Your resume and cover letter file names are often the first thing recruiters see. A clear, professional file name helps you look organized and makes it easier for hiring managers to find and remember your application.
Best Practices for Naming Resume and Cover Letter Files
- Include your full name: Use your first and last name so the file is easy to identify (e.g., JaneSmith_Resume.pdf).
- Indicate the document type: Add "Resume" or "CoverLetter" (or "CV") so it's clear what the file is.
- Use underscores or hyphens: Replace spaces with underscores (_) or hyphens (-) to avoid issues in email attachments and ATS (e.g., Jane_Smith_Resume.pdf).
- Avoid special characters: Do not use symbols like #, @, %, or slashes. Stick to letters, numbers, underscores, and hyphens.
- Keep it short: Long file names can be truncated. "FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf" is usually enough.
Examples of Good File Names
Resume: John_Doe_Resume.pdf, Maria-Garcia_Resume.docx
Cover letter: John_Doe_CoverLetter.pdf, Maria_Garcia_Cover_Letter.docx
If you are applying for a specific role, you can add the job title or company: Jane_Smith_Resume_MarketingManager.pdf. Use this only when the job title is short and the full name still fits.
File Format: PDF vs. Word
When the job posting says "PDF preferred" or "attach PDF," use PDF so formatting stays consistent. When they ask for an editable document or "Word," use .docx. If there is no preference, PDF is often safer for preserving layout and passing ATS. Name the file the same way regardless of format (e.g., John_Doe_Resume.pdf or John_Doe_Resume.docx).
What to Avoid
Avoid names like "resume_final_v2.docx," "Resume (1).pdf," or "MyResume." These look unprofessional and don't identify you. Also avoid spaces (e.g., "John Doe Resume.pdf") because some systems or emails handle spaces poorly.