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Should I use an objective on my resume? Don Schmitz/ Human Resource Staffing Recently, I discovered the Consultant Bulletin Board on the SHRM web-site. I was amazed at the number of responses on a wide variety of HR topics. I've included a link to the SHRM site at the end of this article. A topic that particularly caught my attention was a discussion about whether you SHOULD or SHOULDN'T include an objective on your resume. After reading through almost thirty responses to the question, I summarized that it is better to NOT include an objective on your resume. One person went so far as to say, if the resume included an objective, he would throw it out! Recognizing the importance of opening statements on a resume to be vital, I set about doing my own research. We reviewed one-hundred resumes for Generalists Positions to see what our candidates were using. The following is the results of our survey;   4% used both an objective and a summary   8% used neither objective or summary 30% did use an objective 56% used a summary or summary of qualifications After reading some of the objectives, I can see why many recruiters would not be favorably impressed by an objective. Many of the objectives didn't fit the generalist role or were too lofty to have value. Objectives state; "What you are looking for from the employer." Examples include; To expand organizational, communication, leadership and accounting skills in an HR environment To obtain a challenging Generalist position To establish myself within an organization that promotes learning and provides the opportunity for continued growth A summary states; "What you can do for the company". In contrast to objective statements, summary statements were more direct and to the point. Examples included; A skilled Human Resources Generalist with established reputation for quality, customer focus, teamwork and proven performance Dedicated Human Resources Professional with exceptional communication, organization and decision-making skills An experienced HR Professional with above average performance in employee relations, unions, training and negotiations So, do you need to look at your resume again?   To visit the SHRM Consultant Bulletin Board go here Back to the library Reproduction of this article cannot be accomplished without the expressed consent of Human Resource Staffing. Don Schmitz is a popular speaker and writer on all aspects of HR and CEO of Human Resource Staffing. Don holds graduate degrees in Education, Administration and Human Development. Contact Don@HumanResourceStaffingInc.com 952 854 6040