Monday, March 27, 2023

Riffing on Resumes, Part 8: Objective

Here's a frequently asked question when I edit or create resumes for clients or teach resume writing in a corporate class: Do I really need an objective in my resume? The answer: no and yes.

The answer is a resounding no, do not include an objective in a resume, in two cases:
  • if you do not plan to customize your objective to the prospective employer's concerns
  • if you plan to write words and phrases like accomplisheddedicated, drivenhardworking, maven, out-of-the-box thinkerpassionate, people personself-starter, and synergetic.
And the answer is yes, do include an objective in a resume when you want to show prospective employers you understand how your goals and theirs connect. Here are three examples.

1. A recent college graduate applying to an economic consulting firm: A junior economist position in an economic consulting firm that will grow my interest in bankruptcy and financial distress litigation and support my legal counseling aspirations. This objective points specifically to one of the firm's 28 practice areas, demonstrating some knowledge of what the firm does. While you may argue that such a choice may limit this candidate's employment chances, it confidently indicates a passion without saying passion. And while it may seem self-destructive for the candidate to mention the goal of becoming a lawyer, not an economist, it proves an awareness of the firm's legal counseling needs. 

2. A project manager with 10 years of experience applying to a major architectural-engineering business: A senior project management position specializing in capital construction projects in an architectural-engineering firm that values interdisciplinary communication and end-to-end construction management. The candidate does not need to write with ten years of experience or seasoned project manager because the experience section of the resume illustrates these points. What matters to this candidate is an elevation to senior status as well as the employer's valuing excellent communication skills and total project management knowledge. 

3. A government administrative assistant applying for a promotion within the agency: A clerical supervisory assignment that tests my time, project, and people management skills in my commitment to continued self-development. The candidate's use of clerical, assignment, commitment, and self-development indicates that even this next position is a temporary stop for the employee in an ongoing personal and professional evolution. The candidate suggests that the government agency has an opportunity to help fashion an employee with leadership aspirations—and the agency should want such career-focused employees..   

Does this mean you need to customize your objective for every job possibility? Of course. Don't you want your employer to know the real you, your career objectives, and your potential contributions?