writing an objective for a resume

Including an objective at the top of your resume is a great way to showcase your skills and talents that align with the requirements of their open position. It can also represent your professional goals, showing employers how the job aligns with your long-term career path. A well-written resume objective statement should be customized to the job for which you're applying and help set you apart from other applicants.

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Related: How to Write a Resume Employers Will Notice

Resume Format

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Resume Format
1. Name and contact information
2. Summary or objective
3. Professional history
a. Company name
b. Dates of tenure
c. Description of role and achievement
4. Education
5. Skills
6. Optional (Awards & Achievements, Hobbies & Interests)

Here are a few tips to help you write a meaningful, memorable resume objective that will encourage hiring managers to continue reading your resume.

What is a resume objective?

A resume objective (also called a career objective) is a one- to two-sentence overview of your short-term professional goals with an explanation of why you're seeking employment. Resume objectives are often placed at the top of your resume to capture the hiring manager's attention and should make your career goals clear.

Other types of resume introductions include:

When to include a resume objective

A resume objective statement is a great way to help your resume stand out no matter your professional level or background. However, there are a few cases when including an objective is particularly helpful:

If you are new to the job market. If you're a new graduate with little to no previous experience or entering the job market for the first time, including an objective helps the hiring manager understand how your career plans align with their job opening.

Read more: How-to Write an Entry Level Resume Objective (With Examples)

If you are making a career change. If your career experience is outside the industry you're currently applying to, an objective statement can clarify your goals and touch on why you're making the change.

Read more: How To Write a Career Change Resume Objective (With Examples)

If you are moving to a new geographic area. If you're planning a move to a new city, your current address may confuse the hiring manager. By noting your plans in your resume objective, you can avoid being disqualified for living out-of-town.

Related: Q&A: Do I Need an Objective on My Resume?

How to write a great resume objective

Consider your resume objective the introduction to your resume. Your resume objective may be the first thing your potential future employer ever reads about you, so you want to make sure it's both powerful and to-the-point.

Keep these items in mind when writing a resume objective statement:

1. Keep it concise. In most cases, a recruiter or hiring manager is sifting through several resumes at a time to determine which applicants have the skills and experience necessary to move on to the next step in the hiring process. By making your resume objective short and strong, you will be more successful in holding their attention. Try removing filler words, such as "a," "the" and "like," to help keep the reader focused on the most important parts of your resume.

2. Tailor it to the position. Instead of writing a general objective statement, adapt it specifically to the job you're applying for. Start by reading the job description and highlighting skills or requirements that align with your strongest attributes or experiences. When you include an objective that's specific to the job role, the recruiter is more likely to dig deeper and learn more details about your professional experience.

3. Lead with your strongest attributes. Consider strengths that are not only relevant to the job role, but also attributes you're proud to share. For example, "Organized and driven," "Dedicated and experienced," "Motivated team player" or "Accomplished leader."

4. Note any licenses, certifications or degrees relevant to the position. While your education experience will be listed elsewhere on your resume, including any important certifications or degrees in your resume objective can more immediately put you in a good position with the employer. This is especially important to include if you're new to the job market or you're changing careers or industries.

5. Describe how you'll add value as an employee. The top thing hiring managers want to know when they decide whether or not to move someone on to the next step is what value they will bring to the organization. Clearly stating your value propositions increases your chance of moving forward over another candidate of the same experience level, for example. This would be a good place to note your ambition, work ethic, history of success or unique skills.

Related Article: 7 Powerful Ways to Start a Cover Letter

General resume objective examples

To help you craft your resume objective statement, consider these examples:

New graduate/entering the job market for the first time:

"Highly driven recent business school graduate seeking a full-time position in finance where I can lend my knowledge of market analytics to help your organization improve profitability."

"Motivated team player and aspiring fashion buyer with proven communications skills seeking to grow my knowledge of the couture industry and use my conversational skills as a junior retail associate for your women's formal wear boutique."

Read more: How to Write a Career Objective on Your Resume as a Fresh Graduate

Career or industry change:

"Dedicated and experienced accounting professional with proven success managing finances for mid-size commercial organizations. Seeking an opportunity to use my decade of experience to serve the state government."

"Accomplished leader in marketing communications seeking a new career path with a nonprofit organization. Looking for an opportunity to apply my passion for philanthropy and professional experience to drive positive change in my community."

"Accomplished human resources professional seeking to leverage extensive knowledge of employee relations, business and positive communication in a customer-focused position that works directly with clients and ensures a positive experience."

Read more: How to Write a Career Change Resume Objective (With Examples)

Moving to a new geographic area:

"Experienced software developer relocating to San Francisco in August and seeking employment with a fast-growing startup. I bring more than eight years experience writing JavaScript and more than ten years experience in the technology industry."

"Current kitchen manager with more than ten years experience in the restaurant industry seeking to begin a sous chef position when I relocate to Chicago in September. I am eager to apply my culinary skills and grow my experience as part of an established institution."

Related: 139 Action Verbs to Make Your Resume Stand Out

Seeking advancement in the industry:

"Organized and driven administrative professional with more than seven years experience in the automotive industry. Seeking an opportunity to use my team management skills as an office manager in your fast-growing car dealership."

"Driven and ambitious sales professional with a proven history of exceeding goals and achieving high client satisfaction ratings. I am seeking a sales manager position with a fast-growing technology company where I can marry my enthusiasm for relationship-building and my passion for innovation."

"As a public educator with nearly two decades of experience in K–12, I am seeking the opportunity to serve as a high school principal in my local community. I am eager to use my proven leadership skills to continue the district's legacy of quality education and help prepare students for future success."

Although a resume objective is only one or two sentences long, make sure it showcases why you're applying for the job, what values you offer and why a hiring manager should be interested in getting to know you better. By crafting a compelling objective statement, you can help make it easier for employers to remember you and get one step closer toward landing your new job.

For more, visit 25 Generic Resume Objective Examples.

Resume Summary vs. Objective

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Resume summary vs. objective:
A resume summary is a short description of your qualifications that explain why you're a good fit for the role.

A resume objective is a brief statement that communicates your career goals, such as the type of job or industry you want to work in.

Resume objective examples by job title

Use the following resume objectives written for various job titles and industries to help craft your personal objective statement:

Business development manager resume objective
Criminal justice resume objective
Paralegal resume objective
Military resume objective
Medical resume objective
Administrative resume objective
Banking resume objective
HR resume objective
Restaurant resume objective
General labor resume objective
Manager resume objective
Customer service resume objective
Leadership resume objective
Caregiver resume objective
Clerical resume objective
Cosmetologist resume objective
Flight attendant resume objective
Law enforcement resume objective
Teacher resume objective
Welder resume objective
Graduate school resume objective
Finance resume objective
Software engineer resume objective
Account manager resume objective
Professor resume objective
Executive assistant resume objective
Housekeeping resume objective
Office manager resume objective
Phlebotomist resume objective
Truck driver resume objective
Information technology resume objective
Electrician resume objective
Cashier resume objective
Construction resume objective
LPN resume objective
Pharmacy technician resume objective
Supervisor resume objective
Cook resume objective
Maintenance resume objective
Professor resume objective
Sales manager resume objective
Data entry resume objective
Customer service manager resume objective
Child care resume objective
Graphic designer resume objective
Dental assistant resume objective
Food service resume objective
Project manager resume objective
Secretary resume objective
Bartender resume objective
Bank teller resume objective
Electrical engineer resume objective
Call center resume objective
Security guard resume objective
Administrative assistant resume objective
New graduate resume objective
Receptionist resume objective
Network engineer resume objective
Warehouse resume objective
Teacher resume objective

1. Business development manager resume objective

"Results-driven and organized professional with five years of experience in business development management, channel management and change implementation seeking a position as Business Development Manager to lead a team of salespeople and achieve corporate development goals."

2. Criminal justice resume objective

"Experienced criminal justice professional looking to apply 10 years of experience to a position that allows for growth and advancement opportunities, the implementation of policies and practices and positive changes to the justice system in the United States."

3. Paralegal resume objective

"To apply three years of experience as a paralegal in family law to support the efforts of Ping and Matriz Law Firm on behalf of their clients, as well as provide direct support to the attorneys and lawyers who interact with these clients and serve their needs."

4. Military resume objective

"Highly skilled and specialized commissioned officer in the United States Navy with strong people management and organizational skills, leadership qualities and security experience seeking a position as a military technician."

5. Medical resume objective

"To obtain a position in the medical field and apply the knowledge and skills gained in a certified nursing assistant (CNA) role to provide support and care to patients in a health care clinic, hospital, home health facility or other similar medical facility."

6. Administrative resume objective

"Strong problem-solver and analytical thinker seeks administrative position to improve the workflow and processes in an office setting through the application of two years of administrative experience and excellent communication skills."

7. Banking resume objective

"Applying eight years of experience in the banking industry to secure a position with a reputable financial provider and apply education and experience to further promote the success of the company through the application of strong problem-solving, communication and customer service skills."

"Seasoned banking professional seeking a position with a financial services provider to apply problem-solving, customer service, and communication skills, as well as interact with bank customers in a positive, beneficial manner."

8. HR resume objective

"Approachable, dedicated and hardworking human resources coordinator with three years of experience seeks position as an HR manager with a company that values knowledge of the industry, the ability to implement improvements for employee satisfaction, exceptional work performance and previous work experience."

9. Restaurant resume objective

"Friendly, positive and detail-oriented individual seeking an entry-level position in a fast-paced restaurant that allows for the application of customer service and food preparation skills."

10. General labor resume objective

"Adaptable and reliable general laborer with strong skills in woodworking, job site cleanup, lifting and carrying heavy objects, written and oral communications, basic math and physical stamina seeks position that provides steady employment and growth opportunities."

Read more: How To Write a Laborer Resume Objective

11. Manager resume objective

"Experienced general manager in a successful and established business seeks a challenging management position to apply lean management, problem-solving, continuous improvement, operations management and process improvement skills to oversee a team of professionals in a thriving industry."

Read more: How to Write a Manager Resume Objective

12. Customer service resume objective

"Obtain a position as a customer service representative with a company that allows for the application of strong organizational, communication and customer retention skills when interacting with clients and providing them with the level of support they expect."

"To obtain a position as a customer service manager overseeing a team of customer service representatives while applying conflict resolution, leadership, oral and written communication and organizational skills in a way that improves processes and enhances employee and customer satisfaction rates."

13. Leadership resume objective

"Goal-focused individual seeking a leadership role with a thriving, growing company to apply management, leadership and motivational skills when overseeing a team of professionals and working toward a common goal to increase productivity."

14. Caregiver resume objective

"Patient-focused and detail-oriented caregiver with three years of experience and excellent communication and organizational skills seeking a position to provide loving care to patients with a goal to improve their overall comfort, health and well-being."

15. Clerical resume objective

"A results-driven and focused clerical professional in search of a position that allows for the application of accounting, organizational, planning, recordkeeping, problem-solving and secretarial skills to support manage data and achieve corporate goals."

16. Cosmetologist resume objective

"Highly personable and creative cosmetologist with excellent client satisfaction record seeks position as a professional cosmetologist in a high-end salon to apply knowledge of cosmetic and hair products and their aesthetic and physical effects, as well as customer relations and people skills."

Read more: How to Write a Cosmetologist Resume Objective

17. Flight attendant resume objective

"Friendly, personable flight attendant with four years of experience with a regional commercial airline seeking position as a flight attendant with a larger commercial airline to provide support and service to passengers on each flight."

18. Law enforcement resume objective

"To secure a position as a law enforcement agent with an exceptional department to apply training and supervisory skills, experience and conflict resolution abilities to maintain order and peace within a community or region."

19. Teacher assistant resume objective

"Passionate, enthusiastic and experienced teacher assistant seeking position in a school where I can interact with children, provide them with education, support and resources, directly support the teacher in the classroom and aid in the development of each student."

20. Welder resume objective

"Seeking a position as a welder to carry out all related duties in the welding and production process, apply my techniques to produce and modify products and implement design skills to ensure excellent results on every welding project."

21. Graduate school resume objective

"Passionate and innovative educator with four years of teaching experience, conflict mediation skills and strong performance ratings looking to gain additional education and experience by enrolling in a graduate-level program that will provide opportunities for growth and advancement."

22. Finance resume objective

"Highly self-motivated and detail-oriented financial analyst seeking position as a Senior Financial Analyst to apply quantitative and analytical skills, financial modeling, planning, metric reporting, forecasting and other related skills in alignment with the company's financial goals."

23. Software engineer resume objective

"Experienced and knowledgeable software engineer with extensive practice in technology engineering and computer science looking to obtain a position that allows for the application of design skills, customer service and support abilities and critical thinking to produce software that meets all goals and objectives outlined by the customer."

Related: Tips for Writing an Engineering Resume Objective (With Examples)

24. Account manager resume objective

"Detail-oriented and highly focused account manager with strong revenue generation and client service records, project management skills and the ability to work independently seeking position with a fast-paced company that will provide additional opportunities for career advancement."

25. Professor resume objective

"Enthusiastic and dedicated educator looking for a position with a higher-level educational institution to provide education and support to students in the fields of English, literature and grammar, as well as apply excellent communication, technical and interpersonal skills."

26. Customer service resume objective

"Experienced customer service professional in search of a position as a customer service representative that allows for the application of excellent retention, communication and organizational skills when providing customers with a high level of support."

27. Executive assistant resume objective

"Looking to work in a fast-paced and challenging executive assistant role that allows for the application of strong organizational, support, coordination, scheduling and communication skills."

"To obtain a position as an executive assistant to provide outstanding support to executive-level professionals by coordinating schedules, meeting deadlines, working effectively as part of the team, managing communications and overcoming all challenges."

28. Housekeeping resume objective

"Hardworking, positive and energetic housekeeping looking for a position cleaning interior spaces to apply knowledge of efficient cleaning practices, toxic-free cleaning agents, cleaning equipment and tools and excellent customer service skills."

29. Office manager resume objective

"Seeking an office manager position in a fast-paced atmosphere to apply the skills and knowledge gained through five years of experience in related roles, including customer service, professional communication, scheduling, leadership and management."

30. Phlebotomist resume objective

"Professional phlebotomist with all necessary certifications to work in the state of Indiana seeking a position in a health care clinic, hospital or related location to apply my knowledge of phlebotomy-related processes and protocols while interacting with patients in a friendly, caring manner."

Read more: How to Write a Phlebotomy Resume Objective

31. Truck driver resume objective

"Self-sufficient and reliable individual looking to obtain a position transporting heavy machinery and goods through the application of vehicle operation monitoring, mechanical and customer service skills. Holds all necessary licensure to drive commercial vehicles in the United States."

32. Information technology resume objective

"Experienced information technology professional in search of a position that allows me to apply my management and technical skills to achieve corporate goals, develop improved processes for managing IT requests and accomplish projects in a more efficient way."

33. Electrician resume objective

"Licensed and experienced electrician seeking employment in an electrician role to apply knowledge of installing new electrical systems, testing electrical equipment, diagnosing and repairing malfunctions and ensuring the safety of those who use the electrical systems."

34. Cashier resume objective

"Obtaining a cashier position that allows me to use my experience in the hospitality industry to interact with customers in a professional, friendly manner, ensure accuracy when ringing up items and collecting payment."

Related: How to Write a Cashier Resume Objective (With Examples)

35. Construction resume objective

"Apply three years of experience in the construction industry to a position with a fast-paced construction company that allows me to further enhance my skills, support the team and contribute my abilities to handle heavy machinery and tools."

36. LPN resume objective

"Caring and dedicated LPN seeking a position with a hospital, health care clinic or other medical facility to apply excellent work ethic, strong written and oral communication skills, extensive practical nursing experience and ability to foster relationships with patients and their family members."

Read more: How to Craft a Great Objective for a Nurse Resume

37. Pharmacy technician resume objective

"Licensed pharmacy technician in search of a position in a fast-paced retail pharmacy with growth opportunities to provide assistance to patients and apply experience and knowledge of pharmacy operations, technology and the distribution of drugs."

38. Supervisor resume objective

"To obtain a position as a supervisor with a team of employees in a work atmosphere that allows for me to contribute my strong leadership, creativity, problem-solving and retention skills."

39. Cook resume objective

"Experienced cook seeks position at a thriving food service establishment that will allow for the application of strong culinary skills and expertise, providing the opportunity to create delicious menu options that will ensure a positive dining experience for customers."

Related: Sample Resume Objectives for Aspiring Cooks

40. Maintenance resume objective

"General maintenance worker with two years of experience desiring a position at a fast-paced plant to contribute my skills related to general upkeep, repairs and maintenance, solving problems, diagnosing issues with machinery and equipment and working efficiently to minimize downtime."

41. Sales manager resume objective

"Dedicated and skilled individual with extensive experience managing a direct sales team and proven sales results in search of position that allows me to apply my development, brand portfolio production, management, organizational and communication skills when interacting with salespeople.

42. Data entry resume objective

"Hardworking data entry specialist looking for a position in a results-focused workplace that allows me to apply my strong typing, data entry, customer service and administrative support skills. Typing speed is 70 WPM, while attention to detail ensures accurate and efficient data input."

43. Medical receptionist resume objective

"Results-driven, passionate individual seeking a position in a hospital, health care clinic or related medical facility as a medical receptionist to provide support to patients, team members and clinical staff members."

44. Child care resume objective

"Caring, dedicated and reliable child care professional in search of a position that allows me to apply my skills and knowledge to maximize the social and educational experiences of the children for which I provide direct care."

45. Graphic designer resume objective

"Innovative and creative graphic designer seeking a position in an agency setting to apply unique ideas when creating and developing visually appealing productions that align with client goals and resonate with viewers and potential customers."

"Creative and knowledgeable graphic designer looking for a position in a positive and team-based work atmosphere to develop and refine graphics, documents and digital renderings that meet client expectations while achieving goals related to customer interaction."

46. Dental assistant resume objective

"Customer-service-oriented professional with current dental assistant certification and four years of experience seeking a position in a dental office to apply organizational, patient care and support skills when interacting with patients and working alongside a dentist."

47. Foodservice resume objective

"Qualified professional with two years of experience in the hospitality industry looking to obtain a position as a food service specialist to contribute my coordination, service, customer satisfaction and distribution management skills."

48. Project manager resume objective

"Searching for a project management position that allows me to apply my knowledge and skills, including those related to budgeting, leadership, team management, problem-solving and oral and written communication. Strong background in project management with excellent deadline record."

49. Secretary resume objective

"To obtain a secretarial position with a growing organization that requires computer operations, administrative support, customer service, office organization, clerical and data entry skills, as well as provides opportunities for career advancement."

Related: 23 Clerical Resume Objectives to Strengthen Your Resume

50. Bartender resume objective

"Experienced and friendly bartender seeking a position at a high-end resort or food service establishment that allows me to apply my mixology experience, customer service skills, outgoing attitude and unique flair when preparing beverages for clients."

Read more: How to Write a Bartender Resume Objective

51. Bank teller resume objective

"Self-motivated and reliable individual looking for a position as a bank teller with a successful financial services provider to apply exceptional customer service skills, trustworthiness, efficiency and willingness to learn new tasks."

52. Electrical engineer resume objective

"Licensed and experienced electrical engineer with a strong safety record seeking position that allows for the application of project management skills, long-term and short-term electrical system design and troubleshooting skills and strong customer service abilities."

53. Call center resume objective

"To gain a position in a fast-paced and dynamic call center to handle incoming and outgoing calls for the corporation, route calls to the proper individuals and interact with customers in a positive and friendly manner."

54. Security guard resume objective

"Hardworking and trustworthy individual looking for a position as a security officer to enforce regulations, preserve order while contributing strong management and leadership skills and safety and security protocols to ensure a safe atmosphere."

55. Administrative assistant resume objective

"Seeking position as an administrative assistant that allows for the application of experience in a previous role, as well as strong coordination, schedule management, project and deadline management, secretarial and support skills."

Related: How to Write a Front Desk Resume Objective

56. New graduate resume objective

"Desire to secure an entry-level accounting position with a financial services provider, which will allow me to apply the knowledge gained in my accounting educational program. I hold a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of California at Berkeley."

57. Receptionist resume objective

"Looking for a receptionist position that allows for the application of my clerical skills and abilities, including telephone, written and oral communication, computer and administrative support skills."

58. Network engineer resume objective

"Experienced network engineer seeking a challenging opportunity in an atmosphere where I can use the knowledge I have gained through the 10 years of experience I have in the field."

59. Warehouse resume objective

"Seeking a position as a warehouse associate to apply problem-solving, organizational and communication skills, as well as physical strength to ensure efficiency and accuracy throughout the inventory management process."

60. Teacher resume objective

"To obtain a position as a middle school teacher so I may contribute my education, training and knowledge related to the development and educational needs of children in this age group."

Related: Does a Resume Need an Objective Statement?