Are hard-copy resumes obsolete?

Resume expert Kim Isaacs explains why a resume is worth the paper it's printed on in this third of five series.

When I started my resume writing practice in the mid-1990s, I loved paper. I could spend hours at the stationery store comparing gorgeous textures, colors, and weights. I kept my favorite paper products in stock to offer my clients as part of their resume packages and regularly heard positive reports of how impressed employers were with the hard-copy presentations.

Fast-forward to 2011: My paper stock has dwindled to virtually nothing. The majority of my resume clients email their resumes and don't need actual prints. So is the paper resume dead? Not yet. Here are three examples of when you would need a printed resume:

1. Take to Job Interviews The employer most likely has a copy of your resume, but what if the interviewer asks for an extra copy? What if you unexpectedly walk into a group interview and the other interviewers need a copy? It's best to be prepared with a stack of resumes at the interview.

2. Apply for Your "Dream Job" Most employers prefer emailed resumes -- it's much easier to add to databases, forward to colleagues, and manage electronically. However, given the fact that resumes are primarily being emailed, you can stand out from the crowd by sending a hard copy as well. Instead of falling into the void of online submissions, you can possibly get your resume right in front of the employer. Bonus points if you write a personalized note to the hiring manager.

3. In-Person Networking If you're attending a networking event or job fair, you will need to have plenty of extra resumes on hand.

Make sure that your paper presentation matches the image you are trying to portray. For example, if you are targeting a "green" employer, print your resume on eco-friendly paper. If your printer has seen better days, find a friend with a quality printer or use a printing service such as Kinko's or Staples. Your printed resume is a reflection of you--make it a positive reflection. Good luck job hunting!

--Kim Isaacs

Kim Isaacs is a firm believer in the power of a resume to jump-start careers and change lives. She is the director of ResumePower.com, a resume writing firm that prepares job seekers for success in a competitive job market. Kim has served as Monster's Resume Expert since 1999.

More resume resources

Visit the one-stop Career Center for Job Seekers for all of your resume and job hunting needs: From resume templates and interview advice to the free Monster EasySubmit add-in that allows you to submit your resume to Monster.com right from a Word template, the Career Center partnership between Office.com and Monster.com has it all. Find the resume template that works for you, whether you're a high school student, a recent college graduate, or a seasoned professional. For more information about using the Monster EasySubmit add-in, watch Doug's Office Casual video.

More from Kim Isaacs on the Office Blog

• Part 1: Start your job search with a new and improved resume
• Part 2: Why bother sending a resume?
• Part 4: Is your resume lost in cyberspace?
• Part 5: You need a shorter resume