80+ Resume Objectives: Do You Need One? (Answers & Examples)

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April 2, 2024
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19
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3 key takeaways

  • What resume objectives are
  • 80+ resume objective examples
  • How to use the free Teal AI Resume Builder to write the best resume introduction for your needs

You've probably heard conflicting advice on whether a resume objective statement will help or hurt your chances of landing an interview. And the short answer is: it depends.

For some, an objective statement can be indispensable. For others, it's unnecessary and takes up valuable space.

The key? Understanding where your experience falls to decide whether or not you need one. Then, learning how to write a resume objective if your resume could benefit over other introduction options.

Struggling to start your resume? Try Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free today.

What are resume objectives?

Resume objectives are concise statements at the beginning of a resume—just below your contact information and target title. They offer a brief overview of your career goals, aspirations, and what you want to achieve in the role you're applying for.

Resume objective statements are typically for more non-traditional work experience like during a career pivot, when you're just starting out, or after an extended career break.

Traditional resume objectives often include:

  • The desired position or job title
  • Relevant skills or qualifications
  • An overarching career objective or career goals
  • The specific impact or contribution you aim to make
A screenshot of a resume objective
An resume objective sits at the top of your resume.

How to write a good resume objective

Step 1: Assess job requirements and career goals. Do they align?

  • Analyze the job description and identify key skills, important keywords, and qualifications the hiring manager is looking for.
  • Reflect on your career goals and determine how they align with the position.

Pro Tip: Bookmark a job with Teal's free Job Application Tracker. The tool then highlights the top hard skills, soft skills, and other important language for you to incorporate quickly and easily.

Step 2: Craft a clear and concise resume objective statement.

  • Start with a strong and engaging opening sentence that captures the hiring manager, recruiter, or prospective employer's attention.
  • Clearly state your career goals and highlight relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments.

Pro Tip: Check out Teal's Resume Summary Generator to help you write a tailored, position-specific summary in seconds.

Step 3: Make your resume objective relevant and specific.

  • Ensure your objective is directly related to the position you're applying for.
  • Remove any vague or generic statements and focus on specific contributions you can make.

Step 4: Tailor the resume objective to each unique job.

  • Customize your objective based on the specific job requirements and company culture.
  • Showcase your unique qualifications and how they directly benefit the employer.
  • Incorporate keywords and other important language from the job description.

Pro Tip: Check out this detailed guide on how to craft a targeted resume to get your objective right.

Align your objective to any job

The contents of your resume should be 100% relevant to every unique job. With Teal's Resume Job Description Match, you can quickly compare your resume to the job description of any role. Then, get a Match Score with a breakdown of how well your resume aligns with the language, keywords, and skills from the job.

A graphic of Teal's Match Score
Make sure your resume aligns with each unique job.

What should be included in a resume objective?

In each type of resume objective statement, there are some specific elements you should include to convey your intentions and qualifications effectively. 

Traditional resume objective

  1. Type of role or position you're applying for
  2. Relevant skills, experiences, or accomplishments
  3. Your enthusiasm and interest in contributing to the overall success of the company
  4. A snapshot of your career goals

Targeted resume objective

  1. Understanding of the position requirements and how your skills align tailored to every role you apply for
  2. Your knowledge of the company's goals, values, or industry trends
  3. Specific experiences or achievements that make you a standout candidate for the role

Future-oriented resume objective

  1. Your aspirations and long-term career goals (for example, if you want to become a senior project manager or director of marketing )
  2. The skills or areas you aim to develop 
  3. Your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
  4. How your goals align with the organization's vision or industry advancements

Resume objective examples

Now that you know whether or not you need a resume objective and how to write one, check out the examples below for some inspiration.

Resume objective examples for a career change

Traditional resume objective example

Results-oriented restaurant server looking to transition into a BDR sales position in the SaaS industry, utilizing my exceptional interpersonal skills, customer service skills, communication skills, and ability to build relationships to drive revenue and exceed sales targets.

Targeted resume objective example

Skilled graphic designer aiming to transition into product design within the e-commerce industry at Linnworks. With a work portfolio of successful design projects, an understanding of user experience principles, and certifications in Human-Computer Interaction and UX Research, I intend to create visually appealing and user-friendly products that enhance the online shopping experience, drive customer engagement, and optimize conversion rates.

Future-oriented resume objective example

Motivated educator transitioning into a customer success role to become a team leader, utilizing my strong problem-solving skills, empathy, and passion for customer satisfaction to exceed expectations, drive customer loyalty, contribute to the company's growth, and establish myself as a leader in the industry.

Resume objective examples for an entry-level position

Traditional resume objective examples

Motivated and detail-oriented individual seeking an entry-level content writer position. With a strong command of language and exceptional writing skills, I'm eager to contribute to the company's success by delivering engaging and high-quality content. My goal is to develop my writing abilities further and establish a career in content creation and storytelling.

Targeted resume objective examples

Goal-oriented and adaptable individual targeting an entry-level executive administrative assistant role at American Machine Works, Inc. With a solid understanding of office management procedures and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service, I'm dedicated to optimizing administrative processes and supporting the company's success through effective communication and organizational skills.

Future-oriented resume objective examples

Driven to excel in digital marketing and grow as a social media strategist, I am seeking an entry-level social media manager position. With a career objective to refine my skills in content creation, campaign management, and data analysis to create impactful and data-driven social media strategies, I aim to contribute to the company's growth and foster meaningful connections with the target audience.

Resume objective examples for students and recent graduates

Traditional resume objective example

Results-driven recent college graduate with a degree in Computer Science seeking a cloud engineer role to apply my strong programming skills, knowledge of cloud technologies, and problem-solving abilities. Committed to delivering efficient and scalable solutions to enhance cloud infrastructure and contribute to the company's success.

Targeted resume objective

Motivated high school student seeking an engineering internship position at Millies Engineering Group to apply my strong analytical skills, math proficiency, and passion for problem-solving. Eager to contribute to the company's success and gain hands-on experience in the engineering field.

Future-oriented resume objective

Ambitious MBA graduate pursuing a data analysis role to leverage my analytical skills and drive business success through data-driven decision-making. Committed to enhancing my expertise in machine learning and data visualization techniques, my career objective is to become a data science leader who shapes strategies, identifies growth opportunities, and maximizes organizational performance.

Resume objective examples for intra-industry transitions

Traditional resume objective example

Accomplished healthcare tech sales professional seeking a position as a marketing generalist in the healthcare software industry. My strong communication skills, market analysis expertise, and industry knowledge will drive brand visibility and generate leads.

Targeted resume objective example

Skilled software developer with seven years of expertise in mobile app development, seeking a product management position at Zoominfo. My technical proficiency, user-centric approach, and industry knowledge will contribute to delivering innovative and user-friendly products that drive customer satisfaction, increase market share, and align with Zoominfo's strategic objectives.

Future-oriented resume objective example

Goal-oriented IT project manager pursuing growth toward a career as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). I'm committed to enhancing my cybersecurity knowledge, obtaining relevant certifications, and implementing robust security measures to safeguard organizations from cyber threats.

Resume objective examples for return to work

Traditional resume objective example

Business-minded and strategic financial leader seeking to re-enter the workforce after completing my master's degree in business administration, with a focus on finance and strategic management. Seeking challenging roles in finance or consulting where I can apply my advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and growth mindset to drive organizational growth and profitability.

Targeted resume objective example

Highly motivated and dedicated professional seeking to return to the workforce as an associate project manager at SADA after a period of raising children. I am skilled at interpersonal communication and bring a strong foundation in project management, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven ability to multitask effectively.

Future-oriented resume objective example

Results-driven marketing professional enthusiastic about rejoining the workforce and working towards a director of marketing position after overcoming personal challenges. Eager to use my marketing expertise, creative mindset, leadership skills, and proficiency in data analysis to contribute to the success of a dynamic marketing team while growing as a professional within the technology sector.

Resume objective examples for non-traditional career paths

Traditional resume objective example

Experienced airline pilot shifting gears to a career in sales, leveraging my strong communication skills, ability to build rapport, and keen understanding of customer needs to drive revenue growth and forge long-lasting client relationships.

Targeted resume objective example

Accomplished chef pursuing a career in UX/UI design at Loom, combining my passion for user-centered experiences, excellent customer service skills, attention to detail, and creative flair to create an intuitive and visually appealing video messaging experience.

Future-oriented resume objective example

Former semi-professional athlete transitioning into the project space in tech with the eventual goal of becoming a senior project manager. To grow my career, I intend to leverage strong skills in discipline, teamwork, and my ability to perform under pressure to deliver successful, time-sensitive projects within the technology industry.

Powerful resume objective examples by experience level

Looking for some resume objective sample inspiration? Check out more resume objective statement examples below.

Entry-level career objective examples

Data analyst

Highly motivated and detail-oriented entry-level data analyst with a strong analytical mindset and proficiency in data manipulation and visualization. Seeking a challenging role to apply my skills in extracting valuable insights from complex datasets and contribute to data-driven decision-making processes.

Compare resume objectives between these entry level data analyst resumes.

IT support specialist

Results-driven IT Support Specialist with a solid foundation in troubleshooting hardware and software issues, providing technical assistance, and ensuring optimal system performance. Looking to leverage my technical expertise and customer service skills at I.B.C. Corporation to deliver exceptional IT support and contribute to seamless operations.

Junior software developer

Ambitious junior software developer with a passion for continuous learning and innovation, seeking a growth-oriented position leading to senior software development to enhance my programming skills, collaborate on cutting-edge projects, and contribute to developing high-quality software solutions that positively impact users' lives.

Marketing coordinator

Detail-oriented marketing coordinator with a strong background in campaign management, social media marketing, and content creation. Eager to join a dynamic marketing team to utilize my creativity, organizational skills, and strategic mindset to drive brand awareness, engage audiences, and achieve marketing goals.

Sales development representative

Results-oriented sales development representative with a proven track record of exceeding targets, building strong customer relationships, and generating new business opportunities. Seeking a challenging role at Combu Tech Solutions to apply my consultative selling skills, market knowledge, and drive for success to fuel company growth and drive revenue.

Mid-level career objective examples

Database administrator

Experienced database administrator with a comprehensive understanding of database management, optimization, and security. Seeking to secure the database position at Canva to utilize my expertise in database administration, enhance data integrity, and ensure efficient data management for improved business operations.

Product manager

Strategic and customer-focused product manager passionate about driving product innovation and delivering improving user experiences and, as a result, customer satisfaction by 35%. Seeking a challenging role at XTech to apply my in-depth knowledge of product strategy, market research, and cross-functional collaboration to lead the development and launch of Telehealth solutions.

Software engineer

Ambitious software engineer with a passion for emerging technologies and a vision to revolutionize how people interact with analytical AI. Seeking a role where I can expand my expertise in machine learning and AI to create intelligent and intuitive software solutions that enhance user experiences and drive technological advancements in the industry.

Systems analyst

Results-driven systems analyst with expertise in data analysis and process optimization. Seeking a systems analyst position at TechSolutions to leverage my strong problem-solving abilities, my experience driving a 15% improvement in operational efficiency, and my deep understanding of business requirements to analyze existing systems and identify opportunities for cost reduction.

UX/UI designer

Creative and detail-oriented UX/UI designer with a strong understanding of user-centered design principles. My career objective is to secure a role where I can apply my design skills, empathy for users, and passion for creating intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces to enhance the overall user experience and drive customer satisfaction within the Edtech industry.

Senior-level career objective examples

Director of technology

Aspiring to become a Director of Technology, my goal is to lead innovative tech initiatives that drive business growth and digital transformation. I aim to continue my track record of developing high-performing teams, implementing cutting-edge solutions with a 100% success rate, and delivering measurable results, ultimately positioning the organization as a technology leader in the industry.

IT manager

Dedicated IT professional with a strong background in managing IT infrastructure and ensuring seamless operations. Seeking an IT Manager role to leverage my technical knowledge, team leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities to drive IT excellence, improve system performance, and support organizational growth.

Senior software architect

Innovative and results-driven senior software architect with a proven track record in designing robust and scalable software solutions. Seeking a challenging role at Tech Innovators, where I can leverage my expertise in software architecture, system design, and technical team leadership with a 97% employee retainment history to drive product innovation, optimize performance, and enhance user experiences.

Marketing director

As a future marketing director, I'm determined to drive GTM strategies that generate measurable results, enhance brand visibility, and accelerate revenue growth. With a history of 18% year-by-year growth, I'll leverage my strategic thinking, strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution skills, data-driven insights, and team leadership skills to scale; I aim to create impactful marketing campaigns and cultivate strong customer relationships to position a company as an industry leader.

Senior sales manager

Results-driven sales manager with a demonstrated track record of exceeding quarterly sales quotas by 26% and building strong customer relationships. Seeking to secure the senior sales manager role at Privn Inc., where I can apply my consultative selling approach, strategic sales planning, and team leadership skills to drive revenue growth, expand market share, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Resume objectives by job function

Customer success career objective statements

Customer success manager

Results-oriented customer success manager with a strong track record of driving customer satisfaction and retention. Seeking a position at EleAh & Co. to leverage my expertise in building strong client relationships, providing exceptional support, and driving revenue growth. Committed to ensuring a seamless customer experience and achieving a customer renewal rate of over 90%.

Customer support representative

Dedicated customer support representative with excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Seeking a position as a support rep to utilize my ability to provide prompt and efficient support to customers, resolve issues, and ensure their satisfaction. Demonstrated ability to maintain a high customer satisfaction rating of 95% through effective handling of customer inquiries and concerns.

Onboarding specialist

Highly skilled onboarding specialist with a proven track record of successfully integrating new clients and ensuring their successful adoption of products and services. Seeking a position to leverage my expertise and grow into a role as a director of onboarding by designing and implementing tailored onboarding programs that reduce time-to-value and increase customer retention.

Technical account manager

Seasoned technical account manager with a strong technical background and an 8-year track record of driving customer success. Seeking a position at Virafig Technologies to utilize my expertise in managing key client accounts, resolving technical issues, and driving product adoption. Successfully increased customer satisfaction by 20% through proactive account management—improving the customer retention rate by 36%.

Cybersecurity career objective examples

Ethical hacker

Skilled ethical hacker with a proven track record of identifying and remedying security vulnerabilities. Seeking a position at SecureWebz to leverage my expertise in penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and network security. Demonstrated ability to detect and resolve 50+ security breaches, resulting in enhanced system integrity and data protection.

Information security manager

Seasoned information security manager with comprehensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and risk management strategies. Seeking a leadership role where I can contribute my expertise in developing and implementing robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information. Successfully led a team in achieving 99.9% compliance with industry security standards.

Network security analyst

Results-driven network security analyst with 7 years of experience in identifying and mitigating security threats. Seeking a challenging position as a network analyst at CyberShield to utilize my expertise in intrusion detection, incident response, and security monitoring.

Data analysis career objective examples

Business analyst

Results-oriented business analyst with a strong background in data analysis and process improvement. Seeking a position at Becca Corp to leverage my expertise in data-driven decision-making and business optimization. Led a project that resulted in a 20% reduction in operational costs through process streamlining.

Data engineer

Skilled data engineer experienced in developing and maintaining large-scale data infrastructure. Seeking a role where I can leverage my expertise in data modeling, ETL processes, and database management to support data-driven decision-making and improve data quality.

Data Scientist

Experienced data scientist with 15+ years of experience in the healthtech industry. Transitioning to a data scientist role in the SaaS sector. Seeking a position at Znem Software to apply my expertise in predictive analytics, machine learning, and data visualization to drive data-driven insights and accelerate business growth.

Marketing career objective examples

Copywriter

Creative and detail-oriented copywriter with a passion for crafting compelling and engaging content that converts. Seeking a position at Slack as the lead copywriter to leverage my exceptional writing skills, storytelling abilities, and deep understanding of SEO principles to deliver persuasive website copy that drives brand awareness and increases conversion rates.

Director of growth marketing

Strategic and results-driven marketing professional with a vision for driving sustainable business growth. Seeking a leadership position as Director of Growth Marketing to leverage my expertise in data-driven marketing strategies, customer acquisition, and retention. Committed to implementing innovative initiatives and achieving a double-digit increase in revenue within the first year.

Marketing generalist

Versatile marketing professional with a broad range of skills across various marketing channels and tactics. Seeking a position to utilize my expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and campaign management. Skilled in developing integrated marketing campaigns that generate a high volume of qualified leads and achieve a conversion rate of 15%.

Social media manager

Creative and analytical social media manager with a deep understanding of social media platforms and trends. Seeking a position at Wall Agency to leverage my expertise in social media strategy, content creation, and community management. Dedicated to enhancing brand presence and engagement, resulting in a 20% increase in followers and a 25% boost in website traffic through social media channels.

Software development career objective examples

Front-end engineer

Results-driven front-end engineer with expertise in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Seeking a challenging role at InnovateTech to leverage my skills in building responsive and user-friendly web interfaces. Committed to optimizing website performance and delivering seamless user experiences. Increased website load speed by 30% in previous role.

Full-stack developer

Experienced full-stack developer with a strong background in developing scalable web applications. Seeking a position where I can utilize my proficiency in front-end and back-end technologies to create robust and user-friendly software solutions. Led a team of developers to successfully deliver a complex e-commerce platform with a 15% increase in user engagement.

Mobile app developer

Passionate mobile app developer focusing on creating innovative and user-centric mobile applications. Seeking a role at startup company TechSol to apply my expertise in iOS and Android development, UI/UX design, and API integration.

Resume objectives by career change

Educator transitioning to instructional designer

Passionate educator with a strong instructional background and a desire to leverage technology and creativity to design engaging learning experiences. Seeking a career transition to an instructional designer role where I can apply my curriculum development expertise, instructional design principles, and e-learning tools to create impactful and learner-centric training materials in the Edtech sector.

Executive administrative assistant to content writer

Motivated administrative professional with exceptional writing skills and a passion for storytelling. Pursuing a new opportunity as a content writer to utilize my strong communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to adapt writing styles for different audiences. Looking for growth in a creative role that allows me to craft compelling content and engage readers through informative and persuasive writing.

Industrial sales representative transitioning to tech sales

Results-driven industrial sales professional with a proven track record of exceeding sales targets by a minimum of 31% each quarter seeking a transition to a tech sales role. My desire is to combine sales expertise with my passion for technology solutions. I'm eager to leverage my industry knowledge, relationship-building skills, and consultative selling approach to drive revenue growth in the tech industry.

Marketing professional to UX designer

Marketing professional with a keen eye for design and a strong understanding of user experience. Pursuing a new opportunity as a UX designer to apply my creativity, strategic thinking, and customer-centric mindset to create intuitive and engaging digital experiences. Seeking a role where I can leverage my marketing insights and user research skills to enhance user satisfaction and drive conversion rates.

Project manager shifting to a product management role

Seasoned project manager with a proven track record of successfully delivering 92% of projects on time and within budget. Looking for a career shift to a product management role to leverage my strong leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder management skills. Passionate about bridging the gap between business objectives and customer needs to drive product innovation and achieve market success.

Sales professional transitioning to customer success manager

Results-oriented sales professional with a passion for building strong customer relationships and driving customer satisfaction. Pursuing a transition to a customer success manager role to combine my sales expertise with my ability to understand customer needs and deliver exceptional service. Looking for an opportunity to proactively engage with customers, ensure their success, and drive customer retention and growth.

Software engineer transitioning to data science

Highly skilled software engineer with a passion for data analysis and machine learning. Pursuing a transition to a data science role to apply my programming skills, data manipulation expertise, and statistical knowledge to extract valuable insights from complex datasets. Looking for a new opportunity to contribute to data-driven decision-making processes and solve business problems through advanced analytics and predictive modeling.

For additional insights, learn more about writing a resume for a career change.

Resume objectives by job title

Application developer

Highly skilled application developer with a strong background in SaaS software development and a passion for creating innovative and user-friendly applications. Seeking a new and challenging role to leverage my expertise in coding, problem-solving, and collaboration to design and build cutting-edge applications that meet user needs and drive business success.

Business intelligence analyst

Results-driven business intelligence analyst with a deep understanding of data analysis techniques and a proven ability to transform complex data into actionable insights. Looking to utilize my analytical skills, data visualization expertise, and business acumen to help Yana, Inc. make informed decisions, optimize processes, and achieve strategic goals.

Cloud infrastructure specialist

Experienced cloud infrastructure specialist with a 7 years in cloud technologies and a track record of designing and implementing scalable and secure cloud environments for Amazon and Google. Seeking a challenging role as a senior cloud infrastructure specialist to leverage my in-depth knowledge of cloud architecture, automation, and optimization to help organizations migrate, manage, and optimize their cloud infrastructure for improved performance and cost-efficiency.

Cybersecurity analyst

Highly skilled cybersecurity analyst with a strong background in identifying and mitigating security threats. Seeking a position as a cybersecurity analyst to utilize my knowledge of security frameworks, incident response, and vulnerability management to protect organizations from cyber threats, ensure data confidentiality, and maintain the integrity of critical systems and networks.

Data engineer

Passionate data engineer with expertise in designing, building, and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructure. Seeking a challenging role as a data engineer at Rebars to leverage my proficiency in data integration, ETL processes, and database management to enable data-driven decision-making, support analytics initiatives, and ensure data quality and integrity.

DevOps engineer

Experienced DevOps engineer with a solid understanding of software development methodologies and a track record of implementing and automating CI/CD pipelines. Seeking a position as a DevOps engineer to utilize my expertise in infrastructure as code, configuration management, and continuous integration to streamline software delivery processes, improve scalability, and enhance overall system reliability.

Graphic designer

Talented graphic designer with a keen eye for aesthetics and a strong understanding of visual communication. With a history of creating designs that increased landing page conversion 3x, my career objective is to secure a position as a creative director to utilize my intentional design framework, team management skills, technical aptitude, and attention to detail to create compelling visual designs that effectively convey brand messages and resonate with target audiences to increase conversion.

Interaction designer

User-focused interaction designer with 15 years of experience in user research, information architecture, and interaction design principles. Seeking a new opportunity as an interaction designer in agritech to leverage my passion for understanding user needs, designing intuitive interfaces, and optimizing user experiences across digital platforms.

IT project manager

Seasoned IT project manager with a proven track record of delivering successful projects on time and within budget. Seeking a position as an IT project manager to utilize my leadership skills, strategic planning abilities, and strong stakeholder management expertise to oversee and drive the successful execution of complex IT initiatives.

Machine learning engineer

Highly skilled machine learning engineer with a strong background in developing and implementing machine learning algorithms and models. Seeking a challenging role as a machine learning engineer at OpenAI to leverage my expertise in data preprocessing, feature engineering, and model optimization to build advanced machine learning solutions that solve complex business problems and drive innovation.

Network administrator

Experienced network administrator with a solid understanding of network infrastructure and a track record of ensuring network reliability and security at three Fortune 500 companies. Seeking a position as a senior network administrator to utilize my expertise in network design, troubleshooting, and performance optimization to manage and maintain critical network infrastructure, support end-users, and ensure seamless connectivity.

Product manager

Results-oriented product manager with a strong business acumen and a passion for driving product releases in a start-up environment. Seeking a position as a product manager at a fast-paced company to utilize my strategic thinking, market analysis skills, and customer-centric mindset to lead cross-functional teams, define product roadmaps, and deliver innovative and market-leading products that meet customer needs and drive business growth.

Product marketing manager

Strategic and customer-focused product marketing manager looking for a new, challenging opportunity to leverage my market research expertise, messaging skills, and creative problem-solving abilities to drive product adoption, increase market share, and generate revenue.

Product owner

Agile-minded product owner with a strong understanding of product development processes and a passion for creating customer-centric solutions. With my excellent collaboration skills, product vision, and prioritization abilities, my career objective is to lead agile development teams, define product backlogs, and deliver high-quality products that exceed customer and business expectations.

Quality assurance engineer

Detail-oriented QA engineer with expertise in developing and implementing test plans, test cases, and automated testing frameworks. I'M Seeking to secure the role as a quality assurance engineering manager at Orgin Tech to leverage my analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to identify and resolve software defects to ensure the delivery of reliable and high-quality software products.

Site reliability engineer

Experienced site reliability engineer with a strong background in ensuring the reliability, scalability, and performance of large-scale systems. Seeking a position as a site reliability engineer to utilize my expertise in system monitoring, incident response, and infrastructure automation to optimize system uptime, enhance operational efficiency, and minimize service disruptions.

Software architect

Innovative and solutions-oriented software architect with a deep understanding of software design principles and a track record of architecting scalable and maintainable software systems. I'm seeking to pursue a role that allows me to leverage my technical expertise, leadership skills, and architectural vision to design and guide the development of robust and scalable software solutions.

Systems administrator

Dedicated systems administrator with a strong background in managing and maintaining enterprise-level systems and networks. With 7 years of experience as a systems administrator, I'm looking to utilize my expertise in system configuration, troubleshooting, and security to ensure the optimal performance and reliability of critical IT infrastructure.

Technical consultant

Dynamic and client-focused technical consultant with expertise in providing strategic technology solutions to drive business growth and efficiency. Seeking new clients and consultant opportunities to leverage my problem-solving skills, industry knowledge, and consultative approach to help achieve technology goals and maximize the value of IT investments.

UI/UX designer

Creative and user-centric UI/UX designer with a passion for creating visually appealing and intuitive user interfaces. With my design skills, usability expertise, and user research capabilities, I'm looking to deliver exceptional user experiences and drive user engagement at TeeliHQ.

UI/UX engineer

Skilled UI/UX engineer with a solid background in front-end development and a focus on creating seamless and visually appealing user experiences. Seeking to use my6 skills as a UI/UX engineer and leverage my expertise in front-end technologies, interaction design, and usability principles to collaborate with cross-functional teams in the SaaS video space to deliver highly interactive and user-friendly web applications.

UX researcher

Analytical and user-focused UX researcher with a passion for understanding user behavior and translating insights into actionable design recommendations. Seeking a position as a UX researcher to utilize my research skills, usability testing expertise, and data analysis capabilities to uncover user needs, evaluate design solutions, and contribute to the development of user-centered products.

Web developer

Talented web developer with a strong background in designing and developing responsive and user-friendly websites. Seeking a position as a web developer to utilize my expertise in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and web frameworks to create visually appealing and functional websites that deliver an exceptional user experience.

When to use a resume objective

While a resume objective can be beneficial, it's important to remember they aren't applicable across all resumes and applications.

Below are some situations that might call for using a resume objective rather than a professional summary, an about me section, or an opening statement for your resume.

1. During a career change

If you're transitioning to a new field or industry, a resume objective can effectively communicate your transferable skills and highlight your motivation for making a career change.

2. For entry-level applications

 If you have limited professional experience, a resume objective can showcase your enthusiasm, motivation, and relevant skills—demonstrating your potential to succeed.

3. As a student or recent graduate

A resume objective statement helps highlight your educational achievements, internships, or extracurricular activities, while also expressing your career aspirations and goals when you're just starting out.

4. For intra-industry transitions

Suppose you want to shift your career focus or explore new opportunities within your current industry. In that case, a resume objective can help you communicate your desire to leverage your existing skills and experiences in a new capacity.

5. When returning to work

 For job seekers who have taken a break from their careers, whether for personal reasons or to pursue further education, a resume objective can signal your readiness and commitment to re-enter the workforce.

6. In a non-traditional career path

If you have a unique career trajectory or more diverse experiences that aren't immediately apparent from your work history and achievements, a resume objective can help you convey your story and showcase the value you bring to potential employers.


4 tips for writing a resume objective statement

Tip #1: Understand context

Only use a resume objective statement in specific application situations such as:

  • For entry-level applications
  • As a student or recent graduate
  • For intra-industry transitions
  • When returning to work
  • In a non-traditional career path

Tip #2: Quantify your success

Your resume objective should include relevant numbers, metrics, and data when possible.

Tip #3: Keep it simple

Brevity is key. Your career objective statement should only be 2-3 sentences.

Tip #4: Understand the role

Read the job description thoroughly to make sure you understand the job objective, important skills, and key details. (Use a tool like the Teal Job Application Tracker to pull all of this information for you—in just seconds.)

Teal's Job Application Tracker details
Use Teal's Job Application Tracker to understand every unique role.

What makes a good resume objective

A good resume objective goes beyond being clear and concise. Think of it as a high-level overview, used in place of an "About Me" section on a resume.

So what additional points should you consider when crafting yours?

Your resume objective should:

  • Be tailored to the specific job you're applying for by aligning with the requirements and responsibilities of the position.
  • Use impactful and engaging language to grab a prospective employer's attention and leave a memorable impression
  • Include resume action verbs to convey a sense of movement and impact
  • Showcase your enthusiasm and passion for the role and company to solidify your genuine interest and commitment to the role

Mistakes to avoid when writing resume objectives

A good resume objective statement includes specific elements. There are also some common oversights to watch out for:

  • Avoid using clichés or generic statements that don't show your unique skills
  • Don't be vague or ambiguous; be specific about your qualifications and value
  • Make sure to clearly articulate your career intentions and the value you offer to employers

Pros and cons of resume objectives

If you find yourself wondering, "Do I need a career objective statement?" or "Are resume objectives necessary?" understanding the pros and cons can help guide you as you decide whether or not a resume objective is right for you.

Pros of a resume objective

  1. Communicate clear focus: A resume objective provides a concise statement that clearly communicates your career goals.
  2. Facilitate career transitions: For job seekers changing careers or industries, a resume objective can help bridge the gap between your previous experience and your desired role.
  3. Guide entry-level job seekers: A resume objective can significantly benefit job seekers with limited professional experience by showcasing enthusiasm, motivation, and any relevant skills.
  4. Emphasize personal branding: A well-crafted resume objective statement can serve as a branding statement—highlighting your unique strengths, core values, and career aspirations.

Cons of a resume objective

  1. Lack of relevance: In some cases, resume objectives may not provide substantial value if they don't align closely with the specific job requirements set forth by the hiring manager.
  2. Sound generic: A resume objective risks sounding generic or clichéd if it's not tailored and lacks specificity.
  3. Don't align with shifting hiring practices: In today's market, resume objectives trend towards more concise and targeted professional summaries as a quick overview of your qualifications and achievements rather than a traditional career objective statement.
  4. Exhibit redundancy: In most cases, the position you're applying for is already evident from the job title or objective of the job application itself.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a resume objective statement strongly depends on factors like your career stage and the specific job application. In any case, it's always important to assess the relevance of each of your resume sections and consider whether they add value to your overall application.

Why is a resume objective important?

Resume objectives are important because they allow job seekers like you to quickly communicate your intentions and highlight how your qualifications align with a prospective employer's needs. And they do this in a way that grabs attention.

Resume objectives are most applicable while you're still in school, very early in your career, or if you're changing careers. Think of them as a resume mission statement.

  • A traditional resume objective focuses on the type of role you're applying for.
  • A targeted resume objective is tailored to a specific job or industry.
  • A future-oriented resume objective emphasizes your aspirations and goals for career growth.

Alternatives to resume objectives

There's been a shift away from traditional resume objectives influenced by the changing dynamics of the job market. Today employers increasingly prioritize specific skills, experiences, and achievements over career goals and generalized qualifications.

As a result, modern resumes should focus more on providing a more engaging resume introduction as a professional summary of qualifications and accomplishments directly relevant to the desired position.

Instead of focusing on your career goals, a professional summary provides a snapshot of your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments as they align with the job description of the role you're applying for.

An example of a professional summary
An example of a professional summary.

Resume objective vs. professional summary

A professional summary and resume objective statement might seem very similar, and while they do have some elements in common, there are also a few notable differences.

A professional summary is more of a career statement or overview.

Professional summaries:

  • Are concise and targeted
  • Showcase your unique value prop in a way that's tailored to the role you're applying for
  • Don't include any unnecessary details
  • Differ from a resume objective by leaving out career goals, intentions, and a company's goals

Writing a professional summary

If a professional summary sounds like a better option than a resume objective statement use the Teal AI Resume Builder to create a tailored professional summary with the click of a button.

Teal's generative AI pulls keywords (like technical skills and soft skills) from the job description as well as details from your work experience to create an effective, tailored, resume summary statement.

Writing a resume objective statement

While a professional summary is often the better option for a resume introduction, you can still use the Teal AI Resume Builder to write your resume objective statement.

All you need to do is log in to your account, navigate to the resume builder, click on the resume you wish to use, then scroll to "Professional Summaries." Here, you can create, save, and choose from as many resume objectives as you need. (Or, opt to write a professional summary instead!)

Write your resume with Teal

The most important thing about your resume is that it speaks directly to what your target employer needs and wants. 

And whether you include a customized objective statement or an alternative like a professional summary, your resume should always clearly highlight why you're the ideal candidate for the job. What makes you the perfect fit?

The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker have all the tools to make crafting your resume introduction quick and easy.

Use the Job Application Tracker to save your favorite roles and identify the most important keywords. Then, use the AI Resume Builder to write, tailor, and save multiple resume introductions—focusing on relevant strengths, experience, and skills. 

The goal is simple: Get the interview. Now, let's get you there.

Sign up for Teal for free today and get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a resume objective make a difference if I'm switching industries?

Absolutely. A well-crafted resume objective can bridge the gap between your past experience and your new industry goals. It allows you to highlight transferable skills and your motivation for making the switch, showing potential employers your commitment and how your unique background can bring a fresh perspective to the role.

How can I tailor my resume objective to a specific job opening?

Start by thoroughly reading the job description and identifying key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Use this information to craft a concise objective that aligns your career goals with the needs of the company. Mention specific skills or experiences that make you a perfect fit for the position, demonstrating that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.

Should my resume objective include quantifiable achievements?

While it's not mandatory, including quantifiable achievements in your resume objective can be powerful. It provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and sets a tone of success. If you choose to include them, make sure they're relevant to the job you're applying for and help to underscore your career goals.

Kayte Grady

Kayte, Senior Copywriter at Teal and Champion of ADHD professionals, is a seasoned writer passionate about storytelling and career growth. With a data-driven approach to content marketing and a word-nerd knack for resume builder analysis, Kayte’s on a mission to empower job seekers to land a job they love. Constantly pivoting and reinventing herself, this social-worker-turned-marketer found growth and camaraderie in tech—a genuine surprise given her never-ending devotion to the paper calendar.

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