Picture this, you've arrived at your interview, you've made your introductions, and then you lean into your bag to retrieve a crisp, professionally printed resume, handing this to your interviewer you say, "here is the latest version of my resume". Your job interview is off to the perfect start.
When it comes to a job interview don't leave anything to chance. It's the attention to the small details that can all add up and make a serious impact on your chances of getting the job. As part of making a strong first impression handing your interviewer a freshly printed resume is a simple touch and one that won't go unnoticed.
In this article we cover everything you need to know about printing your resume, what paper you’ll need, the best colours, weight and more...
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
What is resume paper.
Why you need to print your resume.
What is the best paper for printing your resume.
What colour paper should I use for printing my resume.
What is the best paper weight for printing a resume.
How many resume copies you should print for a job interview.
Our top 5 resume paper recommendations for 2023.
Short disclaimer... I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, from which I may earn a small commission which goes towards the running and upkeep of the site.
WHAT IS RESUME PAPER?
Resume paper (also known as "CV paper" or "Job Application Paper") is, in essence, just a high quality professional paper designed for the use of printing your CV / Resume, Cover Letters, Thank You Notes etc.
Many paper manufacturers will use the term Resume Paper to appeal to job seekers as this is a big market for them.
DO I NEED TO BRING A PRINTED RESUME TO A JOB INTERVIEW?
Considering the digital age we live in, you may wonder whether printing out your resume is still a necessary task. However, bringing a printed copy of your resume to a job interview is still considered good practice as it demonstrates your level of preparation, organisation, and professionalism.
In fact, it's more common than you might think for an interviewer to forget to print or bring your resume to the interview, which can lead to delays and potential confusion. By presenting a printed copy of your resume at the beginning of the interview, you can help avoid any such issues and demonstrate your readiness.
Furthermore, if you work in a creative or marketing field or have created a professional resume, printing out your resume and presenting it to the employer allows them to see your final, polished version as you intended it to be viewed. This can showcase your attention to detail and commitment to presenting yourself in the best possible light.
WHAT IS THE BEST PAPER FOR PRINTING A RESUME / CV ON?
We'd recommend using a high quality, professional-grade paper for printing your resume. The aim is to opt for paper that is heavier than standard printer paper to give a luxurious and quality feel to your document.
A popular choice is a white or ivory-colored 24-pound paper or a cotton or linen paper. When choosing paper, it's important to avoid anything that is too flashy or distracting, such as brightly colored or patterned paper. Stick with a classic, neutral color and texture that will complement the content of the resume and make it easy to read.
WHAT COLOUR PAPER SHOULD I USE FOR PRINTING MY RESUME?
In our opinion a white or slightly off-white page creates the most sleek and polished look.
Many resume paper brands (Neenah, HP and Southworth included) will also recommend an ivory coloured paper, this is OK, however, consider the design of your document and what you are printing, if your resume includes coloured elements this may clash with an ivory background.
WHAT IS THE BEST PAPER WEIGHT FOR PRINTING A RESUME / CV?
Paper weight is commonly measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm).
The weight measurement is taken as the uncut weight of a ream (or 500 sheets) for the lbs measurement, or as a straight meter of paper for the gsm reading. Generally, the heavier the weight, the thicker and higher quality the paper will be.
When printing a resume or CV, it's recommended to use paper with a weight of 24lb-32lb or a gsm weight of 90-120.
HOW MANY COPIES OF MY RESUME SHOULD I TAKE TO A JOB INTERVIEW?
We would recommend 4.
95% of interviews are conducted by 3 or less interviewers, therefore it's nice to be able to hand each one of your interviewers a copy as to avoid sharing. Printing 4 resumes ensures you can hand one to each of your interviewers and have one as a spare or for yourself.
It’s also worth noting that if you are attending a careers or jobs fair then I’d recommend taking 10 times this amount. 30-40 should cover it.
TOP 5 BEST RESUME PAPER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2023
Based on reviews, recommendations and research here are our top 5 Resume Paper suggestions for 2023…
1. // SOUTHWORTH 100% COTTON RESUME PAPER
This is a high-quality, professional-grade paper that is compatible with both inkjet and laser printers. The paper is made from 100% cotton and has a classic, elegant look and feel. It is also acid and lignin-free, which helps to prevent the paper from yellowing or deteriorating over time. Customers rave about the quality of this paper, noting that it makes a great first impression and helps their resumes stand out from the crowd.
Average star rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Amazon review: "This paper is truly the best you can buy. The cotton fibers give it a luxurious texture and the weight and feel are perfect for a high-quality resume. I've used this paper for years and have never been disappointed. It's worth the extra cost for such a professional look."
US / Letter Size (8.5 x 11). Available to buy here on Amazon.
A4 Size (8.27 x 11.69). Available to buy here on Amazon. (alternate A4 option).
2. // NEENAH CLASSIC CREST SOLAR WHITE RESUME PAPER
This paper is another high-quality option for resumes and other professional documents. It features a smooth texture and a bright white color, which helps to give resumes a clean, polished look. The paper is also acid-free, which helps to prevent deterioration and yellowing over time. Customers appreciate the professional look of this paper, noting that it is well-suited for job applications in a variety of industries.
Average star rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Amazon customer review: "I purchased this paper for my resume and was extremely pleased with the quality. It's bright, crisp, and the texture gives it a really professional look. I've had several interviews since submitting my resume on this paper and I believe it definitely helped me stand out."
US / Letter Size (8.5 x 11). Available to buy here on Amazon.
A4 Size (8.27 x 11.69). Available to buy here on Amazon. (alternate A4 Option).
3. // BOISE CASCADE 96 BRIGHT WHITE PREMIUM COPY PAPER
While not marketed specifically as a resume paper, this high-quality copy paper is often used for professional documents. It is compatible with laser printers and features a bright white color and smooth texture. The paper is also acid-free and FSC certified, which means that it is responsibly sourced and environmentally friendly. Customers appreciate the quality of this paper, noting that it produces crisp, clear printouts and has a professional look and feel.
Average star rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Amazon customer review: "This paper is perfect for printing resumes or other professional documents. It's bright, crisp, and the weight gives it a nice feel. I've received compliments on my resume from several potential employers and I'm sure the quality of the paper played a role in that."
US / Letter Size (8.5 x 11). Available to buy here on Amazon.
4. // HP PRINTER PAPER, PREMIUM24
This paper is designed specifically for use with inkjet and laser printers. It features ColorLok technology, which helps to prevent smudging and improve color accuracy. The paper is also acid-free, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for resumes and other professional documents. Customers appreciate the bright, vibrant colors that this paper produces, as well as its smooth texture and professional appearance.
Average star rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Amazon customer review: "This paper is fantastic! The colors are vibrant and the paper has a nice weight to it. I've used it for printing resumes as well as other professional documents and it always looks great. I highly recommend it."
US / Letter Size (8.5 x 11). Available to buy here on Amazon.
A4 Size (8.27 x 11.69). Available to buy here on Amazon.
5. // NEENAH WAUSAU EXACT VELLUM BRISTOL CARDSTOCK
This paper has a unique vellum finish that gives it a smooth, velvety texture. It's compatible with both inkjet and laser printers and comes in a range of colors, making it a great choice for those who want to add a pop of color to their resume.
Average star rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Amazon customer review: I recently purchased the Wausau Exact Vellum Bristol Cardstock for printing my resume and I couldn't be happier with the results. The vellum finish gives the paper a unique texture that makes it stand out from regular printer paper, and the range of colors allowed me to choose a shade that perfectly complemented my resume design. I printed it using both an inkjet and laser printer and it worked flawlessly with both, producing sharp and vibrant colors. Overall, I highly recommend this cardstock for anyone looking to add a touch of professionalism and creativity to their resume.
US / Letter Size (8.5 x 11). Available to buy here on Amazon.
FINAL THOUGHTS
In conclusion, printing your resume on high-quality paper may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in creating a professional and polished first impression.
The right paper, color, and weight can enhance the look and feel of your resume / CV and will demonstrate your attention to detail (skills that all employers love to see). By following these guidelines and using our top 5 resume paper recommendations you’re well on your way to nailing that next job interview.
