How To Write A Resume Objective That Will Grab Attention

Applying to get that dream job can be an arduous task. One of the best ways to making sure you get ahead is to write a solid resume objective. A resume objective is a short statement that goes aright at the top of your CV, so it needs to grab the reader’s attention immediately. It outlines what career you’re looking for, as well as the skills you have that will make you ideal for the position. While a resume objective isn’t mandatory, it’s a great piece to add to your CV. It’s important to remember that there are hundreds of people out there applying for the same job(s) that you are, so having resume objective that is snappy and catchy could be your best chance at winning an interview!

Keep it simple

Aim for a clear and concise message to alert the hiring manager that you have the right skills for the job description. A resume objective is typically 1-2 sentences long, so you want to make full use of this little space to ensure you are selling the right attributes to the employer in the most succinct way possible. Since the readers responsible for hiring generally skim through CV’s they will quickly lose interest if a resume objective is too long and wordy. You might be thinking: it’s hard to try and make your case in such a short space, and it is. However, if you narrow down the points that make you suitable for the position then it’s not as hard as you think!

Start with your strongest skills

If you write it well, a resume objective can really make you stand out as an credible applicant for a job post. The employer looks over how your goals will match up with the advertised position so don’t just list of your skills like a never-ending slur. Think to yourself… what value do you bring to the role. You can show this through adding your best skills. Especially if you are a newer, ‘fresh out of college’ applicant. Listing your experience here also works for those who are more familiar with the working world already. Make sure the points that you make directly apply to the position. This will show the applicant reviewer that you are serious about your application and you are enthusiastic to contribute with your proposed skill set.

Tailor it to your position

Taking to the idea of dishing out a generalised CV to all of your job applications – aka the ‘spray and pray’ technique – will not do you any favours. For a resume objective to resonate with a potential employer, they’ll want to get a glimpse of your interest in the position and the company itself. Butter them up! Point out the appropriate skills you have for the position. Throw in specifics about the company or the position that you’re applying to so that the employer knows you’re paying attention to the job post in the first place. Make your resume objective a targeted statement to ensure that the person overlooking it knows exactly what you’re looking for.

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Make you resume objective stand out!

Add something unique to your opening statement. This could be anything from a personal anecdote to a brief about the way you perform. You could mention some unique characteristics you may have gain or used in a previous placement or from certain activities you’ve participated in. Throw in a hint of personality in you writing and you’ll be sure win your prospective employer over.

And don’t forget to ask someone to proof read your resume objective! As short as it is, it may still be the difference between you and another applicant winning an interview!