I often
get questions about what to include in a Profile or Objective section on a résumé. Instead, the questions should most often be
should I use a Profile or Objective section on a résumé. Or more correctly: When should I use a Profile or Objective
section on a résumé.
The
differences are subtle, perhaps. But,
important!
Use an
Objective section on a résumé when you are looking for something specific and
you are certain that you want to limit your opportunity(ies) to a list of
conditions to which you are committed.
Use a
Profile section on a résumé when you want a job and you have skills, abilities,
and qualities to highlight for specific employers and/or positions.
THERE IS
NO RIGHT OR WRONG HERE
In fact, I
would venture to say this is one of the most argued about topics among career
and vocational experts! How then can you
decide which is right for you?
Personally, I think the Profile is safer. To me, the Objective seems more limiting and
one runs the risk of having an employer glance at this section and immediately
decide that the employer goals do not match the applicant’s goals.
A Profile section feels a bit safer to me because it leaves a
little room for the employer to infer that the applicant’s goal may be similar
because they have at least some of the desired qualities.
Management by objective works -
if you know the objectives.
HOW DO YOU
WRITE AN OBJECTIVE OR PROFILE SECTION ON A RÉSUMÉ
You can
write an objective statement by thinking about and presenting information about
what is important to you in a position or from an employer. Start by:
1.
Mapping out your ideal work day
2.
Listing tasks you would like to spend your day performing
3.
Noting where you would like to perform the job
4.
Defining what you want from an employer
5.
Alluding to the benefit to hiring you
After you are able to clearly communicate the above, put them
together into a brief paragraph in a way that will convince an employer to continue
reviewing your résumé.
You can write a Profile statement by thinking about your skills
and abilities and qualities and presenting these in a way that will convince
the employer to continue reviewing your résumé.
Start by:
1.
Reviewing the job requirements
2.
Noting your skills, abilities or qualities that most speak to
the requirements
3.
Researching the employer’s culture
4.
Include qualities you have that make it clear you are a good fit
for the company
5.
Alluding to the benefit to hiring you
After you are able to clearly communicate the above, put them
together into a brief paragraph in a way that will convince an employer to continue
reviewing your résumé.
Write both and think about which “feels” better to you. If in doubt, I still recommend going with a
Profile statement.
What type of section will best sell your unique skills and
abilities?
Other articles that may be of interest:
Oct 08, 2012
There are plenty of job search and résumé writing books out there. If you don't believe me check it out at any local library or book store. If you need a new résumé you can read them all and get conflicting advice and ...
Oct 09, 2012
It is good to review your résumé regularly if you already have one. If you are still working on one, then these tips should also help you! As you look for work you are also learning what employers are looking for from job ...
Oct 12, 2012
#Job Search #Tip Ask for Help http://ow.ly/emtYC It is hard for many of us to ask for help. BUT, none of us can do everything equally... #Job Search #Tip Review your résumé http://buff.ly/Qckn6T It is good to review your résumé ...
Jan 27, 2012
Make Your Resume as Good as Possible. Make Your Resume as Good as Possible - http://pulse.me/s/5ofc7. Posted by Mary ... I am soaking with some best stuff!Exactly what i was looking for my Resume Format. ReplyDelete ...
