| Topic Name: |
1, 2 or 3 Page Resume |
| Message Name: |
Two pages is plenty! |
| Date Posted: |
05/14/2002 |
| In Reply To: |
Anyone have any thoughts on what an appropriate length should be for a resume ?? I have approx 10 years of experience.
Is 3 pages too long ?? |
| Message: |
As a former career services director at a graduate business school, I think I can say with some certainty that even a "seasoned" job seeker like yourself can distill his or her resume information into no more than 2 pages.
The key is being selective. We use to tell job seekers that a resume is a snapshot of your accomplishments; not your life history. Focus on the last 10 years; most of your "what have you done for (anyone) lately" information should highlight the last 3-5 years.
Hiring managers want to see the entire "portfolio" but, in general, they are most interested in your recent work activities. They generally want to know: "Who trusted you (employer); what did they trust you with (your title, responsibilities); and, what did you do with that trust(accomplishments)."
In my experience, 3 page resumes inadvertently say the preparer can't edit themselves--can't make a decision about what's important to share. That's not the kind of impression you want to give someone who may be the key to getting your foot in the door--or not!
Keep it to two pages. Slice and dice the details so that you focus on what's truly important. If you must, amplify your resume highlights in a cover letter.
Best of luck!
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