You may not have thought about this before, but the type of paper that you use to print your resume adds to the impression that you place on a prospective employer.
Before the hiring manager reads anything written on your resume, he or she will pick it up, and involuntarily feel it – sometimes, voluntarily too.
Choosing the right paper to print your resume on is important. As important is to ensure that the paper is of the right weight and color.
Paper Color
Yes, color does matter. Usually, white, off-white, or cream-colored papers are used to print resumes on. These are important to use because they show the hiring manager that you are a professional, who does not indulge in other tactics to impress him or her.
However, if you are applying for a creative position, such as that of a designer, you can play with colored paper. In such a case, you will need to ensure that the colors are not too bright or dark – the dark-colored paper will cause the printed information to be not as vividly shown as it would on a white paper or other lightly colored ones.
Paper Texture
As far as the texture of the paper is concerned, make sure that it is smooth.
Even though many light-weight papers are smoother than better quality ones, there are some latter ones which are smooth and still of great quality.
Heavily textured printing paper can cause the information on it to be distorted. And you don’t really want the hiring manager to archive your resume because he or she cannot understand it, despite it being the best out of the lot.
Paper Weight and Thickness
Weight is another factor in choosing the right paper to print your resume on. A 32lb sheet is much sturdier than the usual 20lb one that people usually choose – opt for the former one.
It is important to realize that the thickness of the printing paper will eventually decide how nicely the print comes out, so make sure that you pick up the right one.
Two-tone Printing
If you are thinking of printing your resume in two-tone, you will need to pick up a different paper than usual. For instance, a slightly grey paper tone will make sure that your blue and white, or dark grey and white resume is printed in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
If you attempt to print the same in white, you may have issues with the white set off the print a little too much!