Should I Include the Page Number on the First Page of My CV?

When crafting your CV, a common question arises: should you include page numbers, and specifically, should the first page of your CV have a number? This guide aims to provide clarity and answer this frequently asked question based on best practices and commonly held views among hiring managers.

Differentiating Resumes and CVs

First, it's important to differentiate between a resume and a CV. A resume is typically a one-page document, tailored to showcase your most relevant skills and experiences in a concise manner. Conversely, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a more comprehensive document, often extending to multiple pages, and is used in academic, scientific, or other specialized fields.

Best Practices for Including Page Numbers

For a one-page resume, including page numbers is generally unnecessary. However, for a CV that spans multiple pages, including page numbers can be beneficial. Here are the reasons why:

Organization and Ease of Reference: Page numbers ensure that your CV stays organized and easy to reference. This is particularly important during the review process, where multiple pages might be separated. Professionalism: Including page numbers adds to the professional appearance of your CV, showing attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Avoiding Confusion: A well-organized CV ensures that when multiple pages are reviewed, applicants can easily refer back to specific sections or information. This can prevent errors in the review process.

Common Misconceptions

Many individuals ask if page numbers should be on the first page. In most cases, adding a page number to the first page is unnecessary and redundant, as even a one-page resume is presented as page 1. However, for a multi-page CV, the first page often corresponds to page 1, hence the importance of adding page numbers in the footer.

Employer Perspective

From the employer's perspective, including page numbers is largely a non-issue. Most hiring managers and recruiters will not discard a CV simply because it includes page numbers on the first page. However, if a recruiter is specifically looking for a one-page resume, including a page number on the first page can occasionally be seen as a minus.

Specific Industries

In certain industries, such as writing, teaching, or academia, having numbers for each page might be seen differently. For instance:

Writing and Teaching: If your profession involves writing or teaching, having a numbered CV can be more important, as content continuity might require clear page navigation. Academics: In some academic circles, multiple-page CVs are the norm, and page numbering is expected.

Conclusion

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether your CV should include page numbers, it is generally accepted that for a multi-page CV, including page numbers can enhance organizational clarity and professionalism. For a one-page resume, this practice is largely unnecessary but ultimately depends on the specific guidelines provided by the employer or the industry standard.

For further advice on CV and resume formatting, explore educational platforms like Udemy and the insights shared by experts such as Mr. Narayan Palani.