Well-Done Resume Objectives Show You Are a Good Match

September 6, 2008 0 Comments

Resume Objectives have become less important with the advent of the resume Summary. However, a concise, focused Objectives statement gives you an additional opportunity to assert yourself as the ideal candidate.

Many resume writers and resume-writing advisors view the Objectives section as an area to talk about what you want from the job. That approach is a sure way to send your resume straight to the trash bin.

The prospective employer is not the least bit interested in what you think the job can do for you and your agenda (“where I can advance my stapling skills”). They ARE interested in what you can do for them. Just like the rest of your resume, your Objectives statement is not the place to be self-centered.

If you’ve done your homework, you already have a good idea of what would make the perfect candidate for the job you’re applying for. Use that information to craft an Objectives statement that portrays you as being very clear about what direction your career is heading in – AND, that your career direction coincides perfectly with what the company is looking for.

You can’t be vague in your Objectives section or you’ll notify the prospective employer that you’re unsure if this job is for you. Instead, lead off with a strong statement that lets the employer know this IS the job for you – and that you’re the person they’ve been looking for.

Develop a power statement that incorporates the prospective employer’s most important needs. What are the two or three key things that would make someone stand out as an exceptional candidate for this job?

For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, among other things they’re looking for is probably someone who can generate new accounts. Provided you’re good at that (otherwise, why are you applying?) make that the first point to get across in your Objectives statement – your objective is “a position in a company that is seeking an exceptional record of generating new accounts”.

Use this formula when generating your Resume Objectives statement:

A (name of the position you’re applying for) in an organization seeking Y and Z.

Or:

A (name of the position you’re applying for) in an organization where Y and Z are needed.

“Y” and “Z” are your most compelling qualities – those that really make you stand out in the areas that are most important to the employer.

For example:

An entry-level position in the travel industry where a background in advertising and public relations is needed.

Web Designer for an organization seeking a strong background in market share expansion through optimized website design and Internet marketing.

Vice-President of sales in an organization where a strong track record of opening new accounts and increasing re-order rates is needed.

Leave out the fluff that doesn’t really mean anything. Be concise and to the point. Give that Objectives statement as much clearly focused bang as possible so you get the reader’s attention right away.

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