by Betsy Thayer

When deciding whether to include an objective in your resume there are a few things to consider.   You can have a well written statement within your resume describing your targeted job or specific duties that you desire or another possibility is to use your cover letter as your objective.  Your cover letter can address the points of your objective while clearly stating the job that you are looking for.

Eliminating the objective from the body of your resume could put you at an advantage.  Having a general job objective forces you to be too broad, narrowing your focus.   Hiring managers could disqualify you from a potential position based on a narrow objective.   The cover letter provides more space to be detailed about what you are looking for.  You can then specifically tailor each cover letter for the specific job you are applying.

Some professions typically do not use an objective.  Highly competitive positions such as mass communication or journalism require a different style thereby eliminating the need for typical formats.  You can research which resume style is appropriate or a resume professional can suggest proper formats.

The additional benefit of outlining specific job objectives in the cover letter is the opportunity to show that you have done your research on the company and you are serious candidate.  (Hint: While researching the company for KEYWORDS and job details, jot down questions for interview).