Career Objective Statement: Tips and Hints

Having a clear career objective statement together shows a potential employer that you have a focused career search and helps to keep you focused and organized.

I always think it's best to be specific where possible and it shows the hiring manager that you tailored your objective to the job you are applying to.

When you apply for jobs that you shouldn't be applying for - either because you are over or under-qualified - it will most likely be noticeable to the person reading your resume and will be a waste of your time and theirs.

If you are a sales manager and are applying for a job as a sales representative because you are desperate to change jobs, a hiring manager will most likely see this.

Applying for jobs you aren't qualified for may simply ruin your future chances for a job with that company that you are qualified for because the hiring manager will just see that you're just wasting their time and can't follow instructions.

When considering your career objective, use your best judgment depending on the specific situation. When applying for a specific position, it's best to include one that specifically mentions the job title in your resume.

Focus on applying for jobs that match your experience and skills so that you can clearly show the hiring manager why you're the best person for the job.

Here are some parting shots regarding your career objective statement:

1. Use your career objective to focus your resume and your job search.

2. Be specific where possible. If applying for a specific job, include the job title ie. Account Manager, Head Nurse, Market Manager, etc. Otherwise, mention the profession you are seeking ie. account management, nursing, marketing, etc.

3. Do not discuss what you are looking for from the company. Discuss what you can do for the company, not the other way around.

4. Keep it short and to the point, ideally one sentence long.

5. Ensure that your career objective matches the job you are applying for whenever possible. Adjust it depending on the different jobs you are applying for.

6. Make your career objective stand out for the right reasons. Make it truthful and accurate but make it interesting!