Two-Page Resume Examples & Formatting Tips

A two-page resume is acceptable when you have extensive experience, relevant qualifications and accomplishments that must be highlighted. 

If you are applying for a senior or executive-level position, a two-page resume may be necessary to showcase your skills adequately.

However, it is important to ensure that the most relevant information is included on the first page and that the second page contains additional details that support your candidacy. 

See how long a resume should be for additional guidance on deciding between a one-page resume and a two-page resume.

First, decide if your application would benefit from a longer resume. Then follow these tips to limit your resume to two pages: 

• Prioritize Relevant Experience: Focus on your most recent and relevant jobs, and trim down or summarize older positions that are not directly related to your target role.
• Use Concise Language: Avoid long-winded descriptions by using clear action verbs and short sentences that highlight your achievements and responsibilities directly.
• Quantify Achievements: Include specific, measurable results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”). This makes your contributions stand out without needing lengthy explanations.
• Limit Bullet Points: Use 3-5 bullet points per job to highlight your most important achievements. Avoid overly detailed descriptions and focus on high-impact tasks.
• Adjust Formatting: Use professional fonts and slightly reduce the font size (10-12 points) or margins (0.5-1 inch) to save space without sacrificing readability.

These steps will help you maintain a focused, well-organized two-page resume that efficiently showcases your qualifications.

The second page of your resume depends on your first page. For example, it could include: 

• The earlier part of your professional career history.
• Additional job-relevant skills.
• Your education section — including professional development.
• Professional affiliations.

Remember, the most important eye-catching details should be on the first page of your resume.

Consider these tips to reduce your two-page resume to one page:

• Prioritize Essential Information: Focus on the most important and recent work experiences, skills and qualifications directly related to the job you’re applying for. 
• Shorten Bullet Points: Keep each bullet point concise by focusing on the most important accomplishments and responsibilities.
• Use a Compact Layout: Use a basic resume template and adjust the font size (without going below 10 pt) and margins (0.5-1 inch) to create more space.
• Consolidate Older Experience: Summarize positions older than 10-15 years in a single line under a heading like “Additional Experience” without listing every detail.
• Combine Similar Sections: Merge sections like “Certifications” and “Skills” or include technical skills within the “Experience” section. 

By following these strategies, you can streamline your two-page resume into a focused one-page document that still effectively showcases your qualifications and accomplishments.

Yes, a two-page resume can be ATS-friendly as long as it is properly formatted and structured. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind while you craft your resume: 

• Avoid Headers: ATS may not read the information in headers, so avoid placing your contact details or key sections there. Include your name and contact information at the top of the first page, and simply add your name and page number on page two.
• Incorporate Keywords From the Job Description: Ensure that your resume includes relevant keywords and phrases from the job description. ATS systems are programmed to look for these specific terms when scanning resumes.
• Use Standard Section Headings: Stick to common section headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.” ATS systems are programmed to recognize standard headings, so creative titles might confuse the software.
• Continue Key Sections on Page Two: If your work experience or skills section spills onto the second page, make sure it continues seamlessly. The ATS will read page two in order, so continuing sections from page one will not confuse it.

See how to create an ATS-friendly resume for expert tips and examples to ensure that your resume passes automated screening. 

To make your two-page resume industry-specific, tailor your content to align with the standards and expectations of the field you’re applying for. 

Start by using industry-specific keywords and terminology from the job description to ensure your resume resonates with hiring managers and passes ATS scans. 

Highlight your most relevant experience, focusing on roles, responsibilities and accomplishments that directly relate to the industry. 

If you’re changing careers, emphasize transferable skills that match the field’s needs. You can start with a resume outline to ensure your resume is well-organized.

To decide between a one-page vs a two-page resume, the first step is to read the job description and find out if there is a resume page limit. If not, answer these questions. 

• Is this a managerial, senior or executive role?
• Is this information necessary to include in your two-page resume?
• Is it relevant to the job I am applying for?
• Are the extra achievements powerful enough to add?

If you answer yes to some of these, start writing your two-page resume. 

To number the pages on a two-page resume, follow these steps:

• Include Your Name: At the top of the second page, place your full name to ensure that the pages are easily identifiable if they get separated.
• Add a Page Number: Next to or below your name, include “Page 2” to clarify that it is the continuation of your resume. For example: John Doe | Page 2
• Optional Contact Information: You may also include your email address or phone number on the second page, but this is not necessary if already listed. 

This approach ensures your resume remains professional and easy to follow. Avoid adding page numbers to the first page — just start with “Page 2” at the top of the second page.

When printing a two-page resume, print each page on separate sheets rather than double-sided. 

Printing double-sided can cause content on the second page to be overlooked, especially in a stack of resumes. 

It’s usually better not to staple the pages unless specifically required. Some recruiters may prefer to scan or separate the pages for easier processing. 

Instead, keep the two pages together neatly, using a paperclip if necessary, to maintain professionalism and avoid any potential inconvenience for the reader.

A 1.5-page resume is not ideal. A resume should either fit neatly on one full page or be expanded to a complete two-page format.

If your resume exceeds one page slightly, try adjusting the formatting by condensing information or reducing margins to fit it onto a single page. 

If you have enough relevant experience, expand the content to fill two full pages, ensuring that your resume looks professional and complete.

A functional resume should typically be one page, as the primary purpose of this format is to concisely emphasize your skills and abilities rather than your work history. 

The functional resume format is typically used by individuals with limited work experience, career gaps or those transitioning to a new field. 

Since the focus is on skills rather than detailed job descriptions, there’s usually not enough content to justify a full two pages.