When it comes to CV length, the advice varies and often confuses. Some recruiters swear by two pages, while others accept longer formats depending on the role. So, which is right: a two-page CV or a three-page CV?
The short answer: it depends on your experience and the job you're applying for. The long answer involves understanding industry expectations, clarity in content, and relevance. Let’s break it down and offer action strategies to help you choose the right format.
Two-Page CV: The Standard for Most
Best for:
Professionals with under 10–15 years of experience
Job seekers in corporate, tech, and business sectors
Recent graduates or mid-level candidates
Why it works:
Hiring managers spend less than 10 seconds on initial scans.
Brevity forces focus only the most relevant info stays.
It looks professional, especially in industries with a "less is more" mindset.
Action Strategies for a Strong Two-Page CV:
Tailor ruthlessly. Cut old or irrelevant roles. Highlight only what's aligned with the job.
Use bullet points. Aim for 4–6 bullets per job, focusing on achievements, not duties.
Quantify results. Numbers catch eyes “increased sales by 35%,” not “handled sales.”
Cut fluff. Ditch overused skills like “good communicator” unless backed by results.
Design smart. Use spacing and consistent formatting to improve readability without bloating content.
Three-Page CV: When It’s Justified
Best for:
Senior professionals with 15+ years of experience
Academics, researchers, and scientists
Consultants, creatives, or professionals with project-heavy roles
Why it works:
Shows depth, leadership, and complex project involvement
Offers space for publications, presentations, or portfolios
Provides a complete timeline for senior or niche roles
Action Strategies for an Effective Three-Page CV:
Segment clearly. Use headings like "Leadership Experience," "Publications," or "Consulting Projects" to guide the reader.
Page 3 = Add-ons. Keep the most relevant content on the first two pages. Page three is for extras, not filler.
Skip early years. Summarize early career in 1–2 lines if not relevant.
Use active verbs. Start bullet points with results-driven verbs like “led,” “built,” “implemented.”
Include context. Briefly explain niche roles or industries where necessary.
If you’re unsure, default to two pages. It's a safe bet for most professionals. But if your experience demands a third, use it—but earn it. Never add a page just because you can. The content must justify the space.
Remember: It's not about length. It's about clarity, relevance, and impact.
Quick Rule of Thumb
| Experience Level | Recommended CV Length |
|---|
| 0–5 years | 1–2 pages |
| 6–10 years | 2 pages |
| 10-15 years | 2–3 pages (max) |
| Academic roles | 3+ pages are fine |
Final Tips
Save as PDF unless otherwise instructed.
Name the file clearly: Firstname_Lastname_CV_2025.pdf
Check file size—keep it under 1MB for easy uploads.
Bottom line: Whether two pages or three, your CV should sell your story fast. Every word counts. Cut the fluff, keep the punch.