Originally shared via email. For early access to UN job search success tips and advice, subscribe to the newsletter here.

Here's an answer to a question I get quite often:

How long should a CV be? What is the ideal length?

Well, I don't have a one-number answer for you, but I have 1 rule and 1 guiding principle when it comes to CV length:

RULE: Follow the instructions

Whatever the hiring entity stipulates in its instructions for submitting an application, honor that limit. If they don't say anything, follow the guiding principle below.

GUIDING PRINCIPLE: Relevance over length

To a recruiter, a CV that’s half a page is too long if it’s not relevant to the role they're hiring for. On the other hand, they'll read multiple pages with interest, if what's shared stays relevant to the role.

A relevant CV is a well curated one. As the saying goes, “kill your darlings”, referring to writers removing even their favorite pieces of writing, if those parts don’t serve the story.

When it comes to your CV, you're writing the story of your professional background, and the hiring unit is your audience. The key is to focus on what parts serve the story that matters to them, and cut out the bits that may be great in many ways, but don't add value to this particular reader.

The first cut is the hardest. Just do it, and watch a clearer, more cohesive profile emerge.

If you find "killing your darlings" particularly challenging, try something radical: start from scratch. Blank page. New CV format. No referencing your old CV. Immerse yourself in the description of the job you want to apply for, and then describe your work experience, responsibilities and achievements based on what your brain serves up in the context of this new role.

Wishing you bold and productive curating!