How long should your CV be?

[Third Sector Lab]

I've recently seen a post asking for a 'detailed CV'. Now I'd always worked on the principle that more than 2 sheets of A4 is too much but perhaps I'm wrong.

So...how long should a CV be?

 

[Brian McIntosh]

A very good friend of mine works in HR and her take on it is 2 pages of A4 on single sides, maybe 3 pages at a push but absolutely no more. Career history going back 10 years.

 

[stugster]

I had someone send me one that was fourteen pages long!

I was always taught to only include things in your CV that are relevant for the job you're applying for.

So, for example, if you're applying to be a tree surgeon, the parts where you tweak high-end mainframes are probably just a waste of space. Whereas the part about you being the Guinness World Record holder for cutting down a Spruce is probably worthwhile.

I'd say 2 to 3 pages (including all the basic information about you, contact details, etc.)

Any more and it just gets boring.

The university of Kent has some examples online: Example CVs

 

[Former Member 1]

I've recently seen a post asking for a 'detailed CV'. Now I'd always worked on the principle that more than 2 sheets of A4 is too much but perhaps I'm wrong.

So...how long should a CV be?

How long should a piece of string be? As long as it needs to be!

I would expect a detailed CV to provide me with a pretty much full employment and academic history. A brief CV on the other hand would go back no more than about 8-10 years in any detail and just skim any previous history.

It's difficult because the CV of a 50-year old executive will emphasise very different information from that of a 23 year old graduate. But even id for some bizarre reason it were necessary to submit a 14 page CV I'd expect to be able to glean a good snapshot of the person within 2-3 pages.....

 

[Third Sector Lab]

I think 2 it is!

 

[promostamper]

depends on what you are applying for - one page is good two pages better also depends on how it is formatted etc

 

[Power Lunch Club]

If you are applying for a specific position, no more that 2 pages.

If you are sending out on spec....then 1 page. Remember businesses may get sent lots of CV's and the person receiving them will only give them a cursory glance, if they are busy and have lots to read....and if the good stuff is hidden on page 2 then it will be binned.

Gordon

 

[TGES]

Employers prefer a CV to be no more than 2 pages long. They really do not have the time to read CVs all day.
I would recommend creating a CV that fits the job being applied for, rather than a general CV. This means you can be very specific about the skills and experience you have that meet the person spec. That would be my interpretation about 'a detailed CV'.
The employer wants to read that you are perfect for the job, so make the CV fit. But dont tell any fibs.

Curriculum Vitae - means 'story of your life'....but by eck.... 14 pages is just a little scary.

 

[mikelley]

The one of the most damaging CV Writing mistakes is not keeping the CV on a maximum of 2 pages. All CVs can be concised down to 2 pages, more pages can be a reason for rejection by a potential recruiter or employer. For more CV help </a> contact Mike Kelley at First Impressions CV Writing Service.
www.cv-service.org

 

[Gutsy]

I worked in a recruitment company doing CV writing for over five years and have typed a fair few CVs since then, having started up my own typing service. In the recruitment company I was well placed, as I had permission to speak to clients to see what they were looking for, and to applicants to see what their strengths were. I've moved to the feeling that one should actually have two CVs - one short one, not more than one or two pages max (single side) giving the basic information of what you've done. Then, I recommend that you have a longer, more in depth one which you can present on being asked for a detailed CV or when you go to an interview. Both need to be accurate, professional and well presented. I maintain that a professional CV goes a long way to paving the way for you. If you are looking for further help with this, please contact me, I'd be only too happy to assist.

 

[johnthesearcher]

I would agree that 2 pages which carefully and accurately reflect the job specification is the most effective when supported by a well thought out and focussed cover letter.

I would concede the obvious - that someone who is 50 years old will have a potentially longer historical CV than someone who is 28 years old so it doesn't do any harm to have a full CV on standby ....if requested by the potential employer.

John

 

[Bayartry]

I've always believed that brevity is best.

 

[AmberEvans]

Thanks, nice post

 

[joan123]

I've always believed that brevity is best.

 

[Okdar]

I think 2 it is!

 

[hubmag12]

A well-crafted CV is essential when it comes to showcasing your qualifications and experiences to potential employers. While there are no strict rules regarding its length, it is generally recommended that a CV should be between two and three pages long. By adhering to this guideline, you can effectively present your relevant background and skills to the hiring manager, enabling them to assess your suitability for the desired position more efficiently.

Maintaining a concise and focused CV within the two to three-page range has several advantages. Firstly, it allows the hiring manager to quickly grasp the key aspects of your professional journey and understand how your experience aligns with the specific requirements of the job they are seeking to fill. A concise CV saves their time and effort, making a positive impression and increasing the likelihood of them delving deeper into your qualifications.

By carefully selecting the most impactful information and structuring it in a clear and organized manner, you can ensure that your CV remains concise while still highlighting your most relevant accomplishments and skills. Begin with a compelling summary statement or professional profile that captures the essence of your expertise and career goals. Follow this with a concise yet comprehensive overview of your work history, emphasizing the positions, responsibilities, and achievements that directly relate to the target job.

Remember, the goal is not to include every single detail of your professional life but to present a coherent and compelling narrative that emphasizes your most significant accomplishments and qualifications. Tailor the content of your CV to the specific role you are applying for, showcasing the experiences that best demonstrate your suitability and proficiency in the desired field.

In addition to the main body of your CV, you may include sections dedicated to your education, certifications, relevant skills, and notable achievements. Keep these sections concise, focusing on the most pertinent details that enhance your candidacy.

To maintain an optimal length, carefully review your CV and remove any redundant or irrelevant information. Prioritize quality over quantity and ensure that each detail you include serves a purpose in demonstrating your qualifications.

Lastly, always proofread your CV thoroughly to eliminate any errors or inconsistencies. A well-organized, error-free, and focused CV within the two to three-page range will leave a lasting impression on potential employers and increase your chances of securing an interview.