Resume Statement
Resume Objective or Career Summary?
Your resume statement is either a resume objective or a career summary. This statement is the first item on your resume, underneath your contact information.
This is your first opportunity to catch the hiring manager's attention. This is where you tell the employer what job you want or what career field you want to work in.
Be very specific. A vague statement will get your resume redirected to the trash can. I'm just being honest!
Think about it:
Hiring managers may receive hundreds, sometimes thousands of resumes for one position, so they do not have time to figure out what you're skilled at, or what you can offer their organization.
You have to tell them. Be clear about what you have accomplished and what you can do for them. This will increase your chances of being considered for the job.
People have asked me over and over again:
"Do I have to include a resume objective?"
The answer to that question is "no..."
BUT, if you decide against it, you need a career summary, instead.
You must use one or the other. This is your first opportunity to state what your career goal is. Make a good impression.
When to use a resume objective...
- You are applying for an entry-level position.
- You have limited or no work experience.
- You are a recent high school or college graduate.
- You are changing careers.
When to use a career summary...
- You have over 5 years of work experience.
- You have extensive experience or knowledge in a specific industry.
- You are interested in more than one position within the same career field.
Make sure that the rest of your resume is in agreement with your statement. This is critical!
Example: If your statement reflects that you want a management level job, the content of your resume should be specifically geared toward management. Emphasize your skills and accomplishments that relate to management.
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