Can a Resume Be 2 Pages? Answered [Two-Page Resume Sample Included]

This article was written in response to this dilemma; can resume be 2 pages? Asking “Can a resume be two pages?” is like asking Google “What size shoes should I wear?” There’s no single answer, but there’s an easy one you can find out fast. There’s nothing wrong with a 2 page resume in many cases.

This article will answer below questions:

• Can a resume be 2 pages?
• Will it kill your chances of landing a job?
• When to write a two page resume and get invitation for interview from the manager or HR.
• The best two-page resume format that will help you stand out.
• When to write both a 1 page and a 2 page resume.

Can a Resume Be 2 Pages?

A resume can be two pages, but for entry-level candidates and those with less than 5 years’ experience, most should be one page.

A resume can be two pages long. Just make sure your resume isn’t longer just because it includes unnecessary details like irrelevant work experience or skills unrelated to the job you’re applying for.

When you tailor your resume to the job description you are applying and still can’t fit your related past jobs and skills on one page, go for two pages. Two-page resumes are typical for very experienced candidates. On a two-page resume, it’s crucial to use tons of white space.

Some of the confusion might just be because of the CV and RESUME distinction. A CV is usually much longer and more detailed than a resume and some job seekers don’t know the difference between the two.

How long is a Resume Supposed to Be?

While there’s no clear answer for how long every resume should be, make yours long enough to show you fit the job description you are applying for. Customize your resume first, most applicants can do that easily with a one-page resume.

Can a Resume Be More than One Page?

A resume can be more than one page. But make your resume as short as possible while still showing you’re experienced enough. Since most managers skim, two-page resumes can be daunting. But very experienced applicants can’t usually prove their worth without a two page resume.

In this modern age, many submissions go through an ATS (Applicant Tracking System). An applicant tracking system (ATS) helps companies organize candidates for hiring and recruitment purposes. These systems allow businesses to collect information, organize prospects based on experience and skill set, and filter applicants.

Those don’t limit you to one page, so you can write as much as you want. Be warned that a single-pager still works best for any job that doesn’t need a highly-seasoned candidate.

When to write a two page resume and get invitation for interview from the manager or HR.

There are two situations when you must write a 2-page resume. If you fall into the categories shown below, don’t write a one-page resume.

When a Job Description Needs Lots of Experience

Some jobs need mountains of experience. For those, you’re better off showing two pages of achievements on a resume, or more.

Consider a 2-page resume if you’re in any of the careers below:

• Project Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Computer Science Manager
• Data Analyst
• Engineer
• Business Analyst
• Financial Analyst
• Accountant
• Executive
• Artist
• Sales Manager
• Office Manager

In fact, almost any management job offer deserves a 2-page resume.

When You Can’t Cut Without Hurting Your Message

If you are wondering how to shorten a two-page resume, cut your resume down from two pages by tossing everything you can. Once you’ve shortened it, compare them. If the two-page resume does the job better, keep using it.

When You Should Never Write a Two-Page Resume

If you’re an entry-level candidate, there’s almost no need to write a two-page resume because you simply don’t have enough experience yet. But if you’re going for an internship and you’ve got lots of academic achievements, make your resume two pages.

Two Page Resume Format

Just follow the formatting tips below for 2 page resume

• Repeat Your Name and Contact Info on Page 2

It is advisable you put your contact info on both pages of your resume. The hiring manager might see an accomplishment he or she really likes on the second page. Your name and contact info should be there like a company logo, reminding him or her of who you are.

• Don’t Repeat Your Skills on the Second Page

Repeating your skills or other core information on page 2 of your resume can be disappointing. The doubled information will slow the hiring manager down. You don’t want to distract him or her from your glowing achievements.

• Don’t Repeat Your Resume Summary on Page Two

Page two of your resume should show only new information the manager hasn’t seen before. If you repeat your summary, he or she could think you printed page 1 twice. Either way, it slows the process. It’s also just plain poor resume etiquette.

• Put Your Most Important Facts on Page 1

The first page of a two page resume should carry all the most important info. That means most work experience, skills list, resume summary, and certifications all go on page one. Put publications, conferences, and all additional material on the second page.

• Number Your Pages

Are you worried that the employer won’t notice the second page? You can add page numbering in the 1 of 2 and 2 of 2 format.

 

• Don’t Submit a Double-Sided Resume

A 2-sided resume may sound good, but most resumes are submitted digitally anyway. If you do submit a paper resume, the manager might not see the second side. So, hand in two sheets.

Two-Page Resume: Staple or Paperclip?

I believe you don’t want that second page go missing, so you can use a paperclip. Some managers might want to photocopy or scan your resume and staples get in the way.

When to Write Both a 1-Page and a 2-Page Resume

It’s often hard for applicants to settle the one or two page resume question. That’s because it’s hard to judge the difference between two things you don’t have in hand. Making both a one and two page resume is a great idea. Create 2-Page Resume for jobs or offers that ask for more experience.

Don’t make a resume without knowing the key steps guaranteed to get more interviews. See our guide: How to Make a Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide + NEW Template and Examples INCLUDED

In Summary

If you’re an entry-level candidate, there’s almost no need to write a two-page resume because you simply don’t have enough experience yet. Use two page resumes if you’re very experienced, or if the job offer asks for a long work history.

Also use a two-pager if you can’t cram all your great relevant accomplishments on a single page. Finally, if your resume is less than 1.5 pages, you don’t need a 2-page resume, do a little cutting to chop it down to size.

Now you know the answer to the question, can resume be 2 pages? Look at the position you’re applying for and then work out what experience, education, and qualifications you want to add.

Design this over two pages, so you create an eye-catching and punchy Resume/CV that is easy to read. Two (2) pages will give you enough space to do this but also keep the document concise and to the point.