Can a Resume Be 1.5 Pages? What You Need to Know in 2025


01-03-2025


In the competitive job market of 2025, crafting the perfect resume is more crucial than ever. One question that often arises is whether a resume can be 1.5 pages long. Traditionally, resumes were expected to be one page, but as careers evolve, so do resume standards. This article explores the acceptability of a 1.5-page resume, weighing its advantages and potential drawbacks, and offers practical tips to ensure your resume stands out—regardless of length.


Historically, the one-page resume has been the gold standard, especially for entry-level or mid-level positions. This preference stems from the need for brevity; hiring managers often review hundreds of applications and appreciate concise, easy-to-digest information. A one-page resume demonstrates your ability to prioritize and communicate effectively.

However, as professionals gain more experience, a single page may not suffice to showcase their full range of skills and accomplishments. This has led to the acceptance of two-page resumes, particularly for senior roles or industries that value detailed work histories, such as academia or research. But what about a resume that falls in between—specifically, 1.5 pages? Is this a viable option in 2025?


Pros of a 1.5-Page Resume

A 1.5-page resume can offer several benefits, especially for candidates who find one page too limiting but don’t have enough content for two full pages:

  • More Space for Detail: It provides additional room to highlight key achievements, skills, or experiences without the commitment of a full second page.
  • Flexibility: You can adjust the length to fit your unique career story, tailoring it to the specific job or industry.
  • Modern Appeal: In creative or tech-driven fields, a non-traditional format might be seen as innovative, reflecting your ability to think outside the box.

For professionals with moderate experience or those applying to roles that value creativity, a 1.5-page resume can strike the right balance.


Cons of a 1.5-Page Resume

Despite its advantages, a 1.5-page resume comes with potential risks:

  • Formatting Challenges: If not carefully designed, it can appear incomplete or awkwardly formatted, with excess blank space that detracts from your professionalism.
  • Perception Issues: Some hiring managers may view a non-standard length as indecisive or unprofessional, especially in more conservative industries.
  • ATS Compatibility: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are designed to parse standard resume formats. A 1.5-page resume might not be optimized for these systems, potentially affecting how your information is read and ranked.

These challenges underscore the importance of thoughtful execution when opting for a 1.5-page format.


Making a 1.5-Page Resume Work for You

If you decide that a 1.5-page resume is the best choice, follow these tips to ensure it looks polished and professional:

  1. Prioritize Content: Focus on the most relevant experiences and skills for the job. Avoid filler content that doesn’t add value.
  2. Use a Clean Layout: Ensure the resume flows logically, with no obvious gaps or awkward spacing. Consider adjusting margins or font size slightly to make the content fit naturally.
  3. Tailor to the Industry: Research industry norms. For example, tech or design roles may be more open to unconventional formats, while finance or law may expect traditional layouts.
  4. Test for ATS Readability: If possible, run your resume through an ATS simulator to check for formatting issues. Ensure that all sections are correctly parsed.
  5. Seek Feedback: Have a mentor or colleague review your resume to ensure it looks intentional and complete.

By following these steps, you can mitigate the risks and make your 1.5-page resume an asset rather than a liability.


When to Stick with One or Two Pages

While a 1.5-page resume can work in certain scenarios, there are times when sticking to a full page or two is a better choice:

  • Entry-Level Positions: If you’re just starting out, a one-page resume is usually sufficient and expected.
  • Senior Roles: For executive or highly specialized positions, a two-page resume allows you to detail your extensive experience.
  • ATS-Heavy Industries: In sectors where ATS is heavily relied upon, a standard one- or two-page format may be safer.

Ultimately, the best resume length is the one that effectively showcases your qualifications without overwhelming the reader.


A Real-World Example

Consider two candidates applying for a mid-level marketing role:

  • Candidate A submits a one-page resume that feels cramped, with key achievements cut short to fit the space. The hiring manager struggles to find relevant details.
  • Candidate B opts for a 1.5-page resume, carefully formatted to highlight their most impactful projects and skills. The layout is clean, and the extra space allows for a more compelling narrative.

In this case, Candidate B’s resume stands out, demonstrating both professionalism and attention to detail.


A resume can be 1.5 pages—if it’s done thoughtfully. The key is to prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring that every word adds value and aligns with the job requirements. If you can effectively tell your career story in one page, do so. If you need two pages, that’s fine too. A 1.5-page resume can be a suitable middle ground, but it must look intentional and polished.

For more guidance on crafting the perfect resume, explore free, ATS-friendly templates at CVResumeNest. With the right tools and a strategic approach, you can create a resume that opens doors—regardless of its length.