Resume Website vs PDF Resume: Which Should You Use?

Should you create a resume website or stick with a traditional PDF? The answer: you need both. Here's when to use each.

The Traditional PDF Resume

When to Use a PDF Resume

• Applying through job portals (they parse PDFs)
• When specifically asked for a resume attachment
• Passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
• Quick email applications

PDF Resume Pros

• ✅ Universal format—everyone can open it
• ✅ ATS-compatible (when formatted correctly)
• ✅ Easy to attach to emails and applications
• ✅ Controllable formatting

PDF Resume Cons

• ❌ Static—can't update once sent
• ❌ Limited space (typically 1-2 pages)
• ❌ No interactivity or links
• ❌ Forgettable—looks like every other resume

The Resume Website

When to Use a Resume Website

• Building your professional brand
• Showcasing work samples and projects
• Networking and cold outreach
• When you want to stand out
• Creative and technical fields

Resume Website Pros

• ✅ Unlimited space for projects and details
• ✅ Interactive—links, videos, demos
• ✅ Always up-to-date
• ✅ Memorable and shareable
• ✅ Shows technical competence
• ✅ SEO—can be found by recruiters

Resume Website Cons

• ❌ Not ATS-compatible
• ❌ Requires hosting (solved with Portfolio.Website)
• ❌ Some recruiters still want PDFs

The Best Strategy: Use Both

Here's the winning combination:

1. Create a resume website as your primary professional presence
2. Include a PDF download on your website for easy access
3. Add your website URL to your PDF resume for more context
4. Use the website for networking, the PDF for formal applications

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	PDF Resume	Resume Website
ATS Compatible	✅ Yes	❌ No
Show Projects	❌ Limited	✅ Unlimited
Easy to Update	❌ Reupload needed	✅ Instant
Interactive	❌ No	✅ Yes
SEO	❌ No	✅ Yes
Memorable	❌ Rarely	✅ Very

Ready to Create Your Resume Website?

Our Andrew Johnson template is perfect for professionals who want an elegant online resume. Clean design, easy to customize, ready in minutes.