Do You Still Need a Printed Resume?

By Jennifer Parris

In today’s tech-driven times, bringing a paper resume to an interview may appear passé. After all, you applied through an ATS or via email, and you’ve got a LinkedIn profile plus a digital portfolio. So, why kill a tree when your professional qualifications are easily found online?

Bringing a paper resume to your interview serves many purposes and can help you stand out from other candidates in a good way. Here’s how!

Why You Need a Paper Resume

— It’s a Reference Document

You might be a bit nervous when you interview with a potential employer. And when the hiring manager asks you a question regarding a previous date of employment, you suddenly draw a blank. If you have a paper copy of your resume, though, you can easily use it as a reference sheet to answer any questions quickly and correctly.

— It’s a Backup Plan

In a virtual interview, you’re likely interviewing from the comfort of your home office. If you have two screens, you may think it’s easier to leave your resume up on one screen while you interview using the other. And while that’s true, a paper copy of your resume is an excellent backup in case there are technical difficulties or your screen dies.

— Your Interviewer Might Not Have a Copy

Sure, you submitted your job application electronically, but that doesn’t mean your future employer will have it in front of them during your interview. They might misplace it, forget to print a copy, or accidentally delete it. And if that happens, the interviewer may turn to you to save the day!

And though the above (and more) are legitimate reasons why the employer might ask you for a paper resume, some interviewers ask you for a copy of your resume to see if you’re prepared!

— The Plan Might Change

You were originally set to interview with only the HR manager, but they decided to take you on an impromptu meet-and-greet with some department heads, and they ask for a copy of your resume to review. Demonstrate that you think ahead and share some of your extras.

— It Refreshes Memory

Though the hiring manager may remember that you’re a good candidate, they may not remember why they came to that conclusion—especially if you’re the fifth interview of the day!

Even if your resume is on their screen, offer a paper copy. Reviewing a hard copy of your resume can help refresh the interviewer’s memory and could also be a welcome break from a glowing screen.

Old School for the Win

Times and technology may change, but some things stay the same. And bringing a paper resume to your next interview—no matter where it is—is an old-school gesture that can help the interviewer remember why they wanted to meet with you in the first place!

And if you're not yet at the interview stage and still hunting for a flexible or remote job, FlexJobs can help! We offer members exclusive access to our jobs database, which is updated every day with new postings in more than 50 career categories. Take the tour to learn more!

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