Why Resume Length Doesn’t Matter!
Let’s be honest, navigating the job market can often feel like trying to solve a White Lotus murder mystery, especially when it comes to crafting the perfect resume. As a go-to resume writing expert and career marketer, I've seen my fair share of job seekers tangled in the web of resume length myths.
But let me tell you, it's not the number of pages that counts, it's the story they tell.
Take, for instance, Sarah a recent client from Melbourne. She came to me with a four-page resume, filled with every detail of her decade-long career in marketing. Despite her extensive experience, she wasn't getting any callbacks. Why? Her resume was a maze, not a clear path to her capabilities.
Then there was Liam from Sydney, a recent graduate with just a one-page resume, so trimmed down and sparse it barely scratched the surface of his potential and his incredible story. He thought keeping it brief was the key, but in reality, he was selling himself short.
Both Sarah and Liam were victims of the same myth: that there's a magic number of pages for the perfect resume. But here's the truth, the length of your resume is irrelevant. What matters is how effectively you can showcase your value. Ding Ding Ding!
In this guide, I'm not just going to debunk the page number myth. I'm going to give you a straightforward framework to ensure your resume, regardless of length, is a lightening powerful tool in your job search arsenal.
Let's dive into the core of an effective “story-telling” resume and how you land interview after interview when you do it right. Who knows, maybe you will be as lucky as Sarah and Liam, landing unreal positions with some simple changes.
Your 3-Step Framework for Resume Perfection:
Let's dive into a simple yet effective framework to ensure your resume hits the sweet spot, every time.
Essential Resume Sections:
Must-Haves: Contact Information, Work Experience, Education, Brand Trust Stamps. These are non-negotiables.
Optional Extras: Think Summary/Objectives, Skills, Interests, Languages, Awards,
Certifications: Use these wisely and only if they add real value. (no one cares if you have your Lifeguard Quals if you aren’t going for a… Lifeguard job).
Bullet Point Brilliance:
Keywords: Use them smartly. Don't stuff your resume with jargon. Pick keywords that genuinely align with the job description.
Quantifiable Achievements: Numbers talk. Whether it's sales figures, team sizes, or efficiency improvements, make sure your achievements are measurable.
Unique Value Proposition: Each bullet point should highlight what sets you apart. Avoid generic statements.
Role Relevance: Aim for a maximum of 5 bullet points per role. Focus on recent and relevant experiences.
Tailoring for Career Stages:
Entry to Mid-Level: Stick to one page. If you've got less than 15 years of experience, you can likely fit your best bits on a single sheet.
Senior and Executive Levels: More than 15 years of experience or a C-level exec? You might need more space. But always ask yourself: is my experience from over a decade ago still relevant?
Alright, you're all set! Remember, it's not about sticking to a rigid page count. It's about crafting a resume that showcases your value, tailored to your career stage, and resonates with employers. Go on, give your resume that much-needed makeover and get ready to make a splash in the job market down under, and if you need help remember to reach out to us or check out our packages.