Handshake Upload Documents

When you’re ready to apply for opportunities — whether co-ops, internships, or full- and part-time jobs — you’ll need to upload your application materials to Handshake. Adding resumes, cover letters, transcripts, and other documents allows you to apply directly through the platform, making the process faster and easier. Having your documents ready in Handshake also ensures employers can quickly access the materials they need to review your application.

From your home page, click your profile icon and select My Documents from the dropdown menu.

One: Click the button

Two: Click on the Choose file field to find and upload a document from your computer.

Three: Name the document. This field defaults to the file name of your document. However, you can change it by clicking in the text box and typing the desired name within the field.

Four: Choose the document type from the dropdown menu (Resume, Cover Letter, Transcript…)
TIP! Always match the document type! For example, if you upload a transcript but mark it as a resume, it won’t show up when applying. Make sure each document is labeled correctly.

Five: Do you want this document to be public? Check the box if you want your profile to be made viewable to employers. If kept private, documents will be stored here for use when applying to jobs and interviews. 

While you may upload as many documents as you like, only one resume is featured with your profile (visible) at a time. A document is considered public if it has been marked as “Featured on Profile” or “Visible”.

Public documents are visible to employers in Handshake who:

  • You’ve applied for a job with
  • You’ve signed up for a virtual fair session with
  • Hosted an event that you registered for

Private documents (not marked as “visible” or “featured”) can only be attached to specific job applications. Employers receiving your application can see them, but other employers cannot. You can change visibility anytime in your Documents library by selecting Visible.

Six: Add a Description to stay organized and communicate it’s purpose — to both yourself and anyone (like CPD staff) reviewing your documents.


To Edit or Delete a document

  1. From your document library, click on the name of the document you would like to change
  2. Click the Actions button and select Edit

3. Once the document opens to editing, you can make changes or click the red DELETE button to remove from your library.

Tips and Best Practices:

Upload the Right File Types: Handshake accepts PDF, Word, and a few other formats — but PDF is best to preserve formatting.
Check Formatting: Open your file after uploading to make sure spacing, fonts, and alignment look correct.
Label Clearly: Use professional, easy-to-recognize file names (e.g., FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf). Avoid “Final.docx” or “Resume123.pdf.”
Keep It Updated: Replace outdated versions so employers and coaches always see your most current materials.
Upload More Than Just a Resume: You can add cover letters, writing samples, project work, or transcripts if requested.
Match Documents to Roles: Tailor your resume/cover letter to the job or internship you’re applying for, then upload the customized version.
Limit Extras: Only upload documents you’d actually want an employer or coach to review — don’t clutter your profile with drafts.
Privacy Tip: Remember that uploaded documents are visible when you apply to jobs or share them with coaches. Only include materials you’re ready for employers to see.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter an error during your upload, refer to Document Upload Error for more information.