Resume Objectives Tips

As mentioned above, there are two schools of thought about using resume objectives. So, to get a better understanding of the differing viewpoints, we'll look at each one in turn, along with some resume objective examples that illustrate the points.

Ask anyone who does not believe in using job objectives on resumes why, and they'll tell you it's because resume objectives are so often self-serving. In other words, they say what you want, but they usually fail to say how this is relevant to the employer. You see, the company that hires you is more interested in the potential benefits you'll bring to the organization, not how they can help you achieve your goals. You'll be there to serve them, not the reverse. Do you see?

Another problem is that a narrowly stated resume objective can be limiting. The company may not even consider you for a position you'd love if you have clearly stated in your objective that you're only interested in one type of job.

Finally, most resume objectives are so vague as to be meaningless. Why waste valuable resume real estate with something that will not help (and may harm) your quest towards obtaining the coveted interview?

These resume objective samples show how a poorly conceived and written job objective can do more harm than good. Resume objectives may - in certain situations - serve a purpose. But if you use them make sure they don't look like the ones we've collected here!

From CareerJournal.com and Robert Half:

"To work for a company with a warm environment and great pay."

"To utilize my skills and experience working for an aggressive company, but more important, a well-balanced company."

"Prepare myself to become president of a large corporation. I would like to do this through continued exposure to top management who are willing to mentor me. At the same time, I have a pilot's license and am presently studying for my instrument rating. This will enable me to rapidly move myself and my mentors in all weather conditions."

"To work as a bookkeeper where acuracy is appreciated."

"A job that challenges me. Challenge is the core and mainstay of my life, whether it's scaling a high mountain or riding out a storm in my sailboat. Without a challenge, a man might as well be dead."

Here's one of the most typical meaningless resume objective samples:

"________position allowing me to fully utilize my skills and attributes and providing professional advancement opportunities."

Does that say anything to you about what this candidate has to offer? Me neither!

There are many resume writing experts who passionately believe in using resume objectives. They cite the fact that employers want to be able to tell - in just a few seconds - what job you want to do for the company and what skills you bring to the table.

There is also a school of thought that says the lack of a written resume objective translates into a job applicant who doesn't really know what he or she wants. Also, if you have a long or diverse job history, resume objectives can help sharpen the focus of your resume. This is also true if you are trying to switch to a career that is not strongly supported by your experience.

If you do decide to use a resume objective, you must make sure that it is not self-serving or too limiting, and that it is uniquely stated. Make it specific and work to reflect the employer's perspective, not your own. Demonstrate the value you'll bring to the organization.

Millions of resumes contain meaningless job objectives. Use these resume objective examples to learn how to do it the right way.

To write a great resume objective, you need to pay attention to 3 things:

• Make it employer-focused, not you-focused.
• Focus on results!
• K.I.S.S. - Keep it Short and Simple

Resume ObjectivesTips That Work

Substitute the words develop, apply, or employ for use. They have more punch. Make your objective as specific as possible without being limited. One of the writers for Quintessential Careers, Katharine Hansen, gives this example of a resume objective:

"To manage people, interface with customers, and work with highly technical software or hardware applications."

Ms. Hansen says she likes how this objective states specific skills that could be used in a number of different jobs.

One other thought ... if you're really committed to using a job objective, but you don't want it on your resume, you could include it in your cover letter. OK, here are a couple great resume objective examples from the book, Same Day Resume:

"Professional alignment with the Animal Foundation in a position that will benefit from my marketing skills, community and educational contacts, and commitment to wildlife conservation and education."

"Seeking position requiring excellent business management skills in an office environment. Position should require a variety of tasks, including office management, word processing, and spreadsheet and database program use."

And these resume objective examples are from Monster.com:

"Program Development, Coordination, and Administration ... especially in a people-oriented organization where there is a need to assure broad cooperative effort through the use of sound planning, strong administration, skills of persuasion to achieve goals."

"A middle/upper-level management position with responsibilities including problem solving, planning, organizing, and managing budgets."

"To obtain a position as an Elementary School Teacher in which a strong dedication to the total development of children and a high degree of enthusiasm can be fully utilized."

"Position as a Word Processing Secretary that will utilize my computer knowledge, strong people skills, organizational abilities, and business experience."

If you decide to abandon the traditional resume objective for something a bit more effective, then think POWER. You can use either a power statement or a powerful summary of your qualifications. Either one is more likely to convince the employer of your potential value to the company than the lowly objective.

After all, these alternatives are more employer-focused and results-oriented.

Here are some great examples from the Same Day Resume book:

"Over 11 years of hands-on management experience based on foundation of Bachelor's degree in Business. Committed to the highest level of excellence through achievement. A respected manager who leads by example. Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills developed while meeting the challenge of constantly fluctuating agricultural business environment."

"Hard working, self-motivated, high achieving sales professional with eight years experience in the telecommunications industry, including work with key/hybrid systems and high end PBX systems. Recognized for excellent ability to build and maintain relationships through long and short sales cycles. Quick learner, with outstanding presentation skills. Strong commitment to customer service."

"Comprehensive range of experience and formal training in budget analysis and accounting. Prepared to undertake higher-level responsibilities in corporate credit card management, online banking services, and computerized accounting. Additional qualifications: adept at managing multiple tasks and resolving or minimizing problems by identifying them in their early stages, computer proficient in accounting software such as..."

Or this one, from ResumeEdge.com :

"Results-oriented, detailed professional with comprehensive accounting experience. Background includes consistent promotions to positions of increased responsibility. Skilled in P&L, audits, taxation, internal controls, and streamlining procedures, effecting a monthly savings of $2500 at XYZ Company. Recently passed the CPA exam; currently seeking a Controller position."

You can find more great examples in the various sample resumes you'll find on this site. Read the pros and cons of using a resume objective, then you be the judge. But many people have found that you don't have to use a resume objective to be successful in putting together a resume that will make you stand out and get you that interview invite.

In the end, whether or not to use resume objectives is a highly personalized decision. But if you do use one, keep in mind these resume objectives tips... Employers are mainly interested in what you can do for them. So be sure that your resume objective or power statement is employer-oriented and results-focused. Do this well, and you'll be on your way to your next interview!