Your CV is your chance to shine! It’s a powerful marketing tool that can open doors to exciting career opportunities. But with so much experience to showcase, a common question arises: how long should my CV be? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are strategic ways to ensure your CV strikes the perfect balance between comprehensiveness and conciseness.
Here’s how to find the sweet spot and craft a CV that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers:
Read the Ad First!
Does the job description mention a preferred CV length? They might be looking for a quick summary or a detailed breakdown – tailor your approach accordingly!
No Guide in the Ad? Use This:
One-page CV:
- Early career: If you’re a recent graduate or have limited work experience (less than 5 years), a one-page CV is ideal. Focus on highlighting your skills and relevant coursework.
Two-page CV:
- Mid-career: For professionals with 5-10 years of experience, a two-page CV is acceptable. Ensure you prioritise the most relevant experience for the specific job you’re applying for.
- Senior roles: For some senior-level positions, a two-page CV might be necessary to showcase your extensive experience and leadership qualities.
Three-page CV (use with caution):
- Highly experienced professionals: Very senior executives or individuals in academic or engineering fields may require a three-page CV to encompass their in-depth experience, projects, publications, and research contributions.
- Exceptionally qualified candidates: If your background is highly unique and directly relevant to the position, a well-crafted three-pager might be justified.
Remember: Content is King (or Queen)!
A strong CV, regardless of length, focuses on achievements that align with the job description. Prioritize quality over quantity!
Bonus Tip: Research common CV practices in your industry for additional guidance.
The takeaway: A concise and impactful CV is always better than a lengthy one that overwhelms the reader. Let’s ditch the page count stress and craft CVs that get you noticed!