The appropriate timeframe for detailing work history on a curriculum vitae is dependent upon several factors, including career stage, industry norms, and relevance of past experiences to the target position. For example, a recent graduate with limited experience might list all relevant internships and part-time jobs, while a seasoned professional with a lengthy career might focus on the most recent 10-15 years, highlighting accomplishments most pertinent to the desired role.
Presenting a concise and impactful work history allows potential employers to quickly assess a candidate’s qualifications and career progression. Including outdated or irrelevant information can detract from the overall narrative and make it difficult for hiring managers to identify key skills and experiences. A well-structured resume that emphasizes recent and relevant achievements demonstrates professionalism and a clear understanding of the target role. Historically, resumes were extensive documents outlining every position held. However, with the advent of digital application systems and shorter attention spans, the focus has shifted to brevity and impactful presentation.