Objectives are meaningless

Recruiters and hiring managers spend less than 5 seconds reading the top portion of your resume. Don’t waste that space using an outdated “objective”. The same applies for the use of the phrase “references upon request”. References are a given in today’s market. If a future employer requires references, they will ask for it. Employers also know your objective is to get aJ-O-B. Instead of using an objective, focus on adding quantitative metrics throughout your resume that you think will benefit the employer.

If deleting the objective makes you uncomfortable, you can add a professional summary under your contact information. The summary statement is best used for professionals with years of experience but it can also help candidates tie together seemingly unrelated experience with a set of key transferable skills; think entry-level or professionals making a career change. Writing the summary statement is a good exercise to complete; as it can help you prepare for the interview and answer the dreaded “Tell me about yourself” question. Two for one!

An example of an experienced professional summary might be:

15+ years of B2B sales, consistently a top performer exceeding sales goals and targets.

Known for developing business, prospecting and retaining customers, as well as identifying solutions to address client needs.

A recent college graduate entry-level professional summary might be:

Client driven professional known for calmly and quickly resolving client issues by leveraging years of retail experience. Collaborative individual reflective of the four years spent playing collegiate team sports.