Do I need an objective?

90% of the resumes I receive from prospective clients contain an objective. It’s confusing, right? Target your resume but don’t use an objective. Tell the employer what you’re looking for, but with an objective. Huh? 

A resume is a user-centered document. It’s designed to show a potential employer what you offer them…the value you bring to the table. The solitary goal of a resume is to get you an interview! By its very nature, an objective is focused on you, the jobseeker. Rather than telling a hiring manager that you’re looking for a job that allows you improve your skills and leverage your experience, tell them how your skills and experience can benefit them!

It’s a really small difference, but the distinction is key. Set yourself apart by focusing on the employer and how you can fill their needs. Read the job description carefully. Include all applicable keywords and concepts, not just in a skills section, but in context. Applicant tracking systems will give higher scores to candidates with this information embedded in the body of their resume, because it shows your experience with the subject.

A picture is worth a thousand words. You’ve heard that since kindergarten, right? Well it’s true…and it applies to resumes! Use the resume to demonstrate with specific examples how you’ve added value, increased productivity, generated revenue and saved money. Offer a concise snapshot of your concrete experience and soft skills in the profile and close with a statement like “Eager to integrate valuable skills and experience into a ___ position for a ____ organization.” This will go that extra mile towards targeting your resume and really give the hiring manager the right first impression.