Word vs PDF: Which Bespree resume download should I use?

1. What is an ATS and why does it matter?

Many companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to scan resumes before a human ever looks at them. The ATS reads the file, pulls out your contact details, work history, skills, and keywords, and then decides whether to move you forward.

These systems work best with simple, clean formatting:

• Single-column layout
• Standard headings like Work Experience, Education, Skills
• No complex tables, text boxes, or graphics for important information

That's why Bespree offers a special “ATS-friendly Word” option.

2. What is “ATS-friendly Word” on Bespree?

When you choose Download Word (ATS-friendly), Bespree creates a .docx file that is optimized for ATS parsing:

Each export focuses on structure instead of decoration so even older ATS engines stay happy.

• Single-column layout – no fancy multi-column structures that can confuse older systems.
• Standard section headings – Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications, etc., instead of creative labels.
• No critical info in headers/footers – your name and contact details stay in the main body where ATS software reads first.
• Standard fonts and bullets – fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman plus normal bullet points instead of icons or emojis.

It might look a little simpler than your on-screen design, but that's on purpose: the goal is to make sure the ATS can see every job, date, and skill clearly.

3. What about the PDF download?

Your PDF download is designed primarily for humans:

Modern ATS tools can often read text-based PDFs quite well, but not every system is up to date. Some guides say PDF is usually safe, while others still recommend Word as the safest default for older or stricter systems.

• It preserves your layout, spacing, and visual style.
• It looks consistent on almost any device.
• It's great for emailing, printing, or attaching to a message.

Use PDF when you care most about the polished, branded experience and you're confident a human will read it.

4. Quick rule of thumb

If the job description mentions a specific format, always follow that instruction first.

5. How Bespree keeps both formats ATS-conscious

Behind the scenes, Bespree's resume builder is designed around ATS best practices:

• Clean structure: single-column layout and standard headings in the Word version.
• No hidden traps: we avoid putting important info where many ATS tools ignore it (headers, footers, decorative text boxes).
• Standard fonts: we use fonts that are widely supported and easy to read.
• Real text in PDFs: your PDF is text-based, not just a screenshot, so most modern systems can still parse it.

You don't have to worry about the technical details—we've baked this into the templates so you can focus on your story and achievements.

6. Tips to get the most from both versions

1. Mirror the job description. Use keywords from the posting in your skills, experience bullets, and summary.
2. Keep section titles “boring”. Use headings like Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications instead of creative names.
3. Avoid heavy design for key info. Photos, charts, and complex sidebars are better in portfolios than in ATS resumes.
4. Test once (optional). Run your Word download through an ATS checker if you want extra peace of mind.