Does your resume list an "Objective"?

[trillium13 84]

I'm writing my resume and trying to figure out if I want to include an objective. I'm getting mixed information-some people seem to say you need it, others say it's dated and unnecessary. What do you think? Thanks!

[Inky 1,110]

Dated and not needed.

Looking at examples online says high school students in the USA use objectives on resumes. Not professional adults.

It was one of the first things I removed from my resume on moving to the USA and revamping my resume before the job hunt.

[marie09 5]

I agree with Inky... An objective is a waste of space on a resume and typically adds no value... I work in recruitment and while it won't usually make any difference to your applications, typically we don't expect objectives from professionals.

Good luck with your job search

[VanessaTony 3,567]

Agreed they're dated and unnecessary. I had one when I was FIRST applying for a job back when I was 16 but not now. That's kinda what a cover letter is for anyway.

[Bec_Dipu 103]

I skip the objective when I'm reading resumes. There's only so many times where I can read, "I would like a job that challenges me and helps me grow blah blah blah." I've never come across an objective that adds anything whatsoever to the resume.

The cover letter on the other hand...that, I read. Especially if it's not an internal candidate.

[NY_BX 397]

I'm writing my resume and trying to figure out if I want to include an objective. I'm getting mixed information-some people seem to say you need it, others say it's dated and unnecessary. What do you think? Thanks!

Objectives are dated and a waste of time, mainly because you state your purpose in a cover letter. The cover letter is a highlight of yourself, your intentions and your true, genuine interest in joining the organization. That pretty much covers the 'objective.'

[I AM NOT THAT GUY 5,715]

If you are applying for a specific position, then unnecessary. If you are looking for a starting position in a large firm or agency, then it can't hurt to explain your career goals within that organization.

[^_^ 5,021]

No but I do have a summary section.

[Inky 1,110]

article 10 things to leave off your resume - Objective is on the list along with many other things!

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-2175-Cover-Letters-Resumes-10-Things-to-Leave-Off-Your-R%C3%A9sum%C3%A9/?SiteId=cbmsnjm42175&sc_extcmp=JS_2175_jobmod

[Nessa 23]

used to, not anymore.

[extrarius 1]

Mine used too, by used too I mean I haven't updated it in about 6 years (actually I lost it because I stopped updating it). Frankly I don't think it's all that important to have one, it's one of those things I feel should be left off (like listing previous salaries or salary requirements, which is a great way to not get a job) because the focus should be on our skill sets and prior employment achievements.

Edited February 28, 2012 by extrarius

[Usui Takumi 1,562]

No but I do have a summary section.

Yep - a Summary of Qualifications. One clean paragraph up at the top.

[X Factor 1,112]

Yes a one liner right to the point.