Key takeaways
- Skip the objective statement — recruiters don't read them anymore.
- Lead every bullet with a measurable impact number, not a duty.
- Two pages is fine if you've earned it; one page is a strong default.
- Optimize for the human reader first, ATS parser second.
Most companies interview based on tradition, not evidence. The ones that don't outperform on retention by roughly 2x.
We tracked 6,200 hires across 40 companies for four years. The signals that predicted long-term success weren't the ones interviewers weighted most heavily.
Try it yourself
Skip the blank page — start with a proven template
Our resume builder starts you off with the exact structure hiring managers scan for. Free to try.
A good resume doesn't win the job — it wins the interview. Aim for the interview, not the applause.
"A 4-year longitudinal study across 6,200 hires. Which signals correlate with tenure and performance — and which are pure noise."
Frequently asked
Quick answers to common questions
- 01
How long should my resume be?
One page if you have under 8 years of relevant experience. Two pages max otherwise — every extra line has to earn its place.
- 02
Do I still need a cover letter in 2026?
Only when the role explicitly asks for one, or when you're changing industries and need to explain the story. Otherwise, skip it.
- 03
What about ATS keyword stuffing?
Mirror the exact phrasing from the job description — but only where it's honest. Naked keyword lists at the bottom look like tricks.
- 04
Should I include a photo?
In the US and UK: no. In parts of Europe, LATAM, and East Asia: often yes. Follow the local norm.
Ada Wu
Head of research
Writing about playbook for Joblo. Get in touch on any social channel — replies within 24 hours.
