Writing a Great Resume Objective

It’s the first thing potential employers read, and it can set the tone for your entire resume. The objective you list on your resume can make the difference between “keep reading” and “toss it” in the minds of hiring managers, so it’s worth your time and attention!

Below are some tips on how to create an objective that’s accurate and engaging for the reader, along with what you need to consider before committing to an objective.

Write From the Employer’s Point of View

It’s your resume, so it makes sense that your objective should be about what you’re looking for, right? But as with so many things related to job hunting, the trick is to compose an objective that speaks to what the potential employer is looking for.

• Add value. The single best way to sell yourself—in your resume, cover letter, and any other application material—is to relate your ability to add value to a company. For example: “Seeking a marketing position where 20 years of experience can help advance the company’s goals.” Now, if you’re the potential employer, doesn’t that sound like a better deal than someone who wants to “put 20 years of experience to use.” To use for what? Use your first opportunity to “wow” them by revealing exactly how you can help the company.

• Avoid “me”-centric wording. Do you want to advance your career? Do you want to further your goals by moving up the corporate ladder? From the looks of most resume objectives, that’s important to almost every job hunter. But employers aren’t terribly concerned about what you want—at least not before you’re hired an prove invaluable to the company. Avoid objectives that talk include “my career” “I want,” and “offer me advancement.”

• Stay away from the clich