Crafting a CV is an art. For many job seekers, the idea of condensing their career onto a single page can seem daunting, but when done well, it can be incredibly powerful. A one-page CV forces clarity, precision, and prioritisation, helping you to showcase your most relevant achievements and skills in a concise manner.
Recruiters, who often spend mere seconds scanning each CV, are more likely to notice your strengths when they’re presented succinctly. But is a one-page CV always appropriate? And how can you ensure it packs the punch you need? Let’s explore.
Is it OK to Have a 1-Page CV?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on context. A one-page CV is particularly suited to early-career professionals, those transitioning into new industries, or roles that prioritise brevity and clarity. For graduates and those with less than five years of experience, one page is often enough to communicate education, skills, and early career achievements. Similarly, in sectors like design or marketing, where creativity and conciseness are valued, a shorter CV can be seen as a strength. However, for seasoned professionals or technical roles requiring detailed experience, a one-page CV may risk omitting crucial details. The key is to evaluate the role and audience, ensuring the length of your CV aligns with expectations.
How to Write a 1-Page CV?
Writing a one-page CV requires discipline and focus. Start by identifying the role’s key requirements and tailor your content to address them directly. Prioritise achievements over responsibilities—quantify your impact with metrics, and highlight specific outcomes that demonstrate your value. Use a professional summary at the top to set the tone, followed by concise sections for skills, experience, and education. Formatting matters: clear headers, readable fonts, and strategic use of white space can make a one-page CV feel substantial without being overwhelming. Above all, ensure every word earns its place. A one-page CV isn’t just about brevity—it’s about making every detail count.
Is a CV 1 or 2 Pages in the UK?
In the UK, the traditional two-page CV remains a popular format, especially for mid-level and senior professionals. However, shorter CVs are becoming increasingly common, particularly for digital-first recruitment processes or applications to dynamic, fast-moving organisations like startups. Recruiters often appreciate a one-page CV’s efficiency when reviewing large volumes of applications. That said, context is key. For more established roles, particularly in industries like finance or academia, a two-page CV may still be the standard. The decision ultimately lies in balancing brevity with completeness, ensuring your CV reflects both the expectations of the market and the specific job requirements.
What is a Normal One-Page CV?
A typical one-page CV prioritises relevance and impact. It includes a professional summary, key skills, and a focused list of work experience, with the most recent and relevant roles taking precedence. Achievements should be framed in terms of measurable outcomes, using concise language that communicates value at a glance. Education and certifications are often included but should be brief and tailored to the role. Optional elements like links to portfolios or personal websites can add depth without taking up space. The hallmark of a great one-page CV is its ability to convey the candidate’s strengths and suitability in an instantly digestible format.
The Value of Brevity
A one-page CV isn’t for everyone, but when it fits, it can be a game-changer. It forces you to think critically about your career highlights and to present them in a way that resonates quickly with recruiters. In today’s fast-paced hiring landscape, brevity paired with substance can give you a competitive edge. Whether you’re a graduate looking to break into the job market or a seasoned professional targeting roles where clarity is key, mastering the art of the one-page CV is a skill worth honing. Remember, it’s not about saying less—it’s about saying the right things, and saying them well.
Struggling with your CV?
This post is part of our CV Rescue series. You can browse the full range of CV tips and fixes here.
💡 The CV-140 Framework
Modern recruiting is a machine. To navigate it successfully, you need more than just a document—you need a strategy. I’ve broken down the four essential pillars of a winning executive profile over on my dedicated site, CV140.
The Mechanics Format, layout, and filing protocols.
The Narrative Converting career history into a value story.
The Algorithms Keyword density and machine ranking.
The Strategy Timing, tailoring, and recruiter psychology.
One-Page CVs: Common Questions Answered
I often get asked whether a one-page CV is “enough” in today’s job market. The answer? It depends. Below are the most common questions I hear from job seekers and clients—especially those unsure about CV length, formatting, and how to prioritise content when space is tight.
Should a CV always be one page long?
A one-page CV is ideal for early-career professionals, career changers, or roles where clarity and conciseness are prized. But for technical or senior roles, two pages may still be expected.
How do I decide what to cut from a two-page CV?
Start with your target job description. Cut older or irrelevant roles and focus on measurable achievements that align with the role. Keep what adds value.
Is a one-page CV better for creative or digital roles?
Yes—especially in sectors like design, comms, or digital marketing. A short, punchy CV can highlight creativity, clarity of thought, and communication skills.
Can I include links instead of full content?
Absolutely. A personal website, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile link lets you offer depth without cluttering the CV—just be sure the links are up to date.
Will a one-page CV hurt my chances in the UK?
Not necessarily. While two pages is standard, recruiters are increasingly open to shorter formats if the content is strong and tailored. One page done well can beat two pages done badly.
Interesting to see the US have largely moved to a one sided single page resume…