A resume exceeding four pages raises immediate concerns about conciseness and relevance. While extenuating circumstances, such as extensive publications or a lengthy career in academia, might justify additional length, a typical job application rarely requires this much detail. For most roles, a concise one- or two-page document effectively presents qualifications and experience.
Brevity in resume writing demonstrates respect for a recruiter’s time and showcases an ability to distill complex information into key takeaways. Historically, resumes served as brief overviews, evolving from simple contact lists to the more comprehensive, yet succinct, documents expected today. A longer resume risks burying crucial information within less relevant details, diminishing its impact and potentially hindering a candidate’s prospects.
