How to Prepare Your Job Application Files

Why one ordered file beats several attachments

Someone screening dozens of applications opens every attachment by hand. One file in a logical order (CV first, then certificates, then any cover letter) reduces friction and lets them read everything in one open. It does not change what is in your CV — it changes the experience of the person opening it.

The four steps

1. Scan or photograph your certificates, then use Images to PDF to turn them into one ordered PDF instead of several separate image files.
2. Arrange everything in a logical order with Merge PDF — drag to reorder, and the per-file page-range field lets you include only specific pages if you don't need the whole document.
3. Check the file metadata with Edit PDF Metadata if you want control over the author name or title shown in the file's properties.
4. Compress the file if it exceeds the portal's or email's limit using Compress PDF — you can target an exact size directly.

Should I merge my CV and certificates into one file, or send them separately?

It depends on what the employer's instructions say; if unspecified, one well-ordered PDF (CV → certificates → cover letter) is easier for the recipient than several attachments. Use Merge PDF with drag-to-reorder to arrange the files before merging.

What file size is appropriate for a job application PDF?

Many application portals and email systems cap attachment size (often 5-10MB). Use Compress PDF and target a specific size if the portal states one.

How do I turn scanned certificate photos into one attachable file?

Photograph each certificate, then use Images to PDF to combine them into a single, ordered PDF instead of sending several separate image files.

Could my old name or personal info show up in the file metadata?

A PDF can carry an author name or title left over from whatever program created it. Check and edit PDF metadata before sending if you want control over what shows there.