Your CV looks great in Word. Then you upload it and the recruiter sees fonts gone weird, your headline cut off, your bullets misaligned. The fix is almost always 'send PDF, properly'. Here's the basic kit.
Export, don't 'save as'
Use 'Export to PDF' (or 'Print to PDF') rather than dragging .docx through a conversion site. Native exports embed fonts, preserve formatting, and produce smaller files. Open the result before sending — check fonts, line breaks, and links work. Most layout disasters happen because nobody opens the PDF they just made. Flint can preview and tweak if anything looks off.
Combine into one file when asked
Some portals want one PDF: cover letter + CV + references. Merge PDF joins them in your chosen order. Use reorder to make sure the cover letter is first. Name the file something sensible — 'Jane_Smith_Application.pdf', not 'Final_v3_real_FINAL.pdf'. Recruiters skim filenames before they open anything.
Mind the file size and security
Application systems often cap uploads at 5 MB. If your CV is heavy with photos, compress PDF shrinks it. Don't password-protect application files — many portals reject them. If you're emailing references that include personal data, that's the time for a password. For everyday CVs, plain unlocked PDFs are what employers expect.
FAQ
Should my CV be one or two pages?
Industry-dependent. Early-career: one page is plenty. Mid-career with relevant achievements: two is fine. Whatever you choose, make sure pages don't break mid-paragraph and that headers carry across cleanly.
Does the file name matter?
Yes. Recruiters save dozens of applications a day — 'CV.pdf' is invisible; 'Jane_Smith_CV.pdf' isn't. Use your name. Avoid version numbers and timestamps in submitted files.
Can I sign my cover letter PDF?
Optional but nice — adds a personal touch. Use sign PDF, drawn or typed signature, then flatten. A small detail; some applicants notice, most don't.
PDFs are the standard for a reason — they show up the same everywhere. Polish yours in Flint before you hit submit.