might not be able to open a non-word doc! :eek:

Is there any hidden reason why these agencies insist on word doc?

Little_Chicken

Maybe they just want to put it into their own format. I always send word docs anyway.

hullight

I usually send in PDF format but I do send in MS Word format if they request it.

With my CV I like to know that it will look exactly as intended. With MS Word files it could look totally different (different versions of Word, missing fonts, etc.).

Redbull

It is usually easier for the agency to scan word docs for key words relating to certain jobs.

Also, although most have both, I would say more people have a word reader than an pdf reader.

paintpot

The agency will want to edit your CV before sending it to the client, in particular they will definitely remove your address and other contact details so that the client cannot contact you directly.

Hagar_uk

lhwjud wrote: »

I came across some agency which require CV to be in word doc rather than pdf, for a number of reasons. The most common one being the pdf CV is not compatible with their system, or potential employer might not be able to open a non-word doc! :eek:

Is there any hidden reason why these agencies insist on word doc?

An agnecy is not going to pass your contact details to prospective client, hence they may need to edit it. with a Word document it is easy, with a PDF you need to buy expensive software to read and edit PDF and even then it does not always work

Lavendyr

I would actually use RTF rather than DOC format as it is more widely readable/compatible.

Bismarck

Hmm...I'd never thought of using pdfs...

I'm currently using the latest MS Word but have to re-save and send CVs in the previous Word version as most recruiters/employers can't open Word 2007 documents when they get them. Is this common or just me?

[Deleted User]

Lots of companies still used Word 2003 as the official format... We have a mix of 2007 / 2003 machines but you can't submit official docs in the new format.

RTFs are lame and very 90s

Stephen_Leak

DOC, and not DOCX. As above, we have both Office 2003 & 2007, but have to use the "lowest common denominator". RTF is theoretically more portable, but the file sizes are higher, which could cause problems with mailbox limits.

However, I have had to print PDF application forms, complete them by hand, scan them as PDF files (my Canon LiDE scanner can do this) and e-mail them back.

Fonts shouldn't be an issue - it's a CV, not a work of art. Use Verdana (the font used on here) - its the only standard font which is TrueType on both PCs and Macs.

cashpoortimerich

I don't remember the specifics but some government office made a cockup by making a document available in Word but did not realise that it was possible for anyone reading it to also view the previous versions of it! Could make any edits to your CV a bit troublesome if you have 'enhanced' any information or written notes on it for your own info.