Resume Objective

A resume objective is a one-to-two sentence statement placed at the top of a resume that describes the type of role you are seeking and what you hope to achieve. Traditional objectives follow a format like "Seeking a marketing coordinator position where I can apply my social media expertise."

Resume objectives have fallen out of favor in most industries because they focus on what the candidate wants rather than what they offer the employer. Modern resume advice generally recommends using a professional summary instead, which leads with your qualifications and value proposition.

However, resume objectives still have niche uses. They can be effective for entry-level candidates who lack extensive work history, career changers who need to explain their pivot, or applicants in fields where objectives remain the convention. If you use one, make it specific to the role and company — generic objectives add no value and waste prime resume real estate.