How do I build from a resume I already have?
Pick Upload & Optimize, add a PDF, DOC or DOCX file under 5 MB, and wait on the progress screen. Your details are read into the editor so you only have to correct what is wrong.
Import an existing resume
- Choose Upload & Optimize
On Create a powerful job ready resume in minutes, press Select under Upload & Optimize.
- Pick the file
Choose a PDF, DOC or DOCX file under 5 MB, or pick one of your saved resumes and press Continue.
- Add the job description
Optional. Paste the posting to have the build lean towards that role, or press Skip.
- Wait on the progress screen
It shows Analyzing your resume..., Extracting work experience... and similar lines while your file is read.
This can take up to about two minutes on a large file.
- Check every section
Reading a resume is never perfect. Go through each section and fix anything that landed in the wrong place.
If something goes wrong
"The file should be in .pdf, .doc, or .docx format."
WhyThe file type is not supported.
FixExport it as PDF and try again.
"The file size should be less than 5 MB."
WhyThe file is too heavy.
FixRemove images or compress the PDF.
"Resume processing is taking longer than expected. Please try again."
WhyReading the file did not finish in time.
FixStart again with a simpler PDF, or use Build from scratch and paste your content in.
"Failed to process your resume. Please try again."
WhyThe file could not be read into a document.
FixRe-save the file as PDF and upload the new copy.
Related questions
Does my original file change?
No. The builder creates a new document. Your uploaded file stays as it is on your profile.
Some of my dates came out wrong
Fix them in the section forms. The preview updates as you type and the change autosaves.
Why does it ask me to set up my profile first?
A brand new account finishes its short setup with this upload, so the same file both creates your profile and starts the resume.
