Posted On: 2026-04-12
Posted By: Lery

Best File Format for Submitting a CV Digitally: PDF vs Word vs Others

You can have a strong CV and still lose out if it arrives looking “off.” Fonts shift, spacing collapses, bullet points jump, or a carefully aligned layout turns into a messy block of text. Because most applications are now reviewed on a mix of devices and systems, the file format you choose matters more than people think. It affects readability, professionalism, and even whether your CV makes it through the first screening step.

The tricky part is that there is no single “always correct” answer. Some employers want a PDF because it preserves formatting. Others specifically request a Word document so they can annotate it or feed it into their internal process. Then there are online portals that accept multiple formats but behave differently depending on what you upload, plus recruiters who open files on mobile and expect everything to be instantly clear. If you have ever wondered why your CV looked perfect on your laptop but strange after upload, the format is often the reason.

This question is especially relevant in 2026 because hiring workflows are more automated and more distributed than ever. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) parse documents, recruiters skim on small screens, and hiring managers may download files into shared folders or open them in browser previews. At the same time, candidates are tailoring applications more frequently, which increases the chances of exporting the “wrong” version or sending a file that does not match the job’s instructions. A format choice that seems minor can create friction at exactly the moment you want to look effortless and detail-oriented.

In this article, you will learn when PDF is the safest option, when Word is the smarter choice, and which “other” formats to avoid or use only in specific situations. You will also get practical guidance on naming your file, checking ATS compatibility, and making sure your CV looks the same on different devices before you hit send. If you are editing and exporting multiple versions, a tool like MyCVCreator can help you keep a clean master CV and generate consistent PDF and Word files without reformatting headaches, but the key is knowing which format best fits the submission method in front of you.

PDF vs Word: Fast Rules for Choosing Your CV File Format

For most digital CV submissions in 2026, PDF is the best default. It preserves your formatting across devices, looks consistent when opened by recruiters, and is typically accepted by ATS platforms. Choose Word (.docx) when an employer explicitly requests it, when you are uploading into an older ATS that struggles with PDFs, or when you need the document to be easily editable by a recruiter or hiring manager. Use Google Docs links only if the job post asks for it, and avoid image-based formats like JPG or PNG for a CV.

If you are unsure, follow this simple rule: send PDF unless the instructions say otherwise. When a posting is silent on format, PDF is the safest way to prevent spacing shifts, font substitutions, and broken bullet alignment that can make a strong CV look messy. Word is still common in certain corporate workflows, but it is more vulnerable to layout changes when opened in different versions of Microsoft Word or alternative editors.

One practical approach is to keep both versions ready: a clean, ATS-friendly Word master file and a polished PDF export for sending. Tools like MyCVCreator can help you maintain a consistent layout and export a submission-ready PDF without unexpected formatting changes.

Default choice: Submit your CV as a PDF for consistent formatting and professional presentation.
Use Word when required: If the application says “.doc” or “.docx only,” follow instructions exactly.
ATS reality check: Most modern ATS can parse PDFs, but if you notice past issues (missing dates, scrambled headings), switch to .docx for that employer.
Never upload a scanned CV: Image-only PDFs and scans often fail ATS parsing and reduce accessibility.
Keep it simple: Avoid uncommon formats (Pages, RTF, ODT) unless requested; convert to PDF or DOCX instead.
File naming matters: Use a clear name like FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf (add role if helpful).
Check before sending: Open the file on your phone and a different computer to confirm spacing, bullets, and links look right.
When in doubt: If you can upload only one file and there are no instructions, choose PDF.

How Recruiters and ATS Read PDF, DOCX, and Other CV Files

When you upload a CV, two “readers” usually get it: a human recruiter and an applicant tracking system (ATS). Recruiters care about how the document looks on their screen and whether it’s easy to skim. An ATS cares about whether it can reliably extract your text into fields like name, job titles, dates, skills, and education. The best file format is the one that satisfies both without surprises.

An ATS typically works by parsing the file, pulling out text, and then trying to understand structure. It may split your CV into sections (Summary, Experience, Education), interpret lines as job entries, and map keywords to the job description. If the file format or layout makes the text hard to extract, your content can end up scrambled, missing, or placed in the wrong fields, even if the CV looks perfect to a person.

PDF is usually the most consistent for recruiters because it “locks” formatting. Line breaks, spacing, and fonts are less likely to shift between devices. For ATS, PDFs can be excellent or problematic depending on how the PDF was created. A text-based PDF exported from a word processor is typically readable. A scanned PDF, image-only PDF, or a PDF with heavy design elements can behave like a picture, which forces the ATS to guess using OCR and often leads to errors like merged columns, missing dates, or jumbled job titles.

DOCX (Word) is often the easiest for ATS to parse because it contains structured text and clear document elements. However, DOCX can display differently across versions of Word, Google Docs, and preview tools. That matters to recruiters: a CV that looks aligned on your laptop can shift when opened elsewhere, causing awkward page breaks or misaligned bullet points. DOCX is also more editable, which some employers like, but it can be a downside if you’re concerned about unintended changes.

Other formats are riskier. Plain text (.txt) is highly ATS-friendly but strips formatting, which can make your CV harder for recruiters to scan quickly. RTF can be a compromise, but it’s less commonly requested. Image formats (JPG/PNG) and design files are usually a poor choice because ATS parsing is unreliable and recruiters can’t easily copy, search, or annotate text.

The practical takeaway: prioritize clean, selectable text and simple structure. Avoid multi-column layouts, text boxes, headers/footers for key details, and icons that replace words. If you’re using a builder like MyCVCreator, export both a PDF (for consistent presentation) and a DOCX (for systems that explicitly request Word), then test by copying and pasting your CV into a plain text editor. If the order and spacing still make sense, both recruiters and ATS are far more likely to read it correctly.

Why the Wrong CV Format Can Break Layout or Block Parsing

Choosing the wrong CV file format is not a cosmetic mistake. It can directly affect whether your CV is readable, professional-looking, and even searchable by the systems employers use to sort applications. In 2026, many hiring teams review applications across multiple devices and platforms in the same day: a recruiter on a phone, a hiring manager on a MacBook, HR on Windows, and an ATS in the middle trying to extract your details. A format that looks perfect on your screen can arrive looking scrambled on theirs.

Layout breakage is the most obvious problem. Word documents can reflow when the recipient has different fonts installed, a different version of Microsoft Word, or opens the file in Google Docs or Apple Pages. That can shift bullet points, push headings onto new pages, collapse spacing, and misalign columns. The result is a CV that looks careless even if your content is strong. This is especially common with multi-column designs, text boxes, tables used for alignment, and custom icons that don’t translate consistently.

Parsing failures are the quieter issue, and often more damaging. Applicant Tracking Systems typically convert your file into plain text and then map it into fields like name, email, work history, and skills. Some formats and layouts make that extraction unreliable. Columns can cause the ATS to read across the page in the wrong order, mixing job titles with dates or merging two roles into one. Headers and footers can confuse contact details. Graphics, embedded charts, and “designed” resumes can hide key keywords from the parser entirely.

Timing matters because more employers now use automated screening earlier in the process, even for smaller teams. If your CV can’t be parsed cleanly, you may not appear in searches for required skills, or your experience may be misread as shorter than it is. A simple format choice can be the difference between “shortlisted” and “never seen.” Using a builder like MyCVCreator can help you export in the right format while keeping structure ATS-friendly, so your CV stays consistent and readable from upload to interview.

How to Pick the Right CV Format for Each Application

Choosing the right file format is less about personal preference and more about reducing risk. The goal is simple: make sure the recruiter or hiring manager can open your CV instantly, see it exactly as you intended, and pass it through any screening systems without errors. The steps below help you decide quickly, without guessing.

Use this process for every application, even if you already have a “default” CV. Different employers use different systems, and a format that works perfectly for one portal can cause layout shifts or upload failures in another.

Step 1: Read the instructions like a checklist

Start with the job ad, application portal, or recruiter email. If it explicitly says “PDF only” or “Word document required,” follow that instruction. Some organizations standardize on Word for internal editing or anonymization, while others require PDF to prevent formatting changes.

If a specific format is requested, use it.
If multiple formats are allowed, treat PDF as the default unless later steps suggest otherwise.
If the portal lists accepted file types, match one of them exactly (for example, .pdf, .doc, .docx).

Step 2: Identify how you are submitting (email, ATS portal, or recruiter upload)

Submission method affects the safest format. Email attachments are usually straightforward, while ATS portals can be picky about file parsing and naming.

Email to a person: PDF is typically best because it preserves layout and looks consistent on different devices.
ATS or online application form: If the portal is modern and accepts PDF, PDF is usually safe. If you’ve seen that employer’s portal misread PDFs before, a clean .docx can parse more predictably.
Recruiter asks for an editable file: Send .docx, and keep formatting simple to avoid shifting when they open it.

Step 3: Choose the format using a simple decision rule

If you want one rule you can apply in seconds: choose PDF when presentation consistency matters most, and choose DOCX when the recipient needs to edit or when the system struggles with PDFs.

Pick PDF when: the application is final, you want your layout locked, you use a designed template, or you are emailing a hiring manager.
Pick DOCX when: the employer requests Word, a recruiter wants to add notes, or the portal is known to be older and inconsistent with PDFs.
Avoid uncommon formats (unless requested): Pages, Google Docs links, OpenDocument (.odt), image files, or ZIPs can create friction and look unprofessional.

Step 4: Run a quick “open and scan” test before uploading

Before you submit, open the file on your device and do a fast visual scan. For PDFs, scroll to confirm headings, spacing, and bullet alignment. For Word files, check that fonts and margins didn’t change and that nothing jumps to a new page unexpectedly.

If possible, do one extra check: open the file in a different viewer (for example, a browser PDF viewer for PDFs, or a different word processor for DOCX). This catches missing fonts, shifted lines, and odd spacing that you might not see in your primary app.

Step 5: Keep the file ATS-friendly without sacrificing readability

Even when you submit a PDF, the content still needs to be readable by software. Use standard section headings, clear job titles and dates, and normal bullet points. Avoid text boxes, heavy graphics, and columns if you suspect the employer relies heavily on parsing.

If you build your CV in a tool like MyCVCreator, export both a PDF and a DOCX version so you can choose the safest option per application without reformatting from scratch. The key is having two clean “master” exports ready to go.

Step 6: Name the file professionally and consistently

File naming sounds small, but it affects searchability and reduces confusion when recruiters download dozens of documents. Use a clear pattern and avoid special characters that some systems reject.

Good: Firstname_Lastname_CV.pdf
Better (tailored): Firstname_Lastname_CV_Product_Manager.pdf
Avoid: CVfinalFINAL2.pdf, MyResume(1).docx, symbols like #, %, &

Step 7: Do a final submission check and keep a record

Right before you click submit, confirm you uploaded the correct version for that specific role. If you tailored your CV, make sure the filename and the content match the job. After submitting, save the exact file you sent in a dated folder so you can reference it later during interviews.

This step-by-step approach keeps you out of the most common traps: uploading the wrong file type, losing formatting, or sending a document that can’t be opened. In most cases, a clean PDF wins, but having a well-formatted DOCX ready is what makes your process reliable across different employers and systems.

Real-World Scenarios: When to Send PDF, DOCX, or a Link

If you’re stuck between PDF, DOCX, or a link, the fastest way to decide is to look at how your CV will be received: by a person reading on a screen, by an ATS parsing text, or by a hiring manager opening files on a phone. The “best” format changes depending on that path. Below are common real-world situations and what typically works best.

As a general rule, send a PDF when you want formatting to stay exactly as you designed it, send a DOCX when the employer explicitly asks for it or when you’re working with a recruiter who edits your document, and send a link only when it’s requested or when you’re sharing a portfolio alongside a standard file.

Scenario 1: Applying through an ATS portal with an “Upload resume” button

Most ATS platforms accept both PDF and DOCX, but parsing quality varies by company setup. If the job post doesn’t specify, a clean, single-column PDF is usually safe and looks professional. However, if you’ve had issues with PDFs parsing poorly in the past (for example, dates or headings landing in the wrong fields), a DOCX can be the more ATS-friendly choice.

Best default: PDF (simple layout, standard fonts).
Choose DOCX if: the portal preview looks scrambled when you test-upload a PDF, or the employer says “Word format preferred.”
Quick check: upload, then review the ATS “parsed” preview. If it’s messy, switch formats.

Scenario 2: Emailing a hiring manager directly after networking

When a real person is opening your CV, PDF is usually the best choice because it preserves spacing, bullet alignment, and page breaks. It also reduces the chance your CV looks different on their device. Keep the file name clear and professional.

Example email snippet:

Subject: CV for Marketing Manager role, Alex Chen

Body: Hi Priya, thanks again for your time today. As discussed, I’m attaching my CV (PDF) for the Marketing Manager opening. I’ve highlighted my B2B demand gen work and the pipeline results from my last two roles. Happy to share a portfolio if helpful.

Attach: Alex-Chen-CV.pdf
Avoid: “resume(3)finalFINAL.docx” or files without your name.

Scenario 3: A recruiter asks, “Can you send your CV in Word?”

This is one of the clearest cases for DOCX. Recruiters may want to remove graphics, standardize formatting, or add a cover page for client submission. Sending a PDF here can slow things down and create friction.

Sample response:

Absolutely. Attached is my CV in DOCX format. If you also need a PDF version for final submission, I can send that as well.

Attach: Alex-Chen-CV.docx
Tip: keep the Word file clean: no text boxes, minimal tables, consistent headings.

Scenario 4: The job ad says “PDF only” or “No Word documents”

Follow instructions exactly. Some organizations standardize on PDF for security and consistency. If you send DOCX anyway, it can signal you didn’t read the posting carefully, even if your CV is strong.

Best choice: PDF, exported from your editor (not scanned).
Common mistake: uploading an image-based PDF (ATS can’t read it well).

Scenario 5: Creative or technical roles where a portfolio matters

For designers, writers, product professionals, and developers, a link can be valuable, but it should complement a standard CV file rather than replace it. Hiring teams still want a downloadable document for sharing internally.

Send: PDF CV + portfolio link (in the email and on the CV header).
Keep the link: short, professional, and accessible without logins.

Example line in an email: Portfolio: [your link] (selected case studies and writing samples)

Scenario 6: Mobile-first hiring, fast screening, and internal referrals

If someone is opening your CV on a phone, PDF tends to be more consistent, but only if the layout is readable. Avoid tiny fonts and overly dense two-column designs. For quick referral sharing, a link can be convenient, but still provide a file attachment so your CV can be forwarded easily.

Best combo: PDF attachment + link to an online version/portfolio.
Practical tip: test-open your PDF on your own phone before sending.

Scenario 7: You need to tailor quickly for multiple roles

When you’re applying to several positions, you’ll often edit your CV repeatedly. A DOCX master file is easier to tweak, then export to PDF for final submission. Tools like MyCVCreator can help you maintain a clean “base” CV, duplicate it for each role, and export a consistent PDF without layout surprises.

Workflow that works: edit in DOCX (or builder) → export to PDF → submit.
File naming template: Firstname-Lastname-CV-JobTitle-Company.pdf

Scenario 8: When a link is risky (and what to do instead)

Links can break, permissions can block access, and some employers won’t click external URLs. If you want to share a link anyway, treat it as optional and include the CV as a file.

Do: attach PDF or DOCX, then add “Optional: portfolio link” below.
Don’t: send only a link unless the employer explicitly requests it.

CV File Format Mistakes That Trigger Rejections or Garbled Text

Most CV file format problems are avoidable, yet they are still a common reason recruiters see messy layouts, missing text, or files they cannot open quickly. The good news is that you do not need advanced design skills. You just need to understand what breaks in real hiring workflows: applicant tracking systems (ATS), email security filters, mobile viewing, and different versions of Word or PDF readers.

Below are the mistakes that most often lead to rejections, unreadable documents, or a poor first impression, along with practical fixes you can apply in minutes.

Submitting the wrong file type for the situation

A frequent error is sending a format the employer did not ask for, such as uploading a Pages file, Google Docs link, or an image. Some portals will reject unsupported types automatically, and some recruiters will not open unfamiliar formats due to security policies.

How to avoid it: Follow the instructions exactly. If no format is specified, submit a PDF for consistent formatting. Keep a .docx version ready when an ATS or recruiter specifically requests Word.

Using “PDF” that is actually an image or scanned document

Not all PDFs are equal. If you export a CV as a flattened image PDF or upload a scan, the text may not be selectable, searchable, or readable by ATS software. That can cause your keywords, job titles, and dates to be missed entirely.

How to avoid it: Ensure your PDF contains real text. Test it by trying to highlight and copy a line. If you cannot, re-export from the original document (Word, Google Docs, or a CV builder like MyCVCreator) using a proper “Save as PDF” option.

Relying on fonts and formatting that do not travel well

Word files can reflow when opened on another computer, especially if you used uncommon fonts, text boxes, columns, or heavy spacing tricks. The result is a CV where headings jump, bullets misalign, or lines overlap, which looks sloppy even if the content is strong.

How to avoid it: Use standard fonts, simple headings, and normal bullet lists. If you must send Word, open the file on a different device before submitting. If layout matters, choose PDF unless told otherwise.

File names that trigger filters or look unprofessional

Files named “CV final FINAL v7 (new).docx” or “resume!!.pdf” can get flagged by email filters, confuse recruiters who download multiple files, or simply look careless.

How to avoid it: Use a clean naming convention such as FirstName_LastName_CV_2026.pdf or FirstName_LastName_Resume_JobTitle.pdf. Avoid special characters, emojis, and long strings.

Oversized files and “heavy” PDFs

Large PDFs can fail to upload, take too long to open on mobile, or be blocked by email attachment limits. This often happens when you include high-resolution photos, logos, or export settings meant for printing.

How to avoid it: Keep your CV lean. Remove unnecessary images, and export with standard settings. As a rule of thumb, aim for under 1 MB unless the employer requests a portfolio-style document.

Password-protecting or restricting the document

Password-protected PDFs, restricted printing/copying settings, or encrypted attachments can prevent ATS parsing and slow down recruiters who need to annotate or forward your CV internally. In many companies, protected files are treated as a security risk.

How to avoid it: Do not add passwords or restrictions unless explicitly requested. If you are concerned about privacy, focus on removing sensitive details instead (for example, full address or ID numbers).

Not doing a quick “real world” open test

One of the simplest mistakes is never checking how your CV looks outside the tool you created it in. A CV can appear perfect in an editor but break when opened in a browser PDF viewer, on a phone, or in an older version of Word.

How to avoid it: Before submitting, open the file on your phone and on a different computer if possible. Confirm that headings, dates, and bullet points are intact, and that the file opens instantly without warnings.

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Pro Tips: Naming, Export Settings, and ATS-Safe Formatting

Choosing PDF or Word is only half the battle. Many “format issues” that frustrate recruiters come down to small, fixable details: a confusing filename, a PDF exported the wrong way, or formatting that looks great on screen but breaks when an ATS parses it. These expert tweaks help your CV arrive exactly as intended and remain searchable, readable, and professional.

Start with a clean, recruiter-friendly filename. It should be easy to find in a downloads folder and instantly clear whose CV it is. Avoid vague names like CV_Final_FINAL2 or Resume-Updated. A strong default is: FirstName_LastName_CV_JobTitle_2026.pdf. If you’re applying to multiple roles, swap the job title so each file stays organized. Keep it short, use underscores instead of special characters, and avoid symbols like #, %, or parentheses that can cause upload glitches on older portals.

When exporting to PDF, prioritize text-based output, not an image-based PDF. In your export settings, choose options that preserve selectable text and searchable content. If you see settings like “Optimize for printing” versus “Optimize for online,” online is usually the safer pick because it tends to keep file size reasonable while preserving text. Also check that your PDF isn’t password-protected and that it opens cleanly on both desktop and mobile. A quick test: try selecting a line of text. If you can’t highlight words, you may have exported a scanned or flattened document that some systems struggle to read.

For ATS-safe formatting, simplicity beats clever design. Use standard section headings (for example, Work Experience, Education, Skills) and keep your structure consistent. Avoid text boxes, columns, heavy graphics, and icons for key information like phone number or email, since these can be skipped or scrambled by parsing software. If you want a two-column look, consider a single-column layout with clear spacing and bold subheadings instead. It often looks just as polished and is far more reliable.

Fonts and spacing matter more than people think. Stick to common fonts (Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman) and keep body text readable, typically around 10.5 to 12 pt. Use bullet points for achievements, but use standard bullets rather than decorative symbols. For dates, choose one format and stick with it (for example, Jan 2026 Mar 2026). Consistency helps both humans and software interpret your timeline correctly.

Finally, keep a “safe” version ready. Even if you prefer PDF, some employers explicitly request Word. Maintain a clean .docx version with the same content and straightforward formatting. Tools like MyCVCreator can help you generate both formats from the same CV, making it easier to tailor a role-specific version without accidentally breaking layout or ATS readability. Before you submit, do a quick copy-paste test into a plain text document. If the order, headings, and bullet points still make sense, you’re in good shape.

CV Format FAQs: PDF vs Word, Size Limits, and Final Checklist

Quick takeaway: If the employer does not specify a format, a PDF is usually the safest choice for digital CV submissions because it preserves layout, fonts, and spacing across devices. Use Word (.docx) when it is explicitly requested, when you are working with a recruiter who edits files, or when an application portal struggles to parse PDFs.

CV format FAQs

Is PDF always the best file format for a CV?

Most of the time, yes. A PDF locks your formatting so your CV looks the same on a hiring manager’s laptop, a phone, or a different operating system. It also reduces the risk of accidental edits. The main exceptions are when the job ad requests a Word document, when you are submitting to a system that only accepts .doc/.docx, or when a recruiter asks for Word to add notes or reformat for a client.
When should I submit a Word CV instead of a PDF?

Submit Word when the instructions say “Word format,” when you are applying through a portal that rejects PDFs, or when you are working with an agency that needs to copy and paste content. If you do use Word, keep the layout simple, use common fonts, and avoid text boxes and complex columns that can shift between versions.
What about Google Docs links, Pages files, or OpenDocument (.odt)?

Avoid them unless the employer explicitly asks. Shared links can create permission issues, and less common formats may not open correctly on the reviewer’s device. If you drafted your CV in Google Docs or Pages, export to PDF (or .docx if requested) before submitting.
Do ATS systems prefer PDF or Word in 2026?

Many modern ATS platforms can parse both, but results vary by employer setup. If you are unsure, a clean, text-based PDF typically works well, while a simple .docx can be a safer bet for older or stricter systems. Either way, avoid scanned-image PDFs, heavy graphics, and tables used for layout, since they can scramble parsing.
What file size should my CV be, and how do I reduce it?

Aim for under 1 MB when possible, and stay under 2 MB unless the portal allows more. Large files often come from embedded photos, icons, or high-resolution graphics. To reduce size, remove unnecessary images, use standard fonts, export as “optimized” PDF, and avoid embedding multiple font families. If you include a portfolio link, keep it as a clickable URL rather than adding screenshots.
How should I name my CV file?

Use a clear, professional naming convention that makes it easy to find later: FirstName_LastName_CV_JobTitle.pdf. For example: Amira_Khan_CV_Product_Manager.pdf. Avoid vague names like “CV_final_FINAL2.pdf” and avoid special characters that some systems reject.
Should I include a photo in my CV file?

It depends on location and industry norms. In many regions and sectors, photos are discouraged to reduce bias and keep the focus on skills. If you are applying where photos are standard, keep it small, professional, and ensure it does not inflate file size or interfere with ATS parsing.
How do I make sure my PDF is truly “text-based” and not an image?

Open the PDF and try selecting a line of text with your cursor. If you can highlight and copy text cleanly, it is text-based. If you cannot select text, you likely exported a scan or image. Re-export from the original document (Word/Docs) using a proper “Save as PDF” option rather than printing a scan.

Final checklist before you click “Submit”

Follow the instructions first: if the employer asks for .docx, submit .docx. If they ask for PDF, submit PDF.
Open the file on a different device: check spacing, bullets, and page breaks. PDFs should look identical everywhere.
Confirm ATS-friendly structure: clear headings (Experience, Education, Skills), consistent dates, and no critical info trapped in headers/footers.
Check file size and readability: under 1 to 2 MB, crisp text, no blurry logos or oversized icons.
Use a clean filename: First_Last_CV_Role.pdf, and ensure the right version is attached.
Do a 30-second proofread: job title, company names, and contact details are the most costly places for mistakes.

Choosing the best file format is ultimately about reducing friction. You want the hiring team to open your CV instantly, see a clean layout, and extract your details without errors. For most applications in 2026, that means a well-exported, text-based PDF. Keep a matching Word version ready for the occasions when it is requested, and treat formatting as part of your professionalism, not an afterthought.

Next steps: create two “master” versions of your CV, one in Word and one exported to PDF, then tailor the content for each role before submitting. If you want a faster workflow, you can build and maintain both versions using a CV builder like MyCVCreator, then export the format each employer asks for without rebuilding your layout every time.

Best File Format for Submitting a CV Digitally: PDF vs Word vs Others