Career objectives are dead! Find out what to do now

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NO! You don’t need one and should avoid using them. Delete yours immediately if you have one. Career objectives simply outline what you want not what the employer needs.

Think about it, if you were a hiring manager and have a set position in your mind, what would you look for? Certainly not what the candidate wants.

You are going to want to know quickly whether that candidate has the right work history, experience, qualifications, skills etc. You want to know if that person is going to solve the problems you currently have in your business.

Career Objective statements do nothing to promote these messages.

The purpose of your resume is to convince the employer of your capabilities, not what you want. You have to establish value. The interview is the place to discuss what you want. Not your resume.

What is a career objective statement or goal?

  • 1-2 sentences long
  • Typically outlines your personal or professional goals
  • Example: “Seeking a position in sales with an opportunity for career progression”
  • Example: “Project Management position with a focus on Leadership, Analysis and Cost Management”

Career Objective

The career objective statement or goal has now been replaced by simply the targeted job title which should be toward the top of your resume.

Career Title

Using the targeted job title in your resume also helps with applicant tracking systems (ATS). When an ATS is grading your resume they look for keywords associated with the job you are applying.

Therefore including the job title in your resume, helps the system align you to the position and boosts your resume among other candidates.

Instead of a Career Objective or Goal, you should now be using a Professional Summary.

What is a Professional Summary?

  • Highlights experience, and results that you have achieved
  • Demonstrates relevant skills you possess
  • Is targeted to the position you are applying for
  • Located at the top of your resume under your contact details

Professional Summary

Remember, job searching is a sales process. You are the product in this case, which means you have to sell your benefits to the buyer (which is the employer).

Think about it. If you were to look at a sales catalogue selling appliances, do you want to read about the benefits of the product so you can determine if it is the right appliance for you? Or would you want to read “Convection Oven seeking a modern home to use it’s features to cook your food”?

Writing Your Professional Summary

By crafting a well written professional summary, hiring managers will instantly connect you the role and want to interview you to find out more.

It should be a snapshot of who you are, your experience and what you can offer an employer. It should also support the rest of your resume.

Lisa Mahar Close Up In Office

Hi, I'm Lisa.

Known as a resume master and job search accelerator, I’m obsessed with Barefoot investing, English breakfast tea, and my local Buy Nothing group. What motivates me each day is helping YOU land your next role – all through a successful job search.

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