For years resume objectives enjoyed first page position in a resume, outlining exactly what you wanted to gain from a position.  Most resume objectives are in the words of the American resume writer Susan Britton Whitcomb, “are vague, trite, canned and self-focussed and when written in this manner a waste of space, hogging that high-profile ‘centre of the page’”.

As an Australian resume writer, I agree entirely with Susan’s assessment of the canned objective statement.  Fortunately in Australia, as with the US, we are moving away from these broad, self focussed statements that contribute nothing in terms of selling yourself effectively to any prospective employer.

However objectives can still be useful within a resume, if they are well written statements that focus on the employer’s needs.  Below are some free sample resume objectives, which you can use as a basis of writing your own resume objective statement.  Just remember that when writing an objective statement, keep them brief and too the point and focus, not on your needs, but the needs of the potential employer.

Sample resume objectives

Sample resume objective for CEO / Director

“Seasoned and experienced CEO/Director, with high levels of expertise and knowledge relating to the Bio-Technology Sector, with experience encompassing both the domestic and international market place.  Seeking position within biotechnology sector in order to continue to develop and implement strategies relating to commercialisation and raising venture capital in emerging biotechnology companies”

(Note:  Objective met the employer’s requirements relating to experience regarding commercialisation and raising venture capital, within the biotechnology sector).

Sample resume objective for school leaver

“To obtain a full time position as an apprentice diesel mechanic.  A position that will provide me with the opportunity to learn the skills needed to diagnose, overhaul, repair, tune, maintain and test diesel and petrol/gas-powered vehicles, including trucks, agricultural machinery, earthmoving equipment and stationary engines”.

(Note:  The objective statement demonstrated to the employer that the school leaver wanted to learn a new trade and was enthusiastic and keen to learn.)

Sample resume objective for career change

“Highly successful recruitment consultant, refocusing drive and optimism into obtaining employment in the pharmaceutical sector”.

(Note:  By combining selling (namely stating that they are a highly successful recruitment consultant) followed by an objective for a specific career change, provides a strong opening for this candidate) 

Relevant Articles and Resources

• The Great Australian Resume (E-Book by the author of the article - Carolyn Smith)
• Blank resume form - free for CareerDIY Readers
• Is your resume a lie?
• How to write a keyword rich resume for online job boards
• Does your resume suck?
• Top resume myths
• Transform your resume - a quick lesson from a professional
• How to use action words to enhance your resume
• Key words for resumes
• Resumes for Australia
• The Top 10 Resume mistakes to avoid
• Should you include hobbies / interests in your resume?
• Free resume examples for Australia
• Should you use a professional resume writer?
• Why you should blow up your current resume and start from scratch
• Writing education on resume - A quick lesson in incorporating and writing education within your resume