How to share your resume and cover letter
Share documents strategically for ATS portals, recruiter inboxes, and networking follow-ups.
How you share matters almost as much as what you send. In 2025 and 2026 hiring workflows, candidates lose momentum when they send the wrong format for the context. This guide helps you choose the channel that keeps your application easy to review.
Export and attach
Most job applications require a file attachment. PDF is the safest choice because it preserves formatting across all devices and applicant tracking systems. Word (DOCX) is sometimes requested for roles in sectors where recruiters edit documents directly.
- Open the resume or cover letter you want to share.
- Click Download and choose PDF or Word.
- The file saves to your device and can be attached to any application or email.
- If the employer specifies a format, use that. When in doubt, use PDF.
Share a link
A shareable link lets the recipient view your document in a browser without downloading anything. This is useful for networking conversations, LinkedIn profiles, or situations where a file attachment feels too formal.
- Open the document and click Share.
- Toggle the link on to make it active.
- Copy the link and send it wherever needed.
- To disable the link at any time, toggle it off. The link stops working immediately.
Choosing the right format
- Job applications via ATS portals: use PDF.
- Recruiters who asked for a Word file: use DOCX.
- Informal sharing or portfolio links: use a shareable link.
- Europass submissions in the EU: use PDF, most platforms accept standard PDF.
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