Your Resume Should NEVER Have an Objective Statement

I get why job seekers use objective statements; I really do. You want employers to know your job search goals. The problem with objective statements however, is the way they’re written.

I’ve never seen an objective statement that was not broad and unclear. They’re basically a waste of crucial resume real estate. Below, I’m going to list a few examples of poorly written objective statements. I think you’ll agree they really don’t tell the employer much about the candidate and do absolutely NOTHING for setting the person apart from anyone else applying for a job.

You’d be surprised how many resumes I see that include these statements or something extremely similar:

“To secure a position with a well-established organization with a stable environment that will lead to a lasting relationship in the field of finance.

“To obtain a position that will enable me to use my strong organizational skills, educational background, and ability to work well with people.”

 “To get a position within an organization that utilizes my education and experience to promote the company and myself.”

The problem with statements like these (even for entry-level job seekers) is that they’re generic, vague, overused, and they talk about what you want—not what you’re capable of offering the employer. In today’s job market, employers don’t want to hear about what you want (not at first, anyway). Your resume—especially the first third — should not focus on what you’re hoping to gain from an employer. It should instead focus on marketing what you can offer the employer.

If your resume has an objective statement—or even an ambiguous career summary—I suggest you take some time to really think about your personal brand, what sets you apart as a candidate, and what value you offer. Then rewrite this introductory part of your resume to speak to who you are, and no one else.

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For this post, YouTern thanks our friends at Great Resumes Fast!

About the Author: A nationally recognized resume expert, Jessica Hernandez is President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast and a former human resources manager and recruiter. With more than ten years’ experience directing hiring practices for Fortune 500 companies, she has developed innovative and proven resume development, and personal branding strategies to generate powerful results for clients. As a global resume authority and trusted media source, Jessica has been featured and quoted on CNN.com, Monster.com, Job Talk America radio, SmartBrief, International Business Times, and more. Jessica has her Bachelor of Science degree in Communications/Public Relations from the University of North Florida. Contact Jessica on Twitter!