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The CV maker opens with the Compact résumé template and these rules already set. No sign-up, nothing uploaded, real PDF.
Open the CV makerThe rules at a glance
Each rule links to its source. "Common practice" means no official source says it.
| Length | Two pages at most; cut or shorten experience older than 15 years Job Bank |
|---|---|
| Photo | "Not the norm in Canada", and it can lower your chances Job Bank |
| Leave out | Age, weight, height, marital status, religion and political views. Never your Social Insurance Number (SIN) Job Bank |
| Voice | No "I", "my" or "me" Job Bank |
| Results | Use firm numbers: people supervised, % sales growth Job Bank |
| References | Not on the résumé. Give them on a separate sheet when asked Job Bank |
Sections, in order
- Contact information. Name, phone, email, city and province.
- Summary or profile. A few lines tailored to the job, based on the job description. (Job Bank advises tailoring.)
- Work experience. Newest first, with the most recent jobs emphasised.
- Education. Degree, school and year. Add credential recognition (e.g. a WES evaluation) if you studied outside Canada. (Our advice.)
- Skills. Matched to the job description.
Tips
- Read the job description and the employer's website, then tailor each résumé (Job Bank).
- Use Canadian spelling and the job ad's exact words for skills. (Our advice.)
FAQ
Should I put a photo on a Canadian résumé?
No. Job Bank says a photo is not the norm in Canada and can lower your chances.
How long should a Canadian résumé be?
Two pages at most, according to Job Bank.
Do I include my SIN?
Never. Job Bank says not to put your Social Insurance Number on a résumé.
Can I write "I managed a team"?
Job Bank says to avoid "I", "my" and "me". Write "Managed a team of 6" instead.
Sources
Checked 26 October 2026. Hiring conventions change and employers differ. Where rules vary, check the job advert and the official source.