A resume objective can be the make-or-break factor in your job application. It’s your chance to show why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. But how do you write an objective that truly stands out?
Luckily, you’re in the right place. We demystify resume objectives, whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career. Dive in to master the art of making a compelling first impression.
Our guide will show you:
Let’s get started by explaining what we mean when we talk about resume objectives.
What is a resume objective (and who needs one)?
A resume objective statement, sometimes called a career objective, is a two- to three-sentence introductory statement placed near the top of a resume that tells recruiters who you are and why you want to work for them.
People often confuse resume objective statements with a professional summary because they share common goals — namely, introducing a job applicant — but they’re not the same.
While a resume objective communicates an applicant’s goals and explains why they want the job, a summary statement focuses on their work experience, accomplishments and what they bring to the employer or position.
So, when is an objective statement the right choice for your resume?
When should you use a resume objective?
Resume objectives are best suited for particular circumstances. Let’s run through some of the most common reasons a job seeker would use an objective statement.
Career objective statements are best if you are:
- Seeking your first job.
- Returning to the workforce after a long absence.
- Changing careers.
- Applying for a different role within the same company.
If you are one of the job seekers who needs one, good resume objectives look like this:
Read on to learn everything you need to know to determine when and how to use an objective statement, with plenty of resume objectives examples to get you started.
How to write a resume objective statement
Learning how to write a resume is a skill that can set you apart from the competition. Here, we will take a close look at a well-written career objective example. The example objective statement for a resume below is written by an experienced job seeker who is hoping to transition to a different role with their current employer.
Resume objective text example:
(1) Astute and performance-driven senior project manager with 10 years of experience at ABC Sales Corp who (2) wants to transition to an account manager role in the same division. I am ready to apply my (3) attention to detail, time management, organizational and relationship-building skills to (4) establish trusted business relationships with customers and prospects to surpass the company’s sales goals.
Now let’s break it down piece by piece so that you can apply these lessons to your resume. When you’re ready, copy and paste the text example above and make it your own. Here’s how:
- Begin with your current career status. Use your resume objective to mention your current position, your level of experience as shown in your work history section, and whether you’re employed, volunteering or nearing graduation.
- Mention the company and the job you’re interested in. At this point, you should lay out your career objective — what transition are you hoping to make?
- Highlight your most relevant skills. A solid objective statement for a resume shows the potential employer the skills that make you an excellent fit for the role. Read through the job ad to figure out which skills to add to your resume, and use the exact wording used in the ad to put in your statement.
- Address a primary pain point. Explain how your skills and career objective align with the employer’s goals — and give this some oomph! This is where you drive home what makes you a top candidate.
Resume objective examples to use in your job search
Write your resume objective statement with a purpose. Whether you’re finishing school or coming out of retirement, your unique job search situation will dictate your approach.
The following are common reasons some job seekers might use a statement, with resume objective statement examples for each one.
College or high school student career objective sample
If you want to finish high school or college with a job lined up, you must submit applications months before graduating. A career objective statement will help the employer understand how the skills you’ve developed in school will serve you well in the workplace.
Resume objective example:
Motivated high school senior graduating this spring with a track record of academic excellence looking for work in the retail industry. Intends to develop customer service and marketing skills while providing knowledge of the latest trends. Driven by a strong work ethic and a keen interest in the retail sector. Brings superb communications skills honed in a yearlong professional communications track.
The above resume objective works because it:
- Tells the employer the applicant will be graduating.
- Shares information about the applicant’s academic track (in this case, communications).
- Explains how their educational path lines up with the job they are seeking.
- Highlights the skills they would like to grow in the workplace, providing evidence that they are investing in their career.
Pro tipCustomize your career objective for the job. Broad, general resume statements are a dime a dozen. You must customize your skills and goals to catch the recruiter’s attention.
Sample recent grad resume objective
New graduates need to advocate for themselves without necessarily having the work experience employers prefer. Use a career objective statement to showcase how your specific achievements and skills will help an employer meet its goals.
Career objective example:
A recent graduate of the University of Kentucky skilled in social media marketing, analytics and copywriting, seeking the role of social media marketing associate with Social Marketing, LLC. Aims to increase social media engagement, enhance brand awareness and diversify market reach for your firm By applying well-developed social media and marketing knowledge, and skills as a marketing student and a volunteer working on Lexington’s Habitat for Humanity social media accounts.
The above resume objective works because it:
- Mentions the name of the company and the job title.
- Explains how the applicant gained helpful knowledge and skills.
- Shows understanding of the company and its product.
- Details the applicant’s goals for the position.
- Outlines the applicant’s intention to help the company succeed.
Pro tip for job seekers with no experienceVolunteer work, part-time gigs and internships count as work experience, so you should mention them in your resume’s objective statement.
Resume objective example for internships
Whether you’re changing career paths or fresh out of school, internships are a great way to experience a new field. Telling a prospective employer why you’re pursuing an internship, what you’d like to get out of it, and how your skills make you a natural fit will go a long way in landing the gig.
Resume objective example:
Enterprising public health graduate student at San Diego State University seeking an internship with Manix. Offering proficiency in research, scheduling and records management, with a solid background in retrieving, analyzing and presenting data in meaningful formats. Eager to collaborate on results-driven public health research projects.
The above resume objective works because it:
- Immediately states the applicant’s relevant resume education.
- Mentions a variety of skills (“research,” “scheduling,” “records management”) found in the job ad.
- Emphasizes how the applicant meaningfully applied their data presentation skills
- Displays a willingness to learn and collaborate — essential traits for a successful intern.
Resume objective example for career change
An objective statement can help you stand out even if your skills are not a one-to-one match to the job at hand. Use your message to explain why you want to change careers and to point out how your transferable skills will make you a valuable asset.
Resume objective example:
Motivated corporate benefits administrator with three years of experience in the financial services industry, making a career change into banking. Will transfer financial acumen and demonstrated success in budget analysis and compliance to the bank teller position at National Credit Union. Natural attention to detail and superior customer service skills will benefit your organization’s customer retention goals.
The above career objective works because it:
- Includes applicant’s history in corporate benefits administration.
- Emphasizes related and transferable skills and how they apply to the new position
- Uses words such as “certain” and “superior” that convey confidence.
- Mentions the organization’s goals and how they align with the applicant’s.
- Specifies how the applicant will add value.
- Contains power words like “demonstrated success,” which invite the reader to learn more.
Pro tipTailor your objective statement to focus on the employer. In communicating your career goals, make it clear to the employer that your aspirations align with their needs.
Returning to the workforce career objective example
You must be honest when explaining employment gaps to potential employers. Orville Pierson, the author of “The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search,” says that explaining yourself and giving context upfront can remove doubt from a hiring manager’s mind to see you as trustworthy. Bearing that in mind, it’s a good idea to mention the gap upfront in your objective statement.
Resume objective sample:
Accomplished and tenacious sales representative with 10 years of experience in the automotive industry, returning to the workplace after a yearlong maternity leave. Aiming to apply in-depth knowledge of luxury automobiles, broad experience with diverse markets and solid prospecting skills to the role of sales consultant for Tesla of Northridge. Impressive track record of closures and knack for developing rapport with customers.
The above resume objective works because it:
- Explains how long the applicant has been out of the workforce and why.
- Uses the name of the company and the job title.
- Mentions the job applicant’s number of years of related experience (optional).
- Contains a balanced mix of hard and soft skills.
- Uses power words such as “Impressive,” “in-depth” and “tenacious.”
Switching jobs at the same company objective sample
Let’s say you’ve enjoyed being a customer support supervisor for five years, but your company’s new sales assistant role looks appealing. With hundreds of job seekers outside of the company competing for the same job, you’ll have to update your resume and send it through the system like everyone else. Let the hiring manager know you’re a top contender right away with a compelling career objective that tells them exactly why you want the job and what you bring to the table.
Resume objective sample:
Dedicated and self-driven residential carpenter with 12 years of experience and commitment to quality seeking to continue service with Smith Property Group, Inc. in a new role as a residential project manager. Advanced from apprentice to journeyman carpenter and finally lead carpenter during my tenure. Will harness in-depth knowledge of the company’s policies, procedures and client base to help our company continue to succeed.
The above objective statement example works because it:
- Highlights the job applicant’s long tenure with the company.
- Shows a resounding rise in rank while at the same company.
- Points to the applicant’s knowledge of the employer’s procedures, policies and clients.
- Mentions the applicant’s goal of using their qualifications to help the company succeed.
Relocation resume objective example
Employers tend to prefer local job applicants over those from out of town because it’s more convenient and costs less for them to do so. That’s some heavy competition for a job seeker looking for work while taking time for significant travel or moving to a different city, state or country.
That’s why it’s critical to be upfront about your intentions at the top of your resume. A good objective for a resume outlines your goals and what you offer which can lead to employers giving your application more consideration.
Resume objective sample:
Avid traveler and blogger with three years of experience writing for travel and airline magazines, looking for freelance work with an international online publication. Willing to travel anywhere in search of a good story. Creative storyteller highly skilled in SEO, research, interviewing, fact-checking and copy editing. Punctual, curious and outgoing. Fluent in French and Mandarin.
The above resume objective works because it:
- Points to the job applicant’s experience writing for blogs and magazines.
- Mentions that they are open to traveling anywhere.
- Highlights their hard and soft skills.
- Emphasizes language fluency.
- Specifies that they are looking for freelance work online.
Resume objective examples for specific jobs and industries
You can write a career objective for any job or industry. Here are a handful of examples to get you started.
Accounting resume objective example
Dynamic and highly qualified sales professional looking to transition into an entry-level position as an accountant. With extensive knowledge of accounting principles, record-keeping and compliance tracking, I believe I am well-positioned to help your organization meet its goals.
See a complete accounting resume example
Advertising career objective example
Recent graduate with three years of experience managing the advertising department for a college publication, interested in advancing a career in advertising. Passion for budget analysis and skills in resource management have prepared me to support businesses’ bottom line.
Administrative resume objective example
Detail-oriented college sophomore seeking an entry-level role as a data entry clerk at Memory Ventures. Knowledgeable in Excel and Google Sheets. Adept at organizing and cleaning data.
Architecture career objective example
Accomplished architect with 15+ years’ experience designing residential projects, returning to the workforce after an extended break to care for elderly parents. Aiming to leverage in-depth policy and procedure knowledge and strong customer service skills into a managerial role at Hebron Architecture Services.
Art resume objective example
A recent graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design seeking a role as a curatorial assistant at the Folk Art Museum. Looking to build on three years of experience overseeing a university gallery space. Adept at communication, problem-solving and interpersonal collaboration. Up to date on contemporary art and culture.
See a complete art resume example
Banking resume objective example
Customer service professional interested in applying excellent communication and interpersonal skills to a bank teller role at Chase. Experienced in data entry and handling money. Can quickly memorize product details and increase customer satisfaction.
See a complete banking resume example
Bartender resume objective example
Motivated and personable individual with a passion for the hospitality industry, looking to leverage strong interpersonal skills and a keen interest in mixology into a first-time bartending role. Eager to provide excellent customer service, learn quickly and contribute positively to a lively bar environment.
Biotech career objective example
Experienced laboratory assistant relocating to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, seeking a position at Biochem Industries. In-depth knowledge of equipment maintenance, routine laboratory procedures and hazardous material disposal. Aiming for a supervisory role in the long term.
See a complete biotech resume example
Communications resume objective example
Veteran beat reporter seeking to transition to a role as a communications manager. Developed in-depth subject-matter expertise in sports and entertainment. Aiming to apply knowledge, communication skills and an extensive network of sources to support the mission of Red Bull North America.
See a complete communications resume example
Computer software career objective example
College senior interested in beginning a computer programming career at an innovative startup. Driven by a passion for problem-solving and eager to apply theoretical knowledge and collaborative skills in a real-world setting. Knowledgeable in Linux, C++, JavaScript, MySQL, Oracle, API design and SharePoint. Proven ability to deliver projects on deadline.
Construction resume objective example
Construction project manager moving to the pacific northwest seeking a supervisory role at a local company. Experienced in training, coaching and mentoring, as well as overseeing master project schedules. Ability to triangulate the needs of architects, subcontractors and vendors would make me a valuable asset to any team.
See a complete construction resume example
Copywriting resume objective example
Creative and collaborative content writer with four years of experience on the marketing team at Creative Media. Self-starter who can write in various formats for multiple audiences, juggle several projects simultaneously, and work with stakeholders across departments. I would like to apply the skills I’ve developed in my current role to the new content manager position within the same team.
Culinary career objective example
Recent college graduate with plans to work in a tapas restaurant, traveling through Spain for the next three months, hoping to refine Spanish-cooking skills through a part-time in-house chef position. Proficient in kitchen safety, food preparation and all basic cooking techniques.
Customer service resume objective example
Customer service representative with more than five years of experience in retail, thrilled for the opportunity to use excellent interpersonal skills in a call center supervisor role. Offers deep knowledge of upselling techniques, motivational tactics and maintaining high customer service standards. Experience leading panels and coordinating sales conferences.
See a complete customer service resume example
Data and systems administration career objective example
Recent graduate of Penn State University skilled in data storage, performance testing and bug detection, interested in a data scientist position with Data Dragon, LLC. Delivers accurate database documentation and assists in scheme design, code review and SQL deployments. Helped develop code for university web services.
Dentistry resume objective example
Experienced dental assistant relocating to the Sacramento area, seeking a position at Johnson Dentistry. Has an upbeat, positive attitude with excellent communication skills, computer knowledge and tool maintenance. Committed to providing excellent patient care and fostering a comfortable environment. Interested in furthering education to take on greater responsibilities.
See a complete dentistry resume example
Engineering career objective example
Accomplished civil engineer with 20+ years of experience seeking an engineering position with the city of Austin, returning to the workforce after a five-year break to raise a child. Masterful knowledge of environmental laws and building codes. Proficient in analyzing risk, procuring permits and conducting surveys.
See a complete engineering resume example
Film resume objective example
A recent graduate of Columbia College Chicago seeking a role as a videographer in Ursula Films’ marketing department. Delivered original video content for the college newspaper on a weekly deadline. Shot and recorded on location and remote, skilled in storyboarding.
Health care resume objective example
Highly-organized medical receptionist with four years of experience at Sutter Health, aiming to transition into a medical billing role. Skilled at privacy compliance, filing medical records and maintaining a good attitude. Knowledgeable in our hospital system’s specific practices and procedures.
See a complete health care resume example
Hospitality resume objective sample
Server with more than three years of experience in fine dining, excited for a chance to bring my sales and customer support experience to a hotel concierge role. Offers deep knowledge of local culture, restaurants and nightlife. Experience leading tours as a summer volunteer with the National Park Service.
See a complete hospitality resume example
Human resources resume objective example
Seasoned human resources coordinator with deep knowledge of training, onboarding, performance management and policy implementation. Looking to apply financial acumen with demonstrated success in budget development to a role as a payroll administrator with a large corporation.
See a complete human resources resume example
Information technology career objective example
Longtime IT consultant for InterSystems seeking to fill the company’s recently posted IT manager role. Offering more than five years of experience conducting network and data security checks for InterSystems. Interested in furthering my in-depth knowledge of the company policies, procedures and network structure to help advance your goals.
See a complete information technology resume example
Insurance resume objective example
Detail-oriented insurance professional with expertise in homeowners’ insurance relocating to Evansville, Indiana. Seeking claims adjuster position at Allstate with an opportunity to grow. In-depth knowledge of explaining policy coverage, investigating claims and coordinating vendor services.
See a complete insurance resume example
Legal career objective example
Diligent and accurate paralegal with five years of experience working for the New York State Supreme Court, seeking an opportunity to help grow a small litigation practice. Obtained Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) certificate while on yearlong medical leave recently. Can assist with all aspects of case management, including pretrial preparation, depositions and discovery.
See a complete legal resume example
Medical resume objective example
Experienced radiology technician relocating to Florida in January in search of a job within the Tampa Bay area. Well-versed in routine radiology procedures, operating mobile equipment and patient care. Compassionate, patient and empathic with well-honed customer care skills.
See a complete medical resume example
Nursing career objective sample
Newly certified professional caregiver seeking an entry-level role at the Senior Care Center. Returning to the workforce after two years of tending to my grandmother’s needs. During this time, honed skills in routine activities like bathing, eating, dressing, grooming, physical therapy and medication monitoring.
See a complete nursing resume example
Retail resume objective example
Versatile retail associate relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area seeking a seasonal sales associate role at Crate and Barrel. Recognized for meeting sales goals and using upselling techniques without losing sight of customer comfort and satisfaction. Hope to transition into a full-time position.
Sales resume objective example
Astute and performance-driven senior project manager with 10 years of experience at ABC Sales who wants to transition to an account manager position in the same division. Ready to apply attention to detail, time management, organizational and relationship-building skills to establish trusted business relationships with customers and prospects to surpass the company’s sales goals.
See a complete sales resume example
Security resume objective example
Recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business management, thrilled for the opportunity to take on a loss prevention role at Costco Wholesale. Knowledgeable in security techniques and theft deterrence. A passionate advocate for fostering a safe, positive atmosphere for customers.
Social work career objective example
A compassionate and attentive social worker seeking a position working with at-risk youth in residential facilities as a case manager. Returning to the U.S. after a three-year stint with the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic. Eager to apply new sets of skills to my original career path. Fluent in Spanish.
See a complete social work resume example
Teaching resume objective example
A patient and energetic professional with decades of experience as a tutor looking for a teaching role at Jonestown High School. Passionate about fostering academic growth in students by bringing a unique combination of personal commitment and professional expertise to create enriching learning environments. Able to ideate and implement activities that gain students’ interest and participation. Recognized for creating individualized lessons based on students’ needs. Impeccable listening and behavior modification skills.
See a complete teaching resume example
Tutor resume objective example
Enthusiastic and patient recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature seeking a tutor position. Excellent communication skills and a strong grasp of diverse teaching methodologies. Committed to creating a positive and engaging learning environment to help students achieve their full potential.
Resume objective writing do’s and don’ts
Before we wrap up, here’s a list of critical “do’s and don’ts” to help you draft an effective career objective statement.
- Customize your resume objective statement for each position.
- Align your objective statement with your resume.
- Use the right keywords.
- Emphasize what you can do for the position/company in your career objective.
- A good objective for a resume mentions your most vital traits and quantifiable achievements.
- Be specific.
- Mention what you hope to gain from the position in your resume objective.
- Use a general objective for a resume (e.g., “to get [job title] at [company name]”).
- Include interests (e.g., “extreme skiing enthusiast”) or hobbies (e.g., “member of Gamers International”) that are not relevant to the job.
- Rehash the contents of your resume in your career objective statement.
- Ramble on.
- Be vague.
Resume objectives FAQ
General career objective examples are great starting points when writing a resume objective statement. They can inspire and help you come up with what to write when you can’t seem to find the right words. That said, you should never copy a resume objective sample! Instead, use them for ideas, motivation and guidance.
Best practices for describing a career objective include:
- Be concise and aim for no more than three sentences.
- Write a new objective for each job.
- Focus on the employer’s needs.
- Talk up your most relevant skills.
- Mention if you have experience in the field.
A: Suppose you already have experience in the role and aren’t changing industries or returning to work after a long absence. In that case, you should write a professional summary to outline your qualifications and show why you are the best match for the job.
Never include the following in a resume objective:
- Lies. It pays to be honest!
- Your hobbies or personal interests.
- What you want to gain from the job.
- More than three sentences.
- Grammar and spelling mistakes.
For many job seeker resumes, a professional summary is a better fit than an objective statement. Professional summaries give a high-level overview of work experience, accomplishments, skills and why you would be a good fit for the job.
Don is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 10 years’ experience creating digital content, including four years helping job seekers develop their careers. He holds an M.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University.
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