How to Structure a Two-Page CV
Page one hooks. Page two proves. Learn how to split your content across two pages so recruiters read both—and remember you.
## The Split That Works
Page one sells. Page two supports.
Your first page should contain everything a recruiter needs to shortlist you: your name, profile, key skills, and most recent experience. Your second page expands the story with earlier roles, education, and additional credentials.
Get this structure wrong, and recruiters stop at page one. Get it right, and they flip.
## What Goes on Page One
The first page is prime real estate. Every line must earn its place.
**Header**
Name, title, contact details, LinkedIn. Nothing else.
**Professional Profile**
3-4 lines that summarise your value. This is your pitch, not your biography.
**Key Skills or Core Competencies**
A tight list of 6-8 skills relevant to your target role. Use the language from job adverts.
**Recent Experience**
Your last 2-3 roles with measurable achievements. This is where you prove your claims.
> **Rule of thumb:** If a recruiter only reads page one, they should still want to interview you.
## What Goes on Page Two
The second page adds depth. It's for context, not repetition.
**Earlier Career**
Summarise older roles briefly. One to two lines each. Focus on progression, not detail.
**Education & Qualifications**
Degrees, certifications, professional memberships. Dates optional for older qualifications.
**Additional Sections (if relevant)**
- Publications or patents
- Languages
- Volunteer work
- Board positions
Keep these tight. They add texture, not weight.
## The Balance Test
Both pages should feel equally important. If page two looks sparse or padded, reconsider whether you need two pages at all.
```copy
Page structure template:
PAGE 1
- Header (name, contact, LinkedIn)
- Professional Profile (3-4 lines)
- Key Skills (6-8 bullet points)
- Experience (2-3 recent roles with achievements)
PAGE 2
- Earlier Experience (brief summaries)
- Education & Qualifications
- Additional sections (languages, volunteering, etc.)
```
## Pre-Flight Checklist
Before you send a two-page CV:
- [ ] Page one contains profile, skills, and recent experience.
- [ ] The most important content appears above the fold on page one.
- [ ] Page two doesn't repeat page one content.
- [ ] Earlier roles are summarised, not detailed.
- [ ] Both pages feel balanced and valuable.
- [ ] Your name appears on page two (in the header or footer).
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*For more on CV layout, explore our [Format & Layout](/format-and-layout) insights.*