How long should my CV be?

How long should my cv be? I was once asked by a candidate who earns £500,000 per year…

Fear not… I have been asked this question hundreds of times during my career, by people at all levels. My short answer is, as long as it takes to get across a good summary of your experience and highlight the key areas you want to demonstrate to a potential employer. Your CV should provide a snapshot of your professional journey while capturing the attention of potential employers…in most cases, this can be done in 2 – 3 pages.

Here are a few insights to help you strike the right balance:

1. Focus on relevance: Your CV should emphasize your most relevant experiences and accomplishments. Tailor it to the specific role you’re applying for by highlighting skills, achievements, and qualifications that align with the job description. A concise and targeted CV will stand out among the sea of applicants.

2. Keep it concise: Generally, a two-page CV is widely accepted as a standard length. However, for those with extensive experience, a three-page CV should be acceptable. Remember, quality trumps quantity. Avoid excessive details and stick to the most impactful information.

3. Prioritise recent roles: Place greater emphasis on your recent experiences and achievements, as they are more relevant and reflective of your current capabilities. Older roles can be summarized with key responsibilities and accomplishments to avoid overwhelming the reader.

4. There is no one-size-fits-all answer:  Focus on relevancy, keep it concise, and present your most recent experiences prominently. By doing so, you’ll maximize your chances of making a lasting impression on recruiters and land that dream opportunity.

If you found these insights helpful and want more advice, feel free to contact us and set up a call with one of our consultants.