Online Job Applications vs. Paper Resumes

There is a school of thought that says it is better to send a paper resume and cover letter than to apply online or via email. The logic is that your application materials will make a better impression if they actually arrive on a person's desk, rather than ending up in a computer database somewhere online.

Online Employment Application Options
Many companies, however, no long accept paper resumes. Cendant's web site says, for example, "Please note: We no longer accept paper resumes for open positions." In some cases, like at Citibank, job seekers are required to register and to build an employment profile. Once you've built your profile, you can apply for jobs online and set up search agents to email you when new jobs are added to the system.

Other companies give you an option. Dell, for example, will accept either an online employment application, an online resume, or a faxed resume. Online applicants can utilize Dell's resume builder that steps you through the process of resume writing or you can copy/paste an exisiting resume into the resume builder. Walmart's online job application system is simpler. There are instructions for sending your resume via email in each job posting or you can click on the "apply for this job link" to open your email client. Paste your resume into the email and send.

Still other companies think differently. A manager at a small high-tech firm told me that if the candidate is qualified, they'll take anything. An online job application, a resume, an email, or a phone call are all acceptable. Small companies, like this one, are often more flexible because they are not managing a large number of resumes or hiring many employees.

Before you spend time sending a paper resume and cover letter, review the job posting for application instructions and/or check with the company web site. Career / Job information is usually listed in the "About Us" section. Review how the company wants you to apply and follow the directions. If you don't, your application may not be considered.