Why I Object to Objectives
For the record, I object to objectives on resumes. When writing a resume – don’t include an objective statement – ever!
I realize there are different viewpoints on this issue. Based on years of experience as a career coach, I have many reasons to scrap an objective statement.
Top 5 Reasons I Object to Objectives
- It’s redundant. Your objective is obviously to get a job. That’s the purpose of submitting a resume. Stating your objective is seeking “a growth opportunity” or “a position that will allow you to return to your hometown” is superfluous.
- It’s self-serving. An objective is what you, the candidate, wants – not what the firm wants and needs. Sure, a resume is about you, but ideally you want to grab the attention of the reader and speak to how you will benefit the employer.
- It’s a waste of space. An objective statement takes up valuable real estate. Resumes need to be concise and easy-to-eyeball within a matter of seconds. Most resumes are only visually scanned by the reader. Your Resume Has One Job! Do it Right! outlines surprisingly simple steps to a killer Accountant resume.
- It’s outdated. Placing a career objective on your resume makes your resume feel stale and archaic. You want to present yourself as fresh, relevant and focused on the future.
- It’s boring. I’ve never read a career objective that had sizzle. There’s no hook – something that compels the reader to read on! If you don’t hook ‘em – another candidate will.
So, can the career objective. Use your resume to the utmost advantage. Tell the hiring manager exactly why YOU are the perfect candidate for the job.
As a career coach and recruiter, exclusive to public accounting, I help job candidates re-focus their resumes on a daily basis. Let me know if I can help you. Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Interested in more career nutrition? Check out the Career Wellness section of the SterlingFreeman website.