One-Page CV: When It Works and When It Doesn’t
Jan 28, 2026
Controversy and debate; this is what the topic of a one-page CV brings about. Some swear by it, others insist it’s outdated or unrealistic. However, the reality is it’s somewhere in the middle.
A one-page CV can be incredibly compendious, straight to the point, and effective - but only in the right context. It also has to be structured in a calculated manner and with intention.
In this guide, we explain when a one-page CV works, when it doesn’t, and how to use a one-page CV format properly without stripping away substance.
Is a one-page CV still relevant?
The short answer to this is yes - though the relevance is dependent upon who you are, where you’re applying, and how much experience you have.
Recruiters still appreciate clarity and restraint. A CV on one page is quick to scan, easy to digest, and signals that you understand how to prioritise information. In fast-paced industries - this is crucial. For job applicants in major cities like New York, Singapore, London, and Washington, this can be incredibly handy.
However, forcing your CV into one page when it doesn’t belong there can often backfire. Few do it right. Tiny fonts, cramped margins, and vague bullet points make a CV harder to skim through and digest.
The real question shouldn’t be “Should my CV be one page?”, instead it should be “Does one page allow me to present my experience compendiously?”
Who should use a one-page CV?
A one-page CV works best when your experience is focused and easy to abridge. For example, a one-page CV format would work best for:
Early-career professionals and graduates
If you’re a student, graduate, or have up to five years of experience, a CV one-page format is often ideal. Employers hiring at this level are looking for potential, skills, and relevance - not lengthy career histories. Logically thinking, you have less to talk about, so a CV in one page makes it look cleaner.
Career switchers with a clear direction
If you’re changing careers and intentionally presenting only relevant experience, a one-page CV can feel sharp and purposeful. Specifically here, less really is more.
Roles that value such shortness
Industries like marketing, tech, startups, design, and sales often prefer a CV in one page. It shows you can communicate clearly and make decisions about what matters.
Who shouldn’t use a one-page CV?
If you have more than 10 years of experience, you have had multiple senior or technical roles, or you have an academic, medical, or research-heavy background, two pages is usually the best way to go.
How to fit everything on one page
The secret to a strong one-page CV isn’t cramming in all of your experience; it’s editing it strategically. Here are some of our tips for creating a CV on one page.
Start with a clean one-page CV format
Simple one page CV formats instantly save space. So with that in mind, try to avoid tables, text boxes, or overly designed templates that break Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Remember, white space is not wasted space as it can majorly improve readability.
Prioritise impact over detail
Try not to get caught up on the little details with your CV. Instead of listing everything you’ve done, focus on your:
Outcomes
Achievements
Responsibilities directly related to your role
This applies whether you’re using a one-page CV template or building it from scratch.
Use tight, purposeful bullet points
Each bullet point on your CV should earn its place. One strong line beats three vague ones. This is especially important when working with one-page CV templates, so aim to focus on outcomes, metrics, or skills that directly support the role you’re applying for.
Trim older or irrelevant experience
Experience from over 10 years ago often doesn’t need detail. A job title and company name is enough if it no longer adds value of sorts. This will help to keep your CV lean, relevant, and easy to scan.
What structure should I use for my one-page CV template?
When it comes to CV structure, there’s no universal rule. However, your one-page CV template should focus on spacing and hierarchy, and not be dictated by content. Choose a template that is clean, ATS-friendly, and flexible, and avoid templates that rely heavily on graphics or columns.
Here are some common one-page CV structures to keep in mind:
Classic one-page CV structure
This is a structure that is used on almost all CV templates. It features:
Name and contact details
Short professional profile
Key skills
Most relevant experience
Education
This format works flawlessly across most industries and fits neatly into a CV on one page.
Skills-led one-page CV structure
Many modern one-page CV formats follow a skills-led structure as it’s ideal for career changers or technical roles. It typically encompasses:
Profile
Core skills
Selected experience
Education
So, should your CV be one page or two?
If you’re still unsure whether your CV should be one page or two, here’s a nice rule of thumb to keep in mind:
“If removing content makes your CV less clear - don’t remove it.”
A one-page CV is not a test of discipline for its own sake - it’s a tool. With a short and sweet presentation and clarity at the focus, a one-page CV will more often than not work in your favour. If you find one page is limiting you, step back and allow for a second page so it flows naturally.
Try our CV templates today
A strong one-page CV feels intentional, calm, and confident. It signals that you respect the reader’s time and understand your own value. Whether you choose a one page CV format or decide that two pages suit you better, the goal is always the same - your CV should aim for clarity, relevance, and impact.
If you’re ready to create your one-page CV, you can create a polished one-page CV template in minutes with our free-to-download templates, which are perfectly designed to help you stay concise, clear, and impactful.