Resume length is one of the most debated topics in career advice, and the answer in 2026 is nuanced. Data from Indian recruitment platforms shows that resumes between 475-600 words receive the highest callback rates for mid-level positions, while senior-level resumes perform best at 600-800 words. These numbers suggest that conciseness wins, but completeness shouldn't be sacrificed.
The standard guidelines for India's 2026 job market: Fresh graduates and professionals with under 5 years of experience should keep their resume to 1 page. You simply don't have enough relevant professional content to justify a second page, and a one-page resume shows your ability to prioritize and communicate concisely. Professionals with 5-15 years can use 2 pages — at this level, you'll have multiple roles, significant achievements, and certifications that genuinely warrant the space.
Senior professionals with 15+ years, CXOs, academics, and researchers may use 2-3 pages. However, even at this level, brevity is valued. A 3-page resume where every line delivers value is better than a 5-page resume padded with dated achievements. For academic CVs (professors, researchers), there's no page limit — include all publications, grants, and teaching experience.
Important nuance: the one-page rule is flexible based on context. If you're applying via ATS (online portal), extra length matters less because the system scans keywords regardless of page count. If you're emailing directly to a recruiter or hiring manager, brevity matters more because they'll view it as a document. The bottom line: every line on your resume should earn its place. If removing a line doesn't weaken your candidacy, remove it.