How can properly formatting an electronic résumé give an applicant a competitive edge over other applicants?

Answer:

A typical résumé is not going to be electronically ready. You need to take the time to make special formatting changes so that the résumé appears readable. Taking these steps can give you a competitive edge, because it takes additional time, knowledge, and skill. An employer will be much more impressed with someone who takes the time to send in a résumé that is readable, rather one who has lazily allow their résumé to appear jumbled and confusing.