So, how do you know who is right?

The simple answer is... no one is absolutely right. Your decision on whether to use resume objectives will depend on your circumstances, job search goals, and—in some cases—the person who reviews your resume.

We can make recommendations, but you’ll have to make your own choice, based on your individual situation and preferences. But first, let’s try to get a better understanding of 2 different schools of thought on resume objectives...

THE NEGATIVE VIEWPOINT

Ask anyone who does not believe in using job objectives on resumes why, and they’ll tell you it’s because resume objectives are so often self-serving. In other words, they say what you want, but they usually fail to say how this is relevant to employer. You see, company that hires you is more interested in potential benefits you’ll bring to organization, not how they can help you achieve your goals.

Another problem is that a narrowly stated resume objective can be limiting. The company may not even consider you for a position you’d love if you have clearly stated in your objective that you’re only interested in one type of job.

Finally, most resume objectives are so vague as to be meaningless. Why waste valuable resume real estate with something that will not help (and may harm) your quest towards obtaining coveted interview?

ON THE OTHER HAND...

==> You just graduated from high school--or even better, college--and you’re ready to strike out on a quest for your first "real" job.

==> Your worst fears finally manifested and you’ve been downsized.

==> You’re bored with career path you’ve been on for past few years, and you’re ready to strike out in a new direction.

==> You want to change jobs (within your field) for better salary, benefits, or chance at promotion.

Whatever your motivation, a powerful resume is essential. In truth, a resume alone won’t get you that dream job you’re craving. Not even if you implement every resume writing tip you can get your hands on!

But a great resume will get you in door for an interview. It will make you stand out as a superior candidate for job you’ve applied for. And that achievement is huge, given fierce competitive nature of today’s job market. Not only that, but a well-crafted resume will put decision-maker you meet with in a hiring frame of mind. As long as you don’t blow interview, you’ll have a great shot at that job!

Digest and apply each resume writing tip below as you craft a powerful resume that will make all difference in your adventure to land a job!

POWERFUL RESUME WRITING TIPS: 10 Steps to Success

Resume Writing Tip #1: Gather your background materials. To complete your resume, you’ll need to know your dates of employment at each of your previous jobs and when you went to school. You’ll also need to be able to describe your skills and accomplishments on job, so put some thought into those areas.

Resume Writing Tip #2: Decide on a format. Before you can start writing a resume, you’ll need to decide if functional or chronological format will work best for you. Remember, you want to put yourself and your abilities in best light.

Resume Writing Tip #3: Put together a general outline. A resume outline will help you get organized and will prevent you from overlooking any essential pieces of information that should be included.