Did you know your resume could be too long? You may think you need to include all of the information from your background to give an employer a clear picture, but that’s not true. It can be confusing to decide what should and shouldn’t be included on a resume. The most important thing you can do is keep it concise and focused. If your resume is currently longer than two pages, it’s time to edit it down. Here are a few ways to tell if your resume is too long and what you should cut.
Focus on the Quality of Information
The most important thing you can do is ensure that your resume is sending the right message. Make descriptions short, informative, and relevant. Tell the reader why your experience is important and how they would benefit from hiring you. Creating a laundry list of skills you have is no longer enough to attract a hiring manager’s attention.
How Long is Too Long?
Universally, one to two pages for a traditional resume is about right. Any longer than that and your reader will begin to tune out. Don’t make it longer just because you think it should be. It’s okay to leave off jobs you had more than 10 years ago if they’re not essential. Include only the most important information so they give you a call to learn more.
Check the Formatting
The format will also affect the overall length of your resume. Bullets take up less space than paragraphs. And you may want to look at the most common types of resumes to determine which is a good fit for your specific experience. They include:
- Functional: Focuses on accomplishments
- Chronological: Focuses on dates of employment
Write for the Reader
Most importantly, you need to write to the person who will read this resume. For example, you may have a lot of specific skills that someone in your industry would understand, but the first person to read your resume may not be an expert. Leave out too much jargon that will keep you from being considered.
Is your resume too long? Nextaff Temp Agency in Overland Park can talk to you about your goals and help you find your next job.
