What Is Resume Paper Called
Okay, here's the deal. Most people don’t even think about the paper they print their resume on. They’ll slap it on whatever they’ve got at home, and that’s fine for some situations. But, if you’re handing your resume to someone in person, like at a networking event or an interview, the kind of paper you use matters more than you think.
So what’s it called? Resume paper is often referred to as cotton bond paper or just high-quality bond paper. The name really isn’t the big deal though. What matters is the feel, the weight, and the impression it gives.
Let’s break it down.
Why Cotton Bond Paper Works
Cotton bond paper is thicker and feels more substantial than your regular printer paper. It’s usually made with some percentage of cotton mixed in, which gives it a slightly textured, almost soft feel. This isn’t your average flimsy copy paper. When someone picks it up, it has that "this person put effort into their resume" vibe. It’s subtle but effective.
The standard weight for resume paper is usually 24 lb or 32 lb. If that sounds like a foreign language, don’t worry. Just know that anything in those weights will feel a bit heavier and sturdier than your basic 20 lb printer paper. And that’s the point. You’re showing that you care about the details.
Does It Have to Be Cotton Paper?
Not necessarily. While cotton bond is the classic choice, there are other high-quality papers out there that can do the trick. Some are labeled "resume paper" right on the packaging, and they’ll say things like "premium" or "linen finish. " Linen paper has this crosshatch texture that can look pretty sharp, too. Honestly, as long as it’s thicker and has that professional feel, you’re in good shape.
Oh, and color matters. Stick to white or maybe a very light ivory. Anything else can get distracting or look like you’re trying too hard. Bright colors? Big no. Save that for flyers, not resumes.
When You Don’t Need Fancy Paper
Here’s the thing. If you’re submitting your resume online, don’t go worrying about paper at all. It’s all about your formatting and content at that point, not what it’s printed on. You only need to think about paper when you’re physically handing it to someone. Even then, if you’re giving your resume to a recruiter at a crowded job fair, they probably won’t care. It’s more for those moments when presentation matters, like a one-on-one interview.
Where to Get It
If you’re thinking, "Alright, I’ll give this resume paper thing a try, " you can find cotton bond paper at office supply stores, some big box retailers, or online. Look for brands like Southworth, because they’re pretty much the go-to for this stuff. They even make specific packs labeled as resume paper. And honestly, it’s not that expensive. A pack will last you forever unless you’re printing resumes left and right.
The funny part is, most people don’t even realize how much the little things like paper quality stick in someone’s mind. It’s not going to make or break your application, but it adds a small touch of polish that can help you stand out. And when you’re competing for the same job as fifty other applicants, every tiny detail counts, right?
So think about it. Next time you print your resume for an interview, take a second and grab some quality paper. It’s such a small thing, but it could make a big difference in how you’re perceived. And if you don’t have time for that? Don’t sweat it. Just make sure what’s on your resume is worth reading, because that’s what truly matters at the end of the day.