PDF or Word: How Should You Send Your CV?

“I have been consistently applying for jobs throughout this year with a CV in word format. I would like to get successful and different results in the coming month. Could I be making a mistake I have no idea about? Is there a standard format for sending out a CV to a Kenyan employer?”

This is an email I got from Emma, a concerned applicant who was wondering why her CV wasn’t getting her the jobs she wanted.

One important thing that we often overlook is that; Your CV is your sales pitch. You wouldn’t want a sales pitch that sells you short or communicates the wrong message.

What’s the best format then? Here are some things to consider;

Applying to Recruiters or Large Companies? Use Word Format

Most big companies in Kenya are now using electronic methods to screen job applications. A word document is the best fit for such companies with tracking systems. It’s also common practice for recruiters to remove applicant’s contact information from a CV before forwarding it to specific companies. So if you are submitting your CV to a recruiter, it will be thoughtful to use the Word Format.

If Applying to a Job Posted Online, Use the Format Specified

Nowadays, almost every company has turned to online methods to advertise for their vacant slots like LinkedIn, online websites and recruitment sites. In such cases, they will give clear instructions on the subject line, length of CV they require and the format that you should use to send your CV. Follow the format specified to ensure that you are not locked out.

For Emma’s case, she would just send her CV via email without keenly looking at the application instructions first. Is there a link to follow? Is the application online? 

What if there is no format specified in the job application?

In such cases, you should check employer’s previous job postings for any specification. Another great move will be to inquire which format is specified through emailing or calling and if this is not possible, then you can attach a word format and inform the employer that a PDF document is as well available in case they will need it in that format.

With this in mind, you shall be on top of your job seeking game. You will for sure be getting calls for job interviews soon. If you would like your CV tailor-made to what the employer is looking for, we shall offer you this service to ensure that you get different results. Click here to get a one on one consultation with our CV writing experts.

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