Allowing your resume to run longer than the standard one-page length may actually help you get further in the job hunting process, research suggests.
A 2018 study found that employers preferred two-page resumes over one-page resumes, regardless of a candidate's job level. Recruiters were also willing to spend more time reading a resume that was two pages long, according to the study.
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"I think it comes down to the fact that those who graduate today have a lot more to share than say, when I graduated, which was over 15 years ago," says Amanda Augustine, career expert at TopResume.com. "They're more likely to have more 'meat' that's actually going to support their candidacy and help them land a job."
How to write a great two-page resume: Use examples and get specific
"Two-page resumes are the new norm," says Vicki Salemi, career expert at Monster. "If your resume encompasses two pages, don't overthink it — focus on the content on those two pages to make your skills and experiences shine."
The extra space allows you to be more specific and expand your experience with concrete examples — something recruiters want to see more of, Salemi says.
"It's important to get quantifiable when you can. If you manage budgets, what's the amount? You manage teams, how many people?" Salemi explains. "If you're so focused on condensing your resume into one page, you may miss opportunities in your resume to get specific and highlight tangible things that are meaningful to prospective employers."
Video by Mariam Abdallah
Especially if you are a candidate with several years of experience, trying to trim your work history down to fit on one page can hurt more than help: "The one-page resume for candidates with several years of experience means you may inadvertently shortchange your skills and abilities by condensing jobs instead of highlighting them," says Salemi.
When putting together a two-page resume, make sure to follow the general guidelines for putting together an effective resume of any kind: Be clear and concise, use the right format, include keywords and phrases drawn from job descriptions, and highlight your in-demand skills.
And remember that while it can help to have a longer resume, it isn't mandatory.
"This does not mean you must make your resume two pages long," says Augustine. "It means, if you have enough material to legitimately give yourself two pages worth of a resume, go for it."
The article "A 2-Page Resume Isn't Just OK, It May Be Even Better" originally published on Grow+Acorns.
