Objective Statements Are Now Dead, Stop Using Them On Your Resume
Objective Statements are a Thing of the Past
Mostly I dislike the objective statement because I have hardly ever seen anyone use it properly. If you know exactly which position you are applying for, then it may be acceptable to formulate an objective statement aimed toward that exact job. Here’s an example:
Objective: Financial Specialist, IA-0501-B03/B03, Job Announcement Number:
F09-024233-02-CM
In this example, the objective statement is targeting a specific federal position. This is acceptable and occasionally even required for a federal government application.
However, here is an example of how I usually see objective statements composed:
Objective: To use my 10 years of experience to secure a position offering promotion potential in a stable company.
The issue I have with this example is that it is totally aimed at what is best for the job seeker. What employer really concerns themselves about any of this? When you put together your resume, it’s best to put yourself in the position of human resource official and ask yourself have you succeeded in selling yourself? Have you shown them what you have to bring to the table?
A better way to be sure you have adequately marketed yourself, is to write a professional summary and forget about the objective statement completely. A professional summary can be targeted to the job you are interested in and serve as a two minute advertisement about yourself. It’s very smart in that it is placed in the top third of the page, which is where the eye automatically goes first.
Aprofessional summary should highlight any information about yourself that the HR officials should be aware of when considering you for the position. This could range from years of experience to skill level or abilities. Compose this piece as if you know whoever reads it will not read anything else on the resume. Here is an example:
Inspired and empathetic special educator brings 15 years of independent instruction and intervention experience. Proven clear and compassionate communicator, able to reach parents, administration and students with insight and tactic. Skilled in behavior management techniques and considered expert in positive discipline.
Sometimes, I have boldened the points that directly correspond to points in the job announcement. Just keep in mind it is totally possible that the whole paragraph will be modified depending upon which position this person is applying for. For more examples, or for assistance with your own professional summary, check out this site aboue resume help.