Resume objectives are outdated. In order to capture the attention of a decision maker, the introduction of your resume should outline your experience, not provide a weak sentence or two that focuses on your needs. An example of this: “Seeking a position that will utilize my education and experience.” This type of introduction is blasé and won’t move the interviewer to pick up the phone to call you.
Other resume objectives don’t work for the following reasons:
- The objective statements are generally too vague and do not provide the reader with enough information to determine whether or not there is a fit.
- Most objectives are “me” oriented where the focus is on what the job seeker wants in a position as opposed to what he could offer.- Most resume objectives sound similar, making it difficult for the reader to differentiate between candidates.
- A resume objective does not allow for the flexibility you need to highlight your selling points.
On the contrary, a profile statement:
- Is a decisive, informative paragraph that provides a quick synopsis of your background.- Tells the interviewer the characteristics and job-related skills you have to offer.
- Is unique in that the statement showcases your unique accomplishments rather than generalized phrases that could apply to anyone.
Below are three examples of boring resume objectives, followed by powerful statements you can use instead.
Boring Resume Objective #1: “To obtain a position using my wide range of skills and experience.” This objective doesn’t work because it is too vague. The reader doesn’t know the specific skills you bring to the table.
Revision #1: “Comprehensive experience in account management and customer retention combined with superior customer service skills. Provide inside support to sales representatives to realize bottom-line results. Convey a professional, polite, and courteous manner when managing customer concerns.”
Boring Resume Objective #2: “A position that will challenge and enhance my sales skills, and provide an opportunity to contribute to a quality organization and expand my professional development.” This statement is better than #1, but it still misses the mark because of the “me” orientation and the fact that the skills aren’t fleshed out.
Revision #2: “Sales strategist with a verifiable track record in capturing profitable business opportunities . Achieve client buy-in through consultative selling techniques. Accelerate sales and realized bottom-line strength through the displacement of competitor presence in 100% of sites within assigned territory.”
Boring Objective #3: “To be a nurse in a hospital setting.” This short and simple introduction leaves the reader with zero substance to evaluate.
Revision #3: “Direct patient education and serve as a resource to ensure patients’ medical needs are met. Balance compassion with a commitment to deliver quality patient care. Maintain up-to-date knowledge on new treatment concepts and their incorporation into current practice.”
As you may have noted, while the resume objective is dry and lacks creativity , a profile statement masterfully provides readers with a glimpse of your professional offerings and skills set.
Certified in all three areas of the job search-Certified Interview Coach (CIC), Job & Career Transition Coach (JCTC), and Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW)-Linda Matias is qualified to assist you in your career transition, whether it be a complete career makeover, interview preparation, or resume assistance. She is the author of two books – 201 Knockout Answers to Tough Interview Questions and How to Say It: Job Interviews. Both can be found at Amazon.com or your local bookstore. Visit her website at http://www.careerstrides.com .