2024 Resume Statistics From Over 12 000 US-Based Job-Seekers

In the rapidly evolving job market, understanding the intricate details of what makes a resume stand out can be a game-changer for job seekers. This article delves into the fascinating resume composition trends based on an extensive analysis of over 12,000 US-based resumes crafted in 2024.

Research Objective and an Overview of the Methodology

The objective of this research is to dissect the anatomy of modern-day resumes to unearth the trends and norms governing resume composition.

Our comprehensive study is grounded on an extensive dataset of 12 085 resumes created in 2023 by US-based users, encompassing various elements, ranging from basic demographic information to the intricate details of professional experience and skills showcased.

The data for this research comprises a myriad of anonymized factors including but not limited to:

• The type of position applied for,
• Presence of social media profiles,
• Length of the resume in pages and words,
• Summary section analysis,
• Skills listed,
• And a thorough examination of the professional experience section, among others.

In the following sections, we will go through the basic demographic information, delve into the composition of resumes, evaluate the professional experience detailed, analyze the skills and qualifications presented, and explore additional sections like side projects.

How Long Was an Average US Resume in 2024?

The length of resumes has always been a topic of debate among job seekers and employers.

However, there's considerable ambiguity concerning the ideal length of a resume.

To address this, we conducted a comprehensive study, analyzing the length of resumes across various job applications. The objective was to identify prevalent trends and deduce the impact of resume length on the application process.

Data was collected from a sample size of over 12,000 resumes of US-based applicants created in 2024, revealing preferences and common practices among job applicants.

The data reveals a clear preference among job applicants for shorter resumes, with the distribution of resume lengths in percentages as follows:

This distribution highlights that nearly 89.53% of job applicants submit resumes that are one or two pages long, underscoring a significant tendency towards brevity. Conversely, resumes longer than two pages are decidedly less common, constituting approximately 10.47% of the total, with those extending beyond three pages being particularly rare.

The propensity for shorter resumes may be attributed to several factors. Employers often prefer concise resumes due to the volume of applications received. Shorter resumes are easier to scan quickly, ensuring that key qualifications and experiences are readily apparent.

Moreover, the trend toward one or two-page resumes indicates a broader understanding of this preference among job seekers. They are tailoring their applications accordingly to align with the expectations of HR professionals and recruiters.

However, the presence of resumes with more than two pages, while comparatively low, suggests that there are circumstances or industries where longer resumes are either acceptable or required. These instances could be related to positions requiring extensive technical expertise, academic backgrounds, or long, diversified work experiences.

The data reveals a direct (and obvious) correlation between the number of pages and the average number of words per resume.

From concise one-page resumes averaging approximately 287 words to extensive seven-page documents containing an average of roughly 2300 words, it's evident that the industry, position, and individual's experience play critical roles in determining resume length.

Among all resumes analyzed, they averaged 438 words.

One-page resumes:

The average word count for a single-page resume is approximately 287 words. This suggests a highly concise presentation of the candidate's information, typically encompassing essential educational qualifications, core competencies, and relevant experiences. This brevity aligns with the popular professional advice advocating for succinctness and directness in resume writing, especially for entry-level positions or roles requiring less professional experience.

Two-page resumes:

Two-page resumes show a substantial increase in content, with an average of approximately 506 words. This allows for a more detailed summary of the applicant's qualifications, skills, and professional experiences. It's suitable for professionals with more work experience, multiple job changes, or extensive skills and qualifications that cannot be adequately captured in a single page.

Three-page resumes and more:

As the resume length extends to three pages and beyond, the word count increases significantly, suggesting a comprehensive detailing of the applicant's career journey, including multiple roles, detailed project experiences, publications, certifications, and potentially academic accomplishments (like research, teaching experience, etc.).

Particularly, resumes with six or seven pages feature an extensive amount of detail, potentially relevant for high-level positions, academia, or fields where a detailed professional history is crucial. The average word counts for these are approximately 1552 and 2300 words, respectively.

Length of a Resume and Experience Length

We also wanted to explore the relationship between the length of a professional resume and the average number of job positions listed. By analyzing resumes ranging from one to seven pages, a progressive increase was observed in the number of positions presented as the length of the resume increased.

One-page resumes:

Individuals with one-page resumes have held an average of approximately 3.72 positions. This suggests that these candidates are either early in their career stages or have maintained relatively stable roles within fewer companies. The emphasis for individuals in this group is likely on the quality of experience over quantity, highlighting key skills and contributions more than a diverse work history.

Two-page resumes:

With an average of approximately 5.33 positions, two-page resumes typically belong to mid-career professionals who have navigated through more roles and possibly have more diverse experiences. This length allows for a detailed presentation of their skills and contributions across various positions.

Three-page resumes and beyond:

Resumes exceeding two pages show a substantial increase in the number of positions held, with three-page resumes reflecting an average of approximately 6.88 positions, and this trend continues to rise with the length of the resume. These documents often belong to seasoned professionals, individuals who have held numerous roles or have extensive project-based experiences.

Notably, resumes of six and seven pages, with an average of around 9.71 and 10.5 positions respectively, likely represent highly experienced professionals, possibly including those in academia, high-level executives, or consultants with project-intensive careers.

Resume Length and Skills, Experience, and Positions Presented

Resume length vs. average number of skills, experience length (years), and number of positions:

• 1 page: 5.46 skills, 10.94 years, 3.72 positions
• 2 pages: 7.38 skills, 15.11 years, 5.33 positions
• 3 pages: 9.38 skills, 18.12 years, 6.88 positions
• 4 pages: 11.88 skills, 19.93 years, 8.31 positions
• 5 pages: 10.62 skills, 19.49 years, 8.82 positions
• 6 pages: 19.29 skills, 22.31 years, 9.71 positions
• 7 pages: 12.67 skills, 19.28 years, 10.5 positions

The increase in the number of skills and positions with longer resumes may be due to professionals accumulating more skills and changing roles more frequently throughout a longer career. The dip in skills at five pages and the subsequent rise could suggest varying strategies in resume preparation, such as a more selective approach to skill listing or a transition point in career complexity. The plateau in the years of experience beyond four pages may indicate a threshold in career duration after which individuals don't significantly change roles or gain new skills, or it might reflect a standard career span in certain industries.

Resume Header Section of US Resumes in 2024

The resume header serves as the initial point of contact between a candidate and a prospective employer, encapsulating essential contact information and digital footprints. It's the doorway through which recruiters step into the world of a candidate, guided by the cues presented in the form of address, social links, email type, and photo.

The inquiry stretched across various elements— the presence of location details, the inclusion of social media links, the choice between personal or professional email, and the decision to include a photo.

Job-Seekers’ Home Address in Resume

Out of the total resumes analyzed, 10,345 of them had a location or address present in the header, while 1,740 did not have an address included. This indicates that a significant majority (approximately 86%) of the individuals chose to include their address in the resume header.

Now, deciding to put your address on a resume isn't a clear-cut choice. In the old days, it was pretty standard to have your address up there. So, some hiring folks, especially those from older generations, might still look for it. And if you're gunning for a job in your hometown, having your local address can be a good shout. It can tell a potential employer, "Hey, I'm around and ready to jump in!"

But, there's the other side of the coin. Privacy is a big deal nowadays. I mean, who wants their personal information floating around, right? Plus, if an employer has some biases about where you live, not including your address can sidestep that issue. And if you're thinking of relocating for a job, having an out-of-town address might raise more questions. Will you move? How serious are you about the job?

A neat trick some people use is to only mention the city and state. It's a good middle ground, giving a sense of where you are without handing out your full address. And if you're applying for jobs outside of your current city, just drop a line in your cover letter or resume about your plans to move. It can clear the air right from the start.

At the end of the day, whether to include your address boils down to what feels right for you and the job you're applying for. The digital age has shifted the norms a bit, but like most things, it's all about finding a balance that works for you.

Social Media Links in Resumes

Out of the 12,085 resumes we took a peek at, a whopping 11,857 didn’t have any social network links. That's about 98% of folks keeping their socials separate from their professional personas.

Now, there’s a small group who do blend the professional with the personal. About 157 people included just one social link. Maybe they have a killer Instagram or a Twitter feed that's all about their industry. Then there's an even smaller group of 60 people who have two social links on there. And hats off to the 11 brave souls who went all out with three social network links. They're probably confident that their entire online presence paints them in a good light.

But why the variation? Well, adding social links to a resume can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can show you're tech-savvy, in touch with modern platforms, and have nothing to hide. But on the flip side, there's always the risk of a potential employer stumbling upon that one post you'd rather they didn't see.

For many, it's a matter of playing it safe by leaving socials off their resume. But for others, especially those in industries where online presence matters, showcasing selected social platforms can give them an edge.

In the end, like a lot of resume choices, it's all about understanding the job, the industry, and what story you want to tell about yourself.

What Types of Emails Job-Seekers Use in Their Resumes

From the 12,012 resumes with email addresses we analyzed, a vast majority of 10,443 people—that's about 87%—used their personal email addresses. Now, while there's a sizable chunk doing that, 1,148 folks have gone with their company emails, making up almost 10% of the lot. Then there's a smaller group of 421 individuals, roughly 3.5%, using their university emails as their primary point of contact.

Email choice on a resume can be quite telling. Most people stick to personal emails because they're, well, personal. It's an address that's likely to stay consistent regardless of job changes, making it a reliable way for potential employers to reach out. Plus, it's always a good idea to keep job hunting separate from your current workplace, and using a personal email is a step in that direction.

Now, using a company email? That's an interesting choice. It might signal confidence or maybe just an oversight. However, it can raise eyebrows. Some employers might wonder about the professionalism of a candidate using their current workplace's resources for job hunting. It's a bit like using the company's printer for your resume. It's not illegal, but it does raise questions.

The university email users are probably recent graduates or those still linked to academia in some way. It's not uncommon for students or recent alumni to use their university emails, especially if they believe it might give them an edge, signaling their recent academic achievements or affiliations.

In the grand scheme of things, it's always best to use an email address that looks professional, is unlikely to change, and doesn't mix current work with job hunting. Personal emails usually tick all those boxes, but like all things in life, it's about context and making sure the choice aligns with the story you're trying to tell on your resume.

Correlation Between Type of Email Used and Job-Seekers’ Experience Length

From the 12,012 resumes we looked into, we found some intriguing patterns when it comes to the type of email used and how it ties to experience.

Starting off with the company email crowd, which is about 1,148 people, they seem to be the seasoned pros of the lot. On average, they're rocking a solid 16.18 years of experience. My guess? These folks have been around the block, probably settled into their roles, maybe even climbed a good chunk of the corporate ladder.

Now, the personal email group, that's the biggie. With 10,443 people in this category, they've got an average experience of 13.37 years. So, they're kind of in the middle ground. Given the large number, this group likely has a mix of folks—some just starting out, others in their prime professional years, and a few who've seen it all but prefer to keep things personal when job hunting.

Then we have the university email users. A group of 421, and they're averaging about 8.56 years of experience. These are probably the young guns—recent grads, early-career enthusiasts, or maybe even folks diving back into academia for further studies.

So, if we're connecting the dots, it seems like as people progress in their careers, their choice of email on resumes shifts—from university to personal and, for some, to company. But, as with all patterns, there are always individual stories and reasons behind each choice. And while these trends are cool to spot, it's always good to remember everyone's journey is unique.

Photos in US Resumes in 2024

Of the 12,085 resumes we delved into, 6,447 decided to skip including a photo—that's a little over half. On the other hand, 5,638 folks opted to put their faces front and center, making up almost 47% of the sample. So, it's almost a split decision, with a slight lean towards not having a photo.

Now, the decision to add a photo to a resume is a nuanced one, especially when we're talking about job hunting in the US. Here's the thing: in the States, many employers and hiring experts advise against it. Why, you ask? Well, the primary reason is to avoid any potential bias or discrimination. The US has pretty strong employment discrimination laws, and companies are super wary of any potential biases based on appearance, age, race, or gender. By not having a photo, it ensures that the hiring decision is based purely on skills and qualifications.

Another reason is the cultural norm. Unlike some other countries where a photo might be standard, in the US, the focus is more on the content of the resume than the aesthetics. Now, there are exceptions. If you're in a field like acting or modeling, where appearance is a significant factor, then a photo is not just accepted—it's expected.

But for most job seekers, the general advice would be to keep the resume photo-free. It's all about letting your experience and skills do the talking. However, as with everything, there are always exceptions to the rule. Just be sure you're aware of the potential implications and make an informed choice!

Resume Summary And Objective Section in 2024

The resume summary and objective serve as the introductory notes to a candidate's professional narrative, offering a glimpse into their career path and aspirations. In the evolving arena of job hunting, these segments have adopted nuanced changes, aligning with the preferences of recruiters and the overarching job market trends.

Our research ventured into exploring the dynamics of resume summaries and objectives in 2024. The inquiry aimed to uncover the prevailing trends—whether candidates include a resume summary in their resumes. Additionally, the analysis extended to the word count, assessing if brevity or detailed narratives are gaining favor.

As we delve into this section, we will unveil the findings on how modern-day job seekers are navigating the delicate balance between summarizing their professional journey and stating their career objectives. Through a careful examination, this section aims to provide insights into the current trends governing these crucial resume segments, shedding light on their impact and relevance in the 2024 job market.

Is the Summary Section Present in US Resumes

The first question is - how many candidates included a resume summary & objective section on their resumes?

Out of the 12,085 resumes we looked into, 4,901 individuals, which is about 40%, made the strategic choice to include a summary or objective. These folks understand the importance of a strong introduction. A well-crafted summary can act as a spotlight, focusing the employer's attention on key strengths, ambitions, and what one brings to the table.

On the other hand, while a majority of 7,184 people chose not to include a summary, they might be missing out on a prime opportunity. Starting a resume with a summary can give potential employers a clear picture right off the bat. It's like having a movie trailer before the main event—it sets the tone and builds interest.

Especially in today's fast-paced job market, where hiring managers are swamped with applications, a compelling summary can make a resume stand out from the crowd. It can be particularly crucial for those switching careers, emphasizing transferable skills, or highlighting a unique value proposition.

In a nutshell, while the data shows a split in preference, there's undeniable power in a well-penned summary. It's more than just an introduction; it's a chance to make a memorable first impression!

In a nutshell - a well-written summary or objective is a resume must-have!

How Long Is an Average Resume Summary in 2024

From the data on 12,085 resumes, there's a fascinating link between the number of job positions listed and the average length of the resume summary.

Starting off with those who've held just one position, their summaries average around 45 words. It's concise, probably giving a snapshot of their unique value or the core skills they've honed in that role.

As we look at folks with two or three positions, the word count slightly increases, hovering around 47 to 52 words. They might be weaving in more skills and experiences from diverse roles they've tackled.

Moving up the ladder, those with four to seven roles have summaries that range from 51 to 57 words. With a broader range of experiences, they're likely showcasing a blend of skills and achievements across different positions.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. Individuals with eight to ten roles have summaries reaching up to 74 words on average. This group, with a wealth of experience across various roles, probably has a lot to highlight and convey to potential employers.

Beyond ten roles, the word count starts to vary more, but we see some peaks. For instance, those with 13 roles have summaries averaging around 80 words, and those with 14 roles go up to 87 words. The pattern suggests that as professionals gather more diverse experiences, they might feel the need to provide a richer context or narrative in their summaries.

However, there are some exceptions. For example, those with 24 roles have a summary of around 103 words, while those with 34 roles have kept it to 65 words. It shows that while experience can influence summary length, individual choices and the nature of the roles can also play a part.

In essence, the data paints a picture of progression. As individuals traverse their careers, collecting a medley of experiences, their summaries tend to expand, reflecting the richness of their journey. But, like any good story, the art is in balancing detail with brevity, ensuring the essence shines through without overwhelming the reader.

Work Experience Section of US Resumes

The work experience section is a key part of a resume, telling potential employers about a candidate’s job history. In this section, we’ll dig into the numbers to see what they reveal. We'll look at how many jobs people list, and see how this relates to the overall length of the resume and the amount of experience they have.

We’ll also consider how long people stayed in their longest-held job, as this can show a person’s commitment and growth in a particular role. The locations of these jobs can tell us if a candidate prefers to stick around or move about, which is especially interesting in the modern shift towards remote work noted by the use of the keyword 'remote' in the location field.

Lastly, we’ll check for quantifiable achievements listed under each job. These achievements can show a candidate’s impact in each role, making the resume more than just a list of jobs, but a story of their professional journey. Through this analysis, we aim to provide a clearer view of how people are presenting their work histories in today’s job market.

Number of Positions Presented in US Resumes

We can discern a relationship between the number of years of experience and the average number of positions listed on a resume.

Starting with the fresher crowd, those with just a year (or even less) of experience, they've averaged around 1 to 2 positions on their resume. That makes sense, right? They're just dipping their toes in the professional world, trying out roles, and perhaps even exploring internships or short-term gigs.

As we cruise into the 2 to 5-year range, the number of positions listed tends to hover around 2 to 3. This group is likely moving past their initial roles, maybe job-hopping a bit, or even taking on different roles within the same company.

Progressing to the mid-career professionals, with experience ranging from 6 to 15 years, we see an average of 3 to 5 positions listed. This period often involves climbing the corporate ladder, diversifying skills, or even changing industries. The variety of roles reflects the dynamic nature of this phase.

Now, when we reach the seasoned pros with 16 to 30 years under their belt, the average positions listed go from 5 to 7. With such a vast expanse of time, these folks have likely seen multiple industries, dabbled in various roles, or even taken sabbaticals.

Beyond 30 years, the pattern becomes a bit more varied. While some, with 34 years of experience, have a high of almost 8 positions, others, like those with 40 years, have around 5. This could be due to various factors—some might have settled into long-term roles, while others might have taken on consultancy gigs or short-term projects.

The real curveball comes with those with 41 years of experience—they average almost 10 positions! Perhaps they've had a vibrant mix of roles, or maybe they've been avid job-hoppers, eager to experience the full spectrum of their industry.

In essence, the data paints a vivid picture of a professional's journey. As they rack up the years, the number of positions on their resume tends to increase, reflecting their evolving journey.

Resume Length and Number of Positions Presented

There's a clear correlation between the length of the resume (in pages) and the average number of positions listed.

Starting with the one-pagers, which are the gold standard for many job seekers, the average number of positions is around 3.7. This group is likely composed of individuals who are either early in their careers or have chosen to keep things super concise, focusing on their most impactful roles.

Now, when we turn the page to the two-pagers, the number of positions listed jumps up to an average of 5.3. This is probably the sweet spot for many mid-career professionals—enough space to showcase a diverse range of experiences without overwhelming the reader.

The three-page resumes, with an average of 6.9 positions, might belong to those who've had a broader range of roles or those who've dabbled in various industries. It's a length that allows for depth without becoming a novella.

Moving on to the four and five-page resumes, we see an average of 8.3 and 8.8 positions respectively. These are likely the seasoned pros, individuals who've accumulated a wealth of experiences and are keen on highlighting their diverse journey.

The six to eight-page range has an average of 9.7 to 11 positions. This group is possibly made up of specialists or consultants who've taken on a plethora of roles or projects over their careers.

Now, the nine-pagers, averaging 8 positions, seem to be an anomaly. They might be diving deeper into each role, offering extensive details, or maybe even listing publications, projects, or accolades.

In a nutshell, as resumes lengthen, the number of positions tends to increase, painting a richer tapestry of one's professional journey. However, it's also a reminder that while quantity has its place, the quality of presentation and relevance to the job at hand remains paramount. After all, a resume, no matter its length, is all about telling your story in the most compelling way!

Longest-Held Positions and Overall Experience Length

Kicking things off with the newbies, those with less than a year of experience have their longest role averaging about 0.54 years. These are likely the newcomers, fresh out of school or training, who are just starting their professional journey.

As we venture into the 1 to 5-year range, the longest-held position gradually increases, from 1.35 years to 3.66 years. This period often represents the early career phase, where individuals are settling into their first serious roles, gaining foundational experience, and perhaps exploring a few different positions or companies.

Moving to the mid-career phase, around the 6 to 15-year mark, the longest-held position stretches from 3.98 years to 7.24 years. It paints a picture of stability and growth, suggesting that during this time, many professionals find roles where they can dig deep, develop expertise, and perhaps climb within the same organization.

From 16 to 30 years of experience, the average of the longest-held position ranges from 7.34 to 12.80 years. These are the seasoned pros, individuals who've likely found roles or organizations where they've invested significant portions of their careers, possibly taking on leadership roles or specializing in niche areas.

Beyond 30 years, the data varies more, but we see some high numbers. For instance, those with 35 years of experience have, on average, held a position for an impressive 16.95 years. And there's a standout at the 38-year mark, with an average longest-held role of 24.02 years! These numbers suggest deep commitment and perhaps roles of significant responsibility or expertise.

In essence, as professionals accumulate experience over the years, they often find roles where they spend substantial chunks of time, reflecting commitment, growth, and deep expertise. The journey from hopping between early-career roles to settling into long-term positions is a testament to the evolving nature of one's career path.

Do The Positions Presented in Resumes Have Location Present

A significant majority, 10,078 individuals to be precise, have chosen to include locations for their job positions. That's a hefty 83% of the lot. These folks probably see the value in letting potential employers know where they've worked geographically. It can give context, showcase willingness to relocate, or even highlight international experience.

On the other side, we've got 2,007 individuals, making up about 17%, who've decided to skip mentioning locations for their roles. They might be focusing purely on the roles and responsibilities, or perhaps they have privacy concerns.

Incorporating location in a resume can provide a richer context to one's career journey. For instance, working in tech in Silicon Valley or finance in New York City carries a certain weight and connotation. However, the decision to include or exclude location is a personal one and might be influenced by the nature of the job, industry standards, or individual preferences.

In a nutshell, while there's a clear trend towards including locations, there's still a portion who opt for a more location-agnostic approach. As with many resume choices, it boils down to what the individual believes best tells their professional story.

Job-Seekers’ Mobility - Do The Locations Presented Differ Between Positions

Diving into this data from 10,078 resumes that have location data included in the experience section:

A significant portion, 8,725 individuals, have roles that span multiple cities. That's a striking 87% who've perhaps hopped between places during their career. This suggests a dynamic workforce, with many professionals gaining experience across different geographies, or maybe they're just bitten by the travel bug!

Contrastingly, 1,353 individuals, or about 13%, have positions all located in the same city. These folks might have found a city they adore and decided to build their entire career there. Or perhaps, the opportunities in their field are concentrated in that particular city.

The decision to stay in one city or explore opportunities in various places can depend on multiple factors. Industry hubs, personal preferences, family considerations, or even lifestyle choices can play a part.

In essence, while many seem to have careers that have taken them to various cities, a significant number have chosen to root their professional journey in one place.

How Many Resumes Underline the “Remote” Work Experience

A majority of 7,358 individuals, which is about 73%, have not used the keyword "remote" in their job location. These folks are likely indicating traditional, physical work locations, possibly underscoring the importance or preference for on-site roles in their career narratives.

On the other hand, 2,720 individuals, making up 27% of the sample, have highlighted "remote" in their job locations. This is a substantial number, suggesting a growing trend or acceptance of remote work. These individuals might be digital nomads, freelancers, or employees in companies with a strong remote work culture. Especially in recent years, with the rise of technology and changing work dynamics, the concept of remote work has become more prevalent.

In conclusion, while a significant number of resumes still lean towards traditional job locations, there's a sizable chunk that embraces the remote work trend. It's an indicator of the evolving nature of work and how professionals are adapting to these changes in the job market.

Using Quantifiable Achievements in 2024 US Resumes

In the realm of job applications, quantifiable achievements on a resume are akin to gold. They offer concrete evidence of one's capabilities, turning abstract duties into tangible results. Employers often sift through countless resumes, and numbers can make accomplishments pop, providing a clear measure of success. Whether it's increasing revenue by a certain percentage, managing large teams, or executing projects under tight budgets, these figures tell a story of impact and effectiveness. In essence, quantifiable achievements transform a resume from a mere list of duties into a compelling narrative of value and contribution.

A majority, 9,784 individuals or aboutBout 81%, have not used numbers or "%" in their position descriptions. This suggests that they've opted for more qualitative descriptions, focusing on duties, roles, and perhaps skills without necessarily quantifying their achievements.

On the flip side, 2,301 individuals, which is roughly 19% of the sample, have incorporated numbers or "%" in their descriptions. This group understands the power of quantifiable achievements. Using numbers or percentages can provide a clearer picture of the impact they've made—whether it's boosting sales by a certain percentage, managing a team of a specific size, or completing projects under budget.

Quantifiable achievements can be a strong selling point on a resume, as they provide concrete evidence of one's contributions and can make accomplishments more tangible to potential employers.

In a nutshell, while most resumes in this sample lean towards qualitative descriptions, a significant number recognize the value of quantifying their achievements. It's a reminder that numbers can speak volumes, adding weight and clarity to one's professional story.

Side Projects Presented in 2024 US Resumes

From the 12,085 resumes we've delved into:

The lion's share, 9,866 individuals or a whopping 82%, have no side projects listed. It seems for many, their primary roles or formal education have taken center stage on their resumes, leaving little room or relevance for side endeavors.

However, not everyone has kept their extracurricular professional endeavors under wraps. There's a collective 18% that have dabbled in side projects. Here's a closer look:

527 individuals, around 4%, have taken on one side project. These folks might have a passion project or a single venture they've pursued alongside their main job.

As for those with two or three side projects, they make up a combined 9%, with 622 and 521 individuals respectively. This group seems to have a knack for juggling multiple interests or spotting varied opportunities outside their primary roles.

As the number of side projects increases, the count of individuals tends to decrease. From four to ten side projects, the numbers range from 252 individuals down to just 5. This suggests a smaller cohort of highly entrepreneurial or multifaceted professionals.

In essence, while the majority of resumes spotlight primary roles and experiences, there's a significant minority that showcases side projects. These projects can offer a glimpse into an individual's passions, versatility, and initiative, painting a richer, more multi-dimensional picture of the candidate. Whether it's a tech hobby turned startup or a community initiative, side projects can add a unique flavor to a professional narrative.

Single- Or Double-Column - The Most Popular Resume Format in 2024

A significant majority, 10,942 individuals or about 91%, have opted for a double column format for their resumes. This choice is quite popular, suggesting that many find it a useful way to present information concisely, making the most of the available space. It allows for a structured presentation, often enabling job seekers to fit more details on a page without it feeling cluttered.

On the other side, we have 1,143 individuals, or approximately 9%, who've chosen a single column format. This more traditional layout is straightforward and can be particularly effective when the content is minimal or when individuals want a cleaner, more linear read for their prospective employers.

In essence, while the double column format seems to be the go-to choice for most, there's still a group that leans towards the simplicity and clarity of a single column layout. The format of a resume, much like its content, often reflects personal preferences, the nature of the industry, and the specific role being applied for. Both formats have their merits, and the best choice often boils down to what aligns best with the individual's story and the job they're eyeing.

Key takeaways

The comprehensive analysis of over 12,000 US-based resumes has unveiled critical insights into the composition and trends of resumes in 2024. The findings reveal a notable preference for brevity, with the majority of job seekers opting for 1-2 page resumes.

While traditional elements like educational background and work experience maintain their significance, the article highlights a gradual shift towards including remote work experiences and side projects, suggesting an adaptation to the evolving professional landscape.

The data also reflects a strong inclination towards the double-column resume format, with a whopping 91% of job seekers favoring this structure for its space efficiency and readability.

Despite the value of quantifiable achievements in showcasing one's impact in previous roles, 81% of candidates still choose not to include numbers or percentages in their resumes, potentially missing out on highlighting measurable success.

Key Takeaways:

• Resume Length: The prevailing trend is towards 1-2 page resumes, accommodating the recruiter's preference for concise documentation.
• Remote Work: A significant 27% of resumes now list "remote" as a work location, underscoring the shift towards flexible working environments.
• Quantifiable Achievements: A vast majority are not utilizing numbers to detail accomplishments, potentially undervaluing the quantification of their impact.
• Format Preference: The double-column format is the overwhelming choice for job seekers, reflecting a trend towards more structured and space-efficient resumes.
• Side Projects: 18% of candidates list side projects, suggesting additional skills and experiences that extend beyond traditional employment history.
• Traditional Elements Persist: Despite evolving trends, many resumes still include traditional elements like home addresses, indicating a nod to conventional resume formats.
• This study provides invaluable insights for job seekers to refine their resumes and for employers to understand current trends in resume composition. It underscores the importance of evolving with the job market while also appreciating the enduring value of traditional resume elements.