It has long been perceived that a two-page long CV is ideal according to professional standards. However, when it comes to the perfect length of this document, it varies from one case to another. The length of your CV actually depends on the level of skills and experience you have. So, it could be brief or long based on where you currently stand on your career path.
When Does a Single-Page CV Apply?
For students who have freshly graduated and have just started on their professional journey, a one-page CV is appropriate. There will not be much career history that they will need to document. So, the main focus would be on educational achievements. Any experiences of voluntary services or relevant extra-curricular interests are also mentionable.
If you are a student then make sure you are not trying to lengthen your CV forcibly. It is quite alright to have a single page one, as you are only just beginning. It is more important, to be honest, and truthful about the abilities and skills you have at that point. And be confident that they will propel you forward if you are eager to work hard.
One-page CVs also work well when you have helped one position throughout your career. Or positions that are very similar in nature to each other. The section about your education can be condensed if you have had some professional experience. Extra-curricular activities also become much less important in this case. So, you have a lot of room to say anything that needs to be said.
If there are multiple roles you have handled, but the responsibilities closely resemble each other, then try to condense them. Summarize everything under a single heading so you don’t seem like repeating yourself throughout the document. A hiring manager would get annoyed reading the same information over and over again. So, structure your CV in the most comprehensive way possible. Keep it concise and as appealing as possible.
When Does a Longer CV Apply?
CVs that are as long as two pages are considered to be the perfect length. It is the recommended length for people with established careers. Most job applicants will come into this category. Hence, two-pagers are the most common form of CVs. They have ample space to display all your achievements, skills, and strengths without making it dull for the reader.
You need to make certain that you include a summary of the duties you performed for each job. Also, add the details of your achievement and the scope of the position you held. Refrain from dragging things out though if they can be started successfully in brief paragraphs. If it makes your CV stronger then go ahead and make it a short one. It is much better than writing a meandering one that is more likely to be rejected by the recruiters.
Three-page CVs are rare and should only be created if you have a long and eventful career. Top-level executives or contractors are actually the ones who need a CV of this length. An executive-level applicant will not be able to display their full potential within two pages. While a contractor who has done many different jobs for 5-10 years will also find themselves in the same predicament.
It is definitely not recommended that you go for a thicker CV. Even three pages long is an exception that is not suitable for normal applicants. Modern ATS systems might not be rejecting your CV upon its length, but the employer is most likely to. Do not make them put aside the document you have worked hard on, just due to its size. CVs are extremely important for any professional. And once you have a perfect structure and length you can build upon it and tailor it according to need.
If you already have a CV, then examine it to chop off all the parts that are not relevant. Or even if they are important, they should not have extensive detail. The purpose of a CV is to attract the attention of the recruiter. It should have content that persuades them to find you’re worthy enough for a meeting. It is not meant to be so intimate that it turns into an autobiography.
CVs constantly need to be updated depending on current trends and the new job you are applying for. It is critical to keep them precise and to clearly highlight the important elements like goals, experience, and skills. You can also reach out to a professional service to provide you with an up to date CV. Or even to help you craft an entirely new one. Hire a CV writer, as they know exactly what the recruiters expect from an applicant. They design your document on those lines, ensuring you get to the next stage.