I've always went out of my way to transfer my resume onto nice, professional-looking resume paper at the local Staples. I'm 99% sure I'm going to continue doing the same, but I wonder how important it really is...
In a market like the one in NY, every single edge you can give yourself is important. Good professional paper implies that you care enough to take that one extra step... I say continue to use it.
I agree with Alice. You don't want to skimp on anything in this competetive market. It's better to stick with resume paper.
I've seen people do it, but i personally don't. If it's something you already do, then I wouldn't say stop. Continue to do it. In my opinion it doesn't seem to be THAT important, but I do agree with alice that anything that would/could make you memorable (and get you the job) is always something to do.
I typed my first resume on nice paper. After that I realized that it isn't a big deal. In my current school district, they get 100's for a certain job. I doubt they are going to pick out the pretty paper when they have other canidates that are more qualified for the job not using the nice paper.
When I asked my formal principal about it he said "eh some people use it, some don't" I don't think he thought it was that big of a deal.
What would you tell your students? Well, you do want to make a good impression, and taking the time to print your résumé on nice résumé paper is just that extra step that shows you are serious about wanting the job. I always like to ask myself, "What would I tell my students if they asked me this question?" I would definitely tell them, yes! Otherwise I would be doing them a disservice. Go for it - it's a little extra time and effort but always worth it. Good luck!
I found some nice resume paper at Walmart for $5...they had the thicker paper at Staples for $15. I figured I mostly needed the color and a little weight. However I got my current job with everything printed on cheap white paper.
I always used the nice resume paper. Even if I had to fax a copy of my resume, I would bring a 'nice' resume paper copy to the interview. If mailed or delivered in person, definitelly resume paper. It's their first impression of you, even before they read the words on the paper...
I just had an interview (aide) this morning and brought a copy of my resume on resume paper. He had printed out the one I emailed to him but I offered the "new" one anyway. Hopefully it made a slight impression.
I don't call someone JUST because of the paper. But there are application packages that definitely stand out... tasteful, tailored to the position, and professional. Sometimes these are on resume paper, and that makes them look and feel a little nicer. I really am worried more about what's on the resume than what it's printed on; however, a sloppy resume definitely gets thrown to the bottom of the pile. If you're going to use plain copy paper, make sure your ink prints straight and clear, and that it doesn't look like a photocopy made on a dying copier.
