Are you writing your resume and wondering how long it should be
? A question often pondered is the following: "Is there a set limit to the number of resume pages for your CV"? Read on as I provide a guide for you to know exactly how long is too long and what is the perfect resume page limit?
Firstly - Do Not Be Fooled By the Two Page Resume Rule
Speaking with recruiters regularly they stress that a resume really has no official page limit set. The important thing to note is that it is the content and relevance that is important and the size will vary depending on your job history and age.
Each job however, should be limited to approximately 100 words of content. Make sure you are specific with the information relevant to the positions you are applying for.
An example is a person applying for a job in HR. If you had an office job where you were responsible for employing, pays, superannuation, sick leave entitlements etc. but also acted as office support to get coffees, setup morning teas, collect the managers dry cleaning, then it is important not to waste your resume space with these tasks that wont add any value to your job description. If anything by adding these tasks it will result in a washed out or faded effect to your suitability.
A HR recruiter does not care if you collected dry cleaning or anything else unrelated so stick to the tasks listed on the advertised position description that you have experience in.
Secondly Limit the Number of Positions Listed
It is not necessary to list all 10 positions held over the last 30 years. Try to stick to 10-15 years back and then add a line that merely states "Previous Positions held prior to {add year} can be provided upon request"
This is a great way to focus your resume on your relevant work history for the current position you are applying for.
Last of All
List your positions from most recent to least to provide emphasis on your current skills. Make sure you focus your wording for all the transferable skills amongst your most current positions as that is the area the employer will seek out first.