Resume Myths Part 2

Keep your resume to one page

In reality, unless you have just graduated from school and have absolutely zero work experience, a one page resume is not only almost impossible it’s not serving your best interests.

Two pages is the standard resume length. Three is even permissible. Anything over three and you had better have lists of publications, patents and very, very impressive information to share. Otherwise, you’ll be perceived as being egotistical.

I’ve seen recent high school graduates with two page resumes. All that community service work, volunteer projects, helping out with the family business and school committees actually can be seen as work related skills.

Work History versus Experience

While you don’t want to list it as official “Work History” or “Work Experience,” this is still experience, especially if it is related to the job for which you are applying, so go ahead and include it on your resume. You can title it “Volunteer Work” or “Community Service” and highlight the skills, experience and general knowledge you gained from this experience.

Over the years, I’ve met some very impressive high school graduates who have suggested and managed volunteer projects, done presentations to a formal board of directors, created and/or maintained a non-profit web site, etc.

Until you have actual work experience to fill up the pages, showing that you have some transferable skills will help you get your foot in the door.

If you have twenty years of work experience and you are trying to cram it onto one page, stop it!

You are expected to have at least two pages of information. You don’t need to list everything you’ve ever done for each employer. However, the work you’ve done that is relevant to the job and any impressive accomplishments will go much farther towards getting you an interview than a one page resume.