DEAR PEP: How Long Should A Resume Be?

DEAR PEP: When, if ever, is it acceptable for one's résumé to make the jump to a second page? I thought this was a career "don't" in most situations, but I'm currently reviewing résumés for an open position in my company and am surprised by how many two-page résumés I'm seeing! And from people who've been out in the "real world" for less time than I have. Has the standard changed? -Alum who is actually hiring people

Dear Hiring Alum: Yes, the rule had been to keep it to one page and that is still the ideal, but because people move around so much now--sometimes whether they want to or not--you can no longer always get all the job details on one page. Still, employers are in a hurry and more overworked than ever, so don't waste time with filler information. Some tips:

• Get to the point. Include only relevant experience and skills. If you are on your second job, cut the fact that you edited the college magazine.

• There is no need to explain what you did on specific jobs, unless it is unique to the position. An editorial assistant needs no explanation unless you also managed photo shoots or wrote major features. In general, you just need: Employer, job title, dates you were there.

• Full addresses of employers is no longer needed. Just include the city.

• Keep the type size readable. It's better to go to a second page than to cut your type down to 9 pt. Some faces, though, fit more words, so experiment. For example, Garamond goes almost 20 percent farther than Arial. ( I typed an 8-word sentence in both faces at 12 pt. The Arial line was two words longer than the Garamond. Go ahead and critique my math.)

• Don't list references. Say only "references available upon request."

• Your accompanying letter is a vital supplement. This is where you fill in the gaps, add perspective, detail, and personality.  Check my post on writing a letter of application.

• Don't take up precious space with an overblown logo for yourself. Make it comprehensive, clear, and readable.