What is the Objective of a Resume?
Opinions among experts vary on the necessity of having an objective in a resume; some consider it unnecessary, while others believe it can be beneficial. However, having a resume objective focused on your skills and abilities can be helpful in enhancing your resume and convincing employers that you know what you want to do and that you have the skills necessary for the job.
When Should You Use a Resume Objective?
When you want to emphasize your ambition and understanding of what you want in your career field, or when you possess the skills required for a specific job, a resume objective can be useful. A resume objective can explain why you are qualified for the position, even if you do not have a lot of relevant experience. For example, you might mention that you wish to utilize your transferable skills in a specific job.
Matching Your Objective to the Job
The most effective objective is one that aligns with the job you are applying for. It specifies what type of position you are seeking and the skills and experiences you possess that make you a perfect fit for that role. A resume objective can also include your previous position and your future place in your career. For example, it might mention some past accomplishments and then transition to the types of achievements you hope to accomplish in the future (ideally, achievements you hope to attain for the company you are applying to).
How to Write a Strong Resume Objective
If you decide to include an objective in your resume, it is important to tailor it to fit the job you are applying for. You should be as specific as possible. It is advisable to write a new resume objective for each job you apply to. When crafting your resume objective, you should focus on the specific skills and experiences relevant to the position. You can also use keywords found in the job listing in your resume objective. Additionally, you should focus on potential goals within the company. For example, if you aspire to become an executive editor at a magazine but are applying for a position at a newspaper, do not mention that. Focus on how you wish to grow within the company. You should also concentrate on how you can add value to the company. Your resume objective can include any information that highlights your experience, including your years of work in the industry, your specific skill set, and any other relevant qualifications. Examples can include ways in which you can add value or even improve the company. For instance, mentioning your ten years of experience in successfully reducing budgets and stating that you wish to apply these skills to the organization’s budget.
Examples of Resume Objectives
– Seeking a position at XYZ Company where I can leverage over 10 years of experience in management, quality assurance, program development, and training.
– Seeking a position as a Clinical Practice Assistant at a health organization, utilizing my award-winning writing, research, and leadership skills.
– Elementary Education teacher looking for a position at a small independent school where I can apply five years of teaching and curriculum development experience.
– Customer Service Manager seeking an opportunity to use my customer service and management skills to improve customer satisfaction.
– Seeking a position where I can integrate strategies to develop and expand existing client sales, brand and product development, and support advertising.
– Seeking a position in search engine optimization where I can apply my SEO skills to increase website traffic and search rankings, leveraging 15 years of experience in information technology.
–
The goal is to find a position that allows me to utilize my strong organizational skills, award-winning educational background, and ability to work well with people.
Sample Resume with Objective
Here is a sample resume that includes an objective. You can download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or read the example below.
Alex Applicant
999 Main Street
New York, NY 10001
(123) 555-1234
[email protected]
Career Objective
Elementary teacher seeking a position at a small independent school, where I can apply my experience in teaching, technology-driven education, and curriculum development to support student growth and success.
Core Qualifications
– Skilled in creating positive, engaging, and supportive learning environments for students from diverse backgrounds.
– Talented in team building and collaboration, easily partnering with teachers, administrators, parents, and supporting staff to identify student needs, address issues, and promote school spirit.
– Willing to work after hours and during weekends to ensure student success.
– Currently holds a K-8 teaching certification; active member of NAIS, AFT, ASCD, and CEC.
– Fluent in written and spoken Spanish; well-versed in using smart boards and other technology.
Professional Experience
LAKESIDE ACADEMY, Stamford, Connecticut
Elementary Teacher, September 2021 – Present
– Structured and implemented dynamic and engaging lesson plans for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-grade students, teaching up to 25 students in each class.
– Played a key role in improving student scores on standardized tests by 38% in reading and 29% in math.
– Sponsored the after-school Spanish club and prepared students to participate in Odyssey of the Mind.
– Received “Best Teacher” award.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education (2021); GPA 3.9
Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina
Dean’s List; graduated with high honors
Other Options for Starting a Resume
– Summary Statement: Instead of using an objective in your resume, you can use a summary statement, also known as a resume summary statement or qualifications statement, which is a brief summary of your skills and experiences written for a specific job opening. Unlike a resume objective that focuses on your career goals, a resume summary statement directly emphasizes how the company can benefit from you and add value.
– Branding Statement: Another option is to add a branding statement to your resume. This statement is shorter than a resume summary statement or objective – around 15 words – and highlights your key accomplishments and skills.
– Headline: Finally, the third option is a resume headline, also known as a resume title. This is shorter than a branding statement. It is a phrase that describes your skills and work experience.
How to Add an Objective, Title, or Statement in a Resume
You can also include more than one of these in your resume. For example, you can include both a resume title and a summary statement (with the resume title placed closer to the top of your resume). You should ensure your information is concise and use keywords from the job posting in your statement. Even with a resume objective, summary statement, branding statement, or headline, keep your resume to one page whenever possible. Finally, be sure to write a new statement for each job you apply for, so the employer can see what makes you a good fit for that specific position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– How can I write a good resume objective?
A resume objective should be a sentence or two that connects your qualifications to your career goals.
–
How can I write a resume for a career change?
When changing careers, focus your resume on transferable skills, experience, and qualifications. Carefully read the job description you are applying for and use your resume to show how your abilities make you the ideal candidate, even if you do not have a similar position in the past.
– What jobs should I include in my resume?
You should only include the most relevant jobs in your resume for the position you are applying for. Feel free to leave out any work experience that is unrelated to the job you are interviewing for. You can also trim any previous work experience that may make you seem older or no longer enhances your profile as a job candidate.
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/resume-objective-examples-and-writing-tips-2063595
Leave a Reply