Generally, a resume should include about 10 to 15 years of work experience. This range is widely recommended because it balances showcasing relevant, recent experience without overwhelming the hiring manager or revealing too much that might lead to age bias

. How far back you go can depend on several factors:

• Experience level:
  • Entry-level candidates may include internships, part-time jobs, or academic projects even if they go back less than 10 years, to show relevant experience.
  • Mid-career professionals typically include 10–15 years of relevant roles, focusing on positions that support their current career goals.
  • Senior-level professionals may extend up to 15–20 years but only highlight leadership or industry-relevant roles

• Industry standards:
  • Fast-evolving fields like tech or marketing usually limit resumes to the last 10 years.
  • Academia, government, healthcare, or education may require going back further due to the nature of credentials and experience valued

• Career changes:
  • If switching fields, relevance can outweigh recency. Older roles that align with the new career path should be included even if they are beyond 10-15 years

• Job requirements:
  • Tailor your resume to the experience required by the job posting. For example, if a job asks for 5 years of experience, include at least that much, potentially extending earlier if roles overlap

In summary, aim to include the last 10 to 15 years of your career, adjusting based on your career stage, industry, and the relevance of older roles to your current job goals. Avoid listing every job from your entire career to keep your resume concise and focused