Whatever length you choose, whether you want to highlight your skills with a functional resume or make a hybrid resume that combines both, you can design your resume however you feel is best for you. Learn about the benefits of each, tips on how to structure them, and view templates.
Benefits of a 1-Page Resume
There are benefits to submitting a 1-page resume for your next job; here are some to consider:
1. Easier to Read
Time is a scarce and valuable resource for everyone, including hiring managers. They don’t have much time to read multi-page resumes, and a one-page resume is easier to scan.
2. You Get to Highlight Your Best Qualifications
Limiting yourself to one page compels you to choose the qualifications that will help you to stand out as an ideal candidate to a hiring manager. Too much space allows you to include skills and capabilities unrelated to the position you’re applying for.
3. Helps You Avoid Including Fluff or Unimpressive Details
Unless this is your first job out of high school, employers don’t need to know where you graduated. You also don’t need to include the part-time job you did in high school unless it’s related to the job you’re applying for.
4. Your Accomplishments Stand Out Better
Having a one-page resume means that the information you provide is more noticeable. One-page resumes mean fewer headers, so the details under each section get more attention.
5. Great at Networking Events
Networking events are an excellent way to connect with people who can open the doors to your next employment opportunity. A one-page resume is more convenient than giving someone a multi-page document where pages can get separated.
Tips to Make Your Employment Information Fit on a One-Page Resume
Here are some tips to help you fit your employment details on a one-page resume:
1. Customize Your Resume to the Job You’re Applying For
Review the job posting for the position you’re applying for. Ensure that you include skills and capabilities related to the job post. You may also want to check out some free online resources for customizable resume templates.
2. Make Use of Bullet Points
The best way to detail your education and experience is with bullet points. Instead of paragraphs, provide the recruiter with bullet points that let them know you have the capabilities and work experience they seek.
3. Limit Your Use of Bullet Points
Avoid getting carried away with lots of bullet points detailing your work experience. Keep your bullet list to three to five points per job. Space is limited, so you want to use quantifiable achievements.
4. Focus on Your Most Significant Accomplishments
Include achievements that will help you stand out from other job applicants. Find achievements closely related to the skills necessary for the job to distinguish yourself from other candidates. Instead of providing a detailed job description of your previous employment, focus on what you accomplished at the position.
5. Provide Minimal Education Information
Unless you’re applying for an entry-level position or an internship, employers care more about your work experience than your education. If you have specific training or certification related to the job you’re applying for, include it.
6. Get Creative With Your Formatting
You may have to get creative with the formatting to get all your information to fit on one page. There are different layouts available that you can use, including separating your headings into multiple columns. Before you get too carried away with inserting infographics, you may want to review the dos and don’ts of an infographic resume.
Template for a One-Page Resume
Here is a template for a one-page resume from Indeed.com. The page has a free download template and example.
Benefits of a 2-Page Resume
If you’re considering creating a 2-page resume, here are some benefits to help you solidify your choice:
1. Increased Readability
Attempting to fit all your employment information on one page can result in a resume that is difficult to read and cramped. A second page gives you the space to make your resume easy to read for potential employers.
2. Allows You to Include More Sections
Working with two pages gives you the space to clearly segment your achievements in a manner potential employers can recognize easily. You can include sections for technological skills, certifications, volunteer work, courses, publications, conferences, and other headings that are relevant to the industry and your work experience.
3. Room for More Keywords
A 2-page resume allows you to add more keywords to your resume than a 1-page. Including more keywords in your resume from the job posting can increase your chances of getting through the resume scanners that utilize keywords related to the job to disqualify applicants.
If you’re looking for help creating your resume with Visme, you can learn how to create a resume using Visme in 8 simple steps.
Tips to Make Your Employment Information Fit on a 2-Page Resume
Here are some tips to make your 2-page resume effective:
1. Include Contact Information on Second Page
The first page should have your name and contact information in a large font. On the second page, include your contact information one size larger than the font used for the body of the resume, so recruiters can find your details without flipping back to the first page. Your contact details should include your name, phone number, and email address.
2. Number the Pages
Put the page number on both pages in the top corner of the page. You should indicate the page and whether it’s the first or second page (e.g., 1/2, 2/2). Numbering the pages allows the recruiter to know whether they’re reading the first or last page of the resume, should the pages be separated.
3. Fill the Second Page
The second page of your resume should have an equal amount of information compared to the first. If, after completing your resume, there are 1.5 pages, it may be better to condense it to one page.
Including outdated or irrelevant information to fill the second page may work to your detriment. Maybe trying a new format can help. Learn what a hybrid resume is and if you need one.
4. Keep Formatting Consistent
Whatever formatting you use on the first page should be continued on the second page. The formatting includes your headings, font type, page margins, and font size.
5. Print Single-Sided and Keep Pages Together With Paperclip
Although it may be considered environmentally friendly, avoid printing your resume double-sided. Print two single pages, and use a paperclip to keep them together rather than staple them. The recruiter may want to photocopy or scan the resume, and dealing with staples can be inconvenient.
Template for a 2-Page Resume
Here is a template for a 2-page resume from Resume Kraft. It’s a free resume builder with downloadable templates.
How Many Pages Will Your Next Resume Be?
It’s not about how many pages recruiters expect; it’s about choosing the resume length that meets your needs. If you’re applying for a senior position, you may be better suited to create a 2-page resume outlining your various achievements, skills, and certifications you may have earned.
If you’re new to the job sector and feel intimidated by the notion of doing a 2-page resume, then a 1-page resume may be where you start. Once you choose how many pages your resume will be, select the format and prepare it, the next step is making it viewable to potential employers. You may want to check out the best websites to post your resume once it’s ready.
