One of the most common questions job seekers ask is how long a resume should be. Many people worry that their resume is either too short or too long.
The good news is that resume length is usually simple to determine. This guide explains the ideal resume length for most job seekers.
The Ideal Resume Length
For most job seekers:
A resume should be one page.
A one-page resume is best if you have:
- Less than 10 years of experience
- Entry-level work history
- Few previous jobs
- Recently graduated
Most employers prefer shorter resumes because they are easier to read quickly.
Hiring managers often spend only a few seconds reviewing each resume.
When a Two-Page Resume Is Acceptable
Two pages may be appropriate if you have:
- 10 or more years of experience
- Many relevant jobs
- Technical experience
- Management experience
If your experience cannot fit clearly on one page, a second page is acceptable.
However, avoid adding unnecessary information just to fill space.
Why Shorter Resumes Work Better
Short resumes perform better because they are:
- Easier to scan
- Clearer
- More focused
- Faster to review
Employers want to quickly understand your experience.
Extra information can distract from your strengths.
What to Remove If Your Resume Is Too Long
If your resume is longer than one page, consider removing:
- Old jobs from many years ago
- Irrelevant experience
- Long paragraphs
- Repeated information
- Outdated skills
Keep only what helps you get the job.
What to Do If Your Resume Is Too Short
If your resume feels too short, you can add:
- More bullet points for past jobs
- Additional skills
- Volunteer experience
- Projects
- Certifications or training
Do not add false information.
Quality matters more than length.
Focus on Relevant Experience
Your resume should focus on experience that relates to the job.
Employers care more about relevance than total history.
A short and relevant resume is better than a long and unfocused one.
Keep Formatting Clean
Use:
- Standard fonts
- Clear headings
- Bullet points
Avoid:
- Large blocks of text
- Tiny font sizes
- Overcrowded pages
Good formatting improves readability.
The Simple Rule
Most job seekers should follow this rule:
If you have under 10 years of experience, use one page.
If you have over 10 years of relevant experience, two pages may be appropriate.
Final Advice
A resume does not need to be long to be effective.
A clear and focused resume gives employers the information they need quickly.
When in doubt, keep your resume simple and concise.