Consolidating 15+ years IT experience into 2/3 pages. Any one succeeded in it? Some want it short (6 pages is too many details). Some want details ( short version is essentially bulletted buzz words). Got it into 6 pages by giving details of only last 5 years - older ones are summarized.
Location: British Columbia
Posted on: 02-06-11 14:15:02
Quote:
Originally posted by aqua
Consolidating 15+ years IT experience into 2/3 pages. Any one succeeded in it? Some want it short (6 pages is too many details). Some want details ( short version is essentially bulletted buzz words). Got it into 6 pages by giving details of only last 5 years - older ones are summarized.
You even write like an IT person. To find a new position, you will have to revert to writing complete sentances
6 pages for a resume *is* too long. Bring it down to 2 pages (Ariel font, size 11 or 12 but no smaller than 11). Use good quality paper stock and do not photocopy resumes whatever you do. Ensure you modify each resume to fit the requirements of the job you are applying for.
You can keep a longer version of your resume (like a curriculum vitae) which can be up to 10-12 pages. This can have more detailed explainations including what projects you have been involved in etc.
If most of your experience is very similar, you may want to use a functional format of a resume and list your skills and accomplishments then a list of jobs. however most people use a chronological resume, which starts with the most recent job and goes backward.
As a rule of thumb, you can go back about 10 years. if work from before that is important or you feel defines your qualifications for the position you are applying for then I would include it.
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Location: Western Hemisphere
Posted on: 02-06-11 14:21:18
Quote:
Originally posted by aqua
Consolidating 15+ years IT experience into 2/3 pages. Any one succeeded in it? Some want it short (6 pages is too many details). Some want details ( short version is essentially bulletted buzz words). Got it into 6 pages by giving details of only last 5 years - older ones are summarized.
Two pages. That's it. Once you get to talk to a potential employer or recruiter, tell them you'd like to send them your 3, 4 or 6 page resume and they usually welcome that. But sending more than 2 pages for the first time will not get too much attention beyond the first 2 pages. I have managed my 13 year expr in 2 pages and I have a more detailed 3 page resume for a follow up.
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Dimple2001
I'm sure you don't need a third person to say the same thing but I feel compelled to agree - please keep your resume to 2 pages max. You need to tailor it specifically to each company and/or position you apply for. If you know what they are looking for then address each thing that they list in their ad or description of the position. Anything that is not relevant can be removed - keep it on your longer resume and include it when modifying your resume for positions where it may be relevant.
Resumes longer than 2 pages go into the garbage, and I know that can mean a lot of great experience going into the trash, but that is how it is.
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Is that you do all the things you set out to do
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Appreciate the pointers. Thanks! Got to work on it this weekend.
Thanks!
