How many pages should a CV have?

As a recruiter, I have often been asked the crucial question, "How many pages should a CV have?" The answer is not as simple as one might think. The ideal length of a CV can vary depending on several factors, including industry, experience level, and the specific job for which you are applying. Let's go through some examples to provide a comprehensive guide.

The one-page rule

For many years, the one-page CV has been called the gold standard. This guideline applies primarily to early-career professionals, recent graduates and people with less than five years of experience. A concise and well-organised one-page CV can effectively highlight your core competencies, educational background and relevant experiences without overburdening the reader.

Why one page?

• Brevity and focus: Employers often spend only a few seconds reviewing each CV. A one-page document ensures you present the most important information up front.
• Clarity: A shorter CV avoids including irrelevant details, ensuring that your qualifications are clear and easy to digest.
• Impression: A well-crafted and concise CV demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and prioritise essential information.

The two-page CV

As professionals advance in their careers, the one-page rule becomes less applicable. Mid-level professionals, those with considerable experience, and people entering new fields may find a two-page CV more appropriate.

Why two pages?

• Depth of experience: A two-page CV allows for depth of professional accomplishments, details of projects, and roles held in various capacities.
• Comprehensive skill set: It provides space to detail a broader range of skills and accomplishments that a single page cannot contain.
• Industry norms: Some industries, particularly academic, engineering and technology, require more detailed CVs.

The three-page (or longer) CV

For senior executives, academic professionals or people with extensive experience and numerous accomplishments, a CV of more than two pages may be justified. However, this is generally the exception rather than the norm.

Why more than two pages?

• Leadership roles: Leadership roles often require a detailed account of leadership experience, strategic initiatives, and significant accomplishments that cannot be condensed into two pages.
• Academic and research positions: Detailed publications, research projects and teaching experiences often require longer CVs.
• Portfolio inclusion: Creative professionals, such as designers and artists, may need more space to include portfolios or project descriptions.

General CV length suggestions

Regardless of the length of your CV, a few principles always apply:

1. Relevance: Tailor your CV to the job for which you are applying. Focus on relevant skills, experiences and accomplishments.
2. Clarity and readability: Use a clean and professional layout. Bullet points, headings and proper spacing improve readability.
3. Quantify accomplishments: Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your results. This adds credibility and impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no single answer to the question of CV length. While a one-page CV is ideal for early-career professionals, two pages are more appropriate for those with significant experience. A longer CV may be necessary for senior professionals and academics. The important thing is to make sure that any information included is relevant, clearly presented, and helps make your application compelling.

By following these guidelines, you will be able to create a CV that effectively highlights your qualifications, experience, and achievements, thereby increasing your chances of landing the desired role.