By: Paula Kerr, Evolv Career Services
When creating a resume, the objective is the first thing that future employers will read. An objective clarifies the goals you want to accomplish when applying for that particular job and to highlight what qualifies you for the position. You could also briefly add your education and past experiences to heighten your chances at an interview. Objectives may be short (1-2 sentences) or long (3-5 sentences) depending on how much experience and qualifications you deem valuable. You would typically write your objective a few spaces below, or after your name and contact information.
The objective statement should always put the “wants” of the future employer first, showing what you can bring to the table. For example don’t write “I am looking for a position to better my skills in marketing,” instead you could write: “With my skills and experience in marketing and sales, I believe I can be a valuable asset to your marketing team while helping your organization achieve its goals.” Show employers you care about what they need in a future employee.
Having a loosely-written, basic objective on a resume isn’t going to show employers you’re seriously interested in working for their company. So you must be transparent and very specific about your goals. Instead of writing: “Organized college graduate looking for an opportunity to utilize skills developed in school to further the success of the company.” you could write: “Recent college graduate with experience in editing and copywriting seeking an entry-level position with your editing team at The New Yorker.” By making your statement direct and to the point, you show the employers you’re serious about the position, and you’re also demonstrating good writing skills.
In addition to what you hope to gain from the employer (i.e., experience, skills, growth, etc.), highlight a few strengths that will add to your qualifications. For example, if you’re applying for a graphic design position or an internship opportunity, you could write “I am skilled in Adobe Lightroom CC, Microsoft Suite, Graphic Design, and line/copy editing”, or “I am organized, consistent and self-motivated to accomplish the task at hand”, or “I am self-directed and able work with minimal supervision, as well as independently.” Keep in mind that, it’s not just what’s in it for me, but what expectations you, along with your skills and experience, can meet for the employer.
Below you will find three sample objectives you can use as a model when constructing your own:
1. Digital Marketing Strategist
Skilled digital marketing strategist with 6 plus years of experience in multiple industries and managing digital sales funnels, seeking the position of Independent Consultant with your company, SMO Digital Group. Proficient in: SEO/SEM, Email Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Content writing, Advertising campaigns, Blog Content development, Ranking, Link building, and Niche keyword research analyst.
2. Occupational Therapist
Experienced Occupational Therapist specializing in pain management and program development tailored to specific individual clients, seeking the position for a replacement at CMI Health. Team-player who is driven to help patients improve/regain motor and cognitive skills. Licensed through the State of Florida, 2008-Present BLS, CPR and First Aid Certified.
3. Teachers Aide
Enthusiastic, recent college graduate looking to fill the position for a Teacher’s Aide at the Little Rockets Preschool, Wyoming location. DCF-certified with a bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education; experienced in shadowing/assisting, lesson planning, and supervising various elementary students in the district. Proficient in creating a calming environment where children can learn and develop academic and life skills.
Now that you’ve got a few examples to help you out, we are very excited about the choices that you’ll make concerning your resume objectives. If you have any questions or comments please send them to paula@evolvcareerservices.com.
