How do you address contradictory feedback on the length of your resume from different sources?

I advise to factor advice that comes from someone who has recently been hired. If a hiring manager hasn’t done a search in a while, the feedback may not be accurate. Just because you cut haircuts, doesn’t mean you can cut hair. Working with a service who has clients getting hired is the best source.

Consider the experience of the person providing the resume or job search advice, when evaluating their suggestions. The best advice, in my opinion, comes from people with experience in recruiting or HR. That said, here's my advice. How long should your resume be? I recommend no more than 2 pages. That's long enough to give the reader the information needed to see how your skills and accomplishments match the new job. Think sound bites, not paragraphs. Cut the fluff. Start with action words. Focus on what you have done and can do for the new job, not everything you have ever done.

Consider your industry and experience. For recent grads, one page is usually enough; for seasoned pros, two pages can be fine. If you're in a creative field, sometimes it's about showcasing your style too. Tailor your resume to the job you're applying for, and remember, the most important thing is clarity and relevance. Highlight your best stuff! If in doubt, get a second opinion from someone in your field.

Executive resumes are a balancing act. You want to highlight the executive's career highlights. But you don't want a 10-page resume. Some coaches will tell you to cut everything that is more than 15 years old. I don't agree with that advice - particularly for big name early career experience. I do recommend staying at 2 pages (3 pages with board, publication, or other important experience). Understand what the executive's goals are. If they are looking for board roles, emphasize their board collaboration experience. If they are looking for C-Suite roles, then emphasize their experience in advising the C-Suite. Once you understand their goals, then you can figure out what is important to keep in (and what can be removed).

When I receive contradictory feedback on my resume length, I consider the context and the source. Different industries have unique expectations: some prefer concise, one-page resumes, while others value detailed, multi-page documents. I prioritize advice from those directly involved in hiring for my target roles. Balancing content and clarity, I ensure key details are included without unnecessary fluff. Tailoring my resume for each application allows me to address varying expectations effectively. If feedback is highly contradictory, I seek a third opinion from a trusted advisor to ensure my resume aligns with industry standards and showcases my qualifications brilliantly.

Understanding industry norms is key when deciding on resume length. Fields like academia or medicine expect detailed CVs with publications and research, often spanning several pages. In technology or marketing, a concise one-page resume may be preferred. Research your industry or consult professionals to make an informed decision.

Navigating contradictory feedback on resume length can be a headache. Start by understanding industry norms. Research each employer you’re targeting and tailor your resume to what they really want. Here's a time-saving tip: first, remove any content that won't impress that specific employer. Then, begin editing with less to whittle down. This initial trimming often aligns your resume with acceptable lengths. If it's still too long, you can dive deeper into cutting non-essential information. Remember, each industry has its preferences – tech might favor brevity, while academia might appreciate detail. Tailor accordingly!

I have ten years of health care management experience and over 20 years of human resources experience in government. If you look at my LinkedIn profile, you will see how I took a combined approach to my health care experience. After retirement, I am likely to condense my government work as well.

may be plenty. However, specific industries may require more or less, so it's essential that you ask others in your field about their resumes. People inherently like to help others, so seek advice from industry leaders that you trust and follow their lead! ??

Remember, your resume is a dynamic document. What works for one job or industry might not be optimal for another. Be prepared to adapt its length and content based on the specific role you're targeting. Flexibility is key when navigating conflicting advice on resume length.

Remember, your resume is a versatile document. What works for one job or industry might not be optimal for another. Be prepared to adapt its length and content based on the specific role you're targeting. Flexibility is key when navigating conflicting advice on resume length.

Balancing contradictory feedback on resume length requires finesse. Some sources might say one page, others suggest more. So, find a middle ground that suits your career stage and industry. Entry-level candidates can stick to one page, while seasoned professionals might need two. Gather feedback from trusted mentors, peers, and industry experts, and prioritize advice from those closest to your field. Ultimately, your resume should be concise yet comprehensive, showcasing your achievements without overwhelming the reader. Remember, quality trumps quantity. Your goal is to highlight your value, not to pad your resume with fluff.

Tight writing and ruthless editing are crucial for addressing contradictory feedback on resume length. Eliminate filler words and focus on impactful content. A lean resume helps recruiters quickly find what they need, enhancing your chances of making a great impression. Concentrate on what makes you the best candidate, cutting out arbitrary details and outdated accomplishments. For instance, early career certifications might not resonate anymore. Keep your resume relevant and to the point, capturing interest and persuading hiring professionals to interview you. It's about showcasing your value, not listing every achievement. Less is often more!

Handling Contradictory Feedback on Resume Length When receiving contradictory feedback, consider the context and source. Different industries have unique expectations. Prioritize advice from those hiring for your target roles. Balance content and clarity, tailoring your resume for each application. If feedback is highly contradictory, seek a third opinion to ensure it aligns with industry standards and showcases your qualifications effectively. Remember, your resume is versatile. Adapt its length and content based on the specific role. Flexibility is key when navigating conflicting advice on resume length.

When it comes to formatting, you must use an ATS-FRIENDLY resume template. You can find them for FREE online. These templates already have the margins, spacing, set-up, and overall "rules" to help ensure your resume flies through the Applicant Tracking Systems. ??