Best Paper for a Printed Resume

Most resumes are submitted online now, so paper will not matter for every application. It still matters when you attend an in-person interview, job fair, networking event, or portfolio review.

A printed resume should feel clean and easy to read. It does not need to feel fancy. It needs to look prepared.

Physical Specs for Professional Paper

CareerOneStop's youth resume guidance says to print a resume on high-quality paper with a quality printer. Its resume page also emphasizes readability, which should stay the priority.

Choose paper that supports the resume instead of distracting from it.

1. Paper weight

Standard copy paper can work in a pinch, but slightly heavier paper usually feels better in person.

• 24 lb paper: A solid choice for most printed resumes.
• 32 lb paper: A heavier option when you want a more substantial feel.

Actionable rule: Pick clean 24 lb or 32 lb paper and print a test copy before the interview.

2. Texture and finish

Simple is usually best. Smooth or wove paper keeps the text crisp and professional.

• Smooth or wove finish: Clean, simple, and easy to read.
• Linen finish: More traditional and slightly textured. Use it only if the text still prints clearly.

3. Material

Some resume paper includes cotton, which can feel sturdier than basic copy paper. You do not need to chase the most expensive option. Choose paper that prints cleanly and does not show text from the other side.

Pick the Right Color

Use neutral paper. Bright colors can make the resume feel less professional unless you are in a field where a creative leave-behind is expected.

Print It Cleanly

Do a quick print check before you leave for the interview.

• Export to PDF: Lock the formatting before printing.
• Check the printer tray: Use the right feed option for thicker paper.
• Use high-quality settings: Avoid faint text or uneven ink.
• Print a test page: Check margins, smudges, alignment, and readability.

A printed resume is a backup and a leave-behind. Keep it clean, neutral, and easy to read.

For a related Working Nomads article, read references on your remote resume and when to share them checklist for work before you decide your next step.

What to Read Next

Read what is the purpose of a resume if you want a related next step on resume writing.
Use why a one-page remote resume usually works best checklist for work when you need more context before your next decision.