One-Page or Two-Page CV? How to Decide
Not sure if your CV should be one page or two? Your experience level and target role determine the answer. Here's how to choose.
## The Quick Answer
Use one page if you have under 10 years of experience. Use two pages if you have more—or if your achievements genuinely need the space.
A two-page CV isn't better than a one-page CV. It's just longer. The question is whether the extra space adds value or just adds padding.
## When One Page Works
A single page is ideal when:
- You're early in your career (under 10 years of experience)
- You're a recent graduate or student
- Your target role is clearly defined
- Your experience is focused, not varied
One page forces discipline. Every line must count. That constraint often produces a stronger CV.
## When Two Pages Work
A two-page CV is appropriate when:
- You have 10+ years of relevant experience
- You're in a senior or executive role
- Your career spans multiple industries or functions
- You have technical projects, publications, or patents to list
- The role requires demonstrated breadth (e.g., interim or portfolio careers)
Two pages give you room to show depth. But depth is not the same as padding.
## The Filler Test
Ask yourself: *Would I say this in an interview?*
If a line on your CV wouldn't survive that test, delete it. Filler is obvious. Recruiters spot it instantly.
Common filler:
- Responsibilities you'd rather not discuss
- Roles from 15+ years ago described in full detail
- Hobbies with no strategic value
- Vague phrases like "excellent communication skills"
## The Seniority Factor
As you move up, your CV should move up too.
| Career Stage | Typical CV Length |
|--------------|-------------------|
| Graduate / Entry | 1 page |
| Mid-level (5-10 years) | 1-2 pages |
| Senior (10-15 years) | 2 pages |
| Executive / C-Suite | 2 pages (sometimes 3) |
| Academic / Technical | 2-3+ pages (CV, not résumé) |
These are guidelines, not rules. A 15-year veteran in a focused niche may only need one page. A graduate with internships, projects, and publications may justify two.
## The Honest Question
Before expanding to two pages, ask: *Am I adding value—or just filling space?*
If every line on page two would strengthen your candidacy, use the space. If you're stretching to fill it, cut back.
## Pre-Flight Checklist
Before deciding on length:
- [ ] You've counted your years of relevant experience.
- [ ] You've identified achievements that require space to explain.
- [ ] Page two content would survive the "filler test."
- [ ] You've considered your target role's expectations.
- [ ] You're not padding to reach two pages.
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*For more on CV positioning, explore our [Career Strategy](/career-strategy) insights.*