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Resume Objective Statements: When to Use and How to Write

do resumes need an objective statement

In today’s job market, having a well-crafted resume objective statement is more important than ever. It’s a crucial element that can help job seekers stand out from the crowd and highlight their unique skills and experience. In this article, we’ll delve into what a resume objective statement is exactly, why it’s so important, and how to write one that will make a positive impression on potential employers.

Definition of Resume Objective Statement

A resume objective statement is a brief, targeted statement that appears at the beginning of a resume. Its purpose is to summarize the applicant’s career goals and qualifications, and to provide a high-level overview of what they can bring to a potential employer. A well-crafted resume objective statement should be specific, concise, and tailored to the job in question.

Importance of Resume Objective Statement

A strong resume objective statement can make all the difference when it comes to landing an interview. It gives hiring managers a quick snapshot of who the applicant is and what they can offer, helping them to quickly and easily determine whether the candidate is a good fit for the position. In a competitive job market, where hundreds of resumes can flood a single job posting, having a standout resume objective statement can help applicants get noticed and get ahead.

Do All Resumes Need Objective Statements?

As a job seeker, you might be wondering whether you should include an objective statement on your resume. The answer is: it depends. There are situations where an objective statement can be extremely helpful in communicating your career goals to potential employers, but there are also times when it can be a hindrance. Here’s a closer look at when to use and when to avoid objective statements on your resume.

A. When to Use Objective Statements

An objective statement is a one or two sentence summary that appears at the top of your resume, immediately following your contact information. It’s intended to provide a quick overview of your career aspirations and the kind of job you’re seeking. Objective statements can be useful in the following situations:

  • You’re just starting out in your career.  If you’re a recent graduate or have limited work experience, an objective statement can help clarify your career goals and give employers a better sense of what you’re looking for.
  • You’re changing careers.  If you’re transitioning to a new industry or role, an objective statement can help explain why you’re making the change and what your goals are for your new career.
  • You’re targeting a specific job or company.  If you know exactly what kind of job you’re looking for or have your sights set on a particular company, an objective statement can help you tailor your resume to that specific opportunity.

If you do decide to include an objective statement on your resume, make sure it’s specific, concise, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Avoid generic statements that could apply to any job or employer.

do resumes need an objective statement

B. When to Avoid Objective Statements

While objective statements can be helpful in some situations, there are times when they’re best avoided. Here are a few scenarios where you might want to skip the objective statement:

  • You have significant work experience.  If you’ve been in the workforce for a while and have a strong employment history, an objective statement can seem unnecessary and take up valuable space on your resume.
  • You’re applying to multiple jobs or industries.  If you’re casting a wide net in your job search and applying to a variety of roles and industries, a generic objective statement won’t be helpful and could actually hurt your chances of getting an interview.
  • You want to focus on your skills and accomplishments.  If you’d rather let your experience and achievements speak for themselves, leaving off an objective statement can help draw more attention to those areas of your resume.

Ultimately, whether or not to include an objective statement on your resume is a personal choice that should be based on your individual circumstances and career goals. Consider the job you’re applying for, your work experience, and the expectations of your industry as you make your decision.

Components of a Resume Objective Statement

A well-written objective statement is the key to capturing the attention of potential employers and showcasing your qualifications. Here are the key components of a compelling Objective Statement:

A. Key elements of an Objective Statement

Job Title – Clearly state the job title of the position you are applying for.

Skills – List the skills that make you a good fit for the role. Use keywords from the job posting to match your qualifications to the job requirements.

Experience – Highlight your relevant experience that demonstrates how you have successfully applied your skills in previous roles.

Personal Qualities – Include any personal qualities that set you apart from other candidates. These could be soft skills like teamwork, leadership, or communication skills.

B. Tips for Writing a Strong Objective Statement

Customize for the Role – Tailor your objective statement to match the job description of the job you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to showcase your qualifications.

Be Specific – Be specific about your goals and the job you are applying for. This shows that you have done your research and are serious about the role.

Keep it Short – Keep your objective statement concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs or overly complicated sentences.

Highlight Your Unique Qualities – Use your objective statement to showcase your unique skills and qualities that set you apart from other candidates.

Use Active Language – Use powerful verbs and action-oriented language to demonstrate your confidence and suitability for the role.

do resumes need an objective statement

By including these key elements and following these writing tips, you can create a strong objective statement that will capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out from the crowd.

Types of Resume Objective Statements

When writing a resume, it is important to include an objective statement that highlights your career goals and objectives. There are different types of resume objective statements that you can use, depending on your specific situation and career aspirations.

A. Traditional Objective Statement

A traditional objective statement is a short, concise statement that outlines your career goals and objectives. This type of statement is typically used by entry-level job seekers who are just starting out in their careers. It is also useful for those who are changing careers or industries, as it allows them to explain why they are seeking a new position.

B. Summary Statement

A summary statement is a brief summary of your skills, qualifications, and experience. This type of statement is ideal for experienced job seekers who have a lot to offer to prospective employers. A summary statement can be used to highlight your unique selling points and differentiate you from other candidates.

C. Qualifications Summary

A qualifications summary is similar to a summary statement but is more focused on your qualifications and achievements. This type of statement is ideal for job seekers who have a lot of relevant experience and want to showcase their accomplishments.

D. Career Objective

A career objective is a statement that outlines your long-term career goals and objectives. This type of statement is useful for job seekers who have a clear idea of what they want to achieve in their careers and are looking for positions that will help them reach their goals.

E. Hybrid Objective Statement

A hybrid objective statement combines elements of the traditional objective statement, summary statement, and qualifications summary. It highlights your career goals, skills, and experience in a concise and compelling way, making it an effective tool for job seekers at all levels of experience.

The type of objective statement you choose will depend on your specific circumstances and career aspirations. When writing your objective statement, make sure to showcase your unique selling points and highlight how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position you are applying for.

Characteristics of Effective Resume Objective Statements

A.  Targeted and Customized for the Position

An effective resume objective statement should be tailored to the specific job position you are applying for. This means that you need to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job. Avoid using vague and generic objective statements that do not address the position requirements.

B.  Clarity and Precision

Your resume objective statement should be clear and concise. Avoid using complex jargon or ambiguous language that can confuse the reader. Use straightforward language to describe your skills and experience, and ensure that the statement is easy to understand.

C.  Brevity

Your resume objective statement should be short and to the point. Ideally, it should be no more than two or three sentences. Remember that employers receive a high volume of applications, and they typically spend only a few seconds scanning each one. Make sure that your statement is brief and impactful.

D.  Match the Employer’s Needs

One of the most important aspects of an effective resume objective statement is that it matches the employer’s needs. Review the job description carefully and identify the key skills and experience that the employer is looking for. Then, tailor your objective statement to highlight how your qualifications align with those needs.

An effective resume objective statement should be targeted, clear, concise, and tailored to the employer’s needs. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of capturing the reader’s attention and making a strong impression.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Writing Objective Statements

When writing an objective statement for your resume, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can turn off hiring managers. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when crafting your objective statement:

A. Focusing on Personal Goals

Your objective statement should focus on what you can do for the employer, not the other way around. Avoid phrases like “looking for a job that fulfills my passion” or “hoping to gain experience in XYZ field.” Instead, focus on the value you can bring to the employer.

B. Using Cliché and Vague Language

Employers want to see specific skills and experiences that make you a good fit for their organization. Avoid using cliché phrases like “team player” or “hard worker” and instead focus on more concrete skills and experiences that demonstrate your value.

C. Stating the Obvious

Your objective statement should be brief—no more than two or three sentences. Don’t waste those precious sentences stating the obvious or repeating information that’s already included elsewhere in your resume.

D. Over-embellishing

Finally, be careful not to over-embellish your skills or experiences. While it’s important to make yourself stand out from the competition, making grandiose claims that you can’t back up with concrete examples will only hurt your chances of landing the job.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an effective objective statement that makes a strong, positive impression on potential employers.

How to Incorporate Your Objective Statement In Your Resume

As you begin crafting your resume, it’s essential to consider where and how to incorporate your objective statement. The goal is to make the statement clear, concise, and easy to read, all while making it stand out.

A. Placement and format of Objective Statements

One of the most common placements for objective statements is at the top of your resume, just below your contact information. This placement is an excellent opportunity to catch the employer’s eye and let them know your main goal right from the get-go. However, it’s essential to balance this information’s visibility with the right format.

Your objective statement should be written in a bullet point or short paragraph format, with no more than three lines. Use bold or italicized font to let the statement stand out from the rest of your resume. And remember, the statement should be specific and targeted toward the job position you are applying for.

B. Essential tips for writing objective Statemeents

When writing an objective statement, it’s crucial to tailor it to the job position you’re applying for. Here are some essential tips to follow:

Keep it simple and straightforward. A good objective statement should be easy to read and understand. Avoid using overly complicated language or phrases that may confuse the employer.

Be specific about your goals. Your objective statement should clearly state what you hope to achieve with this job position. Avoid vague statements that don’t give the employer any idea of what you’re looking for.

Highlight your skills and experience. Use your objective statement to showcase your relevant skills and experience. This will help the employer see how you can contribute to their organization.

Focus on the employer’s needs. Remember, the objective statement is not about you; it’s about what you can do for the employer. Focus on the employer’s needs and how you can fulfill them.

Keep it short and sweet. As mentioned earlier, your objective statement should be no more than three lines long. Keep it concise and to the point.

Incorporating your objective statement into your resume is a critical step in the job-search process. By following these essential tips, you can create a standout statement that highlights your skills and experience while addressing the employer’s needs.

Example of Objective Statements for Different Professions

As a job seeker, you want to make a great first impression with your resume. One way to do that is to craft an objective statement that is tailored to the specific profession you are applying for. Your objective statement should tell potential employers what you aim to accomplish in the position and how you can help the company achieve its goals.

Here are some examples of objective statements for different professions:

A. Objective Statements for IT/Technical Positions

To obtain a challenging IT role within a reputable organization where I can apply my expertise in software development and engineering to improve processes, enhance performance, and contribute to the overall success of the company.

Seeking a position as a network administrator with a dynamic organization where my skills in network design, installation, and troubleshooting can be utilized to enhance network speed, security, and functionality.

B. Objective Statements for Administrative Positions

Seeking a challenging administrative role where I can use my communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills to provide support to the management team, facilitate smooth day-to-day operations, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

To obtain an administrative position where my strong office management, customer service, and data entry skills can be effectively utilized to achieve company goals and objectives.

C. Objective Statements for Marketing Positions

Seeking a challenging marketing role where I can use my creative skills, data analysis, and strategic thinking to develop and implement innovative marketing campaigns, generate leads, and increase brand awareness for the company.

To obtain a marketing position where my expertise in market research, social media management, and brand management can contribute to the successful execution of marketing plans and initiatives.

D. Objective Statements for Healthcare Positions

Seeking a healthcare position where I can use my strong clinical skills, knowledge of medical coding and billing, and exceptional patient care skills to provide high-quality care, improve patient satisfaction, and contribute to the success of the healthcare facility.

To obtain a healthcare position where my expertise in healthcare management, staff supervision, and regulatory compliance can be effectively utilized to enhance patient care, improve financial performance, and maintain a positive work environment.

Crafting an objective statement that is tailored to the profession you are applying for can improve your chances of landing an interview and potential job offer. Use these examples as inspiration to write a compelling objective statement that showcases your unique skills and experiences.

How to Tweak Your Objective Statement for Different Job Applications

As a job seeker, one of the most important aspects of building an effective resume is creating a strong objective statement. However, many job seekers make the mistake of using a one-size-fits-all approach to their objective statement for every job they apply to. In reality, tailoring your objective statement to each job you apply for can greatly increase your chances of landing an interview.

A. Customizing Objective Statement as per job requirements

When it comes to customizing your objective statement for different job applications, the first step is to carefully review and analyze the job description. Take the time to identify the specific skills and qualifications that are required for the job, and then incorporate these into your objective statement. This will show the employer that you have taken the time to understand what they are looking for, and that you have the skills and experience to meet their needs.

For example, if you are applying for a job in customer service, your objective statement might say something like, “To obtain a customer service position where I can utilize my excellent communication skills and problem-solving abilities to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.”

B. Address gaps in your work history with the Objective Statement

Another way to use your objective statement to your advantage is to address any gaps in your work history. Perhaps you took a break from your career to care for a family member, or you were laid off from your previous job and have been unemployed for several months. Whatever the reason, a carefully crafted objective statement can help to explain these gaps and show the employer that you are still a strong candidate for the job.

For example, if you have a gap in your work history due to taking time off to care for a family member, your objective statement might say something like, “To obtain a challenging position where I can utilize my skills and experience in project management, after taking a break to care for a family member.” This shows the employer that you have relevant skills and experience, even if you have been out of the workforce for a period of time.

Customizing your objective statement for each job application and using it to address any gaps in your work history can greatly improve your chances of landing an interview and ultimately getting the job you want. Take the time to carefully analyze each job description and tailor your objective statement accordingly, and you will be well on your way to success.

The Role of Objective Statements in Different Resume Formats

When it comes to creating a resume, the objective statement can be a make-or-break component. It serves as your chance to briefly explain your career goals and give potential employers a glimpse into what you hope to achieve. However, the inclusion or exclusion of an objective statement can depend on the type of resume format being utilized.

A. Chronological Resume Format

A chronological resume format outlines your work history in order, starting with your most recent position and working backwards. In this format, an objective statement is typically not necessary. As the content of the resume already paints a clear picture of your career trajectory, an objective statement may come across as redundant.

If you do choose to include an objective statement in a chronological resume, make sure it is tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Rather than providing a general statement about your career aspirations, focus on how your specific skills and experience align with the requirements of the job.

B. Functional Resume Format

A functional resume format emphasizes your skills and abilities rather than your work history. In this format, an objective statement can be beneficial to provide context for your skills and explain your career goals.

If you choose to include an objective statement in a functional resume, avoid generic statements and instead focus on highlighting your specific skills and how they fit the requirements of the job. Use keywords from the job posting and tailor your objective statement to the specific job you are applying for.

C. Combination Resume Format

A combination resume format combines both chronological and functional formats, highlighting both your skills and work history. In this format, an objective statement can serve as a way to tie together these two sections and provide a clear picture of your career aspirations.

When crafting an objective statement for a combination resume, focus on how your skills and work experience align with the job requirements. Avoid repeating information from your work history section and instead use the objective statement to explain how your past experiences have prepared you for this particular job.

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do resumes need an objective statement

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do resumes need an objective statement

How To Write A Resume Objective Statement (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

objective for resume

By Mike Simpson

UPDATED 5/18/2022

Resumes. We all know what they are. We all know how important having a good one is…and how much a bad one can hurt your ability to get your dream job. That’s why reviewing different resume objective examples is essential, ensuring you can create well-crafted, carefully targeted resumes for hiring managers.

So, how do you make sure your resume objective – and entire application – stands out? We’ll tell you. Come with us as we explore some resume objective statement examples, as well as tips on how to ensure yours shines.

What is a Resume Objective?

do resumes need an objective statement

“My objective? Well, that’s easy. My objective is to get the job.”

Absolutely, we couldn’t agree more. But an objective on your resume is so much more than just writing, “Hey, hire me. I’m super awesome.”

So, what is an objective for a resume?

Well, according to the Marquette University College of Business Administration , “an objective statement is a concise, position-centered statement describing the value you can add and the needs you can fulfill.”

Our friends over at Indeed.com take it a step further, saying: “A well-written resume objective statement can be customized for the job you’re applying for and add value to your resume that sets it apart from other applicants.”

Essentially, a resume objective is a targeted snippet that clearly outlines your career direction while simultaneously positioning you as someone who fits what the employer is looking for exactly.

Sounds pretty ingenious, right? So why don’t more people have them on their resumes?

Resume objectives can be a bit controversial. Some people think they can make you look amateurish…which, if you don’t do it correctly, is absolutely true. But that can be said for any section of your resume.

Other schools of thought think that the objectives should be taken out entirely and replaced with the more popular “ resume summary statement .”

You may be wondering, “What if I use a resume objective and the hiring manager looks at it and laughs? Are they going to throw out my resume…or worse, put it on the wall of shame?”

Now, nobody is going to laugh at your resume objective as long as you use the right approach. Additionally, if your career is moving in certain directions, using a resume objective makes more sense than the alternatives.

When Should You Use a Resume Objective?

Are you relatively new to the job search market or lack work experience?

Are you changing industries?

Are you targeting a specific job or position?

If you answered “YES” to any of these above questions, then the resume objective is potentially perfect. If you answered “NO” to all of the above questions, you might be better off with a “Resume Summary Statement.”

For those of you in the middle of a career change or who might just be starting out, a resume objective statement allows you to define your goal to a potential employer…something that your work history might not otherwise be able to do for you.

Imagine how confused a hiring manager would be if they were looking for candidates to fill an office coordinator position and you sent in a resume with ten years of experience in marketing. Without an objective statement, the hiring manager might just assume your resume has been accidentally sent to them and simply discard it.

With an objective statement, you can not only let the hiring manager know that your resume IS in the right spot but also explain that you’re making the switch and show that your skill set does align with this new career path.

If you’re targeting a specific job or position, a resume objective statement can help reinforce that idea that you know EXACTLY what you’re after. That can work in your favor, too.

Overall, and most importantly, the biggest reason to put an objective on your resume is…it’s better than having nothing. Remember, your goal is to catch the hiring manager’s eye and stand out from the rest of the paper in that pile.

Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes job seekers can make when writing their statement with the number one being using the same objective for every job application.

1) Using the Same Objective For Every Job Application

To obtain a job within my chosen field that will challenge me and allow me to use my education, skills and past experiences in a way that is mutually beneficial to both myself and my employer and allow for future growth and advancement.

Your goal is to be the ideal candidate and that means making sure you’re exactly what the hiring manager is looking for…and unless you’re applying to a cookie cutter factory in a cookie cutter job town where every job every employer is listing is exactly the same then I guarantee you 100% that your statement will NOT be a “one size fits all” statement.

2) Making It All About You

This is a trap that many job seekers fall into, as they can’t resist to use the objective to list off all of the things that they want to get out of the position.

Hi, I’m Joe Jobseeker and I really want a job in a company where I make a ton of money doing as little as possible. Oh, and a corner office. A company car would be nice too. While we’re at it, let’s talk benefits, retirement…and the company vacation policy.

Yes, we’re being over the top with this one, but we need you to look at this and laugh…because even a slightly toned down one where you list only what YOU want is going to come off just as ridiculous to the hiring manager as the one we’ve blown out of proportion.

3) Being Too Vague

Mistake number three is being vague. Like we said, this isn’t a one size fits all so by being ambiguous in the hopes of somewhat fitting what they’re looking for is going to get your resume sent directly to the circular file. (In case you don’t know, the circular file is the trash can. It just sounds fancier but the end result is the same…no job.)

Looking for a long term full time job where I can apply my extensive skills and knowledge to the position for which I am hired.

Blah. Who is this person? All we know by reading this statement is that they have skills and knowledge…but other than that, not much else. What skills do they have? Do they really apply to the job? And what knowledge can they draw from that will benefit the company? See what we mean? It’s so generic you could literally fit anything into those blanks…it’s like Resume Mad Libs!

4) Going On… And On… And On… And On… and zzzzzzzzzzzzz….

Mistake number four is being too long. This isn’t a novel. It’s a quick little blurb to catch their attention so they can bring you in for an interview…then you can get into more detail!

Not going to put one here. Why? Because the example we were going to do was going to be so long and ridiculous that you and everyone else reading this post would just get bored and move onto another article. Just remember, it’s all about short and sweet. Anything over a sentence or two is TOO LONG. Remember that.

5) Adding Absolutely No Value

Mistake number five is probably the worst…and the easiest to fall into (outside of mistake number two, the “all about me” statement.) Mistake number five is writing a statement that basically fills space but doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything about the value you bring to the table. This can also be confused with the too vague statement…

To obtain a position within my chosen field where I can utilize my skills as a hard-working, well-educated employee in exchange for a steady market-fair paycheck.

Congratulations. You’re educated and you’re hard working and you want to make money. So what? So are 90% of the people you’re going up against. Why are YOU the ideal candidate? What makes the hiring manager want to bring YOU in over everyone else? See what we mean?

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY:

How are you going to fulfill the needs of the company?

When writing your resume objective, you should always have the intention of answering this question.

How To Write An Effective Resume Objective

So how do you write a GOOD resume objective?

One thing every one of these bad examples has in common is the fact that not a single one of them is tailored to the position you’re looking for. Any hiring manager who looks at a resume with objectives like those is going to immediately move on to the next candidate.

Because whoever those potential hires are, they’re not ideal candidates. You need to not only catch the hiring manager’s eye; you must make sure that they look at your statement and say, “Here’s the perfect fit!”

So, how do you make it happen? Well, a really good place to start is by looking at the job description. According to Indeed.com , “…when you include an objective that’s specific to the job role, the recruiter is more likely to dig deeper and learn more details about your professional experience.”

After that, make sure it’s tailored to not only the position but the company as well. By incorporating a few tidbits that speak to the company’s mission and values, you can take that quick statement up a notch.

Nice, right?

Additionally, focus on how you’re a benefit to the company, not how the company can benefit you. Showcase value, ensuring you point out what you bring to the table.

Keep it short and sweet, too. Skip overblown adjectives in favor of action verbs, which will help “raise the energy levels” of your objective and ensure that it is more dynamic and interesting.

If you’re someone who is changing careers, demonstrate how your past experiences relate to your future tasks. The same goes for those who are just starting out or who are relatively inexperienced.

Resume Objective Examples

In some cases, nothing makes the points above clearer quite like a few resume objective examples. Here are a handful of samples, each targeting different situations.

New to Workforce, No High School Diploma

“Diligent, dedicated individual looking to apply communication and collaboration skills in a fast-paced customer service role. A self-motivated team player with an outgoing personality who’s ready to learn the ins and outs of a new industry and provide ample value to a retail employer.”

New to Workforce, No College

“Well-organized high school honor graduate with exceptional problem-solving and collaboration skills seeking opportunities in the office administration field where strong communication, time management, and research skills can provide excellent value to an employer.”

College Student, Aspiring Intern

“Current accounting student with an emphasis on accounts payable and accounts receivable seeking developmental opportunities with a local firm. Diligent, focused, and tech-savvy, looking to provide value to a skilled team.”

Recent College Graduate

“Hard-working business administration graduate with proven leadership and organizational skills. Looking to leverage knowledge or operational processes, emerging commercial trends, and supply machine management to increase efficiency and support broader productivity goals.”

Recent College Graduate with Internship Experience

“Honor graduate with a Bachelor’s in Human Resources and one year of experience at a leading staffing firm looking to leverage a deep understanding of leading ATS solutions, modern interview techniques, and conflict resolution strategies to support the goals of an enterprise-level HR department.”

Career Change

“Ambitious professional looking to leverage 5+ years of customer service experience and exceptional communication skills in the fast-paced field of real estate. Proven ability to build lasting, long-term relationships, understand client needs, and find solutions designed to ensure customer satisfaction.”

Career Change with New Education

“Experienced accounting professional and recent college graduate with a Bachelor’s in IT looking to leverage mathematical and analytical capabilities in a data analyst role with an enterprise-level employer. Impeccable attention to detail and organizational skills, as well as strong desire to learn and grow on the job.”

Targeting Specific Role

“Skilled software developer with 7+ years of experience with Java, Python, and C++ seeking out opportunities in team-oriented environments that prioritize Agile methodologies, Lean strategies, and DevOps principles to accelerate timelines and achieve challenging goals.”

Speaking of specific roles, we thought that it might be prudent to dig deeper into a couple careers that we get the most questions about (in terms of resume objectives). Here are our deep-dive articles into Teacher Resume Objectives , Customer Service Resume Objectives and Nursing Resume Objectives . Enjoy!

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it. We’ve covered what a resume objective statement is, who should use one, and how to properly execute it. Plus, there are some handy resume objective examples that can serve as inspiration.

While some people might claim that the objective statement for a resume is outdated, if done properly, it can make a difference. Use all of the information above to your advantage. That way, you’ll be one step closer to your dream job.

FREE : Resume Objective PDF Cheat Sheet

Ok the next thing you should do is get our handy Resume Objective Cheat Sheet PDF .

In it you'll get word-for-word sample resume objectives covering a variety of scenarios you can use right away .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE RESUME OBJECTIVE CHEAT SHEET

do resumes need an objective statement

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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24 Resume Objective Examples: Career Objectives for 2024

The resume objective is regarded as the most important part of the resume. Get your career objective statement right with the help of our samples and guide.

Olga Ber

Many new job-seekers get anxious when they even think of writing the career statement at the top of their resume.

What should go there, actually? And since it’s so intimidating, is there a way to get around writing it?

Well, if you’re new to the job market or changing careers, that statement is called your resume objective.

And we’ll show you an easy blueprint for writing it (alongside 20+ objective examples)!

With this guide, you will:

  • Find out what is a good objective for a resume & whether you need one
  • Write a bulletproof resume objective by following a simple formula
  • Get inspired by looking resume objective examples for different jobs
  • Never worry about writing a professional career objective for resume ever again!

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

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1. What is a Resume Objective and When you Should Use It

In order to write something, you need to understand what it is. So, let's start with the basics: 

What is a Resume Objective? 

A resume objective (also known as a career objective) is a short, catchy paragraph at the start of a resume, composed of 2–3 sentences. It should highlight your experience , skills for a resume , and achievments to show that you are the best candidate for the job. 

When Should You Use a Career Objective?

A career objective is one of the most important things to put on your resume . This form of resume introduction is used by hiring managers to quickly decide if they should read more or decline your resume. 

Candidates should use an objective for a resume with little or no experience in a given field. That means it should be used by when writing:

  • A resume for your first job
  • A resume with no work experience that’s relevant to your dream job
  • A resume for your first job in a new industry (a career change resume , in other words)

If you are none of the above, you should go for a resume summary instead. 

We recommend that you write the other sections of your resume before crafting the objective. Once you’ve got your accomplishments and educational background clearly laid out in front of you, it will be much easier to pick key information for the resume objective.

Expert Hint: A good resume objective is closely tailored to the specific job offering: it features the same keywords and focuses on the achievements and skills that are relevant for this particular company.

2. What’s the Difference Between a Resume Objective and a Resume Summary?

You may have noticed that the paragraph on top of a resume is sometimes called a resume objective and sometimes a resume summary. What’s the difference?

A resume summary is a statement that highlights your most impressive career accomplishments and skills. Obviously, you need to have those accomplishments in order to write a resume summary, so it’s a good choice for people who already have work experience in their field. 

A professional resume objective, on the other hand, is what you write when you don’t have much relevant experience . In a resume objective, you focus on your transferable professional skills and prove that your career goals align with the employer’s business goals.

Both resume objectives and resume summaries typically go on top of your resume. They should be the first thing that catches the reader’s eye. If you’re wondering how to format your resume so that the resume objective is easy to spot, just try out the templates in our resume builder.

3. How to Write a Resume Objective: A Blueprint

In the 90s, people used to think that a professional resume objective meant describing your own career goals. Something like this:

This might be honest, but… would you hire a person who only cares about themselves and wants to leave your company as soon as a better opportunity pops up?

A good resume objective shows that you’re eager to leverage your skills to help the employer achieve their business goals. In other words: it shows that your career goals overlap with what the company wants to achieve. Like this:

This candidate is looking for their first data science job, too. But their resume objective shows that they’re eager to use their current skills to bring genuine value to the employer .

Also, this career objective provides specific proof why this person is worth hiring: they’ve got a solid educational background and they’ve already completed some freelance work. So they’d probably make a good junior data analyst.

Now, how do you make your career objective just as effective?

Here’s how to write a resume objective:

1. Identify one of your strongest traits.

2. Show off your skills and relevant achievements.

3. Explain how you will bring value to the company.

4. Mention the position you are applying to.

5. Keep it short and avoid first-person pronouns

If you follow this formula, your resume will magically be better than most entry-level resumes out there.

Expert Hint: Use keywords from the job ad to describe yourself and your future contribution to the company. If you don’t include any keywords, applicant tracking systems can automatically reject your job application because they’ll think it’s irrelevant!

4. 24 Resume Objective Examples to Get You Started

Check out these career objective examples that helped our users land their dream jobs. Just don’t copy and paste them directly into your resume—always tailor your resume to a specific job offer!

Oh, and don’t forget to include a cover letter alongside your resume, preferably in a matching design. 

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Internship Resume Objective Example

When writing an internship resume , focus on any important things you’ve achieved during your studies or in your freelance work. This will set you apart from all the other interns who typically write things like “please hire me, I want to learn something”.

Energetic computer science professional with proven skills in Java and app design. Seeking to support Google’s software engineers in their innovative projects. Created two eCommerce sites with 100% client satisfaction. Updated a mobile website with 50,000 monthly users 3 days ahead of deadline.

Administrative Assistant Resume Objective Example

On a resume for an administrative assistant , list any temporary work or other jobs that involved admin and office tasks.

Hard-working administrative assistant with proven skills in MS Office and billing. Have performed CRM data entry on hundreds of customer orders with zero errors. Composed 50+ office documents with MS Word. Eager to ensure the smooth running of Altshiftia’s office.

Sample Career Objective for Receptionist

Writing a receptionist resume ? Make sure you mention any previous jobs that built on a similar skillset.

Friendly, efficient receptionist, skilled in taking phone calls and MS Office Suite. As team member at Ruby Tuesday, handled 10+ phone orders per shift and collaborated with 30+ team members to maintain 96% customer satisfaction ratings. Seeking to provide front desk duties at Darrell McGehee Dental Clinic and maintain its excellent reputation. 

Office Manager Objective Statement Sample

When writing an office manager resume , don’t hesitate to describe what you achieved in other office jobs. The hiring manager will know that you’ve got what it takes.

Task-oriented personal assistant with 2+ years experience working for a top-level executive in the finance industry. Skilled with organizing complicated documents, balancing budgets, and handling all manner of administrative tasks. Reduced expenditures by 18%. Seeking to utilize exceptional organizational abilities to become the office manager for Targetmaxx Quintillion Corp.

Secretary Resume Objective Sample

Your secretary resume objective should prove that you’ve got the skills for the job—even if you’ve never worked as a secretary.

Reliable college graduate with proven MS Office expertise. Assisted my college department with paperwork and project management. Ready to leverage organizational skills to provide administrative support to the students and staff at Applebite School.

Management Career Objective Example

No one will hire a manager who has zero leadership skills  and doesn’t know how to contribute to specific business KPIs. Your manager resume must prove that you’re a born leader and an insightful manager who knows how to boost business metrics.

Hard-working Business Management graduate with a specialization in sales and marketing management. President of the Undergraduate Student Board 2016–17. Looking for an Assistant Digital Manager position with Heinz to apply strong data analysis skills and digital marketing insights to help increase online traffic and sales.

Marketing Resume Objective Sample

When writing a marketing resume , show that you’ve got an essential marketing skill : crafting a unique value proposition . Be specific and make an irresistible promise.

Analytically-minded marketing specialist with an MBA in Marketing from UCLA, Anderson School of Management (GPA 3.9). Conducted numerous marketing experiments, leading to a 25% increase in conversions in one case. Eager to join Minas Morgul Inc. to help boost key marketing metrics by implementing data-driven marketing optimization strategies. 

Sales Associate Resume Objective Example

Your sales resume must do one thing: get you that coveted job interview. But it will never close the sale without a powerful resume objective like this one:

Highly-motivated sales representative with a BA in Psychology (GPA 3.7). Part-time sales experience with Pharmaton for 1.5 years. Established and maintained relationships with 20+ key clients. Eager to leverage my skills to boost Kite Pharma’s sales volume and revenue while maintaining its excellent reputation among customers.

Customer Service Career Objective Example

Do you have what it takes to be a customer service rep? Show it in your customer service resume ! Hint: it doesn’t need to be work experience as a customer service agent. Mention what you’ve learned during your studies or internships.

People-oriented psychology student, trained in conflict resolution and communication skills. Eager to join Greenblob Inc. to build customer loyalty by leveraging interpersonal skills and offering top customer service.

Call Center Resume Objective Example

When writing a call center resume , give specific proof of your communication skills and show that you genuinely care about the company’s customers. No one would hire a call center person who doesn’t care about their job.

Energetic call center agent with experience as call center temp (15% above average appointment-setting rate). At two non-call-center jobs, handled 20 inbound calls per day with 3 customer service awards and customer rankings of 95%+. Seeking to support Optimora’s customers and help them enjoy their product experience, maximizing their loyalty and collecting valuable feedback.

Cashier Resume Objective Example

Applying for a cashier job? Prove that you’ve got the necessary hard skills , qualities, and certifications and put them right on top of your cashier resume .

Efficient cashier, skilled in POS and communication. As a waitress at Pizza Hut, ran cash drawer on occasion during busy times. Maintained 95% positive customer comment card scores. Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP) and certified in First Aid, CPR, AED.

Accounting Resume Objective Sample

Your accounting resume objective should offer hard proof that you’ve got the necessary qualifications to be an accountant and the skills to be a good accountant . And remember that in accounting, the best proof is numbers.

Results-driven CPA with solid budgeting and reconciliation skills. Passed CPA exam with score of 99 in 2 sections and 94+ elsewhere. Worked as CPA consultant to two businesses, prepared 18 tax returns, and streamlined the accounting process for a hardware business. Seeking to assist the accounting team at Penvelope Inc in maintaining accounting best standards.

Objective  Resume Sample for Finance

Why would anyone hire a financial analyst or advisor? To improve specific financial metrics, of course. Make sure your entry-level finance resume objective shows that you’re the right person for this, even if your previous job titles didn’t have the word “finance” in them.

Highly motivated entry-level financial analyst with over a year’s experience in data analysis. Seeking opportunity to help Company ABC increase its margins across the board. At Avondale Systems, compiled over 1 GB of data to generate 20+ financial reports. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to reduce open purchase orders by 13%, saving $1.1 million.

Nursing Objective Statement Example

Getting your foot in the door as a newly licensed nurse can be tricky because there are so many candidates with the exact same qualifications. Win a competitive edge by writing a nursing resume that contains keywords from the job ad and clearly highlights the most relevant skills.

Dependable licensed RN trained to work in high-stress environments and stay calm under pressure. Seeking to leverage meticulous record-keeping and analytical skills to maintain and improve patient care standards at Greenbaum Medical Center.

Dental Assistant Resume Objective Sample

Applying for your first dental assistant job? Your dental assistant resume will need an objective that clearly states your qualifications and previous experience (like volunteering and internships). Like this:

Newly certified, energetic dental assistant with experience volunteering for two different dental practices and a 95% patient satisfaction rate. Member of PA Dental Assistant's Association. Eager to assist the team at YourNewSmile in preparing dental procedures and providing top-notch patient experience.

Social Worker  Career Statement Objective Sample

Start your social worker resume with an objective that proves your skills and shows your passion for social work. Mention your volunteer experience and you're golden.

Compassionate social worker with skills in counseling and crisis management. As volunteer child social worker at Blakely Ridge Ranch, provided on-call assistance and coaching for 16 children, including 4 persons in a mental health crisis. Eager to assist clients at Strother Regional Life Strategies in achieving their treatment goals.

HR  Career Objective Sample

Looking to get your foot in the door of the HR office? Make sure your HR resume is perfectly crafted—even if it’s your first HR job. In the resume objective, focus on your previous experience with managing people and on your certifications, if you have any.

Retail store shift supervisor with newly-minted PHR certification and 2 years’ experience managing employees of a fast-paced shop. Seeking to leverage proficiency in cross-cultural communication and leadership development to support HR processes at 8-Char.

Computer Science  Resume Objective Sample

Even if you’ve prepared a full-blown GitHub portfolio in order to impress the recruiters, you still need a resume. And a resume objective, too. In an entry-level computer science resume , it’s best to focus on freelance projects that are somehow relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Well-versed computer science enthusiast with proven skills in data science. Took 1st place in TopCoder Coding Challenge, January 2017. As a freelancer, built a real-time tax forecaster and a spam classifier with Python. Eager to join the software development team at Snakey Apps Inc and collaborate on upcoming software projects.

Engineering Resume Objective Example

One does not simply begin an engineering resume with “Trust me, I’m an engineer”, especially when applying for an entry-level position. You need to show why you’re qualified for the job, how you’ve leveraged your engineering skills in the past, and how you’re going to help your new employer grow their business.

Enthusiastic engineering college graduate (GPA 3.8) with freelance experience in consulting small manufacturing businesses and optimizing their production processes. In one case, cut production costs down by 30%. Eager to leverage my skills to support and optimize production at Packagento, increasing revenue and cutting costs without compromising quality.

Waiter / Waitress  Career Objective Statement Example

Applying for your first job as a food server? Craft an objective for your waitress resume (or waiter resume, whatever you identify with) that proves your excellent people skills and knowledge of food safety practices. Like this:

Personable college student with 2+ years experience as a part-time, weekend barista. Earned the “Barista of the Month” award 3 times in 2020 and 2022. Seeking to leverage great customer service skills and knowledge of food handling and safety to provide an excellent dining experience to patrons at Henibana’s Steakhouse.

Electrician Resume Objective Example

The ideal electrician resume should spark immediate interest, even if you’re just one out of 150 similarly qualified beginner electricians. To stand out, craft a resume objective that focuses on what you’ve achieved during your training:

Efficient journeyman electrician with skills in maintaining and troubleshooting high and low voltage electrical systems. Seeking to provide fast, safe maintenance at Harwich Granular. At Pinecone Sage, worked on VFD and variable speed drive components. Cut machine downtime 30% through Total Productive Maintenance.

Truck Driver Resume Objective Example

All the little kids on the block are going to envy you because you’re about to drive the biggest truck they’ve ever seen. That’s because you wrote a truck driver resume with a clear objective that showed exactly how your previous driving experience makes you an excellent trucker.

Licensed truck driver with skills in flatbed tarping and vehicle maintenance. As dump truck driver at Castle Rock Stone, drove quarry truck 5 days per week in 10-hr shifts with 95% on-time delivery. Seeking to deliver on time for Berube International and its clients.

Teacher Assistant Resume Objective Sample

A teacher assistant resume sounds like a daunting writing assignment, but it shouldn’t be. If you’ve volunteered at a school or worked with young people in some other capacity, feel free to include these experiences in your resume objective.

Helpful teaching assistant, skilled in mentoring and grading papers. Created 5 monthly lesson plans as substitute teacher at Madelia High School, received 80% positive feedback from students. Seeking to take a load off teachers at Madelia Elementary School.

Nanny  Career Statement Objective Sample

Looking to become a nanny but wondering if your lack of formal experience could be an obstacle? Craft a nanny resume with an objective that describes any similar activities you’ve done in your life, like taking care of younger family members.

Hard-working entry-level nanny, skilled in child care and planning an active calendar. Have worked extensively providing part-time nanny services for 5 nieces and nephews ages 1–9 for 7 years, including planning and preparing healthy meals, planning activities, and providing transportation. Seeking to provide excellent care for the Davalos family. 

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Key Takeaways

If you’re writing a resume for your first job or starting a new career, your resume will benefit from a resume objective. It’s a statement that explains how your skills and background will help you achieve the employer’s business goals.

Here’s what you should remember when writing your objective for a resume:

  • Write the rest of your resume first.
  • Re-read the job ad and identify the most relevant keywords.
  • Follow our proven formula
  • If possible, add numbers and other specific details to your resume objective.
  • Place your resume objective on top of your resume.
  • Proofread your resume for errors, complement it with a matching cover letter, send in your job application, and get ready for your job interview!

Got questions or comments on how to write a resume objective? Not sure how to get this resume advice to work for your career objective scenario? Scroll down a bit further and get at us in the comments. We’d love to hear from you, and thanks for reading!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Frequently Asked Questions about Resume Objective Examples

How to write a good objective for a resume.

To write a good  resume objective , follow this formula:

  • Identify one of your strongest traits.
  • Show off your skills and relevant achievements.
  • Explain how you will bring value to the company.
  • Mention the position you are applying to.
  • Keep it short and avoid first-person pronouns

Make sure your resume objective uses the same  resume keywords  as the job advert. If possible, use numbers to describe your accomplishments.

Do you need an objective on your resume?

You need an objective statement on your resume if:

  • You're applying for your first entry-level job and writing a resume with no experience .
  • You're getting started in a new career and writing a career change resume .

If you're an experienced candidate who's not starting a new career, opt for a resume summary instead. In a resume summary, you offer a brief glimpse of your key career achievements and skills .

What is a good objective for a resume with no experience?

Even if you don't have relevant work experience to put on your resume, you still need to prove that you're the right person for the job. Pepper your resume objective with resume keywords describing your skills, qualities, and educational background. Also, show that you’re passionate for the job you're applying for.

What does objective mean on a resume?

The word "objective" means "goal" or "purpose". A resume objective is a short statement that shows how your professional skills , qualities, and career goals can help your new employer achieve their business objectives.

Resume objectives usually appear at the top of a resume, before the work experience section. To learn more, check out our guides to resume formats and resume layouts .

Should a resume have an objective or summary?

A resume should always have an opening statement, AKA a  resume profile . This  helps the resume get past ATS  (automatic filters) and attract the attention of hiring managers.

This statement is either a resume objective or a resume summary:

  • A resume objective is a statement where you promise to leverage your skills to achieve the company’s business goals.
  • A  resume summary  is a way to highlight your key achievements and skills.

If you're writing a  resume for your first job  or  changing careers , opt for a resume objective. If you're a seasoned professional, write a resume summary instead.

Olga Ber

Olga is a career expert with a background in teaching. At ResumeLab, she writes actionable guides to help job-seekers highlight their unique strengths and unlock their career potential.

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54 Examples of Effective Resume Objectives

Here are 54 best examples of career-specific objectives for resume you can use to stand out to recruiters and land job interviews.

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Customers Interviewed by:

amazon

Whether you are new to the workforce or switching careers, a good objective for your resume will make you stand out.

With only 7 seconds to grab a recruiter’s attention, how do you exactly craft a resume objective that hooks their interest and proves you’re a good fit?

In this guide, you will see tips on writing resume objectives and examples from different industries.

Table of Contents

Best resume objective structure

  • Tips for writing an effective objective statement

Sample objective statement for entry-level job seeker

Sample objective statement for internships.

  • Sample objective statement for career changers
  • Sample objective statement when returning to the workforce
  • Sample objective statement when moving to new location
  • Sample objective statement when applying for promotion
  • Resume objective examples for different jobs
  • Best time to use an objective for resume
  • Is the resume objective still necessary?

Key takeaways

  • Frequently asked questions

Check out the best resume examples across different industries and use them as a guide when crafting your resume.

Writing a strong and compelling resume objective statement is simple. 

Here is a simple formula you can use when writing yours.

Resume Objective = Who you are + What you want + What you bring to the table

  • Who you are – Current position – Years of experience – Degree or level of education – Relevant training or certification
  • What you want – Role you are applying for – Name of company – What you want to accomplish – Transition you want to make
  • What you bring to the table – Key hard skills – Key soft skills – How you can help the company meet its goals

Pro Tip: Include relevant and job-specific keywords in your resume objective statement.

Writing a resume objective statement

Here is a simple illustration of how to write a tailored objective for resume.

A research assistant is seeking to switch careers and pursue her passion for writing at ANC, a news outlet. 

Here’s the job description for a writer at ANC News. 

do resumes need an objective statement

As you can see, the job description mentions relevant keywords (marked in yellow) and the required minimum years of experience (marked in blue.) 

These are worth noting because recruiters and hiring managers will most likely look for these qualifications when checking your resume.

Here is what a tailored resume objective statement for this job would look like:

Sample of resume objective for writer

This resume objective starts with:

  • Who the job seeker is: research assistant with 8+ years of experience in research, data analysis, and insight generation
  • What the job seeker wants: apply as a writer at ANC
  • What the job seeker brings to the table: expertise in news reporting, storytelling, journalism, research, and passion for creating impactful and SEO-optimized content to drive business growth.

The job seeker then incorporates the relevant keywords in his objective statement that matches those in the job description.

7 Tips for writing an effective objective for resume

A resume objective is a short, targeted section near the top of your resume that tells recruiters your background and career goals. If a resume objective statement is suitable for your job search, use these 7 tips to guide you.

1. Keep it concise and clear.

Don’t add fluff! Just a couple of productive sentences are all you need. Make sure every word is deliberate and necessary.

2. Be clear and detailed about the job you want.

State the position you are applying for. Describe your goals only as they pertain to the job and industry for which you’re applying.

3. Explain what you can do for the company or organization.

Take your goals a step further by explaining how they match up with the company’s needs. Use the job posting for reference. This step sets a strong resume objective apart from a weak one.

4. Highlight your relevant skills and experience.

To make your application strong, highlight relevant skills and experiences. This shows that you are serious about getting the job and helping the company achieve its goals.

5. Include relevant keywords.

99 percent of companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter hundreds of resumes. Recruiters use keywords through the ATS to come up with the top talent.

To make sure you appear in those searches, include relevant keywords in your resume objective when applicable.

6. Avoid generic phrases. Use specific and compelling statements of your unique skills and expertise. Also, use strong action words to show your value and include measurable accomplishments. This will make your resume objective stronger.

7. Tailor your objective to the job description.

Carefully read the job listing. Then, identify the key skills and competencies the company is looking for. Tweak your objective statement and make sure it aligns with the specific needs of the job.

For entry-level job seekers, here is what you can include in your objective statement:

  • Level of education or degree
  • Grade (GPA)
  • Relevant soft and hard skills
  • Relevant training, certifications , or internships
  • What you want to accomplish in the role

Here is an example:

do resumes need an objective statement

Why this is a good objective for resume:

  • Mentions bachelor’s degree and GPA
  • Includes the job title of the position and company
  • Mentions career goals

When applying for an internship, you can include the following information in your objective statement:

  • Degree or level of education (for students)
  • Current job and company (for those who are working)
  • Name of company you want to be an intern at
  • Reasons why you want to be an intern
  • Value you can bring to the company

do resumes need an objective statement

  • Starts with current field of study
  • Showcases interest in AI and data analytics
  • Describes desire for an internship at Robotics Lab
  • Explains desire to bridge the gap between biology and AI

Resume objective example for career changers

Changing careers is not easy. To increase your chances of getting the job, you need to craft an objective statement that bridges your current career path to the new field and sets yourself apart from other candidates. 

Here are things you can include in your objective statement:

  • Your current position and years of experience
  • Transferable skills
  • Relevant achievements, training, or certifications
  • Why you are a great fit for the new role
  • How you can contribute to the company’s success

do resumes need an objective statement

  • Mentions current industry
  • Shows years of experience
  • Mentions new role and company name
  • Outlines key skills and career goals

Resume objective example for job seekers returning to the workforce

If you are returning to the job market after a career break, you may include the following when writing your objective statement:

  • Previous role and company
  • Position you are applying for
  • Name of company
  • Reason for the work break (if you’re comfortable with this)
  • Relevant skills and experience

do resumes need an objective statement

  • Describes robust work experience in project management
  • Mentions PMP certification, a key credential in the field of project management
  • Includes key hard and soft skills
  • Outlines potential contributions to the company

Resume objective example for job seekers moving to a new geographic location

For jobseekers moving to a new geographical area and looking for a new job, here’s what you can include on your resume objective statement:

  • Previous role, company, and location
  • Years of experience
  • Job title of the new role
  • Key skills and achievements
  • Value you can add to the company

do resumes need an objective statement

  • Starts with current role and years of experience
  • Mentions original geographic location
  • Describes desire to apply for the new role
  • Mentions new geographic location
  • Outlines career goals and unique value to the company

Resume objective statement for job seekers applying for a new role in the company

When applying for advancement or a different role within your current company, your resume objective statement can include the following:

  • Your current role
  • Skill set and relevant professional experience
  • Commitment to the company
  • Awards, training, and certifications relevant to the role
  • Value you can add through the new role

do resumes need an objective statement

  • Opens with current role, years of experience, and company name
  • States new position
  • Outlines different skills and software
  • Describes career goals and value proposition

If you need some inspiration to help you start, find a resume example for your job title. We have a library of over 70 resume examples to get you started.

Specific resume objective examples for various industries

Here are some more examples of objectives for resumes across different industries.

  • Accounting/Finance
  • Computer industry
  • Customer service
  • Engineering
  • Human resources
  • Marketing/Sales
  • Office/Administrative
  • Project management
  • Real estate
  • Service industry

Resume objective examples for accounting/finance roles

Financial analyst resume objective

Experienced finance professional with 7+ years of expertise in the banking industry, seeking a Financial Analyst position at JPMorgan Chase. Proficient in financial modeling, risk analysis, and data visualization tools such as Excel, Tableau, and Bloomberg. Dedicated to utilizing strong analytical skills, industry knowledge, and attention to detail to provide valuable insights, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to JPMorgan Chase’s financial success.

Staff accountant resume objective

Marketing specialist seeking an entry-level Staff Accountant role at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Has a strong foundation in financial analysis and a recent CPA certification and is eager to apply problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to accuracy to contribute to PwC’s auditing and assurance services, deliver quality financial reporting, and enhance client relationships.

CFO resume objective

Ambitious finance professional with 10+ years of experience in corporate finance, seeking a promotion to the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Johnson & Johnson. Expert in financial planning and analysis, budgeting, and risk management, I am dedicated to using my strategic mindset, leadership abilities, and financial expertise to drive the company’s financial performance, ensure compliance, and contribute to the achievement of organizational goals.

Resume objective examples for banking positions

Bank teller resume objective

Bank teller with 5 years of experience at Wells Fargo, seeking promotion to a Senior Relationship Manager role. Competent in financial analysis, credit assessment, and relationship building and able to manage high-value client portfolios, foster long-term partnerships, and deliver exceptional financial solutions to drive revenue growth and contribute to the continued success of Wells Fargo.

Bank employee resume objective

Bank employee with 8+ years of experience at JPMorgan Chase, aiming to advance to an Assistant Branch Manager position. Skilled in team leadership, customer service, and regulatory compliance and has a proven track record in exceeding sales targets, effectively leading teams, driving operational excellence, and providing an exceptional banking experience for customers at JPMorgan Chase.

Recent management graduate applying for bank employment

Highly motivated management graduate with a GPA of 3.5, seeking an entry-level position at Security Bank to develop my skills in financial analysis, risk management, and customer relationship management. Looking to expand my knowledge of banking operations and work toward a long-term career in the financial industry.

Resume objective examples for computer industry positions

Software engineer resume objective

Software engineer with 5+ years of expertise in Java and Python development, seeking a position as a Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft. Has strong problem-solving skills, agile development experience, and passion for innovation to contribute to the development of cutting-edge software solutions at Microsoft.

IT project manager resume objective

IT project manager with 8 years of experience in leading cross-functional teams and implementing large-scale technology initiatives, seeking a Project Manager role at Google. Proficient in project management methodologies such as Agile and Scrum and dedicated to driving project success, delivering exceptional user experiences, and maximizing the impact of technology solutions at Google.

Cybersecurity analyst resume objective

Cybersecurity analyst with a solid background in threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability assessment, seeking a Cybersecurity Analyst position at Amazon. With 4+ years of experience in network security and proficiency in tools such as SIEM and IDS/IPS, I am committed to protecting sensitive data, mitigating risks, and ensuring a secure environment for Amazon’s systems and infrastructure.

Resume objective examples for customer service jobs

Customer experience specialist resume objective

Dedicated customer service professional with 5+ years of experience in the hospitality industry, seeking a Customer Experience Specialist role at Airbnb. Proficient in CRM software such as Zendesk and Salesforce and committed to providing exceptional customer service, resolving inquiries, and ensuring positive guest experiences while leveraging strong communication skills and passion for delivering outstanding hospitality services.

Customer Support Representative resume objective

Career changer transitioning from retail management to customer service, seeking a Customer Support Representative position at Tesla. With a proven track record in team leadership and problem-solving, I am eager to apply my strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in fast-paced environments to provide exceptional support and contribute to Tesla’s commitment to revolutionizing the automotive industry.

Customer care specialist resume objective

Customer service representative with a background in the telecommunications industry, seeking a Customer Care Specialist role at Verizon. Dedicated to delivering superior customer experiences, resolving complex issues, and leveraging my strong technical knowledge to provide effective solutions and drive customer satisfaction within the telecommunications sector.

Resume objective examples for engineering roles

Project engineer resume objective

Civil engineer with 8+ years of expertise in infrastructure development, seeking a Project Engineer role at Jacobs Engineering. Proficient in AutoCAD and project management software such as Primavera P6. Committed to delivering high-quality engineering solutions, managing complex projects, and leveraging strong technical skills to contribute to the successful execution of infrastructure projects at Jacobs Engineering.

Electrical engineer resume objective

Software developer seeking an Electrical Engineer position at SpaceX. Has a strong foundation in programming languages such as Python and C++, and is committed to contributing to SpaceX’s mission of revolutionizing space exploration through the development of cutting-edge electrical systems and components.

Mechanical engineer resume objective

Ambitious mechanical engineering graduate with a focus on robotics and automation, seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer role at Tesla. Proficient in CAD software such as SolidWorks and MATLAB. Dedicated to applying my strong technical knowledge, passion for sustainable energy, and collaborative mindset to contribute to Tesla’s innovative engineering projects, drive product development, and shape the future of electric vehicles.

Resume objective examples for human resources positions

Senior recruiter resume objective

Seasoned HR professional with 10+ years of experience in talent acquisition, seeking a Senior Recruiter position at LinkedIn. Proficient in applicant tracking systems such as Workday and Greenhouse, I am dedicated to utilizing my strong sourcing abilities, strategic mindset, and industry knowledge to attract top talent and drive the recruitment process for LinkedIn’s dynamic and innovative workforce.

HR coordinator resume objective

Marketing Specialist seeking an HR Coordinator role at Uber. With a solid foundation in project management and exceptional communication skills, and a strong dedication to supporting Uber’s HR initiatives, fostering a positive employee experience, and contributing to the company’s overall success.

HR generalist resume objective

HR graduate with a specialization in organizational development and a passion for employee engagement, seeking an entry-level HR Generalist position at IBM. Proficient in HRIS platforms such as ADP and BambooHR, I am committed to leveraging my strong analytical skills, understanding of HR policies and procedures, and ability to adapt in fast-paced environments to support IBM’s talent management strategies and drive positive organizational change.

Resume objective examples for legal jobs

Corporate counsel resume objective

Seasoned attorney with 10+ years of experience in corporate law, seeking a Corporate Counsel position at Apple Inc. Expert in legal research software such as Westlaw and LexisNexis and dedicated to providing strategic legal guidance and contributing to Apple’s legal team in ensuring compliance, mitigating risks, and driving business success.

Legal assistant resume objective 

Finance professional seeking an entry-level Legal Assistant position at Baker McKenzie. With a strong background in financial analysis and attention to detail, I am eager to use my analytical mindset, research skills, and commitment to accuracy to support Baker McKenzie’s legal professionals, contribute to case management, and ensure the delivery of exceptional legal services.

Paralegal resume objective

Enthusiastic paralegal graduate with a passion for litigation, seeking a Paralegal position at Hogan Lovells. Proficient in case management software such as CaseMap and Relativity, I am committed to using my strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures to assist Hogan Lovells’ attorneys in preparing for trials, conducting research, and contributing to successful case outcomes.

Resume objective examples for marketing or sales positions

Sales manager resume objective

Sales professional with 8+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, seeking a Sales Manager position at Pfizer. Proficient in CRM software s uch as Salesforce and HubSpot, I am dedicated to utilizing my strong leadership abilities, strategic mindset, and industry knowledge to drive sales growth, foster client relationships, and contribute to Pfizer’s success in delivering innovative healthcare solutions.

Marketing coordinator resume objective

Graphic Designer seeking an entry-level Marketing Coordinator role at Coca-Cola. With a creative mindset and strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and social media management tools, I am eager to apply my design skills, marketing knowledge, and enthusiasm for brand management to support Coca-Cola’s marketing initiatives, engage target audiences, and drive brand awareness.

Digital marketing specialist resume objective

Ambitious marketing graduate with a specialization in digital marketing and a passion for data analytics, seeking a Digital Marketing Specialist position at Google. Proficient in Google Analytics, SEO tools, and social media advertising platforms, I am committed to leveraging my strong analytical skills, creativity, and knowledge of digital marketing trends to optimize campaigns, drive customer engagement, and contribute to Google’s digital marketing success.

Resume objective examples for medical roles

Clinical research coordinator resume objective

Healthcare professional with 10+ years of experience in clinical research seeking a Clinical Research Coordinator position at Mayo Clinic. Proficient in electronic data capture systems such as Medidata Rave and RedCap, I am dedicated to utilizing my strong attention to detail, regulatory compliance expertise, and knowledge of clinical trial processes to contribute to Mayo Clinic’s groundbreaking research efforts and improve patient outcomes.

Healthcare administrator resume objective

Finance professional seeking an entry-level Healthcare Administrator role at Cleveland Clinic. With a strong background in financial analysis and exceptional organizational skills, I am eager to apply my strategic mindset, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to patient-centered care to support Cleveland Clinic’s administrative operations, optimize healthcare delivery, and enhance patient experiences.

Nurse resume objective

Compassionate and dedicated registered nurse with 5+ years of experience in critical care, seeking a Nurse Educator position at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Proficient in electronic health record systems such as Epic and strong knowledge of nursing education principles, I am committed to utilizing my clinical expertise, communication skills, and passion for teaching to contribute to the development of nursing professionals, promote evidence-based practices, and enhance patient care at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Resume objective examples for office or administrative roles

Administrative assistant resume objective

Motivated and detail-oriented recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, seeking an Administrative Assistant position at Canva. Committed to apply my organizational skills, strong work ethic, and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments to contribute to Canva’s administrative operations and facilitate seamless workflow.

Office manager resume objective

Administrative professional with 5+ years of experience in the healthcare industry, seeking new opportunities and challenges as an Office Manager at Massachusetts General Hospital . Skilled in managing office operations, coordinating schedules, and implementing efficient administrative processes. Dedicated to streamlining administrative functions, fostering team collaboration, and contributing to providing high-quality patient care.

Executive assistant resume objective

Administrative professional with a diverse background in various industries, seeking an Executive Assistant position at LeaderBuilder Co. With exceptional organizational and multitasking skills, along with proficiency in project management software such as Asana and Trello, I am committed to using my strong communication abilities, attention to detail, and ability to handle confidential information to provide comprehensive support to the executives, optimize workflow efficiency, and contribute to the company’s success.

Resume objective examples for project management positions

Project manager resume objective

Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with 8+ years of experience in leading cross-functional teams and delivering complex projects, seeking a Project Manager position at Yahoo. Proficient in project management methodologies such as Agile and Scrum, along with expertise in project management software such as Microsoft Project and JIRA.

Management trainee resume objective

Results-driven and ambitious management graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, seeking an entry-level Management Trainee position at Johnson & Johnson. With a solid foundation in business strategy, team leadership, and problem-solving, I am eager to apply my analytical skills, adaptability, and strong work ethic to gain hands-on experience, develop a deep understanding of Johnson & Johnson’s operations, and contribute to the company’s growth and success.

Senior manager resume objective

Seeking a senior management role at General Electric (GE). With a background in engineering and a recent completion of a project management certification, I am excited to apply my technical expertise, critical thinking skills, and ability to manage complex projects to drive efficiency, optimize resources, and deliver exceptional results for GE’s projects across various industries.

Resume objective for real estate jobs

Leasing agent resume objective

Real estate graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management, seeking an entry-level Leasing Agent position at Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL). Skilled in conducting property inspections, managing client relationships, and utilizing real estate software such as CoStar. Dedicated to providing exceptional leasing services and supporting JLL’s clients in finding their ideal properties.

Property manager resume objective

Finance Manager seeking a Property Manager role at CBRE. With 5+ years of experience in financial analysis and an understanding of market trends, I am dedicated to leveraging my analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and attention to detail to oversee property operations, maximize revenue, and enhance tenant satisfaction within CBRE’s diverse portfolio of properties.

Senior broker resume objective

Experienced real estate professional with 10+ years of expertise in commercial property sales, seeking a Senior Broker position at Keller Williams. Proficient in market analysis, contract negotiation, and relationship building. Committed to driving business growth, exceeding sales targets, and providing exceptional client service within Keller Williams’ dynamic real estate market.

Resume objective examples for service industry jobs

Front desk supervisor resume objective

Dynamic hotel and restaurant management graduate with a strong passion for providing exceptional guest experiences, seeking a Front Desk Supervisor position at Hilton Hotels. Has a proven track record of delivering outstanding customer service, effective team management skills, and proficiency in hotel management software such as Opera.

Guest services manager resume objective

Marketing professional seeking a Guest Services Manager role at Disney Parks and Resorts. With a background in marketing strategy, excellent communication skills, and a customer-centric approach, I am driven to create magical experiences to manage guest service operations, drive guest satisfaction, and uphold Disney’s renowned service excellence.

Store manager resume objective

Service industry professional with 7+ years of experience in retail management, seeking a Store Manager position at Sephora. Committed to utilizing my strong leadership skills, product knowledge, and retail management software proficiency to elevate Sephora’s brand presence, achieve revenue goals, and foster a positive and engaging store environment.

Resume objective examples for retail industry jobs

Visual merchandiser resume objective

Dedicated retail professional with 5+ years of experience in luxury fashion, seeking a Visual Merchandiser role at Nordstrom. Skilled in creating visually appealing displays, analyzing market trends, and utilizing visual merchandising software such as Adobe Creative Suite.

Assistant buyer resume objective

Passionate and customer-focused management graduate seeking an Assistant Buyer position at Best Buy. With a strong understanding of market trends, excellent analytical skills, and proficiency in retail management software such as SAP, I am committed to supporting the buying team, optimizing inventory management, and contributing to Best Buy’s strategic merchandising decisions.

Retail operations manager resume objective

Results-driven retail professional with a diverse background in various industries, seeking a Retail Operations Manager position at Walmart. Committed to utilizing my leadership abilities, analytical skills, and retail software proficiency to drive operational efficiency, exceed sales targets, and ensure an exceptional shopping experience for Walmart’s customers.

Resume objective examples for teaching positions

ESL teacher resume objective

Educator with 8+ years of experience in teaching English as a second language, seeking an ESL Teacher position at Berlitz Language Center. Skilled in curriculum development, student assessment, and utilizing educational technology such as interactive whiteboards.

Preschool teacher resume objective

Early childhood educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, seeking a Preschool Teacher position at Bright Horizons. With a deep dedication to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment, fostering social and emotional growth, and promoting a love for learning among Bright Horizons’ preschool students.

Review center teacher resume objective

Experienced instructor with a specialization in test preparation, seeking an SAT/ACT Review Center Teacher position at Princeton Review. With a proven track record of helping students achieve their academic goals, strong content knowledge, and familiarity with online teaching platforms, I am committed to empowering students, boosting their test scores, and contributing to Princeton Review’s reputation as a leading test preparation provider.

Resume objective examples for writing jobs

Content writer resume objective

Creative and detail-oriented writer with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism seeking a Content Writer position at BuzzFeed. Has a strong passion for storytelling, research, and content management.

Editorial assistant resume objective

Entry-level writer with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature seeking an Editorial Assistant position at Penguin Random House. Has a strong command of the English language, excellent proofreading skills, and familiarity with manuscript editing software such as Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat.

Senior technical writer resume objective

Versatile and experienced writer with 5+ years in technical writing seeking a Senior Technical Writer role at Microsoft. With a deep understanding of complex technical concepts, strong communication skills, and proficiency in technical writing tools such as MadCap Flare and Adobe Framemake. Dedicated to producing clear and concise documentation, enhancing user experience, and contributing to Microsoft’s reputation as a leader in technology innovation.

When is the best time to include an objective for resume?

You should include a resume objective when you are:

  • Joining the workforce for the first time.
  • Looking for an internship.
  • Switching careers or industries.
  • Moving to a new geographic location.
  • Returning to the job market after a long absence.
  • Applying for a new role within the same company.

Is a resume objective necessary?

These days, resume objectives are rarely recommended by career experts and professionals. 

Here’s why:

1. Resume objective statements are a little bit selfish

A resume objective tells hiring managers what you want, not what you can do for them and their company. 

Yes, it’s great to showcase your career goals. But, companies are more concerned with their own interests.

2. Generic resume objectives leave hiring managers with questions

Your intentions and professional goals don’t explain to the hiring manager why you’re the best person for the job.

Objective statements lack the broader context of a summary statement. It misses the “here’s what I can do for you” explanation.

Here’s our advice. 

It can be helpful to include a resume objective if you are radically shifting careers or are new to the workforce. Otherwise, use a resume summary .

As a general rule of thumb, if the job description does not explicitly state that an objective statement should be included, it’s unnecessary. 

  • Resume objective statements show recruiters your professional goals and how you can help meet the goals of the company.
  • New to the workforce
  • Changing careers
  • Switching industries
  • Returning to the workforce after a long period of time
  • Moving to a new geographic area
  • When writing your objective statement, remember to always tailor it to the job you are applying for.

While it is critical to write a strong resume objective, it is equally important to make your entire resume compelling to recruiters. Here are resume examples for any job to help guide you as you build a killer resume .

Also consider using an online tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . It analyzes your resume against the job description and gives you a score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job requirements.

Resume objective statements FAQs

What is the definition of an objective statement.

An objective statement, also known as a professional objective or career objective, is an introduction to the resume. It tells a hiring manager your background, professional goals, and the value you bring to the company.

What is the difference between a resume objective and a resume summary?

The resume objective focuses on your career goals and what you hope to accomplish through the company. 

On the other hand, the resume summary focuses on your measurable achievements and explains what you can give to the company.

Read our full guide: Resume Summary vs Objective: Which Resume Introduction is Right for You?

Is a career objective necessary in a resume?

In recent years, recruiters have preferred resume summaries to resume objectives.

This is because the resume summary provides a clearer picture of the value you bring to the table.

What is a good objective for resume?

A good objective statement tells the hiring manager the goal of your resume. 

Here’s an example:

“An experienced social media manager with a proven track record of measurable results. I’m aiming to work for a brand focused on social justice initiatives.”

What is a good objective for an entry-level resume?

A good objective statement for an entry-level resume can include:

  • Experience and accomplishments you achieved in college
  • Internship or apprenticeship
  • Volunteer work
  • Training and certification

“A passionate recruiter with experience working with BambooHR, Recruitee, and Freshteam. Looking to help small businesses find the talent to take them to the next level.”

What is a good objective for a resume with no experience?

For a job seeker with no experience, a good objective for resume includes any soft skills from other types of jobs or through schooling. 

“Highly motivated student seeking experience dog-sitting. I have a proven track record of babysitting for 5 years. I have shown dedication, exceptional communication, and loyalty through my other jobs.”

What is a good goal statement?

A good goal statement is similar to an objective statement. It outlines your career goals in the hopes of hooking them into reading the rest of your resume. If you’re creating your resume, we can help! Check out our free resume builder . It will help you build an AI resume that gets you more job interviews.

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do resumes need an objective statement

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Does Your Resume Actually Need an Objective Statement?

RC Team

When you come to design a resume you’ll often find  conflicting information  on whether you need an  objective statement  or not.

There are  many benefits of including a short statement  of intent on your document. However, times and fashions change and recently it’s been noted that recruiters aren’t as fond of resume objectives as they used to be.

In this article we investigate  when and how you should use an objective statement  on your resume. We also address whether you need to include this short text at all and what could be used to replace it.

Reason Not to Include a Resume Objective

A resume without an objective statement is preferred by hiring managers today.  Resumes can still perform well with this included  but they are usually seen as out-of-date and might give a bad impression.

Additionally, resume objectives  can come across as a little self-indulgent  at times. Of course, if they are done correctly they can give the template a boost. However, they don’t always help the recruiter understand why you’re the best candidate for the job. They may even harm your chances.

Resume objectives  focus a little too closely on what you want  rather than what the recruiter wants. That’s the wrong way to prioritize your data.

Resumes without objective samples  can perform as well as, if not better than those that include them. Let’s see how.

What You Can Add Instead of A Resume Objective

While a resume objective might not do the trick, using a  resume summary statement  instead  could make a positive difference . This focuses more on the kind of features the recruiter wants to see, rather than telling them why you think you’d be a good choice.

This can be optimized for every position you apply for. The best way to do this is to  read a job advert carefully  and identify some key skills, experience, or qualifications that you already possess.

Once you have a clear understanding of  what the hiring manager wants  from a candidate, you can start fitting your own profile to match this.

What Goes Into a Good Resume Summary Statement?

Think of a resume summary statement as a kind of advertisement. It should  convey the characteristics you’re trying to sell  in a concise and efficient way.

If this is done correctly  the first thing the recruiter will see on the page  will be a quick round-up of why you’re the candidate they’re looking for. This can include elements such as:

  • The KPIs you’ve met
  • Special training you’ve taken
  • Exceptional skills that you possess
  • A relevant project or job you’ve undertaken

When Should You Include a Resume Objective?

In some cases a resume objective can still  make a positive difference to your document . There are a few scenarios where you can make use of this feature effectively.

For example, if you are  starting out in your career  and are  building a resume  for the first time, a resume objective could work well. You could use this section to explain a little about your background and why you want to enter the field you’re targeting.

It may also be used if you’ve just changed sectors, if you’ve got no recent experience, or have had a  career gap due to illness or maternity.  In these situations using a resume objective can work in your favor.

It can quickly temper expectations and  explain gaps in your resume . It also allows you to restate your passion for the work you do in your sector to show that you’re ready to restart this new phase of your career.

If you are able to combine your objective, with some details about why you are a good candidate for the job, all the better.

In Summing Up…

Ultimately does your resume need an objective? The short answer is: no, although in reality  it is totally up to you . If you think the circumstances call for it and you have space to spare on the page then it could prove useful.

The most important factor to consider is  whether you’re communicating the most alluring information . Are you really giving the recruiter what they want?

Overall, the presence of a short introduction paragraph on the page itself is unlikely to harm your chances but it must give the recruiter  a reason to think you’d be a good fit .

A brand new resume can be  constructed in minutes  using  ResumeCoach’s tools . Start with the bare basics and build up your document in a few easy steps to create an impressive and stylish professional profile.

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Career Sidekick

Does a Resume Need an Objective?

By Biron Clark

Published: December 4, 2023

Biron Clark

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

Is a resume objective a relic of the past, or could it be the key ingredient your resume needs? In the ever-evolving job market, the usefulness of a resume objective is a topic of much debate. But the key question remains: does a resume need an objective?

While some view it as outdated, others see it as a vital tool to make their application stand out. In this article, we’ll explore both sides of the coin, dissecting the pros and cons of including an objective statement on your resume. 

From when it might give you an edge in your job hunt to scenarios where it could detract from your overall presentation, we’ll delve into every aspect to guide you in making the most informed decision for your career.

What is a Resume Objective?

A resume objective is a concise statement at the top of your resume, articulating your career goals and how they align with the employer’s objectives. The effectiveness of a resume objective statement lies in its ability to communicate your ambitions succinctly. 

This brief introduction, usually two to three sentences, is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. 

It is a snapshot of your professional ambitions, showcasing your skills and emphasizing what you can contribute to the role.

For example, a recent graduate might write, “Recent B.A. in Marketing looking to leverage analytical and creative skills in a dynamic marketing role, aiming to contribute innovative marketing strategies to XYZ Corp.” 

Alternatively, someone seeking a career change could say, “Experienced project manager transitioning to the nonprofit sector, seeking to utilize extensive leadership and organizational skills to make a meaningful impact at Charity ABC.”

Resume Summary Vs. Resume Objective

While both a resume summary and an objective sit at the top of your resume, they serve different purposes and cater to varying career stages.

A resume summary is a brief statement that highlights your professional achievements and skills. It is ideal for those with substantial work experience, as it allows them to showcase their career trajectory and significant accomplishments. 

For instance, a seasoned marketing professional might have a summary like, “Marketing Director with over 15 years of experience in the technology sector, specializing in digital marketing, brand strategy, and team leadership. Proven track record of growing startup businesses and leading successful marketing campaigns.”

On the other hand, a resume objective focuses more on your career goals and what you aim to achieve in the role you’re applying for. It’s particularly useful for those new to the workforce, transitioning careers, or targeting a specific position. 

An example could be a recent graduate: “Recent graduate with a B.S. in Computer Science seeking a software development position, aiming to apply coding skills and innovative thinking to contribute to the success of TechCorp.”

This comparison shows how a resume summary is centered around past professional experiences, while a resume objective is more about your future aspirations and how they align with the employer’s needs.

Understanding the distinction between a resume summary and a resume objective statement is crucial for job seekers to market themselves effectively.

Do You Need an Objective on a Resume?

The straightforward answer to whether you need an objective on your resume is that it depends. In the modern job market, the prevalence of resume objectives has diminished, as many candidates and employers prefer a more concise approach to resume writing. However, this doesn’t render the objective statement obsolete.

In certain situations, including an objective can be particularly advantageous. For instance, if you are a recent graduate with limited work experience, a well-crafted objective can clarify your career goals and demonstrate your eagerness to learn and grow within a specific field. 

Similarly, if you are transitioning to a new industry or career path, an objective can help frame your transferable skills in a way that aligns with your new direction.

While it’s true that many employers may skip over an objective in favor of more substantial content like your employment history or skills, a thoughtfully written objective can still serve as a valuable tool for conveying your intentions and enthusiasm for the position, especially in cases where your experience doesn’t immediately align with the job you’re applying for.

So, consider your unique situation before deciding whether to include a resume objective. Reflect on how an objective might add to or detract from your resume and whether it aligns with your overall job application strategy.

When Should You Include an Objective on a Resume ?

Deciding whether to include an objective on your resume can depend on your career stage and goals. While not always necessary, there are specific scenarios where an objective can be particularly beneficial:

1. Starting Your Career

For those just entering the workforce, such as recent graduates, an objective can help clarify your career direction when you lack extensive professional experience. 

For example:

A fresh graduate could use an objective like, “Aspiring digital marketer, recently graduated with honors in Marketing, seeking to apply my knowledge and passion for digital platforms in a challenging role at a forward-thinking advertising agency.”

2. Switching Careers

If you’re transitioning to a new industry or career path, an objective can highlight your transferable skills and demonstrate your commitment to this new direction. 

An individual changing careers might say, “Dedicated educator transitioning to corporate training, eager to leverage extensive experience in curriculum development and instructional design to enhance employee training programs at XYZ Corporation.”

3. Targeting a Specific Role

When applying for a particular position, a resume objective allows you to tailor your application to the job, showing the employer why you’re a perfect fit. 

For instance:

“Customer service professional with 5+ years in retail management, seeking to bring my track record of improving customer satisfaction and team productivity to the Store Manager position at ABC Retail.”

In each of these examples, the objective statement serves a specific purpose: it bridges gaps in experience, illustrates career shifts, and targets specific roles, providing context to your application that might not be immediately apparent from your employment history alone.

How to Write a Good Objective for Your Resume

Crafting a compelling resume objective is about balancing being specific to the job you’re applying for and showcasing your unique strengths.

Here are some tips to guide you:

  • Be Specific : Tailor your objective to each job you apply for. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description and the company’s goals.
  • Focus on Value : Emphasize what you can bring to the company. Rather than just stating what you want from the job, mention how your skills can contribute to the company’s success.
  • Keep It Concise : An effective objective is brief and concise. Limit it to two or three sentences, making every word count.
  • Show Enthusiasm : Convey your excitement about the opportunity. A touch of genuine enthusiasm can make your objective stand out.
  • Use Keywords : Incorporate industry-specific keywords from the job listing. This can help your resume pass automated applicant tracking systems (ATS).

For instance, a well-written objective for a sales position might read: “Seasoned sales professional with a track record of exceeding targets, seeking to leverage proven negotiation and relationship-building skills to drive revenue growth at XYZ Inc.”

Remember, your objective is your resume’s opening statement and sets the tone for the rest of your document. It’s your first opportunity to make a strong impression, so make it count!

When You Do Not Need an Objective on a Resume

Sometimes, including an objective on your resume may not be necessary. In certain situations, the space it occupies could be better utilized for other content that more effectively showcases your qualifications and experiences.

  • Experienced Professionals : If you have several years of experience in your field, your career trajectory and accomplishments speak for themselves. For instance, a seasoned marketing professional with a decade of expertise might skip the objective and instead use that space for a detailed “Professional Experience” section.
  • Clear Career Path : An objective statement might be redundant if your resume clearly shows a consistent and specific career path. For example, a resume with consecutive roles in IT project management over several years indicates the candidate’s field and career direction.
  • Limited Space : For resumes that need to be concise, like a one-page format often preferred in industries like tech or finance, prioritizing experience and skills over an objective can be more impactful. A software engineer with a wealth of programming languages and project experience would benefit more from detailing these aspects.
  • Generic Objectives : If the objective you are considering is generic or doesn’t add significant value to your profile, it’s better to leave it off. A vague statement like, “Looking for a challenging role where I can grow professionally,” doesn’t offer unique insights into your goals or abilities.

What Should You Put Instead of Objective on Your Resume?

Now that we have explored the role and potential benefits of a resume objective, it’s also worth considering other impactful elements you could include in your resume. One effective alternative is a brief career summary paragraph.

“Manufacturing Engineer with 10 years of bio-pharmaceutical experience, proficient in injection molding, medical device design, research & development, and product commercialization.”

This type of career summary gives a quick snapshot of your professional background and areas of expertise, highlighting your value to prospective employers.

Including such a summary can be particularly useful for those with a substantial professional background, as it allows for a broader showcase of experience and skills. This approach can also be beneficial for tailoring your resume to pass through automated systems, enhancing your chances of standing out.

You might also consider starting with a Skills section , an Education section (especially if you’re a recent graduate), or going straight into your Employment History . Each section offers a way to effectively present your qualifications and experiences, depending on your career stage and the job you’re applying for.

Remember, choosing between a resume objective, a career summary, or another introductory section depends on your career path and the message you want to convey to potential employers. It’s all about finding the right way to introduce your unique professional story.

Outdated Sections to Leave Off Your Resume

While we’re here, there are a couple of things you should leave off your resume.

First, don’t put references directly on your resume. Make employers ask you for references, and ideally – wait until you’ve spoken with them and know they’re interested. Offering references before even talking to an employer signals that you’re either desperate to find a job or old-fashioned/outdated. Or both.

Next, leave off hobbies and interests unrelated to your work and personal information like height, weight, etc.

None of these will help you land the interview.

And unless you’re in the EU, don’t put a photo on your resume, either. I know this is customary in many countries in the EU, but if you’re a job seeker in North America, your resume shouldn’t have a photo of you. Let hiring managers go to your LinkedIn profile if they want to see a photo.

Ready to elevate your resume to the next level? Join us at CareerSidekick to build a standout resume that captures your unique professional story.

Biron Clark

About the Author

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Well, I have to disagree a bit. If I’ve been unemployed for a while and need to get a job quick, sure I play by the “make your resume look like everyone else’s” rules. However, my “just browsing, thanks,” resume has four very specific objectives at the top of page one that describe exactly what types of companies and jobs I’m looking for and what types I don’t want to hear about. It saves me a LOT of casual calls from the churn and burn recruiters and outfits in town.

I am a college student looking for a summer internship. I don’t have a career summary- should I be including an objective?

You do have a professional summary. You’re a current student specializing in __ and __, skilled in __ and looking for an internship to do __.

(So yes, it can be partly an objective, but still include some pieces from a summary too. Even students can write a summary).

Hi. Im 62 and been a teaches aide for past 15 yrs. One semester of college major bi-lingual education but why mention .. it was only one semester?? Im so glad I came upon your site. its rather refreshing that your site is on the money shall we say. Im a touchy, feely learner. Yes DO write a resume that your suggesting. That would be helpful. Is that asking too much. maybe! ok. For the first time in my life after 15 yrs. experience with special education both in elementary and High School I am finally working on turning in a “RESUME”!. Dont say anything or think anythingOK? :0 Actually ty Have a great day!

Your posts are really meaningful and unearthing precious tips for jobseekers.

In regard to this article, I totally agree with your suggestion. I had recently my resume redone by professional resume writers and, following their experience, adding that objective section only gets to put room off from your resume presentation. In addition to this, it’s useless: since I have learned that the right concern it’s not about you, but about the employer and what’s in it for the recipient of your resume.

I think having an objective can still be helpful too. just don’t make it like everyone else’s generic objective.

I think having an objective can still be helpful if you just take out the generic stuff that this article talks about.. stuff like “i want to be offered a job”.

But if you put non-obvious stuff, it’s still helpful to have.

Comments are closed.

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129+ Resume Objective Examples and How-to Guide for 2024

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In This Guide:

What Is a Resume Objective and When to Use One

What Makes a Good Resume Objective

How to Write a Good Resume Objective Statement and What to Put In It

Real-Life Resume Objective Examples by Career Stage

Real-Life Resume Objective Examples by Industry

Key Takeaways

Resume image 1

The resume objective is a 3-sentence career statement that sits at the top of your resume. It highlights your biggest strengths, relevant experience and how you’re going to add value to the specific job or company you’re applying for. The objective statement shows prospective employers how you’re going to contribute to their business in the context of your skills and work history.

In 2024, the relevance of resume objectives continues to spark debate.  While some job seekers argue that objectives have become outdated, the reality is that they hold considerable value  for those with minimal or no experience. People just starting their professional journey or transitioning to a new career can greatly enhance their resumes with a strong objective statement. The key lies in understanding when and how to write a resume objective that sets your application apart.

In this guide, we'll cover:

  • The definition of a resume objective and how it’s been redefined by job-seekers and recruiters.
  • The must-have components of a good resume objective.
  • More than 100 real-life resume objective examples that capture effective objective writing.
  • Instances where an objective proves beneficial.

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What is a resume objective and when to use one

A resume objective is a brief statement placed beneath the resume header. It shows an applicant’s intent to grow in a specific field, despite the lack of experience. Done correctly, it showcases your key skills , experience, and unique value proposition, showing employers the ways you'll contribute to their success.

At their worst, objectives can be deal-breakers. A vague objective with too many generic skills and experiences might put off recruiters from reading the rest of your resume.

Here’s the thing. Some recruiters view objectives  as overly self-focused. Poorly written ones certainly are! However, when crafted skillfully, objectives spotlight the value you offer to employers and align your professional aspirations with their goals. The frustration with that peculiar correlation and the inability to write them eloquently is where the bad reputation of objectives comes from.

Let’s solve this.

When do you need a resume objective?

There are few instances where an objective statement is absolutely necessary.

  • You're seeking your first job or re-entering the workforce . With limited professional experience , your motivation becomes your main asset. This is precisely what you should distill into your resume objective – skills, projects, and a keenness to learn and grow.
  • Entering a new industry . This requires emphasizing transferable skills  to show employers how your past experiences have prepared you to bridge the gap between your aspirations and their goals and values.
  • Starting an internship . This often means having minimal relevant experience , but a strong desire for hands-on learning. Your objective should underline your eagerness to contribute to the company’s goals.

What is the difference between a resume summary and objective?

A resume summary  provides an overview of your entire work experience, strongest skills, and qualifications. It’s the ideal place to highlight achievements you’re most proud of or certifications that are relevant to the job listing. If you have more than 2 years of experience, then a resume summary is your best choice.

Objectives, on the other hand, are suited for those less experienced ones, people entering a new job market, or those building their first resume . A less tangible difference is the perspective — they are more oriented towards the candidate’s own professional goals within a given organization.

You may have noticed that resume summaries and objectives are similar concepts. The major difference between them lies in their strength and focus.

Resume objectives tend to be short, no more than 3 sentences long, while summaries can span up to 5. The length, of course, depends on the specific content of each.

do resumes need an objective statement

So, how are resume summaries and objectives similar?

  • They both should be tailored to the specific company you are applying to.
  • They both employ the language and keywords from the job description to ensure ATS match.
  • They both highlight the candidate's most relevant skills and qualifications.

This article provides insights to resume objectives best practices, but if you’re not in your most creative mood, feel free to use our resume builder which offers hundreds of content suggestions .

What makes a good resume objective

A good resume objective focuses on what the employer seeks, incorporating more of the job's key requirements rather than an excess of "I" statements. It may be tempting to use this space to highlight your achievements, but you’d need a more strategic approach to meet recruiters' criteria.

A well-crafted objective statement helps you:

  • Gain instant recognition, as it allows employers to quickly assess your professional appeal.
  • Demonstrate to recruiters your commitment to skill expansion and lifelong learning.
  • Highlight your strengths, as the objective is positioned right after the header, making it likely to be read within the first 10 seconds of reviewing your resume.

Speaking of the first 10 seconds, the objective can be the make-or-break moment where you either secure a strong first impression or end up in the rejection pile. Use your three-sentence allowance to include:

  • A brief overview of your career goals . When you d o your background research and understand the job description, you only have to  match their demands with your strengths . Just be sure that what you mention is tailored specifically towards the job position .
  • A quick mention of key skills you bring from past experiences . Start with a hook. Be specific about who you are professionally, don’t lie and don’t overdo it. One keyword placed at the right spot  should do the magic.
  • A compelling value proposition  that emphasizes your alignment with the target company's mission and values.   Include only  relevant qualifications and skills . Don’t fill up the space just for the sake of it. Your resume objective should only speak the truth and match it with the employers’ needs.

How to write a good resume objective statement and what to put in it

Writing an effective resume objective boils down to understanding your audience. As with anything related to communication, your approach should be audience-first. What are their needs and pain points? How can you respond to them?

Since your audience is the prospective employer, this is what you put in the resume objective:

  • A clear and concise opening sentence to present your best strength or professional goal, linking it to your desire to grow in one particular field or organization.
  • A sentence to highlight your skills and qualifications that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.
  • A strong closing sentence to convince recruiters you and the employer share the same values.

Use Enhancv’s Resume Builder

Use Enhancv’s Resume Builder and make a resume that stands out.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s explore some examples.

Real-life resume objective examples by career stage

As mentioned earlier, entry-level roles particularly benefit from a well-crafted resume objective. For graduates of schools, colleges, and universities, an impactful objective can secure the junior-level position you're aiming for, even with limited work experience. However, if you have relevant employment history from an internship spanning at least a year, you might go for a resume summary section  instead.

High school students resume objective

If you don’t have much relevant work experience yet, and you want to impress the hiring manager, we’ve made some guides and templates  which can help you create a resume that stands out.

Eager to leverage foundational graphic design skills at Local Designs Studio, aiming to support creative projects and enhance visual communication efforts. Committed to learning and applying innovative design techniques, contributing to the studio's mission of delivering captivating and effective visual solutions.

College student resume objective

The hard and soft skills you acquire during your education  also count. Integrate them into your objective to show you’ve got potential.

Keen to apply web development skills at TechStart Solutions, aiming to contribute to innovative software projects and enhance user experience. Dedicated to mastering cutting-edge technologies to deliver high-quality digital solutions and drive technological advancement.

Recent college graduate resume objectives

You’re fresh off college  and are eager to start working to pay off that student loan. We hear you!

Determined to utilize analytical skills and aiming to enhance data-driven decision-making processes. Committed to advancing in data analysis, aspiring to turn complex data sets into actionable insights that align with DataWise Analytics' goals for innovation and strategic growth.

Resume objective for a career change

When you’re taking on a new professional path , you  probably have substantial experience but need to transfer your skills and knowledge to a new industry. Challenging, but not impossible. Show your worth from the very start.

Eager to bring problem-solving skills to a new professional area, focused on contributing to sustainable energy solutions. Aspiring to leverage analytical abilities in a new industry, committed to supporting GreenTech Innovations' mission through dedication to environmental progress and innovation in sustainability.

Resume objective for job seekers looking to advance in their careers

When you’re looking for new career opportunities or simply think it’s high time you got promoted , you can support your application with a resume objective no one can say no to.

Eager to leverage project management skills, aiming to drive successful project completions and enhance operational efficiency at NextGen Solutions. Dedicated to advancing in project leadership, with a strong commitment to excellence and strategic project execution.

Resume objective for internship seekers

Another transitional work experience where a resume objective will come in handy is when applying for internships . It’s a great opportunity for novices to get hands-on training  and valuable insights in a potential career.

Highly motivated graduate of the MBA Program at Cornell (3.91/4.0 GPA) seeking to fill an internship position at ZXY Industries. Specializing in customer service skills gained through years volunteering at the registrar's office. Hungry to gain the knowledge to make my career goals a reality.

Resume objective examples by industry

Accounting and finance resume objective examples.

If you’re eyeing a job in finance and accounting, you should probably dive into our Accounting and Finance Resume Examples guides .

For now, let’s explore some objective statement samples for positions in the sector.

Accounting resume objective

Determined to utilize analytical skills in financial reporting and tax preparation, aiming to contribute to fiscal integrity and strategic decision-making. Aspiring to grow as a certified accountant, committed to enhancing FiscalTrust Accounting's reputation for accuracy and reliability.

Accounting analyst resume objective

Eager to apply expertise in financial analysis and  Microsoft Excel to support strategic decision-making and enhance financial performance. Aspiring to excel in financial analytics and specialize in tax work. Committed to contributing to MidMarket Finance's mission through detailed analysis and reporting.

Financial analyst resume objective

Enthusiastic financial analyst, eager to leverage adept analytical skills and a profound interest in financial markets to contribute to ACME Financial's growth. Aspires to evolve into a seasoned financial strategist, enhancing portfolio performance. Committed to delivering actionable insights through rigorous data analysis and forecast processes.

Auditor resume objective

Driven to apply meticulous auditing skills to support Global Audit Partners' mission of enhancing financial accuracy and integrity. Aims to become a leading expert in regulatory compliance, offering detailed risk assessment and mitigation strategies to safeguard audit operations.

Business and management resume objective examples

You can find our extensive Business and Management resume and examples  guide  on our website. Meanwhile, check out a few of the most popular positions that people want to write statements for.

Business analyst resume objective

Self-driven business analyst, keen to harness advanced analytical and problem-solving skills and facilitate strategic decision-making and operational efficiency through proficiency in SQL. Aspires to master business process improvement, contributing to Tech Solutions Inc.'s success with impactful data-driven insights.

Business development resume objective

Eager to harness robust analytical skills to drive growth and enhance strategic partnerships, aiming to align with company objectives through market research prowess. Committed to contributing to Acme Tech Solutions' expansion by delivering actionable insights and fostering meaningful client relationships.

Business intelligence resume objective

Motivated to apply strong data analysis and visualization skills to uncover insights that drive decision-making and operational efficiency. Aspires to leverage technical expertise in business intelligence tools to support strategic goals, aiming to contribute to sustained growth by optimizing data-driven strategies at Sisense.

Strategy consultant resume objective

Detail-oriented professional, eager to leverage analytical skills and proficiency in Tableau to support strategic initiatives. Aims to grow as a leading strategy consultant, driving impactful business solutions. Committed to delivering actionable insights for sustainable growth at Alteryx.

Management consultant resume objective

Keen to apply dynamic problem-solving abilities and Excel proficiency at Logi Analytics. Aspires to become a pivotal management consultant, specializing in operational efficiency and strategic planning. Dedicated to enhancing client outcomes through rigorous analysis and tailored recommendations.

Creative and cultural fields resume objective examples

Artificial intelligence is continually reshaping jobs in the creative sector. With the growing demand for new skill sets, fresh opportunities are emerging. Crafting a compelling objective is key to setting the tone for a winning resume for a career in arts and entertainment .

Artist resume objective

A passionate individual with several group exhibitions. Emerging artist nominee at the Luxembourg Art Prize .  Eager to leverage adept skills in digital illustration with Adobe Photoshop. Aspires to grow as a visionary artist and seeking to bring fresh perspectives and elevate Studio A's creative output.

Writer resume objective

Driven to harness proficiency in content creation and storytelling through Scrivener, aspiring to contribute dynamic narratives and insights at Greenwood Publishing. With experience from the New Voices in Writing contest, aims to elevate Greenwood Publishing's literary portfolio with engaging, thought-provoking narratives.

Actor resume objective

Creative and expressive voice-over actor with experience in creating unique and memorable character voices for commercials. Skilled in performing a wide range of accents and aspiring to bring variety to the video game industry. Committed to collaborating with directors and producers to bring characters to life in Edge Studio.  

Model resume objective

Aspiring model eager to bring a fresh, creative dynamic to Bella Moda Agency, showcasing a natural talent on the catwalk and in front of the camera. Collaborated with De La Cruz, ready to infuse fashion projects with a unique sense of style and experiment.

Videographer resume objective

Self-taught videographer with a knack for storytelling through the lens, skilled in Adobe Premiere Pro. Aims to enhance Visual Nomads Media's content with captivating visual storytelling. Awarded at the "Young Filmmakers Challenge” (UK, 2023), committed to delivering impactful narratives to large audiences.

Data science resume objective examples

You can explore our collection of 30 data science resume examples . Keep in mind, recruiters prioritize seeing specific hard skills mentioned right at the beginning of your science and engineering resume.

Data scientist resume objective

Eager to leverage Python and machine learning expertise to drive data-driven decisions at DataInsight Analytics. Aims to master predictive modeling techniques and contribute to strategic projects. Committed to enhancing algorithm efficiency, aspiring to lead data science initiatives. Will add value by applying insights from participating in the Kaggle Housing Prices Competition.

Data engineer resume objective

Driven to apply Apache Kafka expertise at NextGen Data Corp, aiming to enhance real-time data processing systems. Desires to deepen knowledge in data architecture and contribute to developing robust data solutions. Brings fresh insights from the independent academic projects, promising to bolster data infrastructure efficiency.

Data analyst resume objective

Data analyst with robust analytical skills and Python proficiency, looking to enhance data-driven decision-making at GreenTech Solutions. Aspires to become a lead data strategist, driving impactful sustainability projects. Offers dedication to translating complex data into actionable insights for environmental advancements.

Big data resume objective

Motivated to apply cutting-edge Hadoop expertise to streamline big data processes at DataStream Analytics. Aims to evolve into a data architect, crafting scalable data solutions. Committed to leveraging data for strategic insights, enhancing operational efficiency.

Data mining resume objective

Driven to leverage adept skills in SQL and machine learning at Insight Health Analytics. Seeks to develop into a senior data analyst, specializing in predictive modeling to enhance patient care. Committed to transforming healthcare data into meaningful, actionable insights for better health outcomes.

Design and video resume objective examples

Discover a variety of design and video resume objective examples  tailored to showcase your creativity and technical proficiency. Remember, a well-crafted objective statement can capture a recruiter's attention from the start.

UX designer resume objective

Driven junior UX Designer, passionate about creating intuitive and user-centered designs. Proficient in Sketch and prototyping tools, aiming to enhance user satisfaction and interaction. Dedicated to crafting solutions that align with GreenTech's mission to promote sustainable technology, aspiring to become a lead designer who influences positive change through impactful design.

Video editor resume objective

Motivated junior Video Editor skilled in Adobe Premiere Pro, seeks to bring storytelling and visual creativity to Match Group. Aims to elevate content through compelling video editing, aspiring to lead innovative projects that enhance user engagement and storytelling across digital platforms

Designer resume objective

Experienced graphic designer with 10 years of experience crafting eye-catching digital work using Photoshop, Figma, and Affinity Designer. Seeking a position as a graphic designer to showcase the skills that I've learned while freelancing for several Fortune 500 companies.

Interior designer resume objective

Interior Designer with 2 years of freelance and volunteering experience. Finished 15 commercial and residential interiors with overall feedback of 9.4/10. Skilled in Adobe Suite & Sketch. A regular contributor to Architectural Digest, with articles viewed over 100 000 times.

Animator resume objective

Dynamic junior animator, proficient in Cinema 4D, eager to contribute to Buck's creative projects. Dedicated to crafting engaging 3D animations that resonate with audiences, aspiring to become a lead animator who pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Engineering resume objective examples

What’s your specialty – construction, civil, plant and manufacturing, or general engineering? Everything you need to know about your engineering resume building  is available on our website.

If your job is not listed (even though we doubt it), feel free to use our simple resume builder .

Architect resume objective

Innovative junior architect skilled in AutoCAD and Revit, eager to contribute to sustainable and impactful design projects at a leading architecture firm. Aspires to drive transformative architectural solutions that enhance community spaces and environmental sustainability.

Civil engineer resume objective

Motivated civil engineer, skilled in AutoCAD and environmental sustainability practices, seeks to contribute to impactful infrastructure projects. Aims to support the development of sustainable and resilient urban environments, aspiring to become a leader in innovative engineering solutions for a greener future.

Chemical engineer resume objective

Eager junior Chemical Engineer, skilled in process simulation software, seeks to drive efficiency and sustainability at EcoChem Solutions. Committed to leveraging technical knowledge and innovative thinking to advance green technology initiatives and lead in environmental stewardship.

Engineer resume objective

Proactive junior engineer, proficient in CAD, seeks to contribute to innovative engineering solutions at Leverdemo-8. Aims to utilize analytical skills and a keen eye for detail to support project success and drive technological advancements.

Mechanical engineer resume objective

Driven junior mechanical engineer with skills in SolidWorks, seeks to contribute to Boeing's innovative aerospace projects. Aims to leverage mechanical design skills to enhance aircraft performance and sustainability, aspiring to advance aerospace technology and efficiency.

Government resume objective examples

If you want to highlight your commitment to public service  or a transitioning from the private to the public sector, you’ll need a strong objective statement to communicate your goals and dedication.

Below are some examples of how you can do that.

Military resume objective

Keen to apply disciplined leadership and precise logistical acumen within a public safety framework, aiming to bolster community security and operational excellence. Seeks to contribute to Six Flags' commitment to safety, utilizing military-honed skills in risk management and strategic planning.

Grant writer resume objective

Eager to leverage adept research and writing skills in securing grants that propel Nurses International's mission forward. Aspires to become a seasoned grant strategist, committed to advancing global health initiatives. Offers a dynamic blend of creativity and analytical prowess to deliver impactful funding solutions for Nurses International.

Government resume objective

Dedicated to harnessing analytical skills for the Junior Program Control Analyst role at ECS Federal, LLC, aiming to support government projects with precision and efficiency. Seeks to contribute to meaningful public service through meticulous financial analysis and project management.

Federal resume objective

Motivated to apply analytical and organizational skills to the Junior Contract Specialist position at CACI International Inc, aiming to support federal operations with integrity and dedication. Eager to contribute to CACI International Inc's mission by ensuring efficient contract management and fostering transparent government procurement processes.

Human resources resume objective examples

Recruiters, too, need to impress a recruiter every now and then. The best strategy here is to articulate their passion for human resources  management and their commitment to enhancing workplace culture and employee development.

HR professional resume objective

Eager to apply comprehensive knowledge of HR policies and data analysis to the HR Specialist position at ShearersInternalMobility. Aims to drive employee engagement and support talent management initiatives, fostering a positive workplace culture.

Recruiter resume objective

Aspiring junior recruiter with foundational skills in HR technologies seeks to enhance talent acquisition at Zapier. Aims to leverage communication skills and ATS proficiency to attract top talent, contributing to organizational growth with a focus on efficiency and strategic recruitment solutions.

HR coordinator resume objective

Driven to contribute to StepStone's HR team as an HR Coordinator, utilizing strong organizational and communication skills to enhance employee relations and support HR initiatives. Aims to grow into a strategic HR professional, committed to fostering a positive work environment and effective HR management.

Contract analyst resume objective

Detail-oriented contract analyst with proficiency in data analysis seeks to apply analytical skills at Bridgeton Research Group LLC. Aims to streamline contract processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance, thereby contributing to operational excellence and strategic decision-making.

Information technology resume objective examples

When writing your  IT objective , make sure you include a job-relevant skill or certification. It adds credibility to your resume and is important to pass the ATS assessment.

Front-end developer resume objective

Emerging front-end developer with a foundation in responsive design and mobile apps within the financial industry. Proficient in CSS, JS frameworks, and UX principles. Proven ability to boost website conversion rates significantly. Seeks to contribute innovative solutions in a tech-driven role.

Python developer resume objective

Skilled Python developer experienced in SQL and ETL optimization. Demonstrates expertise in Agile methodologies for data engineering. Aims to apply technical proficiency in a role focused on innovative data solutions.

Full stack developer resume objective

Full stack developer with 2 years of experience in Java, JavaScript, and frameworks like Angular and Python. Proven success in developing websites and enhancing security and customer engagement. Aims to leverage skills at Hopper to boost customer interaction.

System administrator resume objective

Aspiring system administrator with foundational skills in network configuration seeks to enhance Sofarocean's IT infrastructure. Aims to apply analytical prowess and a detail-oriented approach for system efficiency, aspiring for professional growth and improved user satisfaction within a dynamic team environment.

IT project manager resume objective

Eager IT Project Manager with proficiency in SAP S/4 HANA seeks to drive project success at Insight Global. Aims to leverage agile methodologies to enhance project delivery, aspiring for impactful contributions in a team-focused environment.

Law enforcement and emergency service resume objective examples

A professional-looking resume needs a nice and crisp objective statement. Demonstrate your commitment to community service  in the most succinct way possible.

Incident manager resume objective

Motivated Incident manager with expertise in ITIL frameworks seeks to optimize response strategies at Vision Security. Aims to implement efficient incident resolution processes, aspiring to enhance system reliability and client satisfaction in a collaborative setting.

Police officer resume objective

Dedicated police officer  with strong critical thinking and observation skills seeks  to ensure public safety and uphold legal standards at the Army National Guard. Eager to apply rigorous training and a commitment to community service in a disciplined team environment.

Law officer resume objective

Committed law officer with expertise in legal research seeks to uphold justice and legal integrity at The San Mateo County Bar Association. Aims to contribute analytical skills and a meticulous approach to support legal proceedings in a dynamic team setting.

Security guard resume objective

Experienced security guard seeking a career change to the field of Administration. Highly organized and detail-oriented, with excellent communication and administrative skills. Self-motivated and able to work well under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.

Case manager resume objective

Dedicated advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, skilled in Pre-Admission Screen compliance and case management using Microsoft Office. Seeks to enhance client well-being through meticulous progress tracking and advocacy in a supportive organizational environment.

Legal resume objective examples

Your   legal resume  needs an objective statement to concisely convey your specific legal interests, expertise areas, or career goals, particularly when targeting niche fields within law. Remember to always align closely with the hiring firm's specialties or values.

Legal assistant resume objective

Legal assistant proficient in document management and a keen eye for detail seeks to support the legal team at Apex Focus Group. Aims to apply organizational skills and legal knowledge to enhance efficiency and case management.

Attorney resume objective

Part-qualified Patent Attorney with 2 years of experience in IP firm and a background in Biotech/Pharma or Physics. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills and ability to work independently.

Paralegal resume objective

Dedicated paralegal with experience in a global organization. Exceptional skills in legal agreement negotiation, CRM implementation, and database management. Successfully enhanced legal department efficiency by 30% in previous role.

Lawyer resume objective

Experienced employment lawyer with a strong background in providing legal advice and consultation to small and start-up businesses, and consumer customers.

Maintenance and repair resume objective examples

Those of you in maintenance and repair roles  should highlight specific skills in troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, or specialized repair techniques. The resume objective will show recruiters your dedication to operational efficiency and reliability in a practical, hands-on environment.

Maintenance manager resume objective

Proactive maintenance manager with a solid foundation in equipment maintenance seeks to contribute to operational excellence at San Mateo County Transit District. Aims to apply technical skills and a detail-oriented approach to enhance facility efficiency and safety.

Electrician resume objective

Motivated junior electrician with expertise in electrical wiring and safety protocols seeks to contribute to Armstrong World Industries. Eager to apply technical skills and ensure high-quality electrical installations and maintenance.

Housekeeper resume objective

Diligent housekeeper with a knack for meticulous cleaning and organization seeks to maintain high standards of cleanliness at Covia Group. Aims to apply detail-oriented cleaning techniques to improve the living environment for residents and guests.

Facility manager resume objective

Junior facility manager with a strong foundation in operational efficiency seeks to enhance facility operations at Restaurant Depot. Seeking to leverage proactive management skills to ensure optimal facility performance and safety standards.

Housekeeping manager resume objective

Result-driven housekeeping manager, skilled in effective cleaning techniques and adept at organizing and supporting staff, seeks to contribute to Hilton Tucson El Conquistador by ensuring meticulous attention to detail. Aspires to boost guest satisfaction with superior service and a welcoming environment for all guests.

Manufacturing and warehousing resume objective examples

Supply chain, packaging, control – we got it all covered in our manufacturing and warehousing resume guides.

Manual tester resume objective

Detail-oriented manual tester with proficiency in test case development seeks to enhance product quality at ZoneIT. Aims to leverage analytical skills to identify bugs efficiently. Committed to contributing to high-quality software releases through rigorous testing.

Procurement manager resume objective

Strategic procurement manager, adept in sourcing, with proven track record in cost saving strategies. Keen to leverage negotiation abilities for competitive gains. Focused on refining supply chain processes and fostering sustainable development at ChefRobotics.

Supply chain manager resume objective

Dynamic Supply Chain manager with a foundation in logistics optimization seeks to enhance operational efficiencies at Zoox. Driven to implement strategic supply chain solutions. Passionate about streamlined operations and sustainable growth.

Manufacturing engineer resume objective

Efficient manufacturing engineer with expertise in lean manufacturing techniques seeks to enhance operational workflows and reduce waste at Dynamic Fabricators. Aims to apply continuous improvement strategies to boost productivity and product quality.

Warehouse manager resume objective

Hardworking warehouse manager with expertise in inventory management seeks to drive operational excellence in a collaborative environment. Eager to apply organizational skills to optimize warehouse efficiency and to add to the great company culture at AKEA Furniture Company.

Marketing resume objective examples

If you’re a marketer looking to build an outstanding resume , spotlight your creativity, strategic insight, and specific marketing skills in your resume objective. Here are some examples.

Digital marketing resume objective

Driven digital marketer, skilled in SEO and social media analytics. Aims to enhance online presence and engagement for small businesses. Offers creative content strategies to boost organic traffic at Coastal Digital Solutions.

Social media manager resume objective

Dynamic social media manager, proficient in content creation and analytics, aims to boost brand engagement and audience growth for GreenTech Solutions. Seeks to leverage strategic social media campaigns and insights to contribute to the organization's success with fresh, impactful approaches.

Marketing professional resume objective

Motivated marketing professional, adept in digital analytics and strategy, aims to drive customer engagement and increase market share for Fresh Horizons Health Foods. Eager to apply cutting-edge marketing techniques to promote wellness products with impactful, data-driven campaigns.

Email marketing professional resume objective

Passionate email marketer, proficient in automation tools and A/B testing, seeks to enhance customer engagement and conversion rates for EcoCraft Supplies. Dedicated to crafting compelling email campaigns that promote sustainable crafting materials.

SEO professional resume objective

Dedicated SEO marketer, skilled in keyword research and content optimization, aspiring to implement strategies that boost online visibility and user engagement. Committed to leveraging SEO tactics to drive traffic and support TechInnovate's goal of making technology accessible. Enthusiastic about contributing innovative solutions to enhance search rankings and user experience.

Nursing, healthcare and well-being resume objective examples

For practitioners in nursing, healthcare, and well-being , crafting an objective statement is your opportunity to underscore your compassionate approach to patient care and dedication to improving health outcomes. Explore the following examples.

Doctor resume objective

Committed General Practitioner, adept in patient-centered care and diagnostic skills, seeks to deliver comprehensive healthcare at Community Health Partners. Aimed at enhancing patient outcomes through evidence-based practices and empathetic communication, ready to contribute to the mission of improving community health standards.

Nurse resume objective

Compassionate pediatric nurse, skilled in utilizing RevenueXL for accurate patient documentation, seeks to contribute to child wellness at Bright Futures Pediatrics. Aims to enhance patient care through detailed monitoring, education, and support for families.

Psychologist resume objective

Dynamic psychologist with experience in school settings, adept in cognitive-behavioral techniques, aims to enhance student mental health and academic success at Central College. Dedicated to applying evidence-based interventions to support the college's mission of fostering a supportive learning environment.

Healthcare resume objective

Experienced and dedicated Home Health Pediatric Occupational Therapist with a passion for improving the lives of patients and their families through innovative strategies.

Medical surgical nurse resume objective

Seeks to harness foundational surgical nursing skills in an Intensive Care Unit. Committed to contributing to the Green Valley Hospital's mission of delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Brings a proactive approach to learning and team collaboration, aiming to elevate care standards and support the ICU team’s excellence.

Office and administration resume objective examples

For those pursuing office and administration roles , the objective statement  is your chance to highlight your commitment to supporting business operations and your keen attention to detail. Remember to include your organizational skills, proficiency in office technology, and your ability to manage administrative tasks.

Administrative assistant resume objective

Aiming to leverage a versatile administrative skillset, including office administration, project coordination, and budget management. With advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and a keen interest in program development, seeks to enhance efficiency and service delivery. Committed to contributing to ACME Corporation's success through meticulous organization and strategic planning.

Front desk receptionist resume objective

Seeks to contribute a rich background in educational administration, encompassing record management, bilingual communication, and adept problem-solving, to Bright Horizons School. Intends to leverage Microsoft Office proficiency and superior customer service capabilities to elevate organizational efficiency and cultivate positive interactions with both staff and parents.

Administrative manager resume objective

Experienced and proactive administrative manager, excelling in digital document management and efficient office operations. Brings a dynamic approach to streamlining processes, enhancing productivity, and contributing to Acme Corp's mission of delivering sustainable solutions. Aspires to grow into a leadership role, driving projects that deliver tangible benefits to the organization and its stakeholders.

Office manager resume objective

Dedicated Office Manager with expertise in digital workflow optimization, aims to enhance operational efficiency at Alpha Solutions. Aspires to leadership, committed to supporting sustainable practices through effective administrative strategies and seamless office functionality. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Front office manager resume objective

Motivated front office manager with foundational skills in customer service management and proficiency in Salesforce Hospitality seeks to elevate guest experiences at Coastal Retreats Inn. Eager to apply a detail-oriented approach to streamline check-in processes, aiming for leadership in hospitality management. Committed to contributing to Coastal Retreats Inn's commitment to excellence and memorable guest services.

Project management resume objective examples

Explore over 20 project management resume examples and guides tailored to your specific role . Unsure how to write your resume summary or objective? Feel free to customize any of the following examples.

Product manager resume objective

Eager to apply data analysis and market research skills to identify and meet customer needs at Green Innovations. With a strong drive for product development and optimization, aims to spearhead initiatives that enhance user experience and organizational growth. Dedicated to delivering impactful solutions through strategic planning and agile execution.

Scrum master resume objective

Eager to leverage Agile methodologies and problem-solving skills to foster team efficiency at Acme Tech. Passionate about technology and continuous improvement, aiming to drive successful outcomes and growth. Aspires to enhance productivity and project delivery through latest-trend Scrum practices.

Project manager resume objective

Energetic project manager with foundational expertise in agile project management methodologies. Seeks to leverage analytical skills to streamline processes, enhance team collaboration, and deliver projects on time. Committed to advancing SolarTech Innovations' mission of developing sustainable energy solutions through disciplined project execution and innovative problem-solving.

Program manager resume objective

Result-oriented project team leader with expertise in project and product management, adept at developing, implementing, and supporting complex infrastructures for fast-growing startups. Seeks to bring detail-oriented and quick adaptation skills to meet business goals at TechCrunch.

Real estate resume objective examples

Realtors should include a resume objective  that presents their sales expertise, market knowledge, and commitment to providing exceptional client service, setting the stage for how they can benefit a potential employer or agency. Our examples can serve as a solid base, just tailor them to your specific needs.

Realtor resume objective

Eager to leverage a passion for real estate and exceptional interpersonal skills in a dynamic environment, focusing on delivering high-quality client service. With expertise in market analysis, aims to contribute to sustainable growth and client satisfaction at ABC Realty. Aspires to become a top-performing agent, offering strategic insights and personalized solutions to meet diverse client needs.

Real estate agent resume objective

Driven to excel in real estate with a keen interest in leveraging cutting-edge technology for market analysis. Aims to enhance client engagement and satisfaction at Green Homes Realty by offering tailored property solutions.

Property manager resume objective

Dedicated to cultivating tenant relationships, enhancing property value, and contributing to outstanding service. Eager to harness a strong foundation in property management software to optimize operational efficiency at Summit Property Group.

Seeks to grow into a strategic role, enhancing facility performance and stakeholder satisfaction through effective oversight and innovative maintenance strategies.

Motivated to apply robust organizational and project management skills at Citywide Facilities Management.

Real estate developer resume objective

Ambitious to deploy analytical and financial modeling skills at Horizon Development Group, focusing on identifying and executing profitable real estate development projects. Aims to contribute to the company's growth by driving project success, leveraging market research, and fostering community relationships.

Sales and retail resume objective examples

With your sales resume  you offer recruiters a quick glimpse of your sales prowess, customer relationship skills, and enthusiasm for driving results. No matter the level of experience, always try to include a quantifiable outcome in your sales resume objective.

Sales resume objective

Advertising professional who sold $150K in SaaS products using an innovative launch campaign and strong leadership skills. Seeking a sales manager position to further apply skills in motivating and training a team while increasing the company’s bottom line.

Customer service resume objective

Dedicated customer service representative experienced in cultivating customer relationships. Upgraded former employer's CRM system, creating a holistic approach to tracking customer satisfaction, and receiving a general customer satisfaction ranking of 95%. Seeking to contribute to Babylon Inc.'s customer relationship management program.

Sales representative resume objective

A results-driven sales representative with 5 years of experience in B2B sales and a proven track record of closing multi-million deals in healthcare and finance markets is eager to join the ABC company, adhering to its highest standards for personal and team excellence.

Account manager resume objective

Dedicated to understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions, aspiring to drive success and loyalty through strategic account management and impeccable service. Keen to leverage advanced Salesforce proficiency at Omega Solutions Inc., focusing on nurturing client relationships and maximizing account growth.

Sales engineer objective

With 2 years of experience in technical sales, contributed to the 20% growth of revenue for a regional technology solutions provider over 4 states. Seeking to leverage extensive technical knowledge and customer service excellence at Advanced Climate Solutions, aiming to drive innovation and exceed project delivery expectations.

Salon and spa resume objective examples

Give your resume some real pampering with our pro tips on resume building for salon and spa professionals . Of course, you can start by exploring the suggestions for objective statements below.

Makeup artist resume objective

Fine Arts postgraduate and c reative make-up artist, skilled in high-definition makeup, seeks to bring artistic flair and meticulous attention to detail at Glossier. Dedicated to crafting personalized beauty experiences that resonate with brand ethos.

Cosmetologist resume objective

Certified cosmetologist, proficient in basic skincare treatments and microneedling, aspires to elevate client experiences at Ulta Beauty. Committed to utilizing expert techniques to deliver tailored beauty solutions that align with client needs and brand standards.

Hair stylist resume objective

Creative hair stylist, specializing in versatile styling techniques, aims to craft distinctive looks for talent at a regional TV network. Eager to contribute to on-air excellence with dynamic and adaptable hair artistry.

AEsthetician resume objective

Dedicated aesthetician with 2 years of experience, skilled in advanced facial treatments, seeks to enhance client well-being and skin health at Aesop. Driven to deliver personalized skincare solutions and contribute to the brand's reputation for exceptional service and results.

Science and research resume objective examples

Here are some objective examples for science related roles  that you can choose from if you’re looking for an entry-level position or making a career change.

Scientist resume objective

Driven scientist, specialized in biotechnology, seeks to contribute to pioneering research and innovation at BioMarin. Eager to apply analytical skills to develop therapies that improve patient lives and enhance the company's research capabilities.

Chemist resume objective

Data-oriented chemist, proficient in organic compound analysis, aims to drive groundbreaking product development at Lush. Committed to advancing sustainable and effective organic cosmetics through rigorous research and development efforts.

Researcher resume objective

Motivated researcher with proven data analysis experience, aims to advance environmental studies at The Nature Conservancy. Dedicated to contributing to impactful research projects that support sustainability and conservation efforts.

Lab technician resume objective

Detail-oriented and experienced lab technician with expertise in spectroscopy seeks to contribute research quality at Baxter International. Eager to apply precise analytical techniques to support groundbreaking medical research, contributing to advancements in healthcare solutions and patient outcomes.

Lab assistant objective

Highly motivated lab assistant with expertise in sample preparation seeks to contribute to research advancements at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Aims to utilize strong organizational skills to support scientific discoveries and enhance laboratory efficiency.

Software engineering resume objective examples

Wondering how to translate your technical knowledge and experience  into an easy to understand resume objective? Dive into our suggestions and remember to tailor them to the job position you’re targeting.

DevOps engineer resume objective

Innovative DevOps engineer, skilled in continuous integration and certified in AWS Solutions Architect, seeks to optimize software deployment processes at Red Hat. Dedicated to enhancing system reliability and efficiency, contributing to the delivery of high-quality software solutions. Aims to drive operational excellence through automation and collaboration.

Software engineer resume objective

Dynamic software engineer, proficient in Python and machine learning. Committed to developing scalable software solutions that enhance user engagement and productivity. Aiming to drive growth through technical excellence and strategic developmentat Slack.

Software architect resume objective

Strategic software architect with expertise in cloud computing solutions and proficiency in Docker, seeks to revolutionize product development at Autodesk. Eager to leverage architectural design skills to foster innovation, ensuring scalability and performance in software projects, contributing to the company's technological advancement.

Angular developer resume objective

Expert Angular developer, specialized in creating dynamic single-page applications, seeks to elevate web solutions at Shopify. Aims to utilize cutting-edge development practices to enhance user experiences and drive business success through innovative, efficient web applications.

Android developer resume objective

Skilled Android developer, adept in Kotlin and Java, seeks to enhance mobile application development at Medium. Dedicated to crafting intuitive, high-performance applications that improve user engagement and support business objectives through innovative mobile solutions.

Sports and recreation resume objective examples

The objective on your sports resume  should serve as a brief, impactful statement that highlights your athletic background, goals, and what you aim to achieve in your career. Here's what a well-crafted sports resume objective might look like:

Yoga instructor resume objective

Certified yoga instructor with expertise in Hatha Yoga seeks to promote holistic wellness at CorePower Yoga. Committed to guiding individuals through transformative practices that enhance physical and mental well-being, contributing to the community's health and vitality.

Sports resume objective

Energetic PE instructor, proficient in developing comprehensive fitness programs, seeks to inspire healthy lifestyles at YMCA. Aims to leverage expertise in physical education to foster a dynamic and inclusive environment that promotes physical wellness and community engagement.

Personal trainer resume objective

Dynamic personal trainer, skilled in customized fitness plan development, seeks to empower clients at Equinox. Dedicated to motivating individuals towards achieving their health and fitness goals, contributing to a culture of wellness and high performance.

Event coordinator resume objective

Organized sports event coordinator, experienced in event planning and management, aims to create memorable competitions at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Committed to leveraging organizational skills to ensure seamless, successful events that elevate the athlete and spectator experience.

Teaching and education resume objective examples

A teaching and education resume  objective should highlight your relevant qualifications, teaching philosophy, and career goals within the education sector. You should also emphasize your commitment to student development and your expertise in specific subjects or educational methodologies.

Teacher resume objective

Innovative teacher with expertise in digital learning tools seeks to enrich educational experiences at KIPP Public Charter Schools. Aims to integrate technology in the classroom, fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment that supports student success and achievement.

Professor resume objective

Dedicated physics professor with expertise in curriculum development seeks to inspire academic excellence at Community College of Philadelphia. Committed to fostering critical thinking and lifelong learning through innovative teaching methods, contributing to the intellectual growth of students in the field of physics.

Coaching resume objective

Strategic football coach, skilled in team building and tactical planning, seeks to drive championship success at a high school athletic program. Motivated to cultivate a culture of discipline, teamwork, and resilience, enhancing both player development and team performance.

Paraprofessional resume objective

Compassionate paraprofessional, proficient in special education support and skilled in using Read&Write software, seeks to empower students at Harmony Public Schools. Dedicated to providing tailored educational assistance, enhancing learning experiences, and fostering a supportive classroom environment for student success and well-being.

Math teacher resume objective

Innovative math teacher, skilled in leveraging technology for interactive learning, aims to inspire a passion for mathematics through engaging and effective teaching strategies, contributing to academic excellence and student success at Bright Horizons Schools.

Travel and transportation resume objective examples

The same rules apply for your travel and transportation resume  objectives — write no more than 3 sentences, highlight your skills that are relevant to the job posting, and mention what value you’re bringing to the company.

Truck driver resume objective

Experienced  truck driver with expertise in GPS and route management seeks to leverage navigational efficiency at Swift Transportation. Aims to significantly enhance delivery timeliness, embodying reliability and precision in a dynamic logistics environment. Passionate about contributing to sustainable transport solutions through advanced driving techniques.

Driver resume objective

Experienced driver with advanced navigation skills seeks to elevate efficiency at Regional Logistics. Aims to optimize route planning and fuel usage, showcasing commitment and agility in transport tasks. Brings a proven track record of punctuality and safety to the team.

Pilot resume objective

Customer-focused commercial airline pilot with over 10 years of experience in the aviation industry, and a passion for modern aircraft technology. Completed 8,000+ hours of flight time: PiC: 2000, SiC: 3000, Night: 3000. CPL certified. Eager to join the Air Canada team to provide excellent service and uphold the highest safety standards.

Flight attendant resume objective

Adaptable and enthusiastic individual seeking an entry-level position as a flight attendant. A fast learner with excellent communication and customer service skills. Adept in keeping passengers calm and ensuring safety regulations compliance.

Transport manager resume objective

Astute transport manager with advanced logistics planning skills aims to streamline operations at Regional Freight Solutions. Seeks to leverage analytical prowess to reduce costs and enhance efficiency, ensuring timely deliveries. Dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the logistics team.

Quality assurance resume objective examples

What should your QA resume  objective include? H ighlight your dedication to maintaining the highest standards of product and service quality, your analytical skills, and attention to detail. Of course, don’t talk only about yourself, connect your experience to what the employer might be seeking.

Quality control resume objective

Quality control specialist with expertise in statistical process control seeks to elevate product excellence at Midland Manufacturing. Aims to implement robust testing protocols to minimize defects and ensure compliance, driving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Use a real quality control resume example .

Test engineer resume objective

Resourceful test engineer skilled in automated testing tools aims to enhance software quality at Tech Innovations Inc. Seeks to apply meticulous analysis to streamline testing methodologies, improving product performance and user experience. Dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

Quality manager resume objective

Strategic quality manager with expertise in ISO 9001 standards aims to drive continuous improvement at Apex Manufacturing. Seeks to enhance operational excellence and customer satisfaction through rigorous quality control measures and team leadership. Committed to elevating Apex Manufacturing's market position through quality excellence.

QA engineer resume objective

Detail-oriented QA engineer with a strong background in automated testing tools seeks to contribute to the innovation and quality assurance at NextGen Software. Motivated to apply technical expertise and analytical skills to ensure the highest standards of software reliability and user experience. Dedicated to optimizing testing processes and fostering a culture of quality throughout the development lifecycle.

QA analyst resume objective

Analytical QA analyst with proficiency in test automation seeks to elevate product quality through meticulous testing strategies to identify and resolve defects, enhancing software performance and user satisfaction. Committed to driving quality standards and operational efficiency at Innovative Tech Solutions.

Key takeaways

The aim of the resume objectives is to express your professional intentions and career background in minimal detail. These need to be aligned with the company’s best interest, so they know you’ll act as a valuable catalyst to help reach their goals.

It’s vital to entice the hiring managers the moment they pick up your resume. And, this is exactly why resume objectives are so useful. Let’s sum it up.

  • The length of your resume objective  should be no more than 3 sentences.
  • The keywords  you include depend entirely on the job you’re applying for. Research the job description carefully and only list skills and experiences that are relevant to it.
  • The value proposition  should be loud and clear. You need to make a concrete statement about what you’re bringing to the company you’re applying to. If there’s a mutual interest to benefit both sides, your chances of getting called in for an interview will be higher.

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What to Include in a Resume? Here’s What’s Necessary & What’s Optional (+Resume Examples)

  • Klara Cervenanska , 
  • Updated August 22, 2024 12 min read

What to include in a resume? It’s tempting to think that packing in every detail will impress the hiring manager, but an overloaded resume can backfire, making it harder for your key qualifications to stand out.

On the other hand, if you’re just starting out and don’t have much experience , you might find it challenging to fill your resume and decide what’s worth including.

The good news is that every resume, regardless of your industry or experience level, should contain 5 essential sections that no resume is complete without (though not necessarily in this order):

  • Personal information
  • Resume summary or resume objective
  • Work experience

Additionally, there are multiple optional sections you can include if they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for.

To help you craft the perfect resume, we’ll not only break down what to include in each section, but also provide examples for illustration. 

Plus, we’ve included a guide on what to include in a high school resume if you’re just starting out.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

  • What's necessary?
  • What's optional?

What to include in a high school resume?

What to include in a resume (resume examples), what not to include in a resume, key takeaways: what to include in a resume, what's necessary.

Resumes can look different depending on who's writing them. 

  • For example, a student’s resume is going to look a bit different from someone applying for a senior role with years of experience. 
  • Similarly, a social media manager’s resume won’t be the same as that of a front-end developer.

However, no matter your background or the job you’re applying for, there are a few essential rules to follow if you want a strong resume.

If you’re unsure what a strong resume should include, a great starting point is to focus on these five key sections which every resume has to include :

These sections (though not necessarily in this order) should be included in every resume, regardless of your field or level of experience.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these key sections.

#1 Personal information section

Personal information section (also known as a resume header ) should be at the top of your resume, as it introduces you to hiring managers with your essential contact details, like your name and email address. It's the first thing employers will look for.

What's included in the personal information section?

  • Full name. Use your professional name.
  • Phone number. Use the correct country prefix code . 
  • Email Address. Use a professional email address. Don't fill in your teenage and gaming emails. Also, don't use your email address from you previous job, it's not giving the best impression. 
  • LinkedIn Profile. Yes, you have to have LinkedIn at this point. Plus, they're going to look it up anyway.

There are also optional personal information you can include such as: 

  • Portfolio/Website. If it's relevant to your field (for instance in a creative industry), this will definitely help and usually, you will be asked to show one anyway. 
  • Social media. If your role involves online presence, like marketing or social media management, include relevant profiles (e.g., Instagram, X). Tech roles might benefit from adding GitHub to showcase projects.
  • Picture. Though not necessary, a resume picture is customary in some countries .

#2 Professional summary or objective 

First of all, a resume summary and resume objective are two different things . 

But they do have something in common : 

  • Both sit at the top of your resume and are a few sentences (3-4) long 
  • Both serve as a short teaser for the rest of your resume

What's the difference between a resume summary and a resume objective? 

  • Resume summary. It's looking at the past –focuses on highlighting your experience, skills, and achievements. It’s tailored to the job you’re applying for and shows how your background makes you a strong candidate. This summary is often used by experienced candidates and professionals to show their qualifications and the value they bring to the role.
  • Resume objective. It's looking at the future –focuses on your career goals and what you aim to achieve in the position you’re applying for. The purpose is to explain your career intentions and how this job aligns with your goals. Since it’s more forward-looking than a summary, it’s a good choice for first-time job seekers, career changers, and students.

Let's look at 2 examples–of a resume summary and objective , which will clear any confusion you might have left:

Resume summary example

Digital Marketing Manager with 5+ years of experience driving 20% annual growth through targeted campaigns and SEO. Skilled in team leadership and budget management, ready to bring proven strategies to the Marketing Lead role at XYZ Company.

Resume objective example

Recent Marketing graduate with hands-on experience in social media campaigns. Seeking to apply my skills and creativity as a Social Media Coordinator at ABC Agency to help boost brand visibility.

#3 Work experience

Work experience is definitely the most important part of your resume and usually the first thing recruiters check to see if you’re the right person for the job.

This section is where you highlight your past roles, responsibilities, the projects you worked on, and any achievements you accomplished along the way.

What to include in the work experience section? 

  • Company name
  • Where it's located ( city and country is enough)
  • Dates of employment

And, it doesn't stop there. You also want to include in each entry : 

  • Main tasks/what your focus was (1 bullet point). Start each bullet point with a strong action word, and use numbers whenever you can to show your impact. For example: “ Managed a team of 8 marketing professionals, overseeing all campaign development and execution. ”
  • Show your accomplishments (2-3 bullet points). Quantify your results! For example, you could say, “Launched a social media campaign that grew the company's following by 30% in six months.”
  • Show your problem-solving skills. If you lack concrete achievements, explain how you’ve solved a specific problem in the past with an example.
  • Tailor this section to the job description. Do this by searching for any recurring keywords, skills, or experience mentioned in the job listing, and then explain how you’ve demonstrated that skill in your previous jobs.

#4 Education 

The importance of the education section can vary depending on your level of experience and where you are in your career. 

Regardless of your experience level, it's important to include this section in every resume, even if it's brief. It provides essential context and credentials that employers look for.

What to include in the education section? 

  • Name and location of your university
  • Name of your degree or field of study
  • The year when you started and graduated

If you're a recent graduate this section is likely going to be the core of your resume. In that case, don't forget to include also : 

  • Relevant coursework
  • GPA (if higher than 3.5)
  • Awards (Dean’s list, magna cum laude, subject-based awards)
  • Scholarships
  • Relevant student societies (especially if you were in the committee and played an active role)
  • Academic publications
  • Studying abroad
  • Internships 
  • Thesis name and description

As with the work experience section, be specific, and focus on your highlights and moments where you learned the most. 

Every.resume.needs.a. skills .section! 

Of course, your skills need to be sprinkled throughout your whole resume, but here you can highlight specific skills like using certain programs, certifications, or any technical training you’ve had.

What to include in skills section? 

  • Hard skills. These are the technical abilities you were taught. For example, programming languages or WordPress.
  • Soft skills . These have to do with your personality. For example, collaboration, time-management, or dependability.

Alternatively, pick relevant skills and divide them into several subsections like computer skills , marketing skills, languages, and others.

Lastly, the number of skills you should list is between 5-15.

What's optional?

We covered the 5 key sections that shouldn't be missing in your resume. But, if you feel like you have something more to offer and it's relevant to your work, there are multiple optional sections that you can include in your resume.

In the list below you'll find what optional sections there are and what their point is in a resume. 

Also, if you click on each respective headline , you'll find a more detailed guide on what to include in each of these.

Optional sections for your resume: 

  • Awards and achievements . Your achievements should be scattered throughout your entire resume. But, if you have enough content for this section, it will definitely help you to stand out.
  • Projects . You can even create a separate projects section to list all kinds of (relevant) projects you've worked on. These can be academic, personal, work-related, freelance projects, etc .
  • Certifications and courses . If it's relevant to your job then it can give you a big advantage because you are already certified for certain activities.
  • Volunteer work . Including volunteering on your resume can help you stand out. It gives insight into your character and shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile. If you’re short on work experience, the volunteering section can be an excellent way to demonstrate your skills and experience.
  • Language skills . You can include languages as a part of your hard skills. If you have extensive knowledge in other languages and it might help you stand out, you can create a specific section dedicated to languages.
  • References . The references section on your resume contains a list of people who can vouch for you and provide your future employer with more information about your abilities.
  • Publications. If you work in an academic field, publications and patents are a great achievement. Adding a list of publications can be a good step in elevating your resume.
  • Hobbies . Our advice? Only include it if you have absolutely nothing else to put in your resume. In a more relaxed company, it might actually start a nice conversation later on.

If you're a high school student or recent graduate trying to get into the job market but don't have much experience and aren’t sure what to include in your high school resume, don’t worry. 

With a few easy adjustments, you can have a solid resume even if you're a first-time job seeker.

Here are some tips for creating a high school resume:

  • Use a functional resume format . A functional resume (also referred to as skills-based resume ) emphasizes your skills and abilities instead of your work history, which makes it a great option for high school students or first time-job seekers.
  • Use a resume objective instead of a resume summary. Using a resume objective focuses on your goals and aspirations rather than on your work achievements.
  • Put education section above experience. If you're a high school student, your education is the most important part of your life right now, so it should be the main focus of your resume. Take your time to put this section together carefully.
  • Do include all of your skills. Include all the hard/computer skills you were taught in school. Also highlight any transferable skills you gained in your part-time jobs or while volunteering.
  • Showcase other activities. Volunteering, clubs, and any other extracurricular activities can show your commitment and interests. It can be a great help with your first resume. 
  • Work experience (optional). If you have previous work experience, be sure to include it. However, if this is your first time seeking a job, focus more on your skills and education. With time, you'll gain experience to fill out this section.

Here's how a high school resume can look like ( click directly on the resume to vie the full-length resume ):

High school resume example

This resume was written by our experienced resume writers specifically for this profession.

And if you want a little extra help, this is how you make a resume for your first job in 6 steps . 

We covered all the sections and steps to help you create a strong resume, whether you are a professional with years of experience or a high school student. 

Now, let's take a look at some resume examples. (Because you know... some people are simply more visual learners.)

FYI, these resumes were made using  Kickresume’s templates . They belong to real people, which also means they were anonymised. Some of these are more than one page long, so click directly on the resume to vie the full-length resume.

Marketing and Brand Manager Resume Example

This resume sample was contributed by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

Google Server Manufacturing Supervisor Resume Sample

Amazon software development engineer resume sample.

When writing a resume you have to make sure the information you're using is relevant and to the point. An unclear and messy resume can cost you a job.

Here are some things you definitely shouldn't include in your resume: 

  • Overly creative formatting. Your resume should be easy to navigate and read. The more complicated it is, the more likely a recruiter will move on to another resume.
  • Unnecessary personal details. You want to avoid stating any unnecessary details like your age, marital status, full  address, or religion. This information is not related to your job, so it's better if you keep it out.
  • Outdated or irrelevant job experience. It can make your resume seem cluttered or give the impression that your career has stagnated. If you're not sure how many jobs to include, check out our article on how far back should a resume go .
  • Salary information. This information can potentially exclude you from further interview process. This is something you should keep for the interview itself. 
  • Negative language or reasons for leaving jobs. This is a major red flag. Negative language on behalf of your former job makes you look unprofessional and leave an impression you are problematic. 
  • Typos and grammatical errors. Make sure your resume doesn't have any typos or grammatical errors, it gives an impression that you don't care and are imprecise. 

Ready to create a resume now?

Create your resume with AI in seconds thanks to our GPT-4 powered writer.

So, what should you include in a resume? Let's sum everything up. All resumes, regardless of your industry or level of experience, should include 5 key resume sections :

  • Resume summary or objective

You can also include optional resume sections that will help your resume stand out, but only in case the sections you pick are relevant for the job:

  • Certifications and licenses.
  • Volunteer work.
  • Awards and achievements.
  • Language skills.
  • Publications.
  • References.
  • Social media.

With that, you should be able to organize and build your resume in a way that will maximize your chances of landing a job. No matter how much experience you have. 

Make sure to avoid any errors, negative language or unnecessary personal information and you should be good to go. 

But, if you feel like you still need some help, you can create your resume using our resume builder tool . 

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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The Only Time It's OK to Use an Objective Statement on Your Resume

do resumes need an objective statement

Ask three people to look over your resume, and you’ll get three different perspectives on what should and shouldn’t be on there.

Yet, somehow, pretty much everyone agrees that objective statements are out of fashion . In their place, you’ve probably heard, should be a resume summary statement . Or, since you need to keep it all to one page anyway, just save the space and dive right into your relevant experience.

And that’s true, generally. But there’s one occasion when your resume should, in fact, return to the objective statement: when you’re making a huge career change.

Think about it. If you have, say, five years of experience in business development and you’re now interested in marketing, your resume probably isn’t selling you as the best candidate for the gigs you’re applying to.

In this case, you could definitely benefit from having an objective statement to clearly explain that you’re making the switch and show how your skill set aligns with this new career path. It might even be confusing if you don’t use an objective statement if your experience doesn’t line up cleanly with the position you’re applying for.

That said, it’s very easy to get resume objective statements wrong. That’s probably why they’ve gotten such a bad reputation—people just write them poorly. Something like “Objective: To obtain a position as a public relations specialist at an innovative and impactful company that utilizes my skills and experience” is literally just wasting space—every single company in the world likes to think of itself as “innovative and impactful,” and it’s not clear what “skills and experience” this person brings to the job. The top of your resume is prime real estate, so you don’t squander it by using vague filler material.

A better approach is to be as specific as possible about your goal and plainly state how you intend to bring your skills and strengths to a position—something like this: “Objective: To leverage my 10+ years of client-facing experience, public speaking skills , and expertise in the tech industry in a public relations role at a growing educational technology startup.” Like a summary statement, it shows off your skills, but it also explains exactly how you plan to transition them in a new role.

While you’ll often hear that the resume objective statement is dead, it’s important to note that, really, there just aren’t any hard and fast rules when it comes to resume writing. (In fact, the only resume advice that really matters is to do what it takes to get the interview .) Focus on what works for your experience, not what works for the masses.

And if that means including a resume objective statement, go for it.

do resumes need an objective statement

Status.net

21 Examples of Strong and Smart Resume Objectives

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 25, 2024 — 8 minutes to read

A strong and smart objective statement on your resume is a brief and concise summary of your professional goals. It’s important to create one because it’s the first impression a potential employer will have of you. A good objective statement can immediately catch their attention and encourage them to read the rest of your resume. Here are some examples and tips on how to create one.

First, let’s dive into understanding what a strong and smart objective statement means. It should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and showcase your relevant skills and experiences. The aim is to clearly communicate your value and how you can contribute to the company’s success. For example:

To obtain a marketing manager position with (…) company, where I can apply my five years of experience in content creation, social media management, and data-driven campaigns to drive brand awareness and increase sales.

Next, let’s focus on the essential components of a strong objective statement. Use these elements to craft your own:

  • Targeted Position : Mention the job title or role you are applying for. This demonstrates that you have a clear goal in mind.
  • Relevant Skills : Highlight your skills and experiences that directly relate to the job requirements.
  • Value Addition : Explain how you can contribute to the company’s growth or success.

Now let’s examine the importance of keeping your objective statement concise. Long paragraphs or unrelated information can quickly lose the employer’s interest. Aim to keep your statement to one or two sentences, like this:

Seeking a web developer role with (…) company to utilize my expertise in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for creating responsive and user-friendly websites.

Crafting a Compelling Objective Statement

Identifying your goals.

When crafting a compelling objective statement for your resume, it’s important to first identify your goals. Consider what you want to accomplish in your career and how this job can help you get there. By defining your goals, you’ll have a clear direction when tailoring your objective statement. For example, if your goal is to work in marketing, you can write:

“Creative and results-driven marketing professional seeking a position that will utilize strong communication skills and strategic thinking to drive growth and positively impact the company’s bottom line.”

Tailoring to the Job Description

Next, it’s essential to tailor your objective statement to the job description. Carefully read the job posting and note the most important requirements and qualifications. Then, craft a statement highlighting how you meet those needs. By tailoring your objective statement, you demonstrate that you’re a strong fit for the position, and the employer will be more likely to consider your application. Here’s an example for a customer service role:

“Customer-focused professional with a proven track record in providing exceptional service, seeking an opportunity to leverage strong problem-solving and communication skills to enhance the customer experience and contribute to company success.”

Incorporating Keywords

Lastly, incorporating keywords from the job description in your objective statement is a great way to catch the attention of hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). Many companies use ATS to sort through resumes before a human even sees them, so including relevant keywords can help ensure your resume stands out. Compare the job description to your resume, and adjust your objective statement accordingly. For instance, if the job posting highlights “strong analytical skills,” you can write:

“Dedicated and highly organized professional with strong analytical skills, seeking a role that allows for collaboration and growth, while utilizing my expertise in data-driven decision-making to contribute to the company’s success.”

Examples of Effective Objective Statements

For recent graduates.

For recent graduates, it’s important to showcase your educational background and relevant skills to potential employers. Here are some examples:

  • Eager marketing graduate with a strong foundation in data analytics and social media management seeking an entry-level position to apply skills and grow professionally in an innovative company.
  • Dedicated computer science graduate with a passion for machine learning looking to apply programming and problem-solving skills in a challenging software development role.
  • Business administration graduate with excellent organizational and communication skills, ready to contribute to team success in an entry-level human resources position.

For Career Changers

If you’re changing careers, emphasize transferable skills and your motivation for joining the new industry. Take a look at these examples:

  • Detail-oriented accountant transitioning to a project management role, aiming to apply financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting expertise to improve internal processes and contribute to company growth.
  • Experienced office manager looking to enter the marketing field, utilizing exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills to expand brand messaging and improve client relationships.

For Seasoned Professionals

As a seasoned professional, focus on highlighting your experience, accomplishments, and capabilities in the given field. Here are some examples:

  • Results-driven sales professional with 10+ years of experience growing revenue and market share, seeking a managerial role to lead a high-performing sales team and expand the company’s customer base.
  • Passionate software engineer with a track record of leading successful cross-functional teams, aiming to apply technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills in a senior development position.
  • Certified public relations strategist with a history of executing successful campaigns, desiring to take on a leadership role to enhance brand identity and forge long-lasting relationships with key audiences.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Resume Objectives

When crafting your resume objective, it’s important to find the right balance between conveying your professional goals and showing the value you can bring to a company. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when creating a strong and smart resume objective statement.

  • Be specific: Tailor your resume objective to the job you’re applying for. Instead of using a general statement, focus on the company and position you’re interested in. For example, “Seeking a graphic designer position at XYZ Company to apply my strong design skills and creativity.”
  • Show your value: Your resume objective should indicate how you can benefit the employer, not just what you want in a job. Use this opportunity to highlight your skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate because it demonstrates your ability to contribute to the company’s success.
  • Keep it concise: Brevity is key when writing a resume objective. Aim for two to three sentences, making sure to include your job title, relevant skills, and specific goals. This will keep your resume easy to read and understand.
  • Use strong language: Optimize your resume objective with action verbs like “seeking,” “desire,” and “optimize” to show that you are proactive and results-driven, making your application more appealing to hiring managers.

Don’t:

  • Be too vague: Avoid using generic and cliché phrases like “looking for a challenging opportunity” or “to gain experience in a fast-paced environment.” Instead, stay focused on the specific role and company.
  • Make it all about yourself: While it’s important to express your career aspirations, employers want to see what value you can bring to their organization. Ensure that your resume objective balances your personal goals with how your skills and experiences can benefit the company.
  • Exaggerate or falsify: Always be honest about your skills, experiences, and abilities. Embellishing your resume objective can come back to haunt you during interviews and referencing checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i craft an effective resume objective as a fresher.

As a fresher, your resume objective should focus on your educational background, relevant coursework, and transferable skills. You can mention any internships, volunteer experience, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and passion for the job. For example, a student applying for an entry-level marketing position might write:

“Recent Marketing graduate with a strong academic record and experience in digital marketing, seeking an entry-level position to refine my skills and contribute to the success of a dynamic marketing team.”

What are some compelling career objective examples for experienced professionals?

For experienced professionals, your resume objective should emphasize your proven track record, expertise, and the value you can bring to the organization. Here are some examples:

  • “Results-driven project manager with over 8 years of experience in the IT industry, seeking a leadership role to leverage my expertise in managing cross-functional teams and ensuring successful project delivery.”
  • “Creative graphic designer with a strong portfolio and 5 years of experience, looking to expand my skills in a fast-paced agency environment to drive innovative design solutions for clients.”

Can you suggest some beginner-friendly resume objective examples?

Beginner-friendly resume objectives should highlight your relevant skills, achievements, and areas of interest. Some examples include:

  • “Enthusiastic customer service professional with excellent communication skills and a strong track record of delivering outstanding customer experiences, seeking an opportunity to contribute to a dynamic customer support team.”
  • “Dedicated sales specialist seeking an entry-level position to leverage my strong negotiation and networking abilities, along with a passion for helping clients find the perfect solution to meet their needs.”

How should an employee articulate their objectives within a resume?

When articulating your objectives within a resume, ensure that your statement is clear, concise, and tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Focus on showcasing your skills, qualifications, and the value you can provide to the employer. Consider what unique traits or offerings you bring to the table and make sure they align with the job description.

Could you provide examples of strong resume objective statements for various job types?

For example:

  • Administrative Assistant: “Organized and detail-oriented administrative professional with 4 years of experience, seeking a position to utilize my strong organizational skills, time management, and problem-solving abilities in a dynamic office environment.”
  • Software Engineer: “Experienced software engineer with 6 years of experience in Java and Python development, seeking a challenging role to develop innovative solutions, improve the user experience, and contribute to the growth of a forward-thinking organization.”
  • Human Resources: “Accomplished human resources professional with over 5 years of experience in employee relations, performance management, and recruitment, seeking an opportunity to develop and implement effective HR strategies to support workforce growth and organizational success.”

What are key elements of a smart objective statement on a resume?

A smart objective statement on a resume should include the following key elements:

  • Be specific: Tailor your objective to the exact job title and requirements.
  • Focus on your skills and qualifications: Highlight what makes you a strong candidate for the job.
  • Be concise: Keep your objective statement to one or two sentences.
  • Show enthusiasm: Express your genuine interest in the position and the company.
  • Indicate the value you will bring: Illustrate how your skills and experience will benefit the organization.
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Resume Objective Examples and Step-By-Step Guide

Resumes pass or fail depending on their objective statements. Read this guide to set your resume up for success and prevent it from getting tossed aside from the get-go.

Resume Objective Examples and Step-By-Step Guide

Your resume objective is often the first thing hiring managers look at and is meant to captivate their interest – drawing them in to read the rest of your resume. Nailing this element of your resume is crucial towards marketing yourself as the perfect fit for the job.

A resume objective is sometimes referred to as:

  • A career objective
  • A resume header (different from resume headlines )
  • An objective statement

What is a resume objective?

A resume objective is the first section on your resume under your name and contact information. It’s designed to be the very first thing recruiters look at.

At its simplest level, your objective is a very short blurb to show the reader that you can add value to their organization. It does not:

  • Describe your hopes and dreams
  • Focus on what you want from a career
  • Include vague, trite statements
  • Stay the same for every application

Rather, your objective summarizes the parts of your education, experience, and character that are most relevant to the particular position you are applying for. It shows the reader that you want the job, and you can do the job. It gets them to keep reading.

In a way, a resume objective is like a distilled version of your cover letter. But not all recruiters will read cover letters, and they will spend less than a minute scanning your resume. A strong objective statement attracts interest and convinces the recruiter to take a closer look at you.

Does my resume need an objective statement?

Considering that resumes are very space-constrained, it can be difficult to justify adding an “Objective” section. And since everything in an objective statement can be included in a short and sweet cover letter, it can feel redundant.

There are various schools of thought regarding objective statements on resumes. In the past, they’ve gotten a bad rap because so many people write them poorly. And while even a well-written statement repeats some of the same information as your cover letter, they are the most recruiter-friendly part of your entire presentation.

Imagine looking through hundreds of applications for a new hire. You’re a busy person; you don’t have time to read three pages of content from each applicant. However, you do have time to read two or three sentences. If those sentences catch your attention, you’ll be hooked enough to spend a little bit more time checking out the rest of the resume.

As you can see, the top two inches of your resume are prime real estate to set the stage for who you are. And if you do it right, you’ll interest recruiters enough that they’ll want to learn more about you.

How to write a resume objective: General principles

Keep it short: Your statement will be about three sentences long. If you find you have too much information to realistically organize into that space, use the cover letter to flesh it out. While cover letters also need to be short, they are generally a few paragraphs instead of a few sentences – much easier

Keep it impersonal: This might seem like strange advice, but your objective statement isn’t a letter. It’s part of your resume. So you’re not going to be using “I” statements like you would in a cover letter. There won’t be explanations. It’s going to be cold, hard facts distilled into just a few words.

I am an executive assistant with experience working for many types of executives.
Experienced executive assistant for multiple C-suite titles.

Keep it relevant: Study the job posting and include only elements that pertain to it. You’re not going to talk about your past experience as a first-grade teacher when applying for a position as a chef. Similarly, you wouldn’t include your IT skills in a position that asks for customer service skills.

How to write a resume objective: Elements

Most career objective statements include four elements:

  • Position name and company applying to

Value you offer potential employer

Let’s look at each of these in turn.

Also known as “soft skills,” traits are life skills that can’t be taught. Think of them as character traits or personality traits transferable to a place of employment.

Recruiters want people with skill sets that match the actual job posting, but they also want people who are just generally good employees. People who get along with others, come to work on time, and go above and beyond. Here are some other examples of traits:

  • Detail-oriented
  • Hard working
  • Dependable/reliable
  • Trustworthy
  • A team player
  • Good at communicating

The list goes on.

Since we know recruiters want people with these traits, we often make the mistake of claiming them in our objective statement. And that can be a problem.

Recruiters are tired of everyone claiming they’re model citizens. They have no idea if you’re truly a team player or if you’re just saying what they want to hear.

Unless you can back up a soft skill with provable experience, it shouldn’t enter your objective statement – and even then, it can muddy the waters with trite words everyone uses.

Detail-oriented quality control specialist.
Top quality control specialist with a 99.5% record. (This proves the “detail-oriented” aspect without just claiming the trait.)
Good team player.
Successfully completed challenging projects by partnering with team members.

But be careful: Even if you can demonstrate a soft skill, your objective statement may not be the place to mention it.

Why? Because your objective statement is tailored to the job posting.

Let’s say the posting states that the company is looking for a person with good communication skills – and you have them. If you can find a provable way to share this in the objective, go ahead.

But if the posting says nothing about needing a person with good communication skills, there’s no reason to talk about them (at least not in the objective statement.) Everything in the objective statement should be relevant to the job posting.

Takeaway: Look in the job posting for traits that match yours. Prove it in your objective statement.

Hold to these principles when describing skills in an objective statement:

Don’t include skills irrelevant to the job posting.

(For example, don’t talk about your extensive customer service experience when applying for a data entry position.)

Don’t claim to have skills you can’t back up with experience or education.

(For example, don’t say you can do a company’s taxes if your only experience is with your personal TurboTax. It doesn’t mean you can’t apply for the position; you may have other experience relevant to other duties required.)

Don’t overdo it. Lists of skills may be impressive, but they can overwhelm the reader to the point of being meaningless, even if they are relevant to the position. Include only your strongest points.

(For example, don’t say “detail-oriented hardworking motivated team player and business major seeking a receptionist position in a challenging, forward-moving, open-minded, people-oriented diverse environment like [company name]. where I can use my experience with data entry, customer service, research, logistics, business writing, and project management.”)

Organize your statement well. Believe it or not, you can pack a lot of information into a short space and still make it reader-friendly if you word it right.

“Experienced customer service professional seeking receptionist position in a community-centered environment like [company name]. Ready to contribute logistics, business writing, and phone service skills.)

Takeaway: Your priorities are brevity, relevancy, and readability. Cut what doesn’t fit. Reword and reorganize if necessary.

3. Position name and company applying to

This may seem obvious, but a resume objective should state that you want the job you’re applying for. Recruiters should feel like you wrote your resume specifically to apply to their position at their company. So you need to mention the position itself.

For example, if are applying for a position as a project manager and you have past experience in that role, call yourself a project manager. For that particular objective statement, “Project manager” is already your job title. By mentioning it, you prove that you know exactly what you’re applying to. You’ve carefully considered whether or not you would be a good fit for the role, and concluded that you should definitely apply.

Recruiters are tired of people blanketing their desks with resumes just because they’re looking for any job. They want to feel like an applicant has looked at other job postings and rejected them – but they’re excited to apply for this particular one. Blanket resumes waste recruiters’ time, and they don’t like that.

Bad example: Seeking to apply my skills in a position at a good company. Good example: Seeking a marketing position at Acme Corporation.

A little effort goes a long way.

Takeaway: Show that your intentions are specific to what the company wants.

While it may seem that each of the previously mentioned three elements – traits, skills, and position details – are evidence that you offer value to the company, it is possible to state them in a way that sounds boring and even self-centered.

For example, an objective statement isn’t just a description; it has a point. It’s moving toward a literal objective, and that objective is the position. Think of it as a story rather than a portrait.

Once you have this mindset, you’ll be able to offer the employer value instead of just stating it. For example:

Experienced with data entry and research.
Seeking to transfer data entry and research experience as a [position] at [company].

Notice that the first statement is just the applicant talking about themselves. The second statement contains the same information, but it has a purpose.

Takeaway: Direct content toward a purpose.

How to write a resume objective: Format

Your objective answers three questions recruiters are asking:

Who are you?

What can you do?

What do you want?

It’s best to start with the first question: Who are you?

This is where you share a trait (soft skill) and share your title. It’s going to be the first part of the first sentence. For example:

Successful sales agent… People-oriented administrative professional…

Note that these example phrases are just the beginning of what you want to say

Next question: What can you do?

Here is where you show what you can bring to the table. For example:

Ready to use my BA in business administration to advance company objectives.

Finally, the third question – What do you want? – should be handled with care. It can be tricky to share your own goals without sounding self-centric, but it can be done. Here’s an example:

Seeking a fast-paced, challenging environment in which to grow my existing skills.

While the objective statement contains answers to these questions, it doesn’t have to dedicate one sentence to each answer, though it’s good to keep the “Who” at the start. Here’s an example of a single sentence objective statement:

Strong business writer seeking to meet [company’s] need for [position] and to use my communication skills in a fast-paced environment.

While this doesn’t contain a lot of information, it can be all that’s needed depending on what the job posting asks for and what you have to offer.

Resume objective examples: Different life stages

Depending on where you are in your life, your objective will emphasize different information.

For example, high school students often have difficulty composing objectives because they lack experience or higher education, while recent college graduates have the education, but not much relevant work experience. Here are some tips and examples to help you compose your statement, regardless of your stage in your career journey.

Standard resume objective

If you already have work experience under your belt, your resume objective will follow the standard format. Feel free to mention your past education if relevant – but your emphasis is what you bring to the company based on your work experience.

CPA with 5 years industry experience with history managing company internal audits for mergers & acquisitions. Seeking to join [company] in goals to move forward.

High school student

Emphasize special activities, volunteering, and honors. If your career goals are in line with the job you’re applying for, mention your plan to pursue education in that area. This objective statement shows recruiters two facts:

1. You’re a good student, so you’ll probably be a good employee.

2. You are passionate about the job to the extent you want to pursue it as a career.

AP high school senior involved in multiple extracurricular activities. Responsible student with 4.0 GPA. Seeking to start career in restaurant business through an entry level server position at [company] and enrolling in [college] to pursue higher education in business.

Recent high school graduate

Similarly, if you’ve just graduated high school, you probably don’t have work experience. Again, you’ll mention your history of extracurricular activities, your GPA if it’s high, and any honors or accolades you received.

If you are enrolled in college but haven’t started yet, say so. This shows forward movement on your part.

Some high school students take a “gap year” before starting college, so if you aren’t enrolled yet, mention your future plans for a higher degree and your time frame.

Honors 4.0 GPA high school graduate with a history of extracurricular activities. Voted “Most likely to succeed” by student body. Plan to enroll in a BA of English Literature program at [college] in autumn 2021. Seeking a journalist internship to start career at [company].

Current college student

Again, include any special accomplishments and a good GPA, if applicable. It looks good if you’re at the end of your degree program, so if you’re a senior, include that and mention the career you want to pursue, as well as any higher education you plan to enroll in.

Senior TESOL major at [college] elected 2019 class president with 4.0 GPA. Volunteer experience teaching English to recent immigrants. Seeking to equip non-native speakers with skills to succeed in an environment like [company].

Recent college graduate

If you’ve recently graduated college, your objective statement will follow nearly the same principles as an enrolled college student. But this time, you’ll emphasize the completion of your degree as evidence that you’re prepared to move forward.

Recent graduate of [college] with 4.0 degree in finance. Success in class projects involving mock investment scenarios. Seeking to continue career as a stock broker at [company].

Resume examples: Different career tracks

Depending on the field you pursue, you need to be familiar with the priorities of industry employers.

A great way to indicate your familiarity with the industry is to use keywords pulled them from the job listing. Let’s say the company wants a customer service representative with experience in durable medical equipment. You’ll prove you know the field by using industry terms and relevant examples.

Successful service representative with expertise in DME assisting customers pursuing reimbursement from insurance. Seeking to partner with [company] in serving individuals who use mobility accommodations.

Let’s look at example resume objectives for some major industries.

Administrative/Officer

Possible key terms: Administrative assistant, executive assistant, office management, front desk management, data entry, organizational skills, office supply inventory, logistics.

Experienced receptionist with proven history of assisting and routing callers. Managed incoming and outgoing correspondence for all departments. Seeking expansion of office responsibilities as an office manager at [company].

Customer Service

Possible key terms: Product knowledge, establishing relationships with clients, conversion rate, numbers proving sales success or customer satisfaction rate.

Highest-ranking sales representative in 2019 with 70% conversion rate. Specialize in cold calling potential customers and upselling existing clients. Seeking to increase revenue for [company] as a sales representative.

Retail / Cashier

Possible key terms: Associate, team member, inventory, product knowledge, customer service, till.

Professional retail associate in major department store with experience managing inventory, keeping current on new products, and assisting customers. Seeking to enhance customer experience at [company].

Education / Teaching

Possible key terms: Students, tutor, educate, empower, grow, improve.

Career math tutor with history improving student success an average of one full letter grade. Seeking to leverage data scientist degree as statistician professor at [school].

Medical / Dental

Possible key terms: Patients, patient experience, medical professional, HIPAA, nursing, care.

Licensed MA with experience managing high patient volume in fast-paced office. Currently enrolled in CAN program at [school]. Seeking CAN position in [hospital] ED.

Finance / Banking

Possible key terms: Accounts, teller, investment, record keeping, accuracy.

Investment broker with experience managing high-profile accounts upwards of $1 million. Seeking to further [company’s] interests by improving investment portfolio.

Food service

Possible key terms: Restaurant, service, fast-paced, dining.

Head server with 3 years excellent time management skill demonstrated at busy upscale restaurant. Specialize in anticipating diners’ needs and upselling add-ons. Seeking a team member position in a fast-paced sit-down dining establishment like [company].

Possible key terms: IT, hardware, software, developing, design, project.

IT specialist with 4 years experience at major software corporation. Specialize in leading teams for successful project management and completion. Seeking to assist [company] with technology efficiency and software streamlining.

As you can see, there are dozens of ways to format your resume objective.

But regardless of your education or career, every objective has the same goal: Show the company what you offer. And as we saw, the best way to do this is to study the job posting and tailor your objective to the company’s interests.

While objectives may have different emphases – such as student performance or volunteer experience – there is always something you can use to illustrate your competency as a good employee.

Remember, your objective statement answers three questions:

And don’t forget that your statement shows forward movement and adds value to the employer.

With these basic principles and examples, it won’t be difficult to compose an attractive resume objective for every position you apply to! And with your new skills, you’ll draw recruiters from spending five seconds on your resume to five minutes. And with any luck, they’ll pick up the phone and call you for an interview!

Bottom line: Optimize your job search with a stellar resume objective.

Good luck in your career goals!

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  • It's Time to Ditch Your...

It's Time to Ditch Your Resume Objective Statement

8 min read · Updated on August 20, 2024

Marsha Hebert

The resume objective statement is an outdated custom that's best forgotten.

Your resume has one job: It needs to convey your value to a prospective employer in a way that compels them to call you for an interview. Crafting a targeted resume that truly speaks to a company's needs can be tough, especially with all the conflicting information you hear about how to put one together. 

A common piece of advice everyone has heard at some point is that your resume needs to have an objective statement at the top to let employers know what you want to do. Nothing could be further from the truth. It's time to ditch your resume objective statement in favor of career details that sing your praises.

What is a resume objective statement?

You've seen – and probably used – those generic sentences at the top of a resume that look something like this:

Motivated, hard-working self-starter looking for opportunities in [INDUSTRY] that will allow me to leverage my [LIST OF SKILLS] skills

Seeking to obtain a position as a [JOB TITLE] with [COMPANY NAME]

Eager to leverage [SKILL #1] and [SKILL #2] to obtain a role as a [JOB TITLE]

These types of statements make most employers cringe, mostly because they fall into the “Well, duh!” category. One thing is certain: there's no need to waste valuable resume real estate by stating something so mundane. 

Does a resume need an objective?

Have you ever had someone ask you a blatantly obvious question? For example, you walk out of the house with your jacket on, and someone asks, “Is it cold out?” Do you roll your eyes or cringe a bit inside? 

That's the feeling that employers get when they see a resume with a taboo and outdated resume objective statement. Even if you're changing careers, your resume doesn't need an objective statement. It's fairly obvious that you want to apply your skills to get a new job – after all, you wouldn't be applying for a new job otherwise.

Reasons why you need to replace your career objective statement

Aside from stating the obvious, there are several reasons that prove your resume doesn't need an objective. 

1. Does a resume need an objective statement that's vague?

What good does a resume with an objective statement do? Not only have you completely turned the hiring manager who's reading your resume off, but the objective statement that you have does nothing to tell them why you're qualified for the position they have open. Yes, it may list a skill or two, but so do all the other resumes they have on their desk. 

2. Does a resume need an objective statement that's full of fluff?

Hardworking

Self-starter

All of these terms are considered filler words by recruiters and hiring managers. Don't say you're hardworking; instead, use your resume to sing your praises, explaining what you've accomplished at past jobs because of your hard work. 

Related reading: Resume Help: Are You a Doer or Achiever?

3. Does a resume need an objective statement that uses personal pronouns?

While there is some debate within the resume-writing world, most professional writers still believe that personal pronouns such as “I” or “me" should not be included when writing a resume. Save those for the intro paragraph of your LinkedIn profile summary. 

Instead, stick to what's known as the absent first person, which is when you remove the pronouns. Here's an example of how a professional summary can begin using the absent first person:

“Strategic business development professional with more than 10 years' experience leading B2B sales teams to generate revenue, increase market share, and exceed quotas for organizations within the Software as a Service (SaaS) sector. Possess in-depth knowledge of lead generation and qualification techniques that grow market base and generate record-breaking revenue.”

4. Does a resume need an objective that's all about you?

While your resume is supposed to be a reflection of the things you've accomplished thus far in your career, it also needs to be forward-facing. When the hiring managers skim through it, they're looking for clues that promise you'll add value to their team. 

Related reading: How to Pass the 6-Second Resume Test

What should you put on your resume instead of an objective statement?

Resume objective statements talk about the type of job you want when it should focus on what you can offer a potential employer. Remember, you're writing this resume for recruiters and hiring managers to read. Instead of listing out your needs and wants, use this space to deliver your elevator pitch.

Profile paragraph or career summary

In approximately three to five sentences, explain what you're great at and most interested in by describing how you can provide value to a prospective employer in this type of role. To figure out what to include in this section, ask yourself the following questions:

Why am I qualified for the position I'm targeting?

What about my experience, education, and skills make me a good candidate for this type of role?

How have I used these qualifications to create results and provide value to my previous employers?

Ideally, your resume professional summary should communicate your record of achievement, experience level, value, industry (assuming this is relevant to your current goals), and your immediate career goals. This section will set the tone and focus for the rest of your resume, so give it some careful thought.

Related reading: How to Define Your Career Goals

Skills list or qualifications summary

Considering the fact that most hiring managers are quickly skimming through resumes – no, they're not reading them – a lot of job seekers will opt to put a list of qualifications bullet points at the top of their resume. Using this layout instead of a paragraph can make pertinent information jump off the page a bit easier, especially if you have a lot of quantifiable achievements you want to call attention to. Here's what that would look like:

First Name, Last Name

City, State, Zip | Phone | Email

Sales Support Specialist

Actively evaluate systems and leverage emerging technologies to integrate recommended initiatives for improvement while providing a vision aimed at achieving business continuity.

Drive efficiency and reduce labor hours on non-stock merchandise return processes. 

Standardize procedures for submitting return authorization requests to vendors and how responses were handled. 

Unify request tracking and condense the entire process into something 1 person could do in half a day.

Track record of managing competing priorities in fast-paced, fluid, and independently driven roles

As you see, it still follows the rule of having three-five sentences, but they're broken into bullet points to improve readability. 

What to add to your professional summary

Not only can you include things about skills, achievements, and qualifications in your professional summary or qualifications list, but you can also add a few other pertinent details, too. Consider things like security clearances and relevant Visa information if you're moving from another country/

Here's a look at some additional pieces of information you may want to include at the end of your professional summary to further clarify your intent and value.

Language skills

If you speak more than one language, make sure this information gets incorporated into the resume professional summary section. For instance, depending on your language skills, you might add 

“Bilingual: Spanish and English” 

“Multilingual: Russian, Arabic, and English” 

This ensures that the recruiter or hiring manager won't overlook these valuable skills, which are usually mentioned toward the bottom of the resume.

Travel welcome

Some jobs require a certain amount of travel on a regular basis. You usually see this with outside sales positions, business development roles, or consulting jobs. If you relish the idea of jet-setting across the U.S. or around the globe for work and you're targeting jobs that require such travel, include this information as well. 

Willing to travel up to 50% of the time” 

Does a resume need an objective statement? 

No, it's time to officially ditch the resume objective statement. And even though writing a resume professional summary can be a challenging exercise, it will make your resume all the more competitive.

Click on the following link for more resume and career advice .

Need help crafting a resume professional summary that sells you? Get objective feedback and advice from a TopResume professional writer today!

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine . It's been updated by Marsha Hebert .

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Why Your Resume Doesn't Need an Objective

do resumes need an objective statement

Branding Statements and Profiles

Resume headline, use keywords in your resume, how to select keywords, keep your resume honest, if you absolutely must have an objective on your resume.

If you learned how to create a resume ten years ago or longer, you might be surprised to know that an objective is no longer an essential part of a standard resume. In fact, some career experts will tell you that having a resume objective is unnecessary at best and dated at worst. Like the line "references upon request," it's a space-filler that's keeping hiring managers from getting to the meat of your resume.

You have a limited amount of time in which to grab their attention: less than eight seconds, to be exact, according to one study. Obviously, you don't want to waste any of that time telling them what they already know from the subject line of your email or the requisition number in the applicant tracking system.

Here are the better alternatives to a resume objective:

A branding statement or professional profile has taken the place of the objective for most resume writers. In this brief introductory paragraph, job seekers provide an  elevator speech —a quick summary of their experience, skills, and attributes that describes their career and qualifications at a glance.

This introduction fulfills two main purposes at the same time: it gives hiring managers quick insight into the candidate while allowing the candidate an opportunity to use resume keywords that will get their application noticed. Here's an example:

Branding Statement Example

An award-winning graphic designer whose portfolio includes Fortune 100 clients like CVS, Verizon, and Kroger. Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Adept at estimating costs, gaining consensus across teams, and delivering projects on time and on budget.

Also review tips for writing a branding statement , with more examples, along with advice on adding a profile to your resume.

A headline on your resume allows you to condense your  skills  and  work experience  into a brief phrase that will quickly impress the hiring manager. If you're short on work experience, you can use headlines to highlight your personal attributes and skills. 

Review tips for how to write a resume headline , with examples.

Choosing the right keywords  is essential to getting past software and human screeners. These keywords aren't the same as resume buzzwords—those are almost always overused and will get your resume a one-way trip to the circular file. Resume keywords are individual to the job you're applying for and should change every time you submit your resume for a new position.

To figure out the best keywords to use, scan the job listing and make a list of the most important words, e.g., job titles like "regional manager" or "data scientist" and skills words like "proficient in Javascript" or "proven seller." Use the words that apply to your experience, skills, and job history, and craft a professional profile or branding statement.

While it's OK to emphasize your most relevant experience, don't lie—especially when it comes to job titles held or skills acquired. It does you no good to get hired for a position if you can't deliver on the promise your resume has made to the hiring manager.

Can't let go of the idea of including an objective on your resume just yet? It's not just you—many people still want to stick to the traditional format with an objective at the top of the page. If you must have an objective, make sure it's the right one, and it's focused on the job you're applying for vs. what you want.

Resume objectives must:

  • Change, depending on the job for which you're applying. It's no good using the same objective for multiple job openings. Resist the temptation to tweak a word or two, and craft your resume objective from scratch for each position under consideration.
  • Contain keywords specific to the position, job description, and most valuable skills.
  • Provide more than just the job title and description. Don't waste a moment of the hiring manager's time by repeating information they already know, such as which job you're applying for or what the basic duties are.
  • Show why you're a well-qualified candidate for the position.
  • Explain what you have to offer the employer, not what you yourself are seeking in your next job or company.

The Bottom Line

Every part of your resume should count, including the objective, if you feel the need to include one. Remember, you only have seconds in which to make a first impression on the hiring manager or recruiter. You can't afford to waste time, especially right at the beginning of your resume. Grab their attention with a well-crafted, succinct branding statement and don't let go. 

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary ." Accessed Nov. 18, 2021.

Ladders. " Eye-Tracking Study ." Accessed Nov. 18, 2021.

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The Definitive Guide to Resume Objective Statements (With 10 Punchy Examples Included)

Elena Prokopets

Did you know that those couple of sentences at the top of your resume can make all the difference in the world?

The resume objective is the very first thing a hiring manager sees when they open your resume. If that doesn’t impress them, they won’t look further. In fact, most HR professionals and managers spend about six seconds scanning your resume. Make sure the first thing they read really hits the mark and prompts them to contact you!

Table of contents:

  • What is a Resume Objective Statement?

Resume Objective Vs. Resume Summary Statement — What’s The Difference?

Why and when you need to write a resume objective, what to include in your resume objective statement, common mistakes to avoid with resume objective statements, killer resume objective examples.

Chances are they have dozens of resumes to read. And when working on your resume remember this — assume that hiring managers are looking for reasons to discard some resumes rather than keep them.  Make a good initial impression and you can stay in the game!

And we’ll teach you just that. The following is a definitive guide to composing resume objective statements that help you meet your career goals. We’ll end with some examples that cover a variety of career fields and employment situations. Feel free to “swipe” those and add them to your resume template !

What is a Resume Objective Statement

A resume objective is simply a few sentences, at the top of your resume, that briefly state what you are looking for. This statement lets your potential employers know what you want, and what you bring to the table.

What the verbatim looks like can vary widely. Your resume objective statement should match your career goals , the job you are applying for, and standards within your industry.

Over the years, hiring managers’ preferences have changed regarding objective statements. Later, we’ll cover how these preferences should influence your choices when writing these statements.

A traditional objective statement centers around an applicant’s career goals, talents, and skill set. It might look something like this:

MBA graduate with social media management experience, great communication skills, and a great team leader seeks an executive position in the marketing department of a growing corporation.

Objective statements are generally short and to the point.

In contrast, a resume summary statement is longer. These tend to focus more on specific skills, and the value the applicant can bring to the potential employer. Here’s an example:

Recent MBA graduate with experience managing the social media presence of two successful startups, and one political campaign. Have worked in reputation management as well as digital marketing. Deep familiarity with social media analytics, promotion, and most commonly used online marketing tools.

While preferences now lean towards the summary statement, keep in mind that many hiring managers and others use the terms interchangeably. Resume summary statements are also called executive summaries, and personal statements.

It’s important to know that there are also some alternatives that people select in addition to these two options. Some opt for personal branding statements . Others choose to begin their resumes with a visually compelling listing of their skills. This might look like this:

Cisco Certified | AS in Informatics | SAP | Agile | HTML5 | Python

This guide will clarify when it’s specifically referring to the traditional objective statement.

There’s much written about the virtues of resume objectives vs. summary statements.

In truth, both contain elements that are useful for potential employers. A traditional objective statement details your career goals , and the role you would like to have with your new employer.

Some people argue that this doesn’t tell hiring managers what you can do for them. This may be true, but smart hiring authorities understand that the best employees are happy employees who feel as if they have the opportunity to develop their careers as they wish. They can use a traditional objective statement to determine cultural fit, and whether or not there is a career path that meets your needs.

Here’s another justification for the traditional objective statements. If you intend to change careers, an objective statement may benefit you more than a personal statement. While personal statements tend to focus more on hard skills and experience, objectives often highlight soft skills and career goals. This approach can also help recent graduates seeking entry-level positions .

Finally, most recruiters and hiring managers expect some kind of statement at the top of your resume. They want a summation of who you are, your goals, etc. Because of this, whether you go the traditional route or write a personal statement, it’s imperative that this part of your resume isn’t left off entirely.

If you go the traditional route, here are some best practices for writing your objective statement.

  • Brevity is a plus. The person reading your resume should be able to get your objective in just a quick glance. Save further detail for the rest of your resume, and your cover letter. Don’t exceed two sentences.
  • Focus on the employer. What is the primary thing you have to offer an employer? Build your objective statement around that. Make your goals and desired work conditions secondary.
  • Customize your objective statement for the position . As a job seeker, you might apply for jobs that require slightly different skill sets, be in different industries, or have varying hours and shifts. You wouldn’t want to apply for a part-time, temporary position as a customer support agent with an objective that states your desire to land a full-time position as a salesperson.
  • Create a unique objective. It should help you to stand out as someone who deserves further consideration. Avoid cliches. Read the job description thoroughly. Identify power words that you can include in your objective statement.

If it helps, think of it like a formula.

Education or Experience + Skill + Goal

C-Suite executive with ten years leadership experience, specializing in overseeing international mergers and acquisitions, looking for a senior executive position in the manufacturing sector.

What if you decide that a personal statement or summary is the best choice? Many of the same rules above still apply. Still, there are a few differences, and items to keep in mind.

  • Think about value. In sales, people are encouraged to focus on the benefits of their products and services. Essentially, they communicate the results people can expect when they make a purchase.  Your statement should accomplish the same thing. The only difference is that you’re communicating the results they will get when they hire you.
  • Brevity is still important . Try to wrap your statement up in five sentences or fewer.
  • Again, use keywords. Show that you will fit into the culture and that you have the skills to do the job effectively.

Unfortunately, there are more cringe-worthy objective and personal statements than there should be. Here are a few of the most common.

Jargon And Buzzwords

Some words and phrases induce eye rolls in hiring managers. These include:

  • Team Player
  • Hard Worker
  • Excellent Communicator
  • Quick Thinker

These phrases are so widely used and vague that they’re essentially meaningless. Of course, these are great attributes to have, but these are things you should prove in your resume not state in your objective.

Then, there are these words and phrases that just make your objective statement pompous and stuffy. Remember that your objective statement should make people want to add you to their team. Avoid words like leverage, facilitate, thought leader, influencer.

Finally, a word on technical jargon. As a rule, leave these out of your objective statement. The exception to this would be if a technical term is the best description of a skill you must have for the job, go ahead and include that. Otherwise, save it for further down the page. Keep in mind that the first person who sees your resume may be an HR staff member or department head who doesn’t understand those tech terms anyway.

Meaningless Skills

Do you know how to use Microsoft Office and email? What about social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram? That’s great, but so can everyone else. People add these things to their objective statements almost reflexively. Don’t do that. Stick with skills that make you unique, and that qualify you for the job.

Salary Requirements

Yes, people do this. Sometimes they do it blatantly: “Seeking a job in the 100K to 200K range”. In other cases, the salary expectation is implied: “Seeking a position that offers senior executive pay and perks”. Also, avoid including anything about desired benefits, bonuses, or a company car.

Spelling And Grammar Mistakes

Edit this part just like you do the rest of your resume. Even better, have someone read it for you. They can tell you how it comes off to the reader.

Creative Objective Statements

Put these in the category of video resumes, infographic resumes or any creative resume in general. In the absolute right circumstances, they can grab attention and show your creative side. With some employers, that is absolutely a plus. However, unless you are completely sure that your creativity will be appreciated, you should probably refrain.

The best objective for your resume depends on your experience, goals, aspirations, and the job you’re going for.

We’ve chosen a variety of objectives that apply to job applicants with different backgrounds and career goals. The objective and summary statement examples also focus on several industries.

Here are our top ten great examples.

Recent Graduates

Your primary strengths are your soft skills, relevant experience you’ve picked up in internships and research projects, your degree, and any certifications you’ve earned. Even part-time and summer jobs may have given you skills that are worth mentioning. For example:

Seeking an opportunity to use my sales experience and degree in finance from Rutgers University at a growing investment firm. CFP Obtained June 2018.

Experienced Professionals

Now, let’s imagine the applicant with five or more years of experience. They might be seeking a mid-level management position. Here, they want to emphasize accomplishments and experience . Hiring managers will likely assume they have the required degree and certifications. This information will also be further down their resume.

Financial planner with ten years experience managing investment portfolios of more than 1M seeks opportunity to apply my skills and experience as a charitable annuity fund manager.

IT And Technology

Again, you have to consider the requirements of each position before you create an objective statement. Here, put your best skill, experience, or certification out there. Hiring managers looking at these resumes tend to focus very intently on skills related keywords .

MCSE certified technician with systems management experience searching for an opportunity in the Information Security division in the manufacturing industry.

Media And Marketing

This is a diverse field. Marketing and media work ranges from PR professionals to media personality to marketing data analysts. Your objective statement should contain keywords that your career aspirations clear , and your experience should be reflected as well.

Marketing manager with experience overseeing multiple online marketing campaigns for hospitality clients with advertising budgets exceeding 5M, interested in helping a digital startup agency with my skills and media connections.

Graphic designers, visual artists, musicians, authors, and others are all in creative fields. This is in spite of their daily work and finished products being starkly different from one another. Like other applicants, creative professionals must take into consideration their experience and the expectations the potential employer has outlined in their job listing.

Session musician in search of contract position with a local recording studio. Experience in jazz, big band, folk, and rock. Able to operate standard recording equipment. Multi-instrumentalist specializing in upright bass and percussion.

Career Change

This one can be challenging. How do you make your experience in one field seem relevant in another? It can help to focus on skills that tend to apply in many scenarios and to bring up any training or education that applies to the new position.

Here, imagine a person who wants to transition from customer support to an entry level IT position. They choose to emphasize the customer service skills they have developed because they know it’s a skill that has applications in both fields.

A+ certified technician with front-line customer support experience in the consumer electronics industry interested in a position troubleshooting and comparing PCs, mobile devices, and accessories.

Professors, teachers, academic advisors, researchers, guidance counselors and others tend to execute several duties on any given day. Objectives should detail skill, qualification, and effectiveness. Some skills to consider are mentoring, classroom management, curriculum development, and various educational certifications.

Adjunct professor with recent Ph.D. seeks assistant professor position in the Mass Communications department of a small college and university. Experience includes managing the internship program for radio and television students, and field expertise as a local television producer.

Not For Profit

Skills, experience, empathy, and the ability to get results are primary concerns in the not for profit sector. People who work for non-profit organizations perform many of the same tasks that are required in other sectors. However, these positions require additional understanding and skills. Your objective statement should communicate these things.

Librarian with experience designing literacy outreach programs for under-served interested in an opportunity to use my skills at a not for profit that is focused on educational initiatives in struggling school districts.

Banking And Finance

Does this person have the degree and experience we require? What about certifications? Are they a good fit for our organization? For this department? To write an effective banking and finance objective statement, consider the department you’ll be working with and the field of banking and finance in general. Your objective statement should show that you are experienced, responsible, and good with people.

Retail lender with established community roots seeking a mortgage lending position at a credit union or community bank. MLS certified with experience in rural loan programs.

Returning to The Workforce

People returning to the workforce often underestimate their skills and capabilities. Remember that your experience, volunteer work, and education can be used to make impactful resume objective statements.

In search of an entry-level position in retail fashion sales. Have experience with direct marketing, and as a volunteer merchandiser at Goodwill Thrift stores.

If we haven’t covered your field, experience, or education with these examples, don’t worry. These are only intended to act as a guideline. You can also access a career coach, the career center at your local college or university, your local library, or multiple other sources for advice and information on developing the best objective statement for your situation. There are also resume samples online.

No matter what your career goals are, or your field of expertise, you have to start your resume with a compelling statement . This can truly make the difference in earning a callback for an interview or simply having your resume sent to the discard pile. Give this vital part of your resume the attention it deserves.

If you write a statement that focuses on broadcasting your skills and experience, goals, and your value to potential employers, you will be successful!

do resumes need an objective statement

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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Purpose and Key Points – The STEM Resume

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Purpose and Key Points – The STEM/Tech Resume

As you navigate through your academic career, working towards your exciting ever-evolving professional goals, you may wonder what the purpose is of a resume. The answer is short: to secure an initial interview for a co-op, internship, or a job. A resume does not land you a job, but rather serves as a “passport” and invitation to an interview. With this in mind, it is important for your resume to stand out and highlight the best you are and have to offer. With hiring managers and employers surfing through high waves of resumes to select candidates for their interviewing process, the onus lies on you as applicant to ensure that your valuable strengths, skills, experience, and accomplishments not only stand out, but also align with what the employer is looking for. In building your resume, it is also important to keep in mind that recruiters only scheme through the document and don’t read it word for word, so make sure that your resume is clear, concise, and consistent. The following four steps hold the key points in building a resume: Preparation, formatting, content, and final checking/review.

Preparation

  • Read and understand the job description, duties, qualifications, and requirements. Highlight key words that match your skillset and qualifications.
  • Research and understand the company and what they are about.
  • Reflect over, collect, know, and document specific details of your education, experience, accomplishments, skills, strengths, and professional interests.
  • Contact Information: First and last name in bold, email and phone (avoid college email address), portfolio link/website/LinkedIn optional.
  • Body: Utilize font size 11-12 pts for content. Incorporate bold, underlining and italics to highlight different sections and headings.
  • Utilize bullets for action verb statements.
  • Remember the 3 c’s: clear, consistent and concise.
  • Periods vs. no periods: Either option is acceptable with the emphasis on consistency throughout the resume.
  • Length of resume for early career professional: 1 page.
  • Never copy paste any content into your resume – Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) will not be able to read pasted information.
  • Do not include pictures or visuals – ATS will not be able to read it.
  • The Summary Statement/Objective: If you decide to include a summary/objective (consider spacing and length), make sure it aligns with the position and that it also highlights a couple of your important/relevant skills.
  • Action Statements: Utilize PAR statements (project, activity, result) and start each statement with a relevant action verb. Be specific and utilize numbers, processes, applications, and data where possible.
  • Problem-solving
  • Trouble shooting
  • Communication Skills and Team player
  • Technical Skills (specific: coding, software, operating systems, interfaces, lab techniques, machine shop skills, etc.)
  • Industry skills (or relevant skills related to industry)
  • Detail-oriented
  • Data Modeling
  • Process Development
  • Stress management (ability to work productively and deliver under pressure)
  • Design/Creativity
  • Leadership Skills
  • Growth Mindset (continuing professional development)
  • Computational Lab or Hard Lab
  • Quality Assurance

Final checking/reviewing and  updating.

  • Are your skills representative of the skills required in the job posting?
  • Did you check for grammar and spelling mistakes?
  • Is your formatting and content clear and consistent?
  • Have you saved a copy in pdf format and titled the document with your first and last name to submit? Make sure you save or convert to pdf and that you do not “print to pdf”, as if you “print to pdf” the ATS system will see it as a picture, nd not a document.
  • Schedule an appointment with your career consultant through HANDSHAKE for further guidance: https://pitt.joinhandshake.com/edu/appointments/new
  • Online resume building resource VMOCK: https://www.vmock.com/pitt
  • Keyword alignment resource: You can run your resume through https://www.jobscan.co/ for keywords alignment.
  • Resume Samples: Check out the resume samples right here on the Engineering and Tech Career Communities page.

You’ve got this! Celebrate your best self and enjoy the journey!

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More From Forbes

Goals vs. objectives: why it matters, and how to set them.

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Josh Thompson is the founder and leader of Thompson Exterior Services , a construction and building maintenance company.

Anyone who is familiar with leadership will tell you that goals and objectives are essential to being a successful leader. That being said, when starting your business, it can be hard to set goals and objectives for yourself. My time as an entrepreneur and company leader has taught me a lot about the do's and don’ts of setting goals and objectives that I would like to share.

Understanding Goals And Objectives

Before you start setting goals and objectives, you need to understand what they are. Goals are typically long term, overarching ideas concerning what you want for your business. Objectives, on the other hand, are usually short-term and measurable. Many objectives may lead you to your goal. Both are necessary for the success of your business.

Goals Need Objectives

Don't start going for your goals until you have made objectives. Objectives help break your goals into manageable steps and ensure you are going in the right direction. If you solely focus on your goals, you can easily get lost in the process and lose sight of the work you are doing. The same can occur for your employees; objectives help them understand the bigger picture and what is expected of them.

Objectives Must Be Measurable

Decide how you will measure your objectives. If it's not measurable, it's not really an objective. This measurement is what sets an objective apart from a goal. When you look at your company's records, you should be able to say, for certain, whether you met an objective or not.

For example, in construction, a measurable objective may be to reduce project schedule delays by 15% within six months. This measurable objective fits into the general goal of improving construction project efficiency by streamlining processes.

Specificity Is Key

Be specific in your goals and even more specific in your objectives. The more specific you are, the easier it is to follow through. Everyone wants to start a successful business that brings in money and that customers will like. Your goal needs to be more than that. It should center on what makes your company unique.

Additionally, you should have a "why" factor. In this case, the "why" factor refers to the underlying purpose or motivation behind the goal. It represents the reason or significance behind pursuing a specific objective and helps provide clarity, motivation and a sense of meaning to the goal. For example, in the construction industry, a goal could be to implement renewable energy solutions in building projects. The "why" factor behind this goal might be to reduce environmental impact, promote sustainable practices and contribute to the transition toward a greener future in the construction sector.

Your objectives are your stepping stones, so they need to be specific. The more detailed your objectives, the simpler it is to recognize the path and meet your goals. Being specific with objectives also means making them timebound to ensure the completion of the objectives in a timely manner.

Balance Optimism And Realism

You want the best for your company, but you also want a goal that is attainable. Optimism provides the motivation and inspiration necessary to set your goals and push the boundaries of what is possible. It fuels innovation and encourages striving for excellence. Realism ensures that goals are grounded in practicality and attainability by taking into account the current resources, capabilities and market conditions.

Align Your Goal With Your Vision

A company's goal and vision are representative of the organization as a whole. The vision is what a company hopes to become or see as a result of working toward its goal. In the construction industry, a company's goal might be to create sustainable construction practices within the company. A vision that aligns with that goal could be to be recognized as a leading sustainable construction company that transforms communities through innovative and eco-friendly building practices.

Alignment between goals and vision promotes consistency in decision making and actions throughout the organization. When goals align with the vision, it ensures everyone is working toward common objectives in a coordinated manner.

Your company’s goal gives you direction. Your objectives will help you reach that goal. In order to create goals and objectives, you have to understand what they are and know how to make them. Goals require objectives, must be specific, balanced in realism and optimism and align with the company vision. Objectives must be measurable and specific.

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COMMENTS

  1. Does a Resume Need an Objective Statement?

    An objective statement is one or two sentences near the top of your resume that introduces your goals to the employer. With this statement, you identify the reasons you are applying for this job and the skills that make you suitable for it. Usually, you add an objective statement right after your name and contact information.

  2. No, You Don't Need a Resume Objective. 3 Things to Do…

    1. A summary statement. Instead of a resume objective, Sweet suggests using a summary statement. Whereas an objective statement tells the hiring manager what you hope to get, a summary statement tells them who you are and what you can do. Use the first section of your resume to highlight accomplishments, relevant skills, experience, expertise ...

  3. Q&A: Do I Need an Objective on My Resume?

    Here are steps to help you write an effective objective statement with examples: 1. Understand your notable skills. Determine what your most important and relevant skills are. You can review the job description to identify the key skills the employer wants in their ideal candidate. Your resume consists of all of your relevant skills, so add ...

  4. 51 Examples of General Resume Objective Statements

    51 Examples of General Resume Objective Statements. An objective statement is a useful section on your resume that showcases your skills, experience and career goals. Hiring managers can review this statement to better understand your professional history. If you're creating a resume, reviewing examples of career objectives may be useful for you.

  5. Resume Objective Statements: When to Use and How to Write

    A resume objective statement is a brief, targeted statement that appears at the beginning of a resume. Its purpose is to summarize the applicant's career goals and qualifications, and to provide a high-level overview of what they can bring to a potential employer. ... Do All Resumes Need Objective Statements? As a job seeker, you might be ...

  6. How To Write A Resume Objective Statement (Examples Included)

    2) Making It All About You. This is a trap that many job seekers fall into, as they can't resist to use the objective to list off all of the things that they want to get out of the position. EXAMPLE: Hi, I'm Joe Jobseeker and I really want a job in a company where I make a ton of money doing as little as possible.

  7. 45 Resume Objective Examples (+How to Write)

    Not all resumes need an objective statement, but they do require an introductory section that tells a hiring manager who you are. Consider a job objective for your resume if you are targeting a specific position, changing careers or lacking direct work experience. However, just like a resume summary, it should still be clear and highlight why ...

  8. Resume Objective Statement Examples & Writing Tips [2024]

    Culinary resume objective examples. Industrious line cook with over two years kitchen experience ready to move into a role of increased responsibility. Looking for work as a cook in a fast-paced establishment. Fully trained in food safety, sanitation and preparation techniques at restaurant serving 500 customers daily.

  9. 24 Resume Objective Examples: Career Objectives for 2024

    This statement is either a resume objective or a resume summary: A resume objective is a statement where you promise to leverage your skills to achieve the company's business goals. A resume summary is a way to highlight your key achievements and skills. If you're writing a resume for your first job or changing careers, opt for a resume ...

  10. 54 Resume Objective Examples For Your Resume

    Use specific and compelling statements of your unique skills and expertise. Also, use strong action words to show your value and include measurable accomplishments. This will make your resume objective stronger. 7. Tailor your objective to the job description. Carefully read the job listing.

  11. Do You Need a Resume Objective Statement?

    A resume without an objective statement is preferred by hiring managers today. Resumes can still perform well with this included but they are usually seen as out-of-date and might give a bad impression. Additionally, resume objectives can come across as a little self-indulgent at times. Of course, if they are done correctly they can give the ...

  12. Does a Resume Need an Objective?

    A resume objective is a concise statement at the top of your resume, articulating your career goals and how they align with the employer's objectives. The effectiveness of a resume objective statement lies in its ability to communicate your ambitions succinctly. This brief introduction, usually two to three sentences, is tailored to the ...

  13. 129 Resume Objective Examples and Writing Guide for Each Job

    A resume objective is a brief statement placed beneath the resume header. It shows an applicant's intent to grow in a specific field, despite the lack of experience. ... When do you need a resume objective? There are few instances where an objective statement is absolutely necessary. You're seeking your first job or re-entering the workforce ...

  14. How to Write a Resume Objective

    A resume objective is a statement of your professional goals as they relate to the job you are applying for, and it is usually listed at the top of your resume. A resume objective is typically one or two sentences long, and can be tricky to write given the space limitations. However, when crafted well, a resume objective can make you and your skills stand out from the crowd and introduce you ...

  15. What to Include in a Resume? Here's What's Necessary & What's Optional

    Use a resume objective instead of a resume summary. Using a resume objective focuses on your goals and aspirations rather than on your work achievements. Put education section above experience. If you're a high school student, your education is the most important part of your life right now, so it should be the main focus of your resume.

  16. When You Should Use a Resume Objective Statement

    The top of your resume is prime real estate, so you don't squander it by using vague filler material. A better approach is to be as specific as possible about your goal and plainly state how you intend to bring your skills and strengths to a position—something like this: "Objective: To leverage my 10+ years of client-facing experience ...

  17. 21 Examples of Strong and Smart Resume Objectives

    A smart objective statement on a resume should include the following key elements: Be specific: Tailor your objective to the exact job title and requirements. Focus on your skills and qualifications: Highlight what makes you a strong candidate for the job. Be concise: Keep your objective statement to one or two sentences.

  18. Resume Summary vs. Resume Objective: What Are the Differences?

    A resume objective is a brief statement written at the top of a resume in which the applicant states their main professional goals and how they relate to the job they are applying for. Similarly to the resume summary, the role of the objective section is to give the employer an idea of whether the candidate is right for the job.

  19. Resume Objective Examples and Step-By-Step Guide

    Considering that resumes are very space-constrained, it can be difficult to justify adding an "Objective" section. And since everything in an objective statement can be included in a short and sweet cover letter, it can feel redundant. There are various schools of thought regarding objective statements on resumes.

  20. Why It's Time to Ditch Resume Objective Statements

    This type of statement makes most resume writers cringe for a few reasons. Reasons why you need to replace your career objective statement It's vague. Resume objectives do not tell the reader explicitly what position you're targeting and why you're qualified for such a role. There's a lot of fluff. Motivated. Hardworking. Self-starter.

  21. How To Write A Resume Objective Statement That Will Land You ...

    Ideally, use exact words from the job description in your resume objective statement. This means—I'm so sorry to say—that you need to write a new one for every position you're applying to ...

  22. About Me Section On a Resume: Examples & Tips (2024)

    This is more in line with a resume objective and is best for early-career professionals with minimal experience related to the role. ... Resume Objective Statement Examples & Best Practices . By Kellie Hanna, CPRW. June 05, 2024. What to Put on a Resume in 2024 (Examples + Tips) By Elizabeth Muenzen, CPRW.

  23. Why Your Resume Doesn't Need an Objective

    Branding Statements and Profiles . A branding statement or professional profile has taken the place of the objective for most resume writers. In this brief introductory paragraph, job seekers provide an elevator speech—a quick summary of their experience, skills, and attributes that describes their career and qualifications at a glance.

  24. Important Resume Objective Do's and Don'ts

    Resume objective don'ts. Before you finish your resume objective, review these don'ts to make sure your statement doesn't include any confusing or less helpful elements: 1. Don't use weak language. Certain words and phrases may come across as weaker than others, so consider the language you use in your objective statement.

  25. The Definitive Guide To Resume Objective Statements

    The following is a definitive guide to composing resume objective statements that help you meet your career goals. We'll end with some examples that cover a variety of career fields and employment situations. ... Why And When You Need to Write a Resume Objective. There's much written about the virtues of resume objectives vs. summary ...

  26. Purpose and Key Points

    Purpose and Key Points - The STEM/Tech Resume. ... Do not include pictures or visuals - ATS will not be able to read it. Content. The Summary Statement/Objective: If you decide to include a summary/objective (consider spacing and length), make sure it aligns with the position and that it also highlights a couple of your important/relevant ...

  27. Goals Vs. Objectives: Why It Matters, And How To Set Them

    Understanding Goals And Objectives. Before you start setting goals and objectives, you need to understand what they are. Goals are typically long term, overarching ideas concerning what you want ...