resume objective statement for college graduate

35 Impressive College Student Resume Objective Examples

The objective statement is the first place you get to pitch yourself to a potential employer. It’s the hook to draw a reader into looking at your resume in full. In your objective statement, you need to concisely convince the hiring manager that you understand what the job entails and that you are the best candidate for the job. Whether you are looking for a part-time job while studying, or for your first job out of college, you will want to make your very best first impression.

Examples of College Student Objective Statements

Below are some examples of objectives statements for college students and college graduates to guide you in writing a powerful opening to your resume:

• Computer science student seeking part-time work with ABC University in IT support, eager to gain first-hand experience while contributing to troubleshooting problems experienced by members of the university community.
• Courteous and responsible student with a stellar driving record and well-maintained 4-door vehicle seeking a position as a part-time rideshare driver.
• Recent graduate with B.S. in Accounting looking for a data entry and bookkeeping position at Fin Corporation, bringing excellent attention-to-detail, enthusiasm to learn and adaptability to take on new tasks.
• Flexible and joyful student pursuing a degree in early childhood education, seeking a role as a teaching assistant and coming with fluency in online tools and the capability to learn quickly.
• Dependable and flexible animal-lover seeking a position as a pet sitter with Creature Comforts LLC, coming with the ability to work independently and an excellent attention-to-detail.
• Reliable book enthusiast and current English major looking to work as a library assistant, bringing an understanding of the library system and an eagerness to learn library management processes.
• Self-motivated, focused and friendly student with a reliable car, insurance and a clean driving record seeking an on-demand runner or delivery driver position, coming with ability to provide a great experience to customers.
• Forward-thinking and dedicated team player seeking part-time work as a graphic designer with XYZ College, leveraging extensive knowledge of a wide variety of design software and tools, and superior command of layout principals and aesthetic design concepts.
• Responsible and outgoing student seeking a part-time host or waiting position at a restaurant, coming with two years of barista experience and an excitement for learning new skills.
• Highly motivated software engineering graduate with strong customer service and communication skills seeking to join Great North Casualty Company, leveraging ability to write code in JAVA, HTML5, and CSS3.
• Personable student looking for a part-time job as a sales clerk at a retail clothing store, coming with two summers of experience working at a café and gift shop.
• Punctual, responsible and hardworking student looking for a job as a barista at Café Coffee, leveraging a love of coffee, a team-oriented attitude, and an enthusiasm for making people smile.
• Emotionally mature and adaptable recent college graduate with a passion for bringing smiles to children, looking for a nanny position, coming with reliable transportation, CPR and First Aid certification, and references.
• Looking for a part-time job as a social media assistant at ABC Staffing, leveraging deep knowledge of various social media platforms, strong organizational skills and attention-to-detail to develop and maintain a professional and welcoming online presence for the benefit of the company.
• Chemistry student with an excellent academic track record, seeking a summer job as a lab assistant at First Labs to support research scientists and explore the possibility of pursuing a research career.
• Friendly and professional team player seeking a part-time job as a customer service associate, leveraging flexibility, great phone presence, and highly organized ability to work quickly and accurately.
• Accomplished student with an aptitude for programming, seeking part-time work with Big Time Realty in support of its IT requirements, bringing superior customer service skills, strong knowledge of various computer hardware and software, and an unbeatable work ethic.
• Outstanding mathematics student seeking part-time work as a math tutor, leveraging exemplary academic track record and ability to communicate complex mathematical concepts to children from primary to secondary levels.
• Detail-oriented accounting college senior (GPA 3.8) seeking a part-time job with Alton Accountants to gain practical experience in accounting, coming with knowledge from coursework and excitement about starting a career in accounting.
• Dependable student seeking weekend job as a lifeguard at Community Pool, leveraging Red Cross First Aid and CPR certifications, and three summers of experience in lifeguarding.
• Punctual and organized art student with a passion for oil painting seeks part-time job in an art supply shop, coming with two years of customer service experience gained through work in cafes and restaurants.
• To obtain a part-time dental office assistant position at Henley Clinic to utilize administrative experience while increasing knowledge of dentistry as a pre-med student.
• Reliable finance student looking to gain work experience as a part-time bank teller, coming with excellent customer service skills and an interest in banking.
• Political science student hoping to pursue a career in law, seeking a summer job as an office assistant at Gray Law Firm to gain first-hand insight into legal practice.
• To secure part-time work as an office assistant, experienced in providing administrative support as a receptionist and coming with fast typing ability (45+ wpm), superior organizational skills, and a desire to work hard.
• Mechanically inclined and reliable student seeking a part-time job at Cycle Store, bringing a passion for cycling and an understanding of cycle maintenance and repair.
• Self-starter and current culinary student seeking a part-time position as a kitchen assistant, confident in fast-paced kitchens and bringing skills in various cuisines.
• Statistics student planning on pursuing a career in business analytics, looking for a part-time job to gain understanding of practical applications of analyses and to contribute to fulfilling the analytical needs of a corporate team.
• Innovative and solutions-oriented student seeking a part-time position within a marketing agency to leverage creativity to gain practical experience for the benefit of the company.
• Art student seeking a part-time job as a receptionist at Art Museum, bringing excellent reception skills gained as a restaurant hostess and a passion for art, particularly oil painting.
• Hardworking and punctual student seeking warehouse packing work, bringing endless energy, optimism, and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Biology student seeking to obtain a position as part-time receptionist at Medical Office, drawing on over two years of office support and reception experience.
• Enthusiastic sophomore seeking a part-time position as a tour guide at State University, looking to apply excellent communication and hosting skills gained as a waitress to show prospective students and their families around campus and give them insight into student life.
• Responsible and driven student eager to gain work experience through part-time work, willing to learn new skills and perform ad hoc duties as required.
• To obtain a part-time analyst position with Econo Analytics, bringing skills gained through mathematics and statistics studies, able to contribute insights into both macro and microeconomic trends.

Getting a good job that is in line with your career goals while you are still in college is a great way to roadtest your career choice and gain experience. If jobs within your future profession aren’t available, getting a different job with transferable skills is another good idea. Think about talking to people you know who might be able to put your resume in front of decision-makers. Whether you have a warm lead from someone in your network or are applying cold to an online job posting, make sure your objective statement is compelling and free from error. This is will get your resume noticed and make a strong first impression.

Top 20 College Graduate Resume Objective Examples you can use

This post provides great examples of college graduate resume objective statements that you can apply in making one for your resume/CV and increase your chances of being invited to an interview and hired for the college graduate job that you are seeking.

The resume objective statement is the introductory paragraph on your resume that gives the reader or hiring manager a strong reason to read the rest of your resume or CV in consideration for an employment.

It implies that a bad or poorly written career objective statement will send you out of the recruitment process even if you actually have what the job requires.

In this article, we will be showing you an effective approach to penning down your career objective for a college graduate position.

How to write a Great Resume Objective for a College Graduate Position

A resume objective statement is effective if it can achieve the goal for which it is written. And that goal is to communicate your strongest and valuable points to the employer to get interviewed for a job position.

At a first glance, what should your strongest point be?

Your unique selling point should be your educational background, GPA, soft skills, personality traits, and work experiences.

However, they may not all be equally important to the employer, but only the most important ones need to appear in your college graduate resume objective statement.

Hence, to write an effective college graduate objective for resume, you need to study the job description to ascertain the right information to present in your objective statement.

After you are sure of what the employer wants, you can then present it as a sales pitch aimed at selling yourself to the employer.

Begin the sentence with powerful words describing your strong traits or educational qualification; state your GPA if you have a strong one and are a fresh graduate; mention the name and position of the company, and show how you intend to add value to the company in that position.

To help you make a great college graduate resume objective, here are some really good samples to study and apply:

20 Best College Graduate Resume Objective Examples you can apply

• Result-oriented Business Management graduate with 3.0 GPA and strong business acumen, seeking the Executive Assistant position in SSM. Bringing excellent communication, interpersonal, data-analysis, social media, and organizing skills to provide admin support duties to senior-level executives.
• Highly analytical Accounting graduate with 3.0 GPA, seeking for an Accountant position in SMC. Highly numerate and meticulously detailed; coming with familiarity with basic accounting records, budgets and account reconciliation, quantitative skill, and the ability to keep sensitive information discrete.
• Marketing graduate with 4.0 GPA, seeking to utilize honed knowledge in marketing to improve sales and customer relations in ABC. Offering solid background in marketing, an outspoken personality, and customer service and telephone skills. Bringing 6 months of retail sales experience and strong knowledge of the local market.
• Goal-oriented and exceptionally organized Marketing graduate with 4.0 GPA and 1 year of sales associate experience, desirous of a Sales Executive position at ABC. Bringing strong consultative selling and excellent communications skills to communicate product benefits to customers and increase sales for the company.
• Problem-solver and first-class communicator with Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and GPA 3.5. Desirous of an Electrical Engineer position in Intertek to assist in interpreting a variety of technical instructions. Coming with technical skills, proficient Microsoft Office skills, and awareness of national codes and standards.
• Resourceful Management graduate with GPA 3.5, interested in a Management Trainee position at MMM Inc. to help drive operational excellence. Coming with a service-oriented mindset, strong interpersonal relations skills, advanced computer skills, and strong customer service internship experience.

More College Graduate Resume Objective Examples [7-12]

• Outgoing and solution-focused behavior technician with Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and specialized training in Child Development. Interested in an ABA Therapist position in SSM to utilize knowledge of ABA techniques and hands-on experience with autistic children in the execution of behavior intervention plans.
• Highly analytical and imaginative Finance graduate with 3.5 GPA, seeking for a Finance Associate position in ABC where solid finance background, knowledge of financial systems, and financial and planning skills will be utilized. Coming with strong communication skills, good eyes for details, and advanced-level Excel skills.
• Enthusiastic and self-motivated Finance graduate with a passion for bringing positive change in people’s lives, interested in a Finance position at National Debt Relief. Bringing excellent interpersonal and communication skills to advocate for clients and help them gain financial freedom.
• Interested in the Information Technology Ford College Graduate (FCG) Program to utilize honed knowledge in Information Systems. Coming with a Bachelor’s degree, GPA 3.0 on a 4.0, and 1 year of IT Specialist experience.
• Exceptionally creative engineer with strong interpersonal and networking skills, and the ability to communicate effectively in a team-oriented environment. Seeking a Design Engineering position to utilize knowledge of engineering fundamentals and the ability to utilize design software in creating new solutions.
• Highly skilled and motivated Chemical Engineer seeking a Chemist position in GLOBALFOUNDRIES. Coming with 2 years of experience working in a Post Semiconductor Advanced Packaging area using multiple key tool and processes. Also offering great communication skills, attention to details, and the ability to develop and execute work plans.

More College Graduate Resume Objective Examples [13-17]

• Analytical and detail-oriented individual with Bachelor’s in Computer Science, seeking to join Analog Devices. Offering proficient knowledge of GAAP requirements, Anaplan, business intelligence software, MS Excel, and SAP expertise. Also coming with outstanding communication and prioritization skills, and the ability to work independently
• Problem solver with exceptional interpersonal and conflict resolution skills, seeking to join Nissan in a Sales position. Bringing excellent communication, presentation, and networking abilities, advanced UC skills, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
• Business graduate with a problem-solving aptitude and comfort engaging with strangers, interested in the position of a Customer Service/Lease Customer Network Representative in ABC to utilize 2 years of call center experience. Bringing adept networking and telephone skills to manage inbound and outbound calls from a variety of customer groups.
• Meticulously detailed individual with exceptional analytical and quantitative skills and background in Accounting, interested in the position of an Account Services Representative in ABC to support with account related tasks.
• Team player with Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and 3 years of software development experience, seeking to join Expanse as a Software Engineer. Offering a working knowledge of systems development, algorithms, data structures, networks, and databases.

More College Graduate Resume Objective Examples [18-20]

• Problem solver with strong analytical and collaborative skills and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. Desirous of joining The Finance New Graduate Leadership Program in Microsoft, to utilize strong natural interest in financial services. Coming with great business acumen, superior communicator skills, knowledge of Trend & Variance Analysis, and advanced computer skills.
• Electrical Engineer with hands-on expertise in Hardware Architecture Design, Digital ASIC Design, Design Verification, Physical Design. Interested in a Hardware Engineering position in Qualcomm Technologies. Coming with great collaborative and communication skills and openness to learning new technologies.
• Outstanding communicator with a friendly and positive attitude, desirous of a Front Office Manager position at ABC. Bringing the ability to operate standard office equipment, telephone skills, great PC skills, sound business acumen, and Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

To write an effective college graduate resume objective statement, you must bear in mind that you are writing to sell your strongest point to the recruiter.

Always use strong adjectives to describe your personality traits, present information that is valuable to the employer as seen in the job description, and show how you are fit for the position you are applying for.

Feel free to follow the examples we have provided as a guide in creating an effective career objective statement for your college graduate resume.

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60+ Resume Objective Examples for 2024 & How-to Guide

• Objective in a Nutshell
• Do I Need an Objective?
• Write a Resume Objective That Rocks
• 3 General Objectives

As a job seeker, you know getting a job isn’t easy. Even with the increase in salary information, thanks to new  pay transparency laws , finding a job that suits your talents is challenging.

Now it’s time to start writing your resume, which means deciding if you’ll add optional sections like an objective statement. An objective can add valuable information, but knowing when to include one is tricky. Plus, a career objective is often confused with a  resume summary .

We’ll tell you the differences between the two, and we’ll help you write an objective that highlights the best parts of your resume. Whether you’re currently  building your resume  or wondering where to start, we’ve got the answers you need to write an amazing objective. 

Resume Objective in a Nutshell

First: What is a resume objective? Well, it’s basically a snapshot of your best and most relevant expertise, given the position you’re hoping to snag.  The primary purpose of your career objective  is to quickly highlight your relevant skills and alignment with the specific company’s values and/or goals.

You want to ensure that any recruiter or potential employer sees why it would be ridiculous  not  to hire you! Your objective should hook the reader, persuading them to continue reviewing your resume—and, ultimately, shoot you an email or a phone call.

How do I know the difference between a resume objective and a summary?

Don’t worry if you’re confused about whether an objective or  resume summary  is the best choice for your resume. They’re pretty similar, and their contents can overlap quite a bit depending on the applicant, so there’s no need to overthink it! Still, there are a couple of differences to keep in mind if you’re struggling to decide:

Resume objective:

If you’re either switching careers or just starting in your field, then an objective statement could be the perfect intro to let employers know you’re the right pick. Resume objectives should stay between two and three sentences and  focus on your short-term career goals and how you’re qualified to start pursuing them .

Resume summary:

A summary, which is also two or three sentences, usually best fits folks with more experience within their career. This statement summarizes a candidate’s extensive skills and work history. The  resume summary  could be your ideal option if you want to progress in a career where you’ve already experienced success.

Do I Need a Resume Objective ?

To start, consider whether you need an objective at all. Any stellar resume will fall at a page, and you’ll need to make every bit of space count. So, it’s essential to consider whether your objective will add value to your resume or just waste space.

An objective generally suits those who are entry-level or are changing careers. This statement summarizes a candidate’s most relevant, job-specific skills and identifies why they want to work for a target business.

Adding a resume objective could be wise if you want to break into a new career, show the employer you genuinely desire to work for their business, or resourcefully fill up a little extra white space.

Resume objectives can add value if:

• You’re an entry-level candidate
• Your work history is light
• You’ve decided to make a career change

But when should you discard the objective statement entirely?

Keep in mind that, on average, hiring managers spend just over seven seconds reviewing your resume before determining whether they’ll take a closer look. That’s a narrow window, so if your resume errs on the side of generic or bland, omitting it is best.

How to Write an Objective for a Resume

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time writing your resume objective statement. Luckily, seeing samples of how others have handled similar obstacles can help—just remember to inject your personality and make each objective statement as unique as you are. And while comparing others’ statements to your own, ask yourself: “Which of my achievements look the most impressive?”

Plus, we’ve got a fantastic formula for you that will further uncomplicate things:

The process is as easy as X + Y + Z = Eye-catching resume objective!

X = Your characteristics and personality traits Y = Years of experience and quantified success/results Z = How these results apply to the specific job role

Keep this formula in mind, and you’ll surprise yourself with professional and engaging results like the objective below:

X =  Ambitious, adaptable, eager, self-motivated, and efficient

Y =  2 years of intern experience within the field, learned skills/experience

Z =  Technical and soft skills tie in with forging strong teams and client connections

7 ingredients to resume objective success

Not sure where to start? Check out these seven tips on how to add the maximum value to your resume objective and launch yourself into the top  20 percent of job applicants who actually get interviewed  for a single job:

Don’t worry if this is a little overwhelming at first glance! Many job seekers linearly work through their resumes, but  save your objective for last,  even though it appears first. Once you fine-tune other sections, it’ll be easier to pinpoint choice details to fill in the formula and complete your perfect objective. (And who says you have to nail your statement the first time you write it?! Go through as many iterations as you need when you  outline your resume .)

1.  Inject your personality

Bonus points if you tie your personality traits in with the company’s values through skillful word choices! No one wants to read a bland resume objective that doesn’t connect the person with the company—they want to know  who  they’re hiring.

2.  Lead with strengths

These strengths could be notable projects or extensive educational background for entry-level applicants or graduates. For anyone changing careers, include successes like past work projects that demonstrate overlapping skills/values with the role you’re currently seeking. Mention relevant certifications in your objective, too!

3.  Minimize personal pronouns and contractions

Details like these may seem inconsequential and even helpful when trying to save space, but they can make your resume too informal. Also, referring to yourself instead of your skills can make it seem like you’re only interested in what the company will do for you.

(Hint: Gauge the company’s tone in its  job description  and website. You can get away with contractions more readily with informal companies).

4.  Keep it at two or three sentences

Again, resume space is invaluable! Make the most of this real estate by ensuring your objective is long enough to provide eye-catching value but short enough that it won’t get skipped. Save the details for writing a cover letter . Critique it visually, too—how does it look on the page?

5.  Talk about your relevant skills

 Revisit the job listing for crucial skills that match your expertise and leverage that in your objective statement.

6.  State why you’re interested and why you fit the role 

Other skilled applicants undoubtedly applied for this same role—so what makes you the right fit? Mentioning why you’re interested in the position and how you’re a good match will help you stand out from the crowd.

7.  Use a resume template that gives you the option to include an objective

Why reinvent the wheel? All our  free Google Docs resume templates  have space for your objective. Take advantage of a  resume template  (you can edit the one just below!) already laid out for your specific needs rather than dealing with the frustration of a template breaking because you tried to add one.

Middle School History Teacher Resume

Common resume objective roadblocks

If you’re struggling, remember that starting in the wrong place is a common but avoidable pitfall: many applicants try writing their objective first, only to find they don’t know where to begin.  Lessen your stress by drafting the rest of your resume first . Writing a quality resume objective will become easier once your qualifications are laid out on the table. 

Since your objective needs to take up so little space, get selective while skimming the cream of the crop from your resume bullet points. What previous roles resulted in your most impressive contributions to a company? Put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes and think of what they’d want in their next hire, then write your objective based on your most dazzling selling points. 

Return to our objective samples in this post anytime you need some inspiration. You can also better prepare with a  resume outline . Planning out the arrangement of your background and skills will simplify filling out your resume when the time comes. 

Resume objective knockouts, hopefuls, and wannabes

To give you some examples of what we’ve been talking about, let’s look at a mock  job description for a data scientist  and compare three resume objective statements to see what passes muster.

Data scientist job description example:

Currently seeking a remote data scientist for Infinity Solars who is self-starting, innovative, and skilled with various data tools to design/create predictive customer behavioral models. Must be able to translate data for all levels of communication to support leadership groups, give team members actionable business insights, and lead machine-learning algorithm development. Must exhibit exceptional critical thinking skills by gauging the effectiveness and accuracy of data quality and mining techniques.

Now, let’s see how these example resume objective statements stack up:

I can definitely talk to people since I just got out of college for biology. I’m good with group projects and know a lot about computers.

Why it’s not a winner :   Leave out bland objectives like this one, which lacks the valuable info necessary to justify taking up space. What kind of job is this even for?

I love solar power and could use my background in data analysis to help your company. I’m also a big team player and have plenty of qualifying technical skills.

Why it’s just okay:  At least there’s some personality here, although it’s a little informal. This candidate should also specify skills that would benefit the specific company.

Knockout:  Check out our example!

Why it’s great:  Nice—personality traits and skills that align with the job description! We also see years of experience with well-rounded skills that would benefit the company, presented with compelling and enthusiastic word choices.

3 Resume Objectives That Are General but Not Generic

Keeping a few general (but not generic!) resume objective statements nearby enables you to customize your resume at any time quickly! Take a look at these general examples and note how to make them specific to you: 

Make resume objective #1 specific to you by:

• Speaking to the exact obstacles the company mentions in its job ad
• Mentioning the company name

Make resume objective #2 specific to you by:

• Mentioning your relevant educational or professional background
• Connecting your goals with the company’s

Make resume objective #3 specific to you by:

• Mentioning a notable company from your extensive experience
• Presenting your abilities as solutions to company obstacles

7 Resume Objective Examples by Career Stage

The current stage of your career journey is crucial regarding the tone of your resume objective—a senior-level candidate who’s changing careers, for example, should sound different from a fresh graduate. See what we mean?

1. Entry-level resume objective

Entry-level resume examples >>

2. No experience resume objective

3. Internship resume objective

4. Changing locations resume objective

5. Student resume objective

Graduate student resume examples >> College student resume examples >> High school student resume examples >>

6. College graduate resume objective

College graduate resume examples >> MBA resume examples >>

7. Changing careers resume objective

Career change resume examples >>

20 Resume Objective Examples Tailored to the Job Description

Now that you’ve made it this far, we’ve put together 20 more resume objectives—specific to various professions—so you can see how they exemplify our tips and tricks from earlier!

1.  Accountant resume objective

Accountant job description  key details:

• Critical thinking and adept organizational skills, especially concerning client information and records
• Information gathering and the ability to handle large data sets
• Strong ethics and integrity with sensitive personal information

Accountant resume objective:

Why this resume works

• This candidate addresses skills emphasized in the job description while injecting personality and enthusiasm for the role. 
• They also make up for their limited background experience by focusing on the skills that will make them great accountants while demonstrating an eagerness to learn.

Accountant resume examples >> Accountant cover letter examples >>

2. Attorney resume objective

Attorney job description  key details:

• Ability to handle fast-paced and high-stress settings
• Compassionate and caring
• Logical and creative 

Attorney resume objective:

• Applicant leads in with necessary and location-specific qualifications and knowledge. 
• The objective mentions compassion and determination to find justice, tying these values with the organization by name.

Attorney resume examples >> Attorney cover letter examples >>

3.  Business analyst resume objective

Business analyst job description  key details:

• Analyze, evaluate, and improve business processes
• Incredible communication and listening skills
• Detail-oriented, innovative, and technically competent

Business analyst resume objective: 

• This candidate uses language from the company site to exhibit relevance despite having limited professional experience. 
• Applicant quickly provides experience and desirable skills that mirror the job description.

Business analyst resume examples >> Business analyst cover letter examples >>

4.  Customer service resume objective

Customer service job description  key details:

• Critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
• Flexible and adaptable 
• Dependable team player

Customer service resume objective: 

• The candidate shows efficiency by quickly laying out experience and applicable skills. 
• This resume objective responds directly to the company’s mission statement in both phrasing and qualification choices.

Customer service resume examples >> Customer service cover letter examples >>

5.  Data analyst resume objective

Data analyst job description  key details:

• Exemplary analytical and data gathering skills
• Ability to translate large data sets into actionable points
• Monitor KPIs and generate reader-friendly reports

Data analyst resume objective: 

• This candidate may not have traditional work experience but leverages freelance work to prove knowledge and impact. 
• It’s a good idea to tie your qualifications to the company’s mission statements, just like this applicant shows how their skill set will benefit the organization.

Data analyst resume examples >> Data analyst cover letter examples >>

6.  Data engineer resume objective

Data engineer job description  key details:

• Mine data via modern tools and programming languages
• Ideas for innovative and creative solutions
• Teamwork and strong collaboration skills

Data engineer resume objective:

• Work culture and environment are casual here, so the candidate matches this tone. 
• The candidate emphasizes teamwork and other skills emphasized in the job description.

Data engineer resume examples >> Data engineer cover letter examples >>

7.  Data scientist resume objective

Data scientist job description  key details:

• Understanding of how to apply scientific methods to data analysis
• Use algorithms KPIs to generate business insights 

Data scientist resume objective:

• The applicant doesn’t have tons of experience, but they dive right into their educational and technical qualifications to make up for it.
• The tone of this resume objective mirrors that of Barilla’s company culture, and it pulls in some unique phrasing from their website.

Data scientist resume examples >> Data scientist cover letter examples >>

8.  Graphic designer resume objective

Graphic designer job description  key details:

• Creativity and technical ability
• Strong understanding of how to captivate customers with visual media
• Ability to think outside of the box and implement new ideas within the creative team

Graphic designer resume objective: 

• While the candidate’s field is creative, Felicity’s tone is professional, so the objective statement reflects this.
• We see qualifications right out the gate, followed by a strong tie-in with company values.

Graphic designer resume examples >> Graphic designer cover letter examples >>

9.  Human resources (HR) resume objective

Human resources (HR) job description  key details:

• Policy adherence, problem-solving, and conflict resolution
• Super communication while educating employees and handling paperwork
• Hiring and intake process 

Human resources resume objective:

• We immediately see language pulled from the company site and key skills from the job description. 
• The candidate then brings in personal traits that make them an ideal fit for the role.

Human resources (HR) resume examples >> Human resources (HR) cover letter examples >>

10.  Nursing resume objective

Nursing job description  key details:

• Checking, recording, and reporting patient vitals 
• Compassionate and caring bedside manner
• Resilience during long shifts and difficult situations

Nurse resume objective:

• This candidate covers all the key points from the job description perfectly.
• The applicant also explicitly mentions the job setting by name.

Nursing resume examples >> Nursing cover letter examples >>

11.  Operations manager resume objective

Operations manager job description  key details:

• Increase profits by improving efficiency 
• Leadership and administration
• Strategizing and problem-solving

Operations manager resume objective:

• The applicant establishes a personal connection with Hilldrup and provides valuable skills.
• This candidate may not have much experience to share, but they demonstrate specific abilities from the job description and reference the company mission statement.

Operations manager resume examples >> Operations manager cover letter examples >>

12.  Product manager resume objective

Product manager job description  key details:

• Ensuring congruence between products and company strategy/goals
• Ability to oversee all functions and aspects of a product’s lifecycle
• Communication, collaboration, and facilitation 

Product manager resume objective:

• All the key “skill categories” are covered! This candidate sounds well-rounded and capable.
• The applicant also references the company vision and specific nuances from the job description.

Product manager resume examples >> Product manager cover letter examples >>

13.  Program manager resume objective

Program manager job description  key details:

• Leadership, delegation, and coordination abilities
• Planning, guiding, and driving projects to enhance the company’s portfolio
• Policy adherence and optimization

Program manager resume objective: 

• This applicant may be an intern, but they nail the ideal attitude of a confident program manager.
• We see plenty of key terms from the job description with a little spark of personality from the company site.

Program manager resume examples >> Program manager cover letter examples >>

14.  Project manager resume objective

Project manager job description  key details:

• Ability to work cross-functionally with multiple departments

Project manager resume objective: 

• Applicant makes up for limited-to-no professional experience by diving into powerful, relevant skills. 
• Key phrasing from goals on the company site also makes an appearance.

Project manager resume examples >> Project manager cover letter examples >>

15.  Recruiter resume objective

Recruiter job description  key details:

• Interpersonal skills and an eye for talent
• Strong decision-making and organizational skills
• Ability to guide new hires through onboarding

Recruiter resume objective: 

• The soft skills are strong here and immediately tie in with other impressive qualifications. 
• The candidate references the company’s name, goals, and mission statement.

Recruiter resume examples >> Recruiter cover letter examples >>

16.  Sales resume objective

Sales job description  key details:

• Team leadership abilities and ability to self-motivate
• Ability to research and analyze market trends
• Familiarity with software as it applies to customer assistance and troubleshooting

Sales associate resume objective:

• We see relevant personality traits, skills, and experience immediately.
• The candidate ties personal abilities and past experience with a brand-new role and the company vision.

Sales resume examples >> Sales cover letter examples >>

17.  Scrum master resume objective

Scrum Master job description  key details:

• Ability to serve as the point of contact for external communication
• Results-driven personality and ability to pinpoint areas for improvement
• Adaptability while teaching and adhering to Agile/Scrum values and empowering team members

Scrum master resume objective: 

• The applicant’s personality shines through as they highlight personal skill growth.
• The tone of this resume objective is ambitious and knowledgeable.

Scrum Master resume examples >> Scrum Master cover letter examples >>

18.  Social media manager resume objective

Social media manager job description  key details:

• Ability to strategize, plan, and execute ad campaigns
• Knack for keeping up with market trends
• Increase target audience reach via analytics and targeting

Social media manager resume objective:

• This candidate gets straight to the point, citing an impressive metric and relating it to the company.
• Worthington’s company vision also makes an appearance. Nice!

Social media manager resume examples >> Social media manager cover letter examples >>

19.  Software engineer resume objective

Software engineer job description  key details:

• Engineering mindset applied to software development
• Analyze, enhance, and test existing software and code
• Creativity while engineering new programming solutions

Software engineer resume objective:

• The candidate mirrors the conversational, storytelling tone of the company site and pulls specific phrases from its vision statements. 
• Technical skills and a go-getter attitude make up for a sparse professional history.

Software engineer resume examples >> Software engineer cover letter examples >>

20.  Teacher resume objective

Teacher job description  key details:

• Fantastic communication and listening skills
• Ability to pleasantly keep control of the room
• Organization and record-keeping abilities 

Teacher resume objective:

• The applicant leads with a robust set of personal qualities that demonstrate the ideal archetype of a caring teacher. 
• The candidate highlights  how  their skills will benefit people at the school where they apply.

Teacher resume examples >> Teacher cover letter examples >>

30 More Job-Specific Resume Objectives

While you look through these next 30 resume objective samples, imagine they’re tailored to a specific job description—and look for ways you can do the same while writing your own.

1.  Account manager resume objective

2.  Barista resume objective

3.  Chef resume objective

4.  Computer science resume objective

5.  Construction worker resume objective

6.  Consulting resume objective

7.  Dentist resume objective

8.  Electrician resume objective

9.  Front desk receptionist resume objective

10.  Full-stack engineer resume objective

11.  Hostess resume objective

12.  Medical assistant resume objective

13.  Network engineer resume objective

14.  Personal trainer resume objective

15.  Pharmacist resume objective

16.  Product owner resume objective

17.  Programmer resume objective

18.  Real estate agent resume objective

19.  Truck driver resume objective

20.  Web developer resume objective

21.  High school student resume objective

22.  Stay at home mom resume objective

23.  Server resume objective

24.  Nanny resume objective

25.  Data entry resume objective

26.  Marketing resume objective

27.  Teacher assistant resume objective

28.  Caregiver resume objective

29.  Social worker resume objective

30.  Dental assistant resume objective

On a resume, your objective is your goal . Where do you want to be in your field, and what qualifying skills, personal traits, or experiences will help you get there? How does the next step in your career journey relate to the job description? How do your professional goals benefit the company you’re connecting with?

A good objective statement tells readers why you want the job and how you can contribute if you’re hired. Your objective should also forge your first link with the company by connecting over mutual values or goals. You also want to keep things concise and avoid repeating yourself later in the resume: Keep everything fresh!

Your resume objective should state that you want the job and then make your reader want to give it to you by supporting your qualifications with a few skills. Connect with the company to demonstrate thoroughness and ambition! If you have an example of how you align with the company or have overcome one of their current obstacles, include it briefly if you have room.

It’s almost always effective to open your objective with a few skills that demonstrate your understanding of the job. (“Given my background in networking and my extensive knowledge of MongoDB, . . .”).

Then, you can segue into how your skills align with the job description of the company you’re applying to. You can also open with your personal connection to the organization’s values.

Your career objective should just be a few concise, skillfully crafted sentences! You don’t want to use too much page space, and you want recruiters to get to your attention-grabbing credentials and experiences quickly. Show your written communication skills by limiting your objective to around 30 to 50 words.

The purpose of an objective is to help entry-level candidates (or others with limited experience or a career switch on the horizon) sum up how their personal professional goals align with the company’s. Your objective should express enthusiasm for the core mission of the job role and demonstrate that you’re a strong candidate with examples.

Resume Objective Takeaways and Your Next Steps

We know it’s easy to get lost amid so many details and tidbits of information: But don’t lose sight of the forest for the trees. Refer to the above objective examples and take inspiration from our  1,000+ resume examples . 

And when it’s time to write your resume objective statement, take a step back and don’t forget about our easy formula: 

X + Y + Z = Eye-catching objective statement! 

X =  Your applicable personal characteristics and traits 

Y =  Years of experience and/or quantified success/results 

Z =  How these results (or other relevant and comparable qualifications) apply to the specific job role 

This formula will be your resume objective statement’s lifesaver! If you don’t have experience yet, try to balance that out with your previous achievements or character traits that align with the company and its vision—these will show you’re a desirable hire even if you haven’t had the chance to prove it just yet. 

Lastly, remember that we have plenty of other helpful tools to ensure the rest of your resume is as stunning as your objective statement! Stop by and check out our  resume builder  and handy  resume tips . You’ve got everything you need to get started—so get ready to let yourself shine!

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How To Write A Resume Objective Statement (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

UPDATED 5/18/2022

Resumes. We all know what they are. We all know how important having a good one is…and how much a bad one can hurt your ability to get your dream job. That’s why reviewing different resume objective examples is essential, ensuring you can create well-crafted, carefully targeted resumes for hiring managers.

So, how do you make sure your resume objective – and entire application – stands out? We’ll tell you. Come with us as we explore some resume objective statement examples, as well as tips on how to ensure yours shines.

What is a Resume Objective?

“My objective? Well, that’s easy. My objective is to get the job.”

Absolutely, we couldn’t agree more. But an objective on your resume is so much more than just writing, “Hey, hire me. I’m super awesome.”

So, what is an objective for a resume?

Well, according to the Marquette University College of Business Administration , “an objective statement is a concise, position-centered statement describing the value you can add and the needs you can fulfill.”

Our friends over at Indeed.com take it a step further, saying: “A well-written resume objective statement can be customized for the job you’re applying for and add value to your resume that sets it apart from other applicants.”

Essentially, a resume objective is a targeted snippet that clearly outlines your career direction while simultaneously positioning you as someone who fits what the employer is looking for exactly.

Sounds pretty ingenious, right? So why don’t more people have them on their resumes?

Resume objectives can be a bit controversial. Some people think they can make you look amateurish…which, if you don’t do it correctly, is absolutely true. But that can be said for any section of your resume.

Other schools of thought think that the objectives should be taken out entirely and replaced with the more popular “ resume summary statement .”

You may be wondering, “What if I use a resume objective and the hiring manager looks at it and laughs? Are they going to throw out my resume…or worse, put it on the wall of shame?”

Now, nobody is going to laugh at your resume objective as long as you use the right approach. Additionally, if your career is moving in certain directions, using a resume objective makes more sense than the alternatives.

When Should You Use a Resume Objective?

Are you relatively new to the job search market or lack work experience?

Are you changing industries?

Are you targeting a specific job or position?

If you answered “YES” to any of these above questions, then the resume objective is potentially perfect. If you answered “NO” to all of the above questions, you might be better off with a “Resume Summary Statement.”

For those of you in the middle of a career change or who might just be starting out, a resume objective statement allows you to define your goal to a potential employer…something that your work history might not otherwise be able to do for you.

Imagine how confused a hiring manager would be if they were looking for candidates to fill an office coordinator position and you sent in a resume with ten years of experience in marketing. Without an objective statement, the hiring manager might just assume your resume has been accidentally sent to them and simply discard it.

With an objective statement, you can not only let the hiring manager know that your resume IS in the right spot but also explain that you’re making the switch and show that your skill set does align with this new career path.

If you’re targeting a specific job or position, a resume objective statement can help reinforce that idea that you know EXACTLY what you’re after. That can work in your favor, too.

Overall, and most importantly, the biggest reason to put an objective on your resume is…it’s better than having nothing. Remember, your goal is to catch the hiring manager’s eye and stand out from the rest of the paper in that pile.

Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes job seekers can make when writing their statement with the number one being using the same objective for every job application.

1) Using the Same Objective For Every Job Application

To obtain a job within my chosen field that will challenge me and allow me to use my education, skills and past experiences in a way that is mutually beneficial to both myself and my employer and allow for future growth and advancement.

Your goal is to be the ideal candidate and that means making sure you’re exactly what the hiring manager is looking for…and unless you’re applying to a cookie cutter factory in a cookie cutter job town where every job every employer is listing is exactly the same then I guarantee you 100% that your statement will NOT be a “one size fits all” statement.

2) Making It All About You

This is a trap that many job seekers fall into, as they can’t resist to use the objective to list off all of the things that they want to get out of the position.

Hi, I’m Joe Jobseeker and I really want a job in a company where I make a ton of money doing as little as possible. Oh, and a corner office. A company car would be nice too. While we’re at it, let’s talk benefits, retirement…and the company vacation policy.

Yes, we’re being over the top with this one, but we need you to look at this and laugh…because even a slightly toned down one where you list only what YOU want is going to come off just as ridiculous to the hiring manager as the one we’ve blown out of proportion.

3) Being Too Vague

Mistake number three is being vague. Like we said, this isn’t a one size fits all so by being ambiguous in the hopes of somewhat fitting what they’re looking for is going to get your resume sent directly to the circular file. (In case you don’t know, the circular file is the trash can. It just sounds fancier but the end result is the same…no job.)

Looking for a long term full time job where I can apply my extensive skills and knowledge to the position for which I am hired.

Blah. Who is this person? All we know by reading this statement is that they have skills and knowledge…but other than that, not much else. What skills do they have? Do they really apply to the job? And what knowledge can they draw from that will benefit the company? See what we mean? It’s so generic you could literally fit anything into those blanks…it’s like Resume Mad Libs!

4) Going On… And On… And On… And On… and zzzzzzzzzzzzz….

Mistake number four is being too long. This isn’t a novel. It’s a quick little blurb to catch their attention so they can bring you in for an interview…then you can get into more detail!

Not going to put one here. Why? Because the example we were going to do was going to be so long and ridiculous that you and everyone else reading this post would just get bored and move onto another article. Just remember, it’s all about short and sweet. Anything over a sentence or two is TOO LONG. Remember that.

5) Adding Absolutely No Value

Mistake number five is probably the worst…and the easiest to fall into (outside of mistake number two, the “all about me” statement.) Mistake number five is writing a statement that basically fills space but doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything about the value you bring to the table. This can also be confused with the too vague statement…

To obtain a position within my chosen field where I can utilize my skills as a hard-working, well-educated employee in exchange for a steady market-fair paycheck.

Congratulations. You’re educated and you’re hard working and you want to make money. So what? So are 90% of the people you’re going up against. Why are YOU the ideal candidate? What makes the hiring manager want to bring YOU in over everyone else? See what we mean?

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY:

How are you going to fulfill the needs of the company?

When writing your resume objective, you should always have the intention of answering this question.

How To Write An Effective Resume Objective

So how do you write a GOOD resume objective?

One thing every one of these bad examples has in common is the fact that not a single one of them is tailored to the position you’re looking for. Any hiring manager who looks at a resume with objectives like those is going to immediately move on to the next candidate.

Because whoever those potential hires are, they’re not ideal candidates. You need to not only catch the hiring manager’s eye; you must make sure that they look at your statement and say, “Here’s the perfect fit!”

So, how do you make it happen? Well, a really good place to start is by looking at the job description. According to Indeed.com , “…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.”

After that, make sure it’s tailored to not only the position but the company as well. By incorporating a few tidbits that speak to the company’s mission and values, you can take that quick statement up a notch.

Nice, right?

Additionally, focus on how you’re a benefit to the company, not how the company can benefit you. Showcase value, ensuring you point out what you bring to the table.

Keep it short and sweet, too. Skip overblown adjectives in favor of action verbs, which will help “raise the energy levels” of your objective and ensure that it is more dynamic and interesting.

If you’re someone who is changing careers, demonstrate how your past experiences relate to your future tasks. The same goes for those who are just starting out or who are relatively inexperienced.

Resume Objective Examples

In some cases, nothing makes the points above clearer quite like a few resume objective examples. Here are a handful of samples, each targeting different situations.

New to Workforce, No High School Diploma

“Diligent, dedicated individual looking to apply communication and collaboration skills in a fast-paced customer service role. A self-motivated team player with an outgoing personality who’s ready to learn the ins and outs of a new industry and provide ample value to a retail employer.”

New to Workforce, No College

“Well-organized high school honor graduate with exceptional problem-solving and collaboration skills seeking opportunities in the office administration field where strong communication, time management, and research skills can provide excellent value to an employer.”

College Student, Aspiring Intern

“Current accounting student with an emphasis on accounts payable and accounts receivable seeking developmental opportunities with a local firm. Diligent, focused, and tech-savvy, looking to provide value to a skilled team.”

Recent College Graduate

“Hard-working business administration graduate with proven leadership and organizational skills. Looking to leverage knowledge or operational processes, emerging commercial trends, and supply machine management to increase efficiency and support broader productivity goals.”

Recent College Graduate with Internship Experience

“Honor graduate with a Bachelor’s in Human Resources and one year of experience at a leading staffing firm looking to leverage a deep understanding of leading ATS solutions, modern interview techniques, and conflict resolution strategies to support the goals of an enterprise-level HR department.”

Career Change

“Ambitious professional looking to leverage 5+ years of customer service experience and exceptional communication skills in the fast-paced field of real estate. Proven ability to build lasting, long-term relationships, understand client needs, and find solutions designed to ensure customer satisfaction.”

Career Change with New Education

“Experienced accounting professional and recent college graduate with a Bachelor’s in IT looking to leverage mathematical and analytical capabilities in a data analyst role with an enterprise-level employer. Impeccable attention to detail and organizational skills, as well as strong desire to learn and grow on the job.”

Targeting Specific Role

“Skilled software developer with 7+ years of experience with Java, Python, and C++ seeking out opportunities in team-oriented environments that prioritize Agile methodologies, Lean strategies, and DevOps principles to accelerate timelines and achieve challenging goals.”

Speaking of specific roles, we thought that it might be prudent to dig deeper into a couple careers that we get the most questions about (in terms of resume objectives). Here are our deep-dive articles into Teacher Resume Objectives , Customer Service Resume Objectives and Nursing Resume Objectives . Enjoy!

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it. We’ve covered what a resume objective statement is, who should use one, and how to properly execute it. Plus, there are some handy resume objective examples that can serve as inspiration.

While some people might claim that the objective statement for a resume is outdated, if done properly, it can make a difference. Use all of the information above to your advantage. That way, you’ll be one step closer to your dream job.

FREE : Resume Objective PDF Cheat Sheet

Ok the next thing you should do is get our handy Resume Objective Cheat Sheet PDF .

In it you'll get word-for-word sample resume objectives covering a variety of scenarios you can use right away .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE RESUME OBJECTIVE CHEAT SHEET

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Resume Objective: A Good First Impression

Exploring the evolving landscape of resume composition , we turn our attention to the resume objective—a concise introduction that once served as a key element in articulating career goals and suitability for a position.

While still relevant in certain cases, the resume objective is gradually being overshadowed by the more contemporary and increasingly preferred resume summary. 

This shift reflects a broader trend towards succinctly showcasing one’s professional achievements and capabilities right from the start.

Here’s what we’ll unwrap in this guide:

• Understanding resume objectives : Get to the heart of what a resume objective is and its purpose.
• When to use them : Discover the scenarios where a resume objective still shines as your best choice.
• When not to use them : Find out when you should definitely avoid resume objectives and what you can do instead.
• Choosing alternatives : Learn when skipping the objective for another strategy might work in your favor.
• Crafting your objective : Guidance on writing an impactful objective if you do choose to write one, bolstered by examples.

Once you have your resume objective statement perfected, you might need help with the rest of your resume. That’s where our free online resume builder can help you out a little more.

But right now, let’s get into the details of what a resume objective is, when it might be beneficial to write one (or not), how to construct yours, and see some real-world examples.

Table of Contents:

When to Use a Career Objective On Your Resume

While some may argue that resume objectives have become less common in favor of career summaries, there are still circumstances where a resume objective can be the right choice for you.

Particularly for entry-level professionals or those undergoing career changes , resume objectives still have utility. Crafting an objective that highlights relevant skills, aspirations, and educational background can provide context when work experience is limited. 

What the Experts Say

Margaret Buj, one of our career experts and a leading interview coach in the UK with international recruitment experience, emphasizes the value of resume objectives in these scenarios. She notes, “ For entry-level professionals or those undergoing career changes , resume objectives still have utility. Crafting an objective that highlights relevant skills, aspirations, and educational background can provide context when work experience is limited.”

Resume objectives can arguably be useful if you are changing careers , are an entry-level candidate, a college graduate, or a student who hasn’t had any work experience yet. 

In crafting your resume objective, it’s crucial to tailor it to the specific job and company you’re applying to, demonstrating how your objectives can contribute to their success. 

Remember, the goal is to grab the hiring manager’s attention and make a strong case for why you’re the best candidate, even before they delve into the details of your experience and achievements.

On the other hand, Dr. Kyle Elliott, our expert resume reviewer and Silicon Valley-focused Tech Career and Interview Coach, states that there is only one scenario for which he might recommend a candidate include an objective statement on a resume. 

“The one instance in which you still might want to include an objective statement is if the company is accepting general interest resumes and the position you’re targeting is unclear”, he says. “However, even in this instance, you might instead consider listing your target role at the top of the document and then following it with a brief career summary that encapsulates your professional experiences, skills, and unique value proposition.”

When Not to Use a Resume Objective

In the evolving landscape of resume writing, the traditional resume objective has seen a decline in favor , particularly among certain groups of job seekers. 

Let’s take a closer look at why a resume objective might not be the best choice for your resume.

The Shift Towards Resume Summaries

Recruitment is changing. Buj notes that “Resume objectives, once a standard component, have evolved in contemporary resume writing. While they traditionally stated a candidate’s career goals, resume summaries have gained prominence ”.

This shift is due to the summary’s ability to immediately demonstrate a candidate’s value through a succinct capture of qualifications, experiences, and achievements. 

For professionals with a wealth of quantifiable achievements and specific skills, a resume summary aligns better with contemporary resume trends, offering a dynamic and impactful introduction.

The Case Against Objectives for Entry-Level Candidates

A common misconception is that resume objectives are the only suitable option for entry-level candidates or recent graduates with minimal experience. 

However, as Elliott argues “In today’s day and age, a resume objective really isn’t necessary. Remember that it’s clear that your objective is to secure an interview for the job ; otherwise, you wouldn’t have submitted your resume”.

“Even if you’re a recent graduate targeting an entry-level role ,” Elliott suggests that “you likely have relevant experience, education, and skills you can include in your summary. Importantly, you can include unpaid experience, as long as you take time to explain how it’s relevant to a prospective employer.”

Combining Elements of a Resume Objective With a Summary

Buj acknowledges that for entry-level professionals or those undergoing career changes , resume objectives can still offer value by providing context when work experience is limited. 

“The key is to consider the specific requirements of the job and industry when deciding whether to include a traditional objective, leaning towards the more dynamic and impactful resume summary in the contemporary job market”.

She provides an example of a more modern approach that combines a summary with an objective statement at the end:

Traditional objective

Seeking a challenging position where I can utilize my skills and grow professionally.

Modern combination approach

Results-oriented marketing professional with a track record of driving a 20% increase in customer engagement through targeted digital campaigns. Possesses strong analytical skills and a keen eye for data-driven insights. Seeking to leverage expertise in a dynamic marketing role at [Company Name].

Modern Resume Objective Examples and How to Write Them

Armed with insights on the advantages and pitfalls of resume objectives , you’re now at a crossroads: to write or not to write one. Should you choose the path of crafting a more modern style of resume objective, this segment is here to guide you through it. 

Below we provide you with illustrative examples to mold your very own persuasive resume objective. Tailored for everyone from freshers to those eyeing a career pivot, these samples shine a light on how to outline your strengths and goals to show your future worth.

Career Objective Examples for Various Situations

Would a resume objective statement look the same for a high school senior as for one changing careers after being in the workforce for several years? 

Not likely.

• The individual changing careers has a professional background to draw from, so their resume objective might feature relevant skills built in a previous job, a professional achievement, or relevant past responsibilities, much like a summary.
• A high school senior’s resume objective might focus more on career goals combined with strong traits , academic achievements , and professional expectations.

Let’s move on to looking at some good resume objective examples that take a more modern approach for different situations.

Career Change Resume Objective Examples

First, let’s see an Accounts Payable Clerk who wishes to transition into a management role. See how they use a metric to quantify one of their achievements .

Example Copy to clipboard Copied! Objective Organized, successful accounts payable clerk seeking an opportunity in senior management in a corporate finance or accounting department. Handled 20+ accounts for high-end clients. Proven problem-solving, project management, and communication skills

This next candidate is an experienced wait staff who wishes to climb the ladder in their career .

Dedicated member of wait staff for five-star restaurants seeking to leverage the experience and a four-year degree in culinary arts to obtain a management position. Proven ability to deliver strong customer service and interact with a diverse public. Managed wait staff schedule, resulting in decreased short-staff situations over a six-month period.

Finally, this candidate is moving into a similar role, but they have remembered to emphasize their analytical skills in market research, understanding trends, and knowledge of consumer behaviors.

Proficient sales professional interested in utilizing successful collaboration and communication skills to design marketing strategies for a growing company. Accomplished background in market research, pricing, and negotiations. Strong understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and promotional practices.

Entry-Level Resume Objective Examples

Now, let’s look at what a recent graduate from college might include in their resume’s objective statement. Remember you can include relevant coursework !

Highly motivated, hardworking college graduate with a desire to start a career in the hospitality industry. Completed four-year degree studies in Hospitality Management, taking relevant courses in hospitality service management, revenue management, marketing, and food production. Background in bussing and waiting for family restaurants.

You can always include things like awards or honors you have achieved at college. In the case of this candidate, they made the Dean’s list a notable number of times .

Recent college graduate with degree in marketing interested in leveraging competence in copywriting and promotional campaign development. Exceptional skills in grammar and creative writing. Strong organizational, presentation, and critical thinking skills. Three times awarded Dean’s List in final year of study.

Remember that volunteering counts as relevant experience too ! Just because you weren’t paid, it doesn’t mean the experience is worth any less.

Recent MBA graduate with an aptitude for planning business strategies and developing professional development programs. Well-developed marketing and business communication knowledge. Served as volunteer manager for local Humane Society chapter, overseeing training and staff scheduling.

Beginner Resume Objective Example

This candidate clearly has a passion for IT, and includes their freelance experience to back up their abilities.

Motivated individual seeking opportunity to showcase strong computer skills in an IT environment. Broad knowledge of computer programming, data management, and software development. Bringing exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills, with a background in self study projects.

Outlining organizational skills and creativity is always a good idea when applying to work with children. They also include a relevant certification which is super important in this area of work.

Forward-thinking self-starter eager to obtain a position coordinating programs and activities for young learners. Infant and Toddler Specialization certificate qualified. Passion for working with children. Strong organizational, leadership, and creative skills, with a background in daycare settings.

This candidate also includes their relevant certification, as well as an impressive number of hours in a relevant skill.

Passionate, caring individual hopeful to secure an entry-level position as a health care assistant at FirstCare Medical Center. Knowledgeable in basic first aid, logged 1500+ hours with Honeywell First Aid Squad. CPR certified.

High School Senior Objective Examples

This might only be a part time role, but this student successfully outlines the relevant skills they have to be a Retail Assistant. Example Copy to clipboard Copied! Objective Ambitious, eager high school senior with a desire to work within the women’s clothing retail industry. Hoping to build upon customer service and decision-making skills. Dedicated and motivated to start in and grow within the industry to learn about current fashions and trends.

This student immediately mentions their honors on their resume objective statement, starting off on a strong footing.

Honors high school senior interested in a position highlighting my computer and artistic skills. Hoping to begin a graphic design career in which I will provide innovative websites for companies seeking to attract new customers and increase brand recognition and sales.

Mentioning a position such as being senior class president, or later in life including your fraternity or sorority , can demonstrate your communication skills, leadership abilities, and ability to work with others.

Current high school senior seeking a responsible position in the food service industry. Outgoing and eager to learn, with demonstrable verbal and customer service skills. Detail-oriented individual serving as senior class president.

Returning to the Workforce Objective Example

Do you have a gap in your resume ? These examples can help you with your own objective when returning to the workplace. Although, with a certain amount of work experience under your belt, it would be wiser to write a resume summary.

Former Lead Teacher seeking the same role at Forsyth Public Schools after three-year hiatus to raise children. Recently renewed teacher certification. Bringing exceptional creative and classroom management skills along with the ability to create strong lesson plans and engaging activities.

This candidate succinctly outlines their management skills in their return-to-work objective.

Returning Business Planning Manager interested in filling role at Sky Motor Corporation. Five-plus years as a freelance business consultant, with the proven ability to expand business opportunities through extensive marketing planning and employee development programs. Knowledgeable in forecasting, budgeting, project management, and market research.

Finally, this candidate clearly outlines the computer languages they are agile in using in the workplace.

Talented, ambitious web designer seeking to create interactive, innovative web pages for high-end clients at Mid-Term Solutions. Completed three successful webpage designs on a freelance basis while on extended maternity leave. Fully knowledgeable in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and backend processes.

Resume Objective: Conclusions

The resume objective can still be a useful tool for those starting their careers or changing paths, but in the modern job market, we need to include a bit more information on our current qualifications rather than focusing solely on our future aims. 

This guide has shed light on what an objective is, the arguments for and against using one, and insights and examples to help you craft an effective, more modern statement that highlights your ambition and suitability for the role.

Here are the points you will need to keep in mind going forward:

• A resume objective is one type of professional introduction that you can use on your resume that is based on your future aims over your past experiences.
• Writing an objective should only be considered by those with limited work experience or who have recently graduated.
• When writing a resume objective, make sure that it reflects your goals, the job’s requirements, and what you can offer the company.
• Remember, it might be better to opt for a resume summary instead . In general, career experts recommend a summary over an objective in today’s job market.

In some cases, a well-crafted, more modern resume objective that includes your qualifications as well as your future aims can grab a hiring manager’s attention, encouraging them to read on.

It’s your chance to make a strong first impression , and show how your skills, goals, and what you can offer align with the company’s needs.

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Graduate School Application Tips & Advice

Applying to graduate school can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. You’re making a decision that could advance your career or allow you to dive deeper into a subject area that fulfills your personal goals, but you’re also making a significant investment of your time and finances.

With proper research, a clear head, and confidence, however, you can find the perfect program and submit an application that the admissions committee will be hard-pressed to reject.

Are you thinking about applying to graduate school? Here’s what every prospective student needs to know.

Tips for Applying to Graduate School

1. find a program that aligns with your goals ..

Finding the right graduate program can sometimes feel like the hardest part of the process. It’s important to find the right program for you, and with different degrees and certificates popping up at universities across the country, there are likely dozens of options available to you.

Write down the most important features of your ideal program before you begin your research. For example, do you want a full-time, on-campus experience or a flexible, online environment? Do you want research-based coursework or a program with experiential opportunities integrated into the curriculum? Once you have your list of non-negotiable features, you can kick off your research.

Learn More: How to Organize Your Grad School Search

After you’ve explored a range of programs, consider your career goals and how each program can help you achieve them. If you’d like to hone your skills to work in a specific focus area of a broader field, for instance, a program that offers a concentration or certificate aligned with those skills can be beneficial. On the other hand, if you’d like to have flexibility in your chosen career, pursuing a broader degree program that can be applied across various functions may be better suited to your needs.

Investing in this research upfront will help you find a graduate program that is right for your specific goals and allow you to feel more confident in your choice when it comes time to complete and submit your application.

2. Ask questions . 

The old-school idea that the admissions office is a scary room filled with judgment is a falsehood. Today, graduate school admissions counselors are here to help guide you through the application process process. They want to be there to support your educational journey. If you have any questions, ask . Don’t worry that your interactions with the admissions team could impact your application. If anything, your interactions will only help improve your application before review and help demonstrate your sincere interest in the program.

Many colleges and universities offer online resources where prospective students can find information about the application process and requirements. Getting in touch with an admissions counselor, though, may be the most efficient way to find answers to specific questions you might have. Engaging with them will also give you a chance to get to know the school better and decide if what they offer is really the right fit for your needs. 

Consider This: Admissions counselors are well-versed in the logistics of application requirements, individual programs, and financial aid and scholarships . If you have specific questions, be sure to reach out to them for the clarity and insight you need at any step of the process.

Prospective students should not be afraid of contacting faculty, either. If there’s a particular class you’re interested in taking or a lab you hope to work in, contact the faculty member in charge. Ask about that faculty member’s research and pose any questions about the degree program that you might have. You may have a better chance of standing out during the admissions process if you express interest early.

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3. Understand the timeline.

Although the application process varies by college or university, the vast majority will require you to submit your transcript, letters of recommendation, professional resumé , and statement of purpose. Your transcript alone could take weeks to be delivered and processed, so don’t wait until the last minute to start applying.

In an effort to avoid procrastination, consider developing a calendar of deadlines. Map out when you need to apply to each of your desired schools and the specific requirements for that program. For example, if you need to submit your undergraduate grades, create a to-do at least a month before the application deadline that reminds you to order your transcript.   

4. Update your resumé.

Before sending your resumé, make sure it’s optimized for your grad school application . In general, your experience should be listed in chronological order, starting with your current position, and described in bullet points using action-packed verbs, such as “achieved,” “improved,” “launched,” “negotiated,” or “trained.” Quantify any achievements and show your results, whether it’s the number of people you’ve managed, dollars you’ve raised, or articles you’ve written.

To help your resumé align with your grad school application, be sure to tailor it to the program you intend to pursue by showcasing your skills, highlighting relevant experience, and including your professional achievements.

5. Write a strong statement of purpose.

While some might think that a statement of purpose —or personal statement —is an afterthought during your application review, many admissions committees, consider it one of the most important components of your application. The statement of purpose can make or break your application for admission.

The key to crafting an impactful statement of purpose is to not get caught up in what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Use this opportunity to tell the committee more about who you are and your background while also explaining specifically what you hope to get out of the program. Be sure to address the unique features the school offers that interest you most.

For Example: If you plan to apply to Northeastern, you might consider highlighting experiential learning as the unique feature that interests you about your program. In this case, you might explain that you’re excited to tackle real-world projects in your desired industry and learn from faculty who are experts in your field of study.

No matter where you apply, a strong statement of purpose should include:

• Insight into what drives you, whether that’s professional advancement, personal growth, or both
• The features about the school that appeal to you most
• Your expectations of the degree program and its potential impact
• Authenticity and a clear picture of what makes you unique

6 . Choose appropriate references .

Letters of recommendation are another piece of the application process that helps elevate your application for admission. When it comes to asking for letters of recommendation , carefully consider whom you’re contacting. You want to choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths. 

Reach out to a professor you regularly interacted with who can detail your academic accomplishments and describe why you were a standout student. You can also ask a former supervisor who’s working in a field that aligns with the graduate program you’re pursuing. No matter your choice, make sure it’s someone you know in a professional or academic capacity—not a friend or family member—who will to provide a positive recommendation representative of your character. 

You can typically provide either a professional or academic recommendation in support of your application, but programs have specific requirements around who is writing the recommendation and what the content needs to address. Research what each program requires before you coordinate your references.

When asking for a recommendation, provide your chosen reference with as much information about your request as possible. The more insight you can provide, the better your recommendation letter will be. Include in your first outreach:

• The name of the school you’re applying to
• The degree you’re pursuing
• Why you want to enroll in that specific program
• Your resumé

Make sure you keep your timeline in mind as you embark on these communications, especially if you reach out to a professor. It’s likely your letter isn’t the only one he or she needs to write, so be respectful of their time by giving as much notice as possible. Four weeks is ideal. 

7. Proofread your materials before applying.

You could be a perfect fit for your desired program, but if you submit materials that are riddled with spelling and grammar errors, the admissions team might dismiss your application before ever digging into it. Triple-check your materials and make sure that when you do press send, you’ve included all necessary documentation and hit all deadlines set in place by the university.

It’s easy for an individual to unknowingly overlook their own mistakes, so it can also be helpful to ask a friend to review your materials before you submit them, as well. Reading your materials out loud to yourself can also help you spot potential mistakes.

Though this may seem like a lot of effort, remember: Your application is the first impression you will make on the university, and it’s important to put your best foot forward.

8. Be true to yourself .

Of all the tips for applying to graduate school, the most important is being true to yourself. Being perfect is not the recipe for admission; admissions committees want to know the real you and understand your ambitions. Whether you’re a working professional hoping graduate school can bring you to the next level of your career or a recent graduate looking to further master your chosen skill, just be yourself, and you’ll start off in the right direction.

Applying to Northeastern’s Graduate Programs

If you are interested in applying to one of Northeastern University’s 200+ online, on-ground, or hybrid graduate degree and certificate programs , there are various resources available to help you along the way. 

First, it is important to understand the application process and requirements. Specific application requirements vary by college and degree, so be sure to explore the admissions information for your desired program before getting started. In general, however, the application requirements for Northeastern’s graduate programs include:

• A completed online application 
• Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools you’ve previously attended
• A statement of purpose that details your goals and interest in the program
• One to three letters of recommendation (varies by program)
• Your updated professional resumé or curriculum vitae 
• Your official GRE, GMAT, or LSAT test scores (if required)
• A non-refundable application fee 

Additionally, international students who are non-native English speakers must submit proof of English proficiency in the form of TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo test scores, though the minimum scores vary by program. Students who do not meet the minimum requirement for these scores may also apply to the university’s Global Pathways program .

As always, students who intend to apply to a graduate program at Northeastern should also research the application deadlines for their program of interest. Be sure to set a timeline for yourself and avoid procrastination to ensure that you’re able to submit all of the required materials on time.

The faculty and admissions team at Northeastern are always available to help prospective students throughout this journey, and prospective students are always encouraged to reach out to ask questions and get personalized advice . Whether you need information about selecting the right program, the application process, program-specific requirements, financial aid, or anything in between, the admissions team is here to help.

The First Step Toward Grad School Success

Once you’ve made the decision to further your education and pursue a graduate degree or certificate, submitting your application is the first step toward being a successful graduate student. 

No matter where you choose to apply and ultimately attend, there are countless resources available to help you throughout the process. 

To learn more about the specific schools and programs you are interested in, it’s always best to start by reaching out to admissions teams and faculty to get to know what makes them unique and ask any questions you might have. Building these relationships early on will help you find a program that fits your personal and professional goals, and can ultimately help you through the process of getting accepted to a program that’s right for you.

Are you interested in applying to graduate school? Explore Northeastern’s degree and certificate programs , and contact us for personalized advice.

This article was originally published in August 2017. It has since been updated for accuracy and relevance.

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