How to Make a Resume: Step-by-Step Writing Guide for 2023
How to write a resume that will get you the job you're looking for? This step-by-step guide will show you the best resume examples, and you can write a resume in a few easy steps.
Is a 2-page resume right for me? Let's discuss:
You write a 2-page resume. The hiring manager says, “Ugh, I don't have time for this,” and clicks ‘delete’.
You send a 1-page resume. The manager assumes you lack experience, clicks ‘delete’ again.
So, which one's right? Both of them! It’s just that asking, “Can a resume be two pages?” is like googling “What size shoes should I wear?” without any measurements—you just need more input.
This guide will answer:
- Can a resume be 2 pages? Will it kill your chances of landing a job?
- When to write a two page resume and get the manager on the phone.
- The best two-page resume format that will help you stand out.
- When to write both a 1 page and a 2 page resume.
Here's a sample 2 page resume format made with our fast online resume builder.
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Sample resume made with our builder—See more resume samples here.
So, there's your perfect two page resume sample.
Were you looking for resume templates? See:
- Free One Page Resume Templates
- Apple Pages Resume Templates
- Best Resume Templates
- College Resume Templates
- Google Doc Resume Templates
- Modern Resume Templates
If you are still looking for more examples check our selection of Resume Examples for 2023.
Next, I'll show you whether you should use multiple page resumes, and how to do it right.
When to Use a Two-Page Resume
A two-page resume works well for many job candidates. It's particularly useful for job seekers with 10 or more years of relevant experience. The extra page can be necessary to communicate all of the skills and experience the employer needs to see.
But deciding how long your resume should be can be tough. Not sure if you can use a 2-page resume? Use this handy quick reference.
After the table, find more tips on 2 page resume formatting, and when to write a two page resume. Also, learn when to avoid two pages like the swine flu.
Two Page Resume Facts | |
Can a Resume Be Two Pages? | Yes |
Entry-Level Resume Length | 1 Page |
Seasoned Worker Resume Length | 2+ Pages |
Employers Who Say Entry-Level Workers Should Have 1 Page Resumes | 66% |
Employers Who Say Seasoned Workers Should Have 2+ Page Resumes | 77% |
Seasoned Employees Who Don't Use 2-Page Resumes | 39% |
How far back should a resume go? See here: How Many Years / Jobs to List on a Resume?
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Can a Resume Be 2 Pages?
A resume can be two pages, but most should be one page. That's true for entry-level candidates and those with less than 5 years' experience.
If the job requires Elon-Musk-level accomplishments, or you can't cram your achievements on one page, write a two page resume.
How Long Should a Resume Be?
In a survey of employers, 66% said an entry-level resume should be one page. Meanwhile, 77% said seasoned workers should have at least a 2-page resume, and maybe longer. Shockingly, 39% of experienced workers say their resumes are only one page long.
How Long is a Resume Supposed to Be?
While there's no clear answer for how long every resume should be, make yours long enough to show you fit the job like spray-on shoes. Customize your resume first. Most applicants can do that easily with a one-page resume. If you can't use two.
Can a Resume Be More than One Page?
A resume can be more than one page. But make your resume as short as possible while still showing you're experienced enough. Since most managers skim, two-page resumes can be daunting. But very experienced applicants can't usually prove their worth without a two page resume.
Can a Resume Be 2 Pages?
A resume can be two pages long. Just make sure your resume isn't longer just because it includes unncessary details like irrelevant work experience or skills unrelated to the job you're applying for. When you tailor your resume to the job ad and still can't fit your related past jobs and skills on one page, go for two pages. Two-page resumes are typical for very experienced candidates.
Some of the confusion might just be because of the cv vs resume distinction. A CV is usually much longer and more detailed than a resume and some job seekers don't know the difference between the two.
One or Two Page Resume for 2023?
In 2023, many submissions go through an ATS (Applicant Tracking System). Those don't limit you to one page, so you can write as much as you want. Be warned that a single-pager still works best for any job that doesn't need a highly-seasoned candidate.
Why the Hate for 2-Page Resumes?
In the past, fax machines could choke and lose your second page. Also, mailed-in resumes could have their pages separate. Those reasons are largely gone today. If you've really got enough impressive, relevant accomplishments to fill two pages, use them.
Pro Tip: Now you know a resume layout can be two pages sometimes. In the next section, find out exactly when you'll need a multiple page resume, and how to do it right.
Think you might do better without making a two page resume? Don't sink your job search by choosing wrong. See our guide: Should a Resume Be One Page? How to Make It a Single Page [+Tips].
2
Sample 2-Page Resume Templates
One thing many candidates with a two-page resume worry about—
It just doesn't look as neat and clean as a good 'ol one-pager.
Well, it doesn't have to be the case... IF you let our resume builder help you out with the design. Our software will keep the formatting of both pages uniform and give your document a professional look.
See some of those two-page resume templates available in our builder, pick the one you like and create your resume in minutes!
1. Nanica
Nanica is a very minimalist, simple resume tempalate. It will work great for formal job applications, as well as for academic purposes. Notice how all the key information is presented on the first page—the second page works as a supplement and provides more details on the candidate's background.
2. Primo
The initials in the header on both pages make it clear that both are part of the same job application—no room for confusion here. The styling of this resume template is clean and elegant, with little icons next to section headings helping with easier navigation through the document.
3. Cubic
The right-hand side column for personal details and skills lets you make smarter use of the space available and present your best assets in an easy-to-digest way. Notice how the header and contact information stay the same on both pages—make sure it's also the case on your two-pager.
4. Diamond
Diamond is a great choice for experienced candidates. The whole resume is full-width, making it easy to read from top to bottom. Again, the most important bits about your career should be prominent on the first page, while the second one can present extra information that prove your unique value.
5. Newcast
On a two-page resume, it's crucial to use tons of white space. Newcast does exactly that. Even if the contents of your resume are on the longer side of the spectrum, recruiters won't be overwhelmed by the amount of text.
When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional resume template here for free.
When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.
3
When to Write a Two Page Resume
There are two situations when you must write a 2-page resume.
If you fall into the categories shown below, don't write a one-page resume. If you do, you'll look about as strong as Michael Cera with a twisted ankle.
Don't see yourself here? In that case, find a way to cut your second page.
When a Job Description Needs Lots of Experience
Some jobs need mountains of experience. For those, you're better off showing two pages of achievements on a resume, or more.
Consider a 2-page resume if you're in any of the careers below.
- Project Manager
- Marketing Manager
- Computer Science Manager
- Data Analyst
- Engineer
- Business Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Accountant
- Executive
- Artist
- Sales Manager
- Office Manager
In fact, almost any management job offer deserves a 2-page resume.
When You Can't Cut Without Hurting Your Message
Wondering how to shorten a two-page resume? Try this: Cut your resume down from two pages by tossing everything you can. Once you've shortened it, compare them. If the two-page resume does the job better, keep using it.
If it's Less than 1.5 Pages, Make it One Page
There's nothing wrong with a 2 page resume in many cases. That said, a resume that's one page plus a couple lines makes you look sloppy. Unless your resume is at least 1.5 pages, cut it down to one.
When You Should Never Write a Two-Page Resume
If you're an entry-level candidate, there's almost no need to write a two-page resume. You simply don't have enough experience yet. The exception? If you're going for an internship and you've got lots of academic achievements, make your resume two pages.
Pro Tip: If you're one of the few who need a second page, keep reading to find great two-page resume format tips.
Not sure yet whether you need a one or two page resume? Find out for certain. See our guide: How Long Should a Resume Be? Ideal Resume Length for 2023 (+Tips)
4
Two Page Resume Format
Imagine this:
You submit a two-page resume. You're very experienced, so the hiring manager is glad to see the second page.
Then, disaster strikes. You've made a couple glaring blunders in your 2-page resume format.
In other words, you've written a bad resume.
To avoid the pitfalls, use the 2 page resume format tips below.
Why Aren't there More Two Page Resume Examples?
There aren't a lot of two-page resume examples on the internet. That's because nobody needs them. Two page resume format is just like the format for shorter resumes. Just follow the formatting tips for 2 page resumes shown here.
Repeat Your Name and Contact Info on Page 2
Why put your contact info on both pages of your resume? Convenience. The hiring manager might see an accomplishment she really likes on the second page. Your name and contact info should be there like a company logo, reminding her of who you are.
Don't Repeat Your Skills on the Second Page
Repeating your skills or other core information on page 2 of your resume can be tantalizing. Resist. The doubled information will slow the hiring manager down. You don't want to distract her from your glowing achievements.
Don't Repeat Your Resume Summary on Page Two
Page two of your resume should show only new information the manager hasn't seen before. If you repeat your summary, she could think you printed page 1 twice. Either way, it slows the process. It's also just plain poor resume etiquette.
Put Your Most Important Facts on Page 1
The first page of a two page resume should carry all the most important info. That means most work experience, skills list, resume summary, and certifications all go on page one. Put publications, conferences, and all additional material on the second page.
Number Your Pages
Worried the employer won’t notice the second page? You can add page numbering in the 1/2 and 2/2 format.
Don't Submit a Double-Sided Resume
A 2-sided resume may sound good, but most resumes are submitted digitally anyway. If you do submit a paper resume, the manager might not see the second side. So, hand in two sheets.
Two-Page Resume: Staple or Paperclip?
You don’t want that second page go missing, do you? Use a paperclip. Some managers might want to photocopy or scan your resume and staples get in the way.
Pro Tip: Now you know how to make a 2 page resume (or 3 page resume). Next, find out if you need both a long and short resume. See the next section for tips.
Did you know there are three resume formats? Make sure you pick the right one for the job offer. See our guide: Resume Formats: Pick the Best One in 3 Steps (Examples & Templates).
5
When to Write Both a 1-Page and a 2-Page Resume
Question: Does writing a 2 page resume and a one-pager ever make sense?
Answer: Almost always.
It's often hard for applicants to settle the one or two page resume question.
That's because it's hard to judge the difference between two things you don't have in hand.
That's why making both a one and two page resume is a great idea.
Start by making a 2-page resume. Include your best achievements that fit the job offer.
Then, fire up your critical sense. What could you cut out and still tell the same story?
Chop your work down to one page. This exercise alone will often reveal your most impressive strengths.
Once you've got a one page and a two page resume, use both. Pick the two pager for offers that ask for more experience.
Pro Tip: Once you've got two resumes, you might realize the one pager says it all in less space. In that case, don't send in the 2-page resume.
Don't make a resume without knowing the key steps guaranteed to get more interviews. See our guide: How to Make a Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide (+30 Examples).
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
Takeaway
It's not difficult to master 2-page resume format. The hard part? Knowing whether to write a one or two-page resume in the first place.
- Use two page resumes if you're very experienced, or if the job offer asks for a long work history.
- Also use a two-pager if you can't cram all your great relevant accomplishments on a single page.
- Finally, is your resume less than 1.5 pages? If so, you don't need a 2-page resume. Do a little cutting to chop it down to size.
Want to know more about how to write a 2 page resume? Maybe you've got some great two page resume ideas? Give us a shout in the comments! Let's start the conversation!
