How to Write an Objective for a Resume

Resume objective statements are either useful to include on your resume or outdated and should be avoided, depending on where you look or who you ask. According to detractors, the only time a resume objective may be appropriate is when you are a new hire with little experience. Many people believe that there are other times when an objective is appropriate to use and can add value to your resume.

What exactly is a resume objective?

A resume objective statement is a one- to three-sentence introduction that goes at the top of a resume. It outlines your career objectives as well as a few relevant skills and experiences that demonstrate how you can add value to the job you’re applying for.

When should you use a resume objective?

Again, depending on who you ask, some experts believe resume objectives are out of date, while others believe they are important to include. Regardless, there are four main scenarios in which a resume objective could be useful:

If you are a recent college graduate with little experience. An objective statement is commonly used by recent high school and college graduates to clarify the type of job they’re looking for.

If you want to change careers or industries. When you lack direct skills or experience in the career or industry you want to enter, an objective statement can help you clarify your goals while also allowing you to explain why your current skills will serve you well in the new career.

If you’re moving. If you’re applying for a job in a new city, your city and zip code may confuse recruiters and hiring managers. A goal can help you clarify your desire or need to relocate.

If you’re reentering the labor force. Those who have been out of work for a while can use an objective statement to explain why.

Other situations in which you might include an objective statement include:

You’re ambitious and looking for a raise. An objective statement allows you to express your desire to advance and how a company would benefit from promoting you.

You want to emphasize your clarity in knowing what you want. Another advantage of an objective statement is that it allows you to demonstrate that you are clear about your goals, what you want in your career, and that you are familiar with the company and industry, which employers value.

How to Write a Resume Objective

Here are some tips for writing an appealing resume objective:

Match it to the job.

You don’t want to write the same objective statement for every job you apply for. Instead, it is critical to tailor your objective statement to the position for which you are applying.

Be concise and clear.

The key to writing a resume objective is to be specific and succinct. The more specific you are, the more likely you are to get an interview. Shoot from the hip, beginning with what you want and the skills and experiences you have that are necessary for the job. Avoid filler words and include strong action verbs.

Include keywords.

Examine the job posting for keywords that can be naturally incorporated into your resume objective. Keywords not only help you get past applicant tracking system bots, but they also catch the attention of human readers.

Include your value proposition.

When writing an objective statement, it’s easy to get caught up in what you want and forget to include how you’ll add value to the organization. The overarching goal of your resume is to demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job, which begins with an objective statement if one is included. To increase your chances of catching the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager, clearly state your value proposition.

Highlight your most valuable skills and qualities.

Your objective statement should highlight your most relevant strengths as well as anything unique you bring to the table that other candidates may not. Include any certifications or licenses that are relevant to the job or organization.

Examples of Resume Objectives

Seeking a position where I can put my strong written communication skills, award-winning copywriting, and willingness to work on team projects to good use.

I’m looking for a remote teaching position where I can put my 10 years of primary school teaching experience to use.

I am relocating to the Seattle area and am looking for a position where I can put my 15 years of clinical mental health counseling experience to use.

Communications manager with expertise in email marketing, copywriting, web development, and SEO looking to apply these skills in the energy sector.

Awarded video production manager seeking to relocate to New York City. Seeking to apply my 8 years of video management and production experience to bring XYZ Company high-quality production.

Seeking a position at ABC Business where I can leverage my 12+ years of marketing quality assurance and accounting training experience.

Recent college graduate with a master’s degree in human resources and six months of oil and gas intern experience. Seeking to capitalize on my academic and internship experience in order to excel in your open entry-level human resource generalist position.

Outgoing certified career coach with a reputation for assisting trailing spouses in finding work in their new location. Seeking a position with XYZ company to help your team achieve its placement goals and objectives.

Marketing specialist and team leader with 10+ years of experience looking for a management position where I can use my proven ability to motivate and lead teams to outperform sales and production targets by at least 10% annually.

Alternatives to a mission statement

Statement of purpose

A resume summary statement is a summary of your relevant qualifications and work experiences that are relevant to a particular position. Unlike an objective, a summary statement focuses on how you can add value and benefit the organization rather than stating your career goals.

Headline

A resume headline, also known as a title, is typically used at the top of a resume. It’s a shortened version of your experience that frequently includes your level and title. A headline is frequently used with a summary statement directly underneath it.

Branding assertion

A resume branding statement is a brief (15-word) statement that highlights your key skills and accomplishments. It is longer than a headline but not as long as a summary statement or objective.

Finally, a few words about objective statements.

When using an objective statement, as with your entire resume, ensure that it is free of grammar and punctuation errors. If you don’t have time or are concerned about it, you can hire a resume writer to help you create a strong objective statement as well as your entire resume.

Finally, if you choose an objective statement over one of the other options listed, do so with confidence; otherwise, get a free resume rewrite to ensure your resume is working for you!