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There is so much information out there about how to write a resume that it can become overwhelming. One piece of contradictory advice is the length of the document. Some people say it should never be more than just one page. Others say that it should be as long as it needs to be to include all the right information. But which is more accurate? Well, there are occasions when a resume is too long. And when a resume is too long, it simply won’t be read.

So, how can you tell if your resume falls into that category? Here are five categories to get you started.

Content

The single most important thing you need in your resume is content, but it isn’t the amount of content that’s important but the quality. Keep descriptions short and concise with only the relevant information included. You don’t need to include every job you’ve ever had, go back only about 10 years.

Length

It can seem obvious that if the resume is too long it won’t get read, but just exactly how long is too long? Most experts agree that a resume should be no longer than two pages. But some suggest it should be as long as it needs to be to get your message across. Whatever you do, pay attention to the length and don’t make it long just for the sake of adding content.

Formatting

The format of your resume may have as much to do with the length as the content. You may notice that most resumes are formatted using bullet points and short, specific sentences. This is one way to make sure that your resume is not only short enough to be read, but that information can be found easily.

Recruiters

As you’re creating your resume, it’s important to note that not all recruiters have the same expectations when it comes to resume writing. Some strongly prefer a chronological format over on that highlights your accomplishments at the top of the page. Since you may not know what is expected, this is an even better reason to keep it short and easy to read.

Simplicity

Finally, make sure that your resume is simple. Even if you work in a very specific industry, you don’t need to make the resume full of overly technical language. Remember that recruiters aren’t always experts in every aspect of the businesses they work with, so keeping the language simple and common so it’s easy to understand will be critical.

Do you want more resume advice? Contact the team at Harvard Resource Solutions, now hiring for jobs in Troy MI.