Ask a Resume Writer: Are Resume Objective Statements Outdated?

In the ever-evolving world of resume writing, one element that has become outdated is the objective statement. Gone are the days of simply stating your career goals at the top of your resume as a way to introduce yourself.

But if you don’t need an objective statement on your resume, what should you use instead? We asked iHire’s Certified Master Resume Writer, Freddie Rohner, why objective statements are no longer effective and what you should do to make your resume stand out.

What Is a Career Objective, and Why Are Objective Statements Outdated?

A career objective is the position you’re targeting. An objective statement could be something like, “Seeking a new office manager position in the veterinary field.” It defines what you’re looking for in your next job.

“There’s nothing wrong with having a clear career objective. In fact, you shouldn’t start a job search or write your resume until you know what your goals are,” said Rohner. “However, your career objective statement does not belong on your resume.”

Resume objective statements communicate the obvious: you’re looking for a job. They focus on what the applicant wants rather than what they can bring to the table.

“Employers are looking for candidates who will contribute to the growth and success of their organization, and everything you include in your resume should showcase that,” explained Rohner. “An objective statement takes up valuable space and is a weak way to introduce yourself. Instead, simply put the title you’re seeking at the top of your resume, like ‘Office Manager,’ and follow that with a three- to five-sentence summary paragraph.”

What to Put in a Resume Summary

To create a compelling summary statement, start by identifying your key skills and qualifications that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Tailor your summary to each specific job ad before you apply, emphasizing how your background aligns with the requirements of the position.

For example, instead of, “Seeking a new office manager position in the veterinary field,” you would write, “Office Manager with 15+ years of experience in emergency veterinary settings.” See the difference?

“Highlight your unique value proposition – in other words, what sets you apart from other candidates,” Rohner said. “Connect the dots for hiring managers so they can see right at the top of your resume that you’re a great fit for the role.”

Effective Resume Summary Examples

Here are a few resume summary examples for different industries and job titles:

• HR Assistant: Detail-oriented and proactive HR Assistant with 3 years of experience supporting human resources departments in fast-paced corporate environments. Skilled in a range of HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and payroll administration. Exceptionally organized with proven ability to manage confidential information with discretion. Excellent communicator who builds strong relationships across all levels of an organization.
   
• Construction Project Manager: Highly resourceful Construction Project Manager with 15 years of experience leading large-scale construction projects from conception to completion. Demonstrated expertise in coordinating labor and materials efficiently to meet project timelines and budgets. Adept at overseeing a diverse team of professionals, ensuring adherence to safety standards and quality control.
   
• Sales Representative: Dynamic sales representative with a passion for building strong client relationships and exceeding sales targets. Proven ability to identify customer needs and develop tailored solutions, leading to increased customer satisfaction and repeat business. Known for a proactive approach, resilience in challenging markets, and a track record of consistently surpassing sales quotas.
   
• Registered Nurse: Dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse with more than 10 years of experience in fast-paced hospital environments. Proven track record in providing exceptional patient care, efficiently managing clinical responsibilities, and leading nursing teams. Skilled in a variety of nursing specialties, including emergency care, intensive care, and pediatrics. Adept at developing strong and trusting relationships with patients and their families.
   

Resume Summary Mistakes to Avoid

When deciding what to put in your resume summary, there are common mistakes and misconceptions to be mindful of that can weaken your resume’s impact.

“Avoid overly generic summaries that could apply to any candidate, especially if you’re using AI to help write your resume. Be specific about your unique skills and experiences,” advised Rohner. “On the other hand, don’t overstate your abilities or keyword-stuff your summary paragraph with qualifications you don’t have. Lying on your resume is never a good idea.”

You should also include real-world examples of your skills and qualifications in action in other key sections of your resume – specifically your professional experience – to back up what you’re summary paragraph says about you.

Additionally, don’t write your resume summary (or any part of your resume) in third person. Instead, write in first person with pronouns and filler words – such as “I,” “my,” “our,” “a,” “an,” and “the” – removed as shown in the examples above.

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A compelling resume summary is a powerful tool to capture the attention of employers, make your resume stand out from the competition, and entice the hiring manager/recruiter to continue reading your resume. By replacing the outdated resume objective statement with a more targeted and impactful introduction, you can effectively showcase your skills and experiences.

At iHire, we offer a wide range of free resume writing resources, including articles and templates and our Resume Builder that uses AI to help you write your resume summary. You can also work with our team of certified resume writers to get a fully customized resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile and apply to your next job with confidence.