“I hope you like my resume. I couldn’t get it all on one page, so I had to use a two-page version instead”.
Last week I wrote about the uses of a one-page resume. The same day I talked with someone about a one-page resume, I also was asked about a two-page resume. In fact, the two issues came up within 30 minutes of each other. This just shows how perplexing the issue of resume length is for job seekers.
Sometimes, job candidates can be influenced to substitute the brevity of a one-page resume for a resume that demonstrates their stable work histories, promotions and increasing responsibilities, something most employers want to see.
Employers probably will examine the last 10-12 years of your work experience to get a snapshot of your roles and contributions, but minimizing what you did during the first part of your career can be a mistake.
So, who should use a two-page resume? Job candidates who have more than five years of experience benefit from a longer version that showcases their value.
A two-page format does have its pitfalls. Avoid a front page with no attention grabbing content that bridges an employer’s needs and your skills, and don’t fill the space with too much detail. If you keep your background concise, your focus clear and your presentation tied to the employer’s needs, you should be in good shape.
Still on the fence about resume length? Ask yourself these questions:
Is a two-page resume appropriate for your career goals?
Do you have enough experience to justify two pages?
There seems to be a growing number of professionals who applaud a two-page resume. The notion that brief is best is not always the case.
A two-page resume gives you room to:
Clearly spell out your value by using more significant accomplishments.
Highlight unique skills and areas of competencies.
Demonstrate career progression indicating stability.
Create a resume that is easy to read and not cluttered, something employers like.
Showcase activities such as professional training and community involvement. These may or may not be job-related, but can be included if they add value to your background.
A two-page resume can be a great choice and can influence decision-makers where a one-page resume cannot.
Have you changed from a one-page resume to a two-page version? What made you decide to switch?
