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150 Resume Objective Examples to Get You Hired in 2024

September 11, 2024

Your resume objective helps tell the very quick story of who you are, what you bring to the table, and what kind of role you’re looking for. It’s often no more than two sentences long, so when writing one, you want to get to the point pretty fast. On Huntr you can write a resume objective or summary using the resume builder to help you better position yourself to future employers. In this article, we’ll explore what a resume objective is, when to use one, how to write one, and share some resume objective examples that you can copy and paste to help you get hired.

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What is a resume objective?

A resume objective is a one to two sentence summary about your goals and reasons for looking for your next role. You can also use it to highlight why you’re the best candidate for a role. Since people often tailor their resume to a specific position, you should consider tailoring your resume objective for every role you apply to as well, to help you land more interviews at the kind of companies you want.

When to use a resume objective

1. when you’re joining the workforce.

A resume objective can be helpful when joining the workforce as you can share your academic achievements and your goals for your first entry-level role out of school.

2. When you’re trying to highlight a niche

A resume objective can be helpful when you bring a very specific value add in a big industry. For example, if you’re a marketer who specializes in startups, you might highlight that specific call out in your resume objective, so people know it’s what you excel at.

3. When you’re making a career change

You often hear stories of people making drastic career changes like a teacher who becomes an HR manager or a nurse who joins the tech industry. Your resume objective would highlight this novel change while highlighting some transferable skills you’ve developed to help qualify you for the role you’re applying for.

4. When you’re moving to a new location

When you’re moving to a new city, a resume objective can help clarify why your previous work experience is in another location.

5. When you want to highlight a resume gap

With layoffs, family leave, or mental health leave, it’s common to sometimes have an extended gap on your resume. If you want to explain your reason for your resume gap, you could share it in your resume objective to help give you the consideration you need to re-enter the workforce.

How to write a resume objective

1. get to the point.

You only have about two sentences worth of space in your resume objective. So, when writing one, you’ll want to get to the point fast. For example, “An experienced marketer with over 10 years of experience who helps startups grow into household names”

2. Tailor it to the position you’re applying for

Your resume objective should be tailored for every job you apply to. You should highlight why you’re qualified for a role based on the job description you find online.

3. Lead with your biggest accomplishment

If you’ve had a big win in your career, highlighting it in your resume objective can help you stand out among other job seekers. For example, “A content marketer who’s generated over 30 million views in a single calendar year looking for a full-time position.”

4. Explain why you’re the best candidate

What’s your competitive advantage in the job search? Zero in on it for your resume objective. Share why you’re the most qualified candidate applying for a role to help you boost your chances of getting hired. For example, “A developer who’s built from the ground up three SaaS products that have been acquired in the last eight years.”

150 Resume Objective Examples

General objective for resume.

To leverage my skills and experience in this industry and achieve results on a cross-functional team
Seeking a challenging experience where I can apply my skills and experience in a new role
Looking for a part-time position to learn and develop new skills in a fast-growing industry
To secure a meaningful position that aligns with my values and passions
To contribute my diverse skills in a generalist role at a growing company
Seeking an opportunity to develop new skills to become a more well-rounded employee
To utilize my leadership skills to help drive growth, empathy, and vision in an established company
Seeking a role where I can help deliver results for a new company and apply my years of experience to channel fast growth
To contribute my strong work ethic on a collaborative team looking to scale in the next twelve months
To implement new processes and strategy in a growing organization to drive more growth

Customer service objective for resume

To leverage my problem solving skills and positive attitude in a customer service environment to deliver more delightful experiences
Customer service representative seeking a part-time position to help surpass customer expectations
Customer service manager looking to utilize my interpersonal skills in a leadership role
To leverage my product knowledge to deliver the best customer experience
Seeking a customer service role to apply my conflict resolution skills in a meaningful way to enhance positive experiences for customers
To gain an entry-level role in customer service to expand my work experience, interpersonal skills, and work with a team
To apply my customer service skills in a meaningful way while improving people’s shopping experiences
Customer service representative with 10 years of experiences in delighting customers in store
Customer service representative who thrives in fast-paced environments, loves making customers happy, and handles high ticket volumes with ease
Customer service representative who loves building meaningful relationships with customers to increase brand loyalty

Resume objective for career change

Self-motivated to transition into the [industry name] industry after spending [number] years in [industry]
Seeking a career transition where I can develop new skills while sharing transferable skills from [industry]
To apply my growth mindset into a new career path
To apply my ability to learn quickly to a new career
To gain an entry-level position in a new career
To transition into a meaningful and rewarding career in [industry] after spending [number] years as a [job title]
To leverage my background in [industry] in a new setting for the [industry name] industry
Seeking an opportunity to make a positive impact in a new industry after spending [number] years in [industry name] industry
To transition into a new career path that reflects my values, passions, and interests
To contribute fresh ideas and perspectives in the [industry name] industry after spending [number] years in the [industry name] industry

Resume objective for high school student

Seeking a part-time role to gain work experience while completing academic responsibilities
To apply my strong work ethic and transferable skills in a part-time role
To gain hands-on experience, learn new skills, and build relationships in a part-time role
Highly motivated student looking to gain work experience in a part-time role while pursuing academic studies
Dedicated student seeking to gain [industry] skills while pursuing studies
High school student with [industry] skills looking for meaningful part-time work
High school graduate looking to enter workforce
High school student with experience learning about [topic] looking to apply knowledge in a [industry] role
Recent high school graduate with a passion for [industry] looking for their first role out of school
Seeking a part-time position to develop new skills in preparation of joining the workforce full-time

Nursing objective for resume

Seeking a nursing position where I can apply my clinical skills, empathy, and calmness to provide excellent patient care
To contribute my knowledge of medical procedures in a healthcare team setting
Seeking a nursing role to use my clinical expertise to help care for patients
Nurse with over 10 years of experience looking to leverage clinical experience in a new setting
Nurse seeking a an opportunity to provide compassionate care to patients in a dynamic healthcare setting
To leverage my nursing education in a hands-on environment where I can continue to learn and grow as a nurse
To contribute my strong attention to detail to provide patients with safe and compassionate care
Seeking a nursing position in a healthcare facility that prioritizes the growth of nurses and fosters a safe work environment
To make a positive impact on patients in a nursing role that’s challenging me to expand my clinical knowledge
Seeking a nursing position that values compassion, teamwork, and excellent in patient care delivery

IT objective for resume

IT professional seeking a position where I can apply my technical expertise to solve challenging problems
Seeking an IT role to utilize my cybersecurity skills to protect sensitive data and mitigate security risks
IT specialist looking to work with cutting-edge technologies and develop technical skills further
To contribute my experience in network administration and troubleshooting to ensure reliable IT operations
To leverage my database management skills and data analytics experience to drive informed decision-making and business intelligence.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply my expertise in IT infrastructure management to ensure seamless connectivity and system performance.
To contribute my knowledge of IT governance and compliance standards to maintain regulatory requirements and data integrity.
Seeking an IT position that values continuous learning and professional development, allowing me to stay current with industry trends and best practices.
To utilize my skills in system administration and IT support to provide technical assistance and resolve user issues effectively.
Seeking a position that allows me to apply my knowledge of data management and data governance principles to ensure data accuracy and security.

Healthcare objective for resume

Seeking a healthcare position where I can utilize my clinical skills and compassionate nature to provide exceptional patient care.
To contribute my knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare protocols to support the healthcare team in delivering quality services.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply my expertise in patient assessment and care planning to improve health outcomes.
To provide compassionate and patient-centered care while adhering to ethical standards and best practices in healthcare.
Seeking an opportunity to work in a dynamic healthcare environment where I can continuously learn and grow as a healthcare professional.
To leverage my communication skills and empathy to establish trust with patients and provide them with personalized care.
Seeking a healthcare position that values collaboration, teamwork, and a commitment to improving patient experiences.
To apply my experience in healthcare administration and management to ensure efficient operations and quality patient services.
Seeking a role where I can apply my knowledge of healthcare regulations and compliance to ensure patient safety and confidentiality.
To contribute my strong attention to detail and organizational skills to ensure accurate documentation and streamlined workflows.

Objective for resume engineer

Seeking an engineering position where I can apply my technical expertise and problem-solving skills to contribute to innovative solutions and projects.
To leverage my knowledge of engineering principles and design methodologies to develop efficient and sustainable solutions.
Seeking a role that allows me to utilize my experience in [specific engineering field] to address complex challenges and drive technological advancements.
To contribute my expertise in [specific engineering software/tools] to optimize processes and improve productivity in engineering projects.
Seeking an opportunity to work in a collaborative environment where I can apply my creativity and engineering skills to develop innovative products.
To contribute my project management skills and leadership abilities to lead engineering teams and deliver successful projects.
Seeking an engineering role that values continuous learning and professional development, allowing me to stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
To apply my expertise in [specific engineering specialization] to design, analyze, and optimize systems for optimal performance and reliability.
Seeking a position where I can apply my knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards to ensure compliance in engineering projects.
To leverage my communication skills and teamwork abilities to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders in engineering projects.

Objective for dental assistant resume

Seeking a dental assistant position where I can utilize my clinical skills and knowledge to support dentists and provide excellent patient care.
To contribute my expertise in chairside assistance, sterilization procedures, and patient education to ensure efficient and safe dental procedures.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply my interpersonal skills and empathy to create a positive and comfortable experience for patients.
To provide compassionate and professional chairside assistance to dentists while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
Seeking an opportunity to work in a dental practice where I can contribute my knowledge of dental instruments, materials, and procedures.
To leverage my experience in dental radiography and infection control to ensure patient safety and regulatory compliance.
Seeking a dental assistant position that values teamwork, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering high-quality dental care.
To apply my organizational skills and attention to detail to assist with scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing procedures.
Seeking a role where I can use my communication skills to effectively communicate with patients and address their concerns.
To contribute my dental assisting skills and knowledge of dental terminology to support the diagnosis and treatment planning process.

Teacher objective for resume

Seeking a teaching position where I can utilize my passion for education and dedication to student success to create engaging and effective learning experiences.
To contribute my expertise in [specific subject area] and curriculum development to inspire students and foster a love for learning.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply innovative teaching methods and technology integration to enhance student learning outcomes.
To create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued, respected, and motivated to achieve their full potential.
Seeking an opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, parents, and stakeholders to promote student growth and development academically, socially, and emotionally.
To leverage my experience in differentiated instruction and assessment strategies to meet the diverse needs of students and ensure academic success.
Seeking a teaching position in a school that values creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning as essential skills for student success.
To apply my classroom management skills and positive behavior reinforcement techniques to create a positive and productive learning environment.
Seeking a role where I can incorporate real-world applications and experiential learning opportunities to make learning meaningful and relevant for students.
To contribute my communication skills and ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues to promote a collaborative learning community.

Objective for resume human resources

Seeking a Human Resources position where I can apply my knowledge of HR policies, procedures, and best practices to support employee engagement and organizational success.
To contribute my expertise in recruitment, onboarding, and talent management to attract, develop, and retain top talent for the organization.
Seeking a role that allows me to utilize my interpersonal skills and empathy to support employees and address their needs and concerns.
To provide strategic HR support in areas such as performance management, employee relations, and organizational development to drive employee satisfaction and productivity.
Seeking an opportunity to apply my experience in HR compliance, labor laws, and regulations to ensure legal and ethical HR practices.
To leverage my skills in HR analytics and data-driven decision-making to provide insights and recommendations for workforce planning and optimization.
Seeking a Human Resources position that values diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a positive and inclusive work culture.
To contribute my experience in employee training and development to enhance employee skills, performance, and career growth opportunities.
Seeking a role where I can lead HR projects and initiatives, such as benefits administration, compensation planning, and employee wellness programs.
To apply my communication skills and conflict resolution abilities to facilitate effective communication and resolve employee issues and conflicts.

Objective for phlebotomist resume

To provide accurate and compassionate phlebotomy services while ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout the blood collection process.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply my expertise in venipuncture techniques, specimen handling, and laboratory procedures in a healthcare setting.
To contribute my attention to detail and organizational skills to maintain accurate records and documentation of blood samples collected.
To apply my communication skills and empathy to establish rapport with patients and address their questions and concerns regarding phlebotomy procedures.
To contribute my commitment to ethical and regulatory standards in phlebotomy practice, including patient confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.
Seeking an opportunity to work with diverse patient populations and adapt phlebotomy techniques to meet individual patient needs and preferences.
Seeking a Phlebotomist position that offers opportunities for professional growth and skill development in areas such as specimen processing and laboratory operations.
Seeking a role where I can collaborate with healthcare professionals, including nurses, physicians, and laboratory technicians, to ensure seamless patient care.
To apply my knowledge of blood collection equipment and supplies to maintain inventory and ensure proper functioning and availability of phlebotomy tools.
To leverage my training in patient identification procedures and specimen labeling to prevent errors and ensure accurate sample identification.

Objective for truck driver resume

Seeking a Truck Driver position where I can utilize my extensive experience in driving commercial vehicles to transport goods safely and efficiently.
To contribute my knowledge of transportation regulations, route planning, and vehicle maintenance to ensure on-time delivery and customer satisfaction.
Seeking a role that allows me to apply my excellent driving record and commitment to safety in delivering cargo in compliance with DOT regulations.
To leverage my expertise in operating various types of trucks and trailers, including flatbeds, tankers, and refrigerated units, to meet diverse transportation needs.
Seeking an opportunity to work with a reputable transportation company and contribute my strong work ethic and reliability to meet delivery deadlines.
To provide exceptional customer service and communication while representing the company professionally during deliveries and interactions with clients.
Seeking a Truck Driver position that values teamwork, collaboration, and a commitment to safe driving practices.
To contribute my knowledge of load securement techniques and cargo handling procedures to ensure the safety and integrity of transported goods.
Seeking a role where I can utilize my familiarity with GPS navigation systems and electronic logging devices to optimize route efficiency and compliance.
To apply my experience in pre-trip inspections and vehicle maintenance to ensure the safe operation and roadworthiness of assigned trucks.

Entry level objective for resume

Seeking an entry-level position where I can apply my strong work ethic, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn to contribute effectively to the team.
To leverage my education and internship experiences to gain hands-on experience and develop new skills in a professional work environment.
Seeking an entry-level role that offers training and mentorship opportunities to build a solid foundation for a successful career.
To contribute my positive attitude, adaptability, and strong communication skills to support team goals and deliver quality work.
Seeking an opportunity to apply my academic achievements and coursework knowledge to real-world projects and challenges.
To utilize my analytical abilities and attention to detail to contribute to data analysis, research, and problem-solving tasks in an entry-level position.
Seeking an entry-level position in a company that values diversity, inclusivity, and a culture of continuous learning and development.
To apply my customer service skills and passion for delivering exceptional experiences to support client needs and ensure customer satisfaction.
Seeking a role where I can gain exposure to different areas of the business and explore potential career paths within the organization.
To contribute my organizational skills and time management abilities to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively in an entry-level role.

Resume objective for leadership positions

Seeking a leadership position where I can leverage my strategic vision, business acumen, and experience to drive organizational growth and success.
To lead and inspire high-performing teams by fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Seeking a senior leadership role that allows me to apply my strong leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and emotional intelligence to drive organizational excellence.
To contribute my expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and business development to achieve sustainable growth and profitability.
Seeking an executive leadership position where I can champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
To lead by example and empower teams to achieve their full potential by providing mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
To lead cross-functional teams and drive cross-departmental collaboration to achieve business goals and deliver exceptional results.
Seeking a leadership position that values employee engagement, talent development, and succession planning to build a strong leadership pipeline.
To lead crisis management efforts and navigate complex challenges while maintaining a focus on resilience, adaptability, and organizational agility.
Seeking an executive leadership position that values innovation and fosters a culture of creativity, risk-taking, and continuous learning.

If you're currently working on your resume, you can use Huntr's AI resume builder to help you come up with resume objectives tailored to your own job title and work experience. Huntr's collection of job search tools also help you write your accomplishments, include relevant skills, and more. Plus, you can use Huntr's resume tailor to tailor your resume to a job by extracting the relevant keywords job descriptions use to ensure you add the right keywords and phrases into your resume. If you're looking for resume help, sign up for Huntr today .

Nicole Martins Ferreira

Nicole Martins Ferreira, Senior Writer at Huntr, brings a rich background in marketing, tech, and ecommerce to craft insightful content on job search strategies and career advancement. With experience from Super Magic Taste to Shopify, she excels in creating engaging, actionable advice for job seekers. Nicole's expertise in SEO and content marketing, honed across diverse roles, enables her to effectively guide individuals through the complexities of the job market. Her contributions at Huntr are vital, offering readers valuable tips and strategies to navigate their professional journeys successfully, making her work an invaluable resource for job seekers everywhere.

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30 Strong Resume Headline Examples to Use in 2023

What makes you click an article when you’re scrolling on your phone? If you think about it, it’s usually the headline. Out of the hundreds of stories we scan in a day, we're most likely to click and read something when the headline feels urgent, relevant, or clever.

The same principles apply when it comes to your resume: A strong headline will draw recruiters into the story of you— and entice them to keep reading.

As a certified professional resume writer who has written hundreds (and I mean hundreds ) of resumes, I strongly recommend using a headline. Whether you’re fresh out of college and looking for your first “real” job, or you're 20+ years into your career and eyeing the C-suite, a brilliant headline can make all the difference in landing a job interview.

Here’s everything you need to know about what resume headlines are, why they work, and how to add one to the resume you’ll use to land your next job.

What is a resume headline or resume title?

A resume headline is a concise description of your work experience, placed right at the top of your resume. It goes below your name and contact information, and above your summary or opening resume section . Your resume headline usually pairs a job title with a brief phrase or two that relates to the job you’re pursuing. It’s where you tell a decision maker—who is most likely skimming dozens of applications at a time—that you’re a great fit for the job.

Why should I use a resume headline?

Resume headlines work because they allow you to frame who you are and your core value proposition to the recruiter or hiring manager right away. This is your chance to say that you’re exactly what they’re looking for and prompt them to keep reading.

A headline also gives you a better shot at getting noticed because you can weave relevant keywords into this part of your resume. Keywords (job titles, skills, educational credentials, etc.) that align with the job description can increase the odds of your resume passing through an applicant tracking system (ATS) and landing in front of human reviewers who will ultimately make the hiring decisions.

Best resume headline templates for 2023

So, what does a resume headline look like? Here are three different templates you can use to write your own.

When writing resumes for my clients, I typically use this formula:

1-3 Commonly Used Job Titles That Describe You (In Plain English)

Keyword-Rich Supporting Statement Showcasing Something That Makes You a Standout for That Role

You might also consider a single-line headline that combines your title with an attention-grabbing phrase, something like this:

Job Title with X Years’ Experience Doing This Directly Relevant Thing

Job Title Who Achieved This Very Impressive Result

Certainly, you could go with one to three titles without the descriptive subhead or phrase. This is sometimes called a resume title, and it’s better than having no headline at all. But I’d argue it’s a missed opportunity to share something specific that ties your capabilities to the requirements of a job.

Whether you choose to use a resume title in your headline or keep it to just one line is really a matter of personal preference. What’s important is that you have one in the first place—and use it to your advantage.

6 ways to write a great resume headline

A compelling headline will be both keyword-rich and provide a short and snappy elevator pitch—something that summarizes what you’re all about in relation to the job or jobs you’re pursuing. Here’s what I recommend:

1. Position yourself for the job you want (but don’t lie)

Again, your goal is to set the stage with recruiters and hiring managers that you’re exactly what they’re looking for. Given this, the more closely you can align your resume to the job or jobs you want next—without making stuff up, of course—the better.

For instance, if you’re a marketing manager who’s built a successful e-commerce platform for your current employer and you’re applying for jobs at companies looking for a marketing leader with e-commerce experience, you’d be wise to announce that you’re a marketing leader with that specific experience in your headline.

2. Tailor your headline for each role you pursue

Building on tip number one, keep in mind that your resume headline is not a tattoo. You can, and should, modify your headline as needed if you’re applying for jobs with varying requirements.

So if you’re that same marketing manager and you’re applying for another job that emphasizes social media marketing—and you also have experience doing that—you shouldn’t hesitate to swap out the e-commerce mention for something more specific to social media.

https://www.themuse.com/advice/what-it-really-means-to-tailor-your-resume

3. Keep it concise

Brevity and strategy are key with your headline. If you’re using a job title and a phrase on the next line—like my team typically does—your whole headline should take up two lines max.

Otherwise, your headline should be a succinct one-liner combining title(s) with a powerful phrase about your fitness for this job.

4. Avoid clichés

Don’t waste valuable real estate with vague terms like “results oriented” or clichés such as "thinks outside the box.” Recruiters see these lines so often that their eyes will likely skip over ’em, and that’s the opposite of your goal here. Instead, show your impact with a data point: X Job Title Who Increased Revenue by 150%, or similar.

5. Use common job titles

If you’re looking for a job as a chief of staff and are basically working as one now, but have an oddball title that doesn’t immediately or clearly convey what you do, introduce yourself as a chief of staff in your headline. It all comes back to the keywords both the ATS and the people reading your resume are looking for. You don’t want to miss the chance to be considered for a full-stack engineering role because your current company uses the title “full-stack magician,” or be overlooked for a customer support role because your last company insisted on the title “weekend happiness concierge” (btw, those are real examples ).

6. Highlight accomplishments

Again, if you’re a top performer with impressive, quantifiable results to share, this is a great opportunity for you to show off. Take a look at the examples below to see what this could look like in action.

Best resume headline examples for 2023

What does a resume headline actually look like? Let’s run through a few examples.

A general resume headline, and why it works

Say you’re a project and program manager who just earned your Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. You’ve selected a few project and program management jobs that you want to apply for and notice that this certification is consistently listed as a preferred qualification. (Hooray, you have it!) You’re also seeing a common theme among the job descriptions that got you excited: They all call for someone who has worked with SaaS (or software as a service) companies. Hooray again, you have.

Your headline, then, may look like this:

PMP-Certified Project Manager | Senior Program Manager

Delivering Complex Projects—On Time & Within Budget—for Global SaaS Providers

This keyword-rich title immediately tells the reviewer that you’re a project manager and a program manager and that you have the valuable PMP certification. The rest of the headline makes it clear that you have experience in a SaaS environment and know how to successfully deliver projects on deadline and within budget. You’ll also notice that every word in the headline and subhead earns its spot on the page. There is no fluff. There are no clichés.

Everything works together to bring the reader into your story and make them eager to continue into your summary section.

A recent graduate resume headline, and why it works

Next up, how about a mechanical engineering graduate who is looking for engineering jobs in the robotics industry? This time, we’ll go with a headline that combines title and power phrase in a single line:

Purdue University BSME Honors Graduate With Robot Programming Experience

This one capitalizes on the prestige of a Purdue University engineering degree and showcases the candidate’s experience with a specific requirement of many robotics engineering jobs: the ability to program a robot.

One- and two-line resume headline examples

Here are a few more headline examples, for a variety of industries and roles:

Nonprofit Leader | Executive Director | Director of Development

Driving Transformative Performance on Behalf of Global Humanitarian Agencies

Supply Chain Manager | Logistics Team Lead

Optimizing Operational Performance in Global Manufacturing Environments

Executive Assistant | Office Manager

Enabling Business Leaders to Thrive by Delivering World-Class Administrative Support

Technical Writer | Trainer & Instructor

Transforming Complex Technical Information Into Compelling and Actionable Content, Lessons, & Documentation

We could take those same four people and create one-line headlines for them:

Nonprofit Director Who Has Successfully Raised $5M for Children’s Charities

Supply Chain Leader With 15 Years’ Experience Managing End-to-End Global Supply Chains

Executive Assistant—an Indispensable Partner to Senior Business Leaders

Technical Writer Specializing in Transforming Complex Information Into Compelling & Actionable Content

Lastly, some bonus resume headline examples

If you want even more ideas, consider these:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) With 8 Years Auditing Experience
SaaS Account Executive Who’s Closed Over $10 Million in Sales
Content Writer and Editor Who Has Increased SEO Traffic by Over 200%
Award Winning UX-Designer Specializing in Accessibility
Account Manager Responsible for Upsells Totalling $500K+ in 6 Months
Back-End Developer Fluent in JavaScript, SQL, Ruby, and Python
Advertising Executive Responsible for the GEICO Gecko
Social Media Marketing Specialist who Launched and Grew 100K Follower TikTok Account
Recruiter Who’s Sourced, Interviewed, and Overseen Hiring Process for 200+ Hired Candidates
Very Good Dog Who Doesn’t Bark at UPS Guy
Comp Sci Grad with Past Internships at Google and Facebook
Project Manager Specializing in Completing Over-Budget Initiatives Cheap
HR Professional with 18 Years in Benefits Management
Certified Special Education Teacher With 5 Years Experience in Multi-Grade Classroom
Data Analyst With 4 Years Experience in Financial Modeling
Data Scientist Specializing in Machine Learning
IT Professional Who Set Up Hillary Clinton’s Server—Which Is Still Unhacked
Engineer Who Actually Founded Tesla

Bottom line: No one—not even the ATS—can see and feel and touch your years of experience and understand why you should be hired. It’s on you to frame the “you on paper” as the very best candidate to the decision makers, whether they’re a technology or a group of humans. And it all starts with your headline.

Regina Borsellino also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

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60+ Resume Objective Examples for 2024 & How-to Guide

Objective in a Nutshell
Do I Need an Objective?
Write a Resume Objective That Rocks
3 General Objectives
60 Resume Objective Examples

Resume Objective FAQs

As a job seeker, you know getting a job isn’t easy. Even with the increase in salary information, thanks to new pay transparency laws , finding a job that suits your talents is challenging.

Now it’s time to start writing your resume, which means deciding if you’ll add optional sections like an objective statement. An objective can add valuable information, but knowing when to include one is tricky. Plus, a career objective is often confused with a resume summary .

We’ll tell you the differences between the two, and we’ll help you write an objective that highlights the best parts of your resume. Whether you’ve found the best resume builder or are wondering where to start, we’ve got the answers you need to write an amazing objective.

Resume Objective in a Nutshell

Young man in front of his laptop reading his resume

First: What is a resume objective? Well, it’s basically a snapshot of your best and most relevant expertise, given the position you’re hoping to snag. The primary purpose of your career objective is to quickly highlight your relevant skills and alignment with the specific company’s values and/or goals.

You want to ensure that any recruiter or potential employer sees why it would be ridiculous not to hire you! Your objective should hook the reader, persuading them to continue reviewing your resume—and, ultimately, shoot you an email or a phone call.

How do I know the difference between a resume objective and a summary?

Don’t worry if you’re confused about whether an objective or resume summary is the best choice for your resume. They’re pretty similar, and their contents can overlap quite a bit depending on the applicant, so there’s no need to overthink it! Still, there are a couple of differences to keep in mind if you’re struggling to decide:

Resume objective:

If you’re either switching careers or just starting in your field, then an objective statement could be the perfect intro to let employers know you’re the right pick. Resume objectives should stay between two and three sentences and focus on your short-term career goals and how you’re qualified to start pursuing them .

Resume summary:

A summary, which is also two or three sentences, usually best fits folks with more experience within their career. This statement summarizes a candidate’s extensive skills and work history. The resume summary could be your ideal option if you want to progress in a career where you’ve already experienced success.

Do I Need a Resume Objective ?

Young lady sitting at her laptop writing her resume

To start, consider whether you need an objective at all. Any stellar resume will fall at a page, and you’ll need to make every bit of space count. So, it’s essential to consider whether your objective will add value to your resume or just waste space.

An objective generally suits those who are entry-level or are changing careers. This statement summarizes a candidate’s most relevant, job-specific skills and identifies why they want to work for a target business.

Adding a resume objective could be wise if you want to break into a new career, show the employer you genuinely desire to work for their business, or resourcefully fill up a little extra white space.

Resume objectives can add value if:

You’re an entry-level candidate
Your work history is light
You’ve decided to make a career change

But when should you discard the objective statement entirely?

Keep in mind that, on average, hiring managers spend just over seven seconds reviewing your resume before determining whether they’ll take a closer look. That’s a narrow window, so if your resume errs on the side of generic or bland, omitting it is best.

How to Write an Objective for a Resume

A PC monitor and laptop showing well written resumes

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time writing your resume objective statement. Luckily, seeing samples of how others have handled similar obstacles can help—just remember to inject your personality and make each objective statement as unique as you are. And while comparing others’ statements to your own, ask yourself: “Which of my achievements look the most impressive?”

Plus, we’ve got a fantastic formula for you that will further uncomplicate things:

The process is as easy as X + Y + Z = Eye-catching resume objective!

X = Your characteristics and personality traits Y = Years of experience and quantified success/results Z = How these results apply to the specific job role

Keep this formula in mind, and you’ll surprise yourself with professional and engaging results like the objective below:

X = Ambitious, adaptable, eager, self-motivated, and efficient

Y = 2 years of intern experience within the field, learned skills/experience

Z = Technical and soft skills tie in with forging strong teams and client connections

7 ingredients to resume objective success

Not sure where to start? Check out these seven tips on how to add the maximum value to your resume objective and launch yourself into the top 20 percent of job applicants who actually get interviewed for a single job:

Don’t worry if this is a little overwhelming at first glance! Many job seekers linearly work through their resumes, but save your objective for last, even though it appears first. Once you fine-tune other sections, it’ll be easier to pinpoint choice details to fill in the formula and complete your perfect objective. (And who says you have to nail your statement the first time you write it?! Go through as many iterations as you need when you outline your resume .)

1. Inject your personality

Bonus points if you tie your personality traits in with the company’s values through skillful word choices! No one wants to read a bland resume objective that doesn’t connect the person with the company—they want to know who they’re hiring.

2. Lead with strengths

These strengths could be notable projects or extensive educational background for entry-level applicants or graduates. For anyone changing careers, include successes like past work projects that demonstrate overlapping skills/values with the role you’re currently seeking. Mention relevant certifications in your objective, too!

3. Minimize personal pronouns and contractions

Details like these may seem inconsequential and even helpful when trying to save space, but they can make your resume too informal. Also, referring to yourself instead of your skills can make it seem like you’re only interested in what the company will do for you.

(Hint: Gauge the company’s tone in its job description and website. You can get away with contractions more readily with informal companies).

4. Keep it at two or three sentences

Again, resume space is invaluable! Make the most of this real estate by ensuring your objective is long enough to provide eye-catching value but short enough that it won’t get skipped. Save the details for writing a cover letter . Critique it visually, too—how does it look on the page?

5. Talk about your relevant skills

Revisit the job listing for crucial skills that match your expertise and leverage that in your objective statement.

6. State why you’re interested and why you fit the role

Other skilled applicants undoubtedly applied for this same role—so what makes you the right fit? Mentioning why you’re interested in the position and how you’re a good match will help you stand out from the crowd.

7. Use a resume template that gives you the option to include an objective

Why reinvent the wheel? All our free Google Docs resume templates have space for your objective. Take advantage of a resume template (you can edit the one just below!) already laid out for your specific needs rather than dealing with the frustration of a template breaking because you tried to add one.

Middle School History Teacher Resume

Common resume objective roadblocks

If you’re struggling, remember that starting in the wrong place is a common but avoidable pitfall: many applicants try writing their objective first, only to find they don’t know where to begin. Lessen your stress by drafting the rest of your resume first . Writing a quality resume objective will become easier once your qualifications are laid out on the table.

Since your objective needs to take up so little space, get selective while skimming the cream of the crop from your resume bullet points. What previous roles resulted in your most impressive contributions to a company? Put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes and think of what they’d want in their next hire, then write your objective based on your most dazzling selling points.

Return to our objective samples in this post anytime you need some inspiration. You can also better prepare with a resume outline . Planning out the arrangement of your background and skills will simplify filling out your resume when the time comes.

Resume objective knockouts, hopefuls, and wannabes

To give you some examples of what we’ve been talking about, let’s look at a mock job description for a data scientist and compare three resume objective statements to see what passes muster.

Data scientist job description example:

Currently seeking a remote data scientist for Infinity Solars who is self-starting, innovative, and skilled with various data tools to design/create predictive customer behavioral models. Must be able to translate data for all levels of communication to support leadership groups, give team members actionable business insights, and lead machine-learning algorithm development. Must exhibit exceptional critical thinking skills by gauging the effectiveness and accuracy of data quality and mining techniques.

Now, let’s see how these example resume objective statements stack up:

I can definitely talk to people since I just got out of college for biology. I’m good with group projects and know a lot about computers.

Why it’s not a winner : Leave out bland objectives like this one, which lacks the valuable info necessary to justify taking up space. What kind of job is this even for?

I love solar power and could use my background in data analysis to help your company. I’m also a big team player and have plenty of qualifying technical skills.

Why it’s just okay: At least there’s some personality here, although it’s a little informal. This candidate should also specify skills that would benefit the specific company.

Knockout: Check out our example!

Why it’s great: Nice—personality traits and skills that align with the job description! We also see years of experience with well-rounded skills that would benefit the company, presented with compelling and enthusiastic word choices.

3 Resume Objectives That Are General but Not Generic

Young man sitting behind his computer screen happily typing away

Keeping a few general (but not generic!) resume objective statements nearby enables you to customize your resume at any time quickly! Take a look at these general examples and note how to make them specific to you:

Make resume objective #1 specific to you by:

Speaking to the exact obstacles the company mentions in its job ad
Mentioning the company name

Make resume objective #2 specific to you by:

Mentioning your relevant educational or professional background
Connecting your goals with the company’s

Make resume objective #3 specific to you by:

Mentioning a notable company from your extensive experience
Presenting your abilities as solutions to company obstacles

7 Resume Objective Examples by Career Stage

Young lady going over notes on a blackboard

The current stage of your career journey is crucial regarding the tone of your resume objective—a senior-level candidate who’s changing careers, for example, should sound different from a fresh graduate. See what we mean?

1. Entry-level resume objective

Entry-level resume examples >>

2. No experience resume objective

3. Internship resume objective

4. Changing locations resume objective

5. Student resume objective

Graduate student resume examples >> College student resume examples >> High school student resume examples >>

6. College graduate resume objective

College graduate resume examples >> MBA resume examples >>

7. Changing careers resume objective

Career change resume examples >>

20 Resume Objective Examples Tailored to the Job Description

Now that you’ve made it this far, we’ve put together 20 more resume objectives—specific to various professions—so you can see how they exemplify our tips and tricks from earlier!

1. Accountant resume objective

Accountant job description key details:

Critical thinking and adept organizational skills, especially concerning client information and records
Information gathering and the ability to handle large data sets
Strong ethics and integrity with sensitive personal information

Accountant resume objective:

Why this resume works

This candidate addresses skills emphasized in the job description while injecting personality and enthusiasm for the role.
They also make up for their limited background experience by focusing on the skills that will make them great accountants while demonstrating an eagerness to learn.

Accountant resume examples >> Accountant cover letter examples >>

2. Attorney resume objective

Attorney job description key details:

Ability to handle fast-paced and high-stress settings
Compassionate and caring
Logical and creative

Attorney resume objective:

Applicant leads in with necessary and location-specific qualifications and knowledge.
The objective mentions compassion and determination to find justice, tying these values with the organization by name.

Attorney resume examples >> Attorney cover letter examples >>

3. Business analyst resume objective

Business analyst job description key details:

Analyze, evaluate, and improve business processes
Incredible communication and listening skills
Detail-oriented, innovative, and technically competent

Business analyst resume objective:

This candidate uses language from the company site to exhibit relevance despite having limited professional experience.
Applicant quickly provides experience and desirable skills that mirror the job description.

Business analyst resume examples >> Business analyst cover letter examples >>

4. Customer service resume objective

Customer service job description key details:

Critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
Flexible and adaptable
Dependable team player

Customer service resume objective:

The candidate shows efficiency by quickly laying out experience and applicable skills.
This resume objective responds directly to the company’s mission statement in both phrasing and qualification choices.

Customer service resume examples >> Customer service cover letter examples >>

5. Data analyst resume objective

Data analyst job description key details:

Exemplary analytical and data gathering skills
Ability to translate large data sets into actionable points
Monitor KPIs and generate reader-friendly reports

Data analyst resume objective:

This candidate may not have traditional work experience but leverages freelance work to prove knowledge and impact.
It’s a good idea to tie your qualifications to the company’s mission statements, just like this applicant shows how their skill set will benefit the organization.

Data analyst resume examples >> Data analyst cover letter examples >>

6. Data engineer resume objective

Data engineer job description key details:

Mine data via modern tools and programming languages
Ideas for innovative and creative solutions
Teamwork and strong collaboration skills

Data engineer resume objective:

Work culture and environment are casual here, so the candidate matches this tone.
The candidate emphasizes teamwork and other skills emphasized in the job description.

Data engineer resume examples >> Data engineer cover letter examples >>

7. Data scientist resume objective

Data scientist job description key details:

Understanding of how to apply scientific methods to data analysis
Use algorithms KPIs to generate business insights

Data scientist resume objective:

The applicant doesn’t have tons of experience, but they dive right into their educational and technical qualifications to make up for it.
The tone of this resume objective mirrors that of Barilla’s company culture, and it pulls in some unique phrasing from their website.

Data scientist resume examples >> Data scientist cover letter examples >>

8. Graphic designer resume objective

Graphic designer job description key details:

Creativity and technical ability
Strong understanding of how to captivate customers with visual media
Ability to think outside of the box and implement new ideas within the creative team

Graphic designer resume objective:

While the candidate’s field is creative, Felicity’s tone is professional, so the objective statement reflects this.
We see qualifications right out the gate, followed by a strong tie-in with company values.

Graphic designer resume examples >> Graphic designer cover letter examples >>

9. Human resources (HR) resume objective

Human resources (HR) job description key details:

Policy adherence, problem-solving, and conflict resolution
Super communication while educating employees and handling paperwork
Hiring and intake process

Human resources resume objective:

We immediately see language pulled from the company site and key skills from the job description.
The candidate then brings in personal traits that make them an ideal fit for the role.

Human resources (HR) resume examples >> Human resources (HR) cover letter examples >>

10. Nursing resume objective

Nursing job description key details:

Checking, recording, and reporting patient vitals
Compassionate and caring bedside manner
Resilience during long shifts and difficult situations

Nurse resume objective:

This candidate covers all the key points from the job description perfectly.
The applicant also explicitly mentions the job setting by name.

Nursing resume examples >> Nursing cover letter examples >>

11. Operations manager resume objective

Operations manager job description key details:

Increase profits by improving efficiency
Leadership and administration
Strategizing and problem-solving

Operations manager resume objective:

The applicant establishes a personal connection with Hilldrup and provides valuable skills.
This candidate may not have much experience to share, but they demonstrate specific abilities from the job description and reference the company mission statement.

Operations manager resume examples >> Operations manager cover letter examples >>

12. Product manager resume objective

Product manager job description key details:

Ensuring congruence between products and company strategy/goals
Ability to oversee all functions and aspects of a product’s lifecycle
Communication, collaboration, and facilitation

Product manager resume objective:

All the key “skill categories” are covered! This candidate sounds well-rounded and capable.
The applicant also references the company vision and specific nuances from the job description.

Product manager resume examples >> Product manager cover letter examples >>

13. Program manager resume objective

Program manager job description key details:

Leadership, delegation, and coordination abilities
Planning, guiding, and driving projects to enhance the company’s portfolio
Policy adherence and optimization

Program manager resume objective:

This applicant may be an intern, but they nail the ideal attitude of a confident program manager.
We see plenty of key terms from the job description with a little spark of personality from the company site.

Program manager resume examples >> Program manager cover letter examples >>

14. Project manager resume objective

Project manager job description key details:

Ability to work cross-functionally with multiple departments

Project manager resume objective:

Applicant makes up for limited-to-no professional experience by diving into powerful, relevant skills.
Key phrasing from goals on the company site also makes an appearance.

Project manager resume examples >> Project manager cover letter examples >>

15. Recruiter resume objective

Recruiter job description key details:

Interpersonal skills and an eye for talent
Strong decision-making and organizational skills
Ability to guide new hires through onboarding

Recruiter resume objective:

The soft skills are strong here and immediately tie in with other impressive qualifications.
The candidate references the company’s name, goals, and mission statement.

Recruiter resume examples >> Recruiter cover letter examples >>

16. Sales resume objective

Sales job description key details:

Team leadership abilities and ability to self-motivate
Ability to research and analyze market trends
Familiarity with software as it applies to customer assistance and troubleshooting

Sales associate resume objective:

We see relevant personality traits, skills, and experience immediately.
The candidate ties personal abilities and past experience with a brand-new role and the company vision.

Sales resume examples >> Sales cover letter examples >>

17. Scrum master resume objective

Scrum Master job description key details:

Ability to serve as the point of contact for external communication
Results-driven personality and ability to pinpoint areas for improvement
Adaptability while teaching and adhering to Agile/Scrum values and empowering team members

Scrum master resume objective:

The applicant’s personality shines through as they highlight personal skill growth.
The tone of this resume objective is ambitious and knowledgeable.

Scrum Master resume examples >> Scrum Master cover letter examples >>

18. Social media manager resume objective

Social media manager job description key details:

Ability to strategize, plan, and execute ad campaigns
Knack for keeping up with market trends
Increase target audience reach via analytics and targeting

Social media manager resume objective:

This candidate gets straight to the point, citing an impressive metric and relating it to the company.
Worthington’s company vision also makes an appearance. Nice!

Social media manager resume examples >> Social media manager cover letter examples >>

19. Software engineer resume objective

Software engineer job description key details:

Engineering mindset applied to software development
Analyze, enhance, and test existing software and code
Creativity while engineering new programming solutions

Software engineer resume objective:

The candidate mirrors the conversational, storytelling tone of the company site and pulls specific phrases from its vision statements.
Technical skills and a go-getter attitude make up for a sparse professional history.

Software engineer resume examples >> Software engineer cover letter examples >>

20. Teacher resume objective

Teacher job description key details:

Fantastic communication and listening skills
Ability to pleasantly keep control of the room
Organization and record-keeping abilities

Teacher resume objective:

The applicant leads with a robust set of personal qualities that demonstrate the ideal archetype of a caring teacher.
The candidate highlights how their skills will benefit people at the school where they apply.

Teacher resume examples >> Teacher cover letter examples >>

30 More Job-Specific Resume Objectives

While you look through these next 30 resume objective samples, imagine they’re tailored to a specific job description—and look for ways you can do the same while writing your own.

1. Account manager resume objective

2. Barista resume objective

3. Chef resume objective

4. Computer science resume objective

5. Construction worker resume objective

6. Consulting resume objective

7. Dentist resume objective

8. Electrician resume objective

9. Front desk receptionist resume objective

Front-desk receptionist career objective example

10. Full-stack engineer resume objective

11. Hostess resume objective

12. Medical assistant resume objective

13. Network engineer resume objective

14. Personal trainer resume objective

15. Pharmacist resume objective

16. Product owner resume objective

17. Programmer resume objective

18. Real estate agent resume objective

19. Truck driver resume objective

20. Web developer resume objective

Career objective example for a web developer with JavaScript, PHP, and Mongo DB experience

21. High school student resume objective

High school student career objective example for a cashier role

22. Stay at home mom resume objective

Stay-at-home mom career objective example with 8 years of parenting

23. Server resume objective

Career objective example for server position at Olive Garden

24. Nanny resume objective

Nanny career objective with 5 years of experience

25. Data entry resume objective

Career objective example for data entry clerk role with experience in improving record accessibility

26. Marketing resume objective

Career objective example for a marketing associate role with experience in Hootsuite

27. Teacher assistant resume objective

Career objective for a teacher assistant with 4 years of experience

28. Caregiver resume objective

Caregiver career objective with 7 years of experience in pain management and motivation

29. Social worker resume objective

Career objective for a social worker with success in increasing students' success rates

30. Dental assistant resume objective

Career objective example for dental assistant with five years of experience

On a resume, your objective is your goal . Where do you want to be in your field, and what qualifying skills, personal traits, or experiences will help you get there? How does the next step in your career journey relate to the job description? How do your professional goals benefit the company you’re connecting with?

A good objective statement tells readers why you want the job and how you can contribute if you’re hired. Your objective should also forge your first link with the company by connecting over mutual values or goals. You also want to keep things concise and avoid repeating yourself later in the resume: Keep everything fresh!

Your resume objective should state that you want the job and then make your reader want to give it to you by supporting your qualifications with a few skills. Connect with the company to demonstrate thoroughness and ambition! If you have an example of how you align with the company or have overcome one of their current obstacles, include it briefly if you have room.

It’s almost always effective to open your objective with a few skills that demonstrate your understanding of the job. (“Given my background in networking and my extensive knowledge of MongoDB, . . .”).

Then, you can segue into how your skills align with the job description of the company you’re applying to. You can also open with your personal connection to the organization’s values.

Your career objective should just be a few concise, skillfully crafted sentences! You don’t want to use too much page space, and you want recruiters to get to your attention-grabbing credentials and experiences quickly. Show your written communication skills by limiting your objective to around 30 to 50 words.

The purpose of an objective is to help entry-level candidates (or others with limited experience or a career switch on the horizon) sum up how their personal professional goals align with the company’s. Your objective should express enthusiasm for the core mission of the job role and demonstrate that you’re a strong candidate with examples.

Resume Objective Takeaways and Your Next Steps

We know it’s easy to get lost amid so many details and tidbits of information: But don’t lose sight of the forest for the trees. Refer to the above objective examples and take inspiration from our 1,000+ resume examples .

And when it’s time to write your resume objective statement, take a step back and don’t forget about our easy formula:

X + Y + Z = Eye-catching objective statement!

X = Your applicable personal characteristics and traits

Y = Years of experience and/or quantified success/results

Z = How these results (or other relevant and comparable qualifications) apply to the specific job role

This formula will be your resume objective statement’s lifesaver! If you don’t have experience yet, try to balance that out with your previous achievements or character traits that align with the company and its vision—these will show you’re a desirable hire even if you haven’t had the chance to prove it just yet.

Lastly, remember that we have plenty of other helpful tools to ensure the rest of your resume is as stunning as your objective statement! Stop by and check out our resume maker and handy resume tips . You’ve got everything you need to get started—so get ready to let yourself shine!

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75+ Real-Life Resume Objective Examples [+How-to Guide]

You’re looking to enter the workforce and find the perfect first job in your chosen field. As you’re scrolling through job boards, mindlessly browsing through countless irrelevant ads, you come across an interesting posting.

There it is—the perfect job!

This is what you’ve been looking for all along.

It’s the job that will ease your student loans, cover your crippling debt, help you figure out the meaning of life, and even get your crush to notice you.

There’s just one small problem, though.

You’re not sure how to convince the hiring manager that you’re a good fit for the job.

This is where the resume objective comes in.

Done right, a resume objective can win over the hiring manager and show them that you make up for your lack of relevant experience with passion and enthusiasm.

In this article, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about resume objectives, including:

What a Resume Objective Is (And Why It Matters!)
How to Write the Perfect Resume Objective
Real-Life Resume Objective Examples for Every Field

Let’s dive right in.

This guide is part of our larger resume series. If you want to start at the beginning, take a look at our comprehensive guide on how to make a resume .

What is a Resume Objective?

A resume objective is an eye-catching statement of your career intent that’s placed at the top of your resume. Its goal is to pique the hiring manager’s curiosity and get them to read the rest of your application.

The resume objective provides a two to three-sentence snapshot of your professional experience, skills, and achievements and aims to explain why they make you the right candidate for the job.

Here’s an example:

When Should You Use a Resume Objective?

Resume objectives aren’t that common. If you’re an experienced professional, you’re much better off sticking to a resume summary to describe your top skills and experiences.

That said, there are a few cases when you should stick to a resume objective instead, including:

Searching for your first job. Whether you’re a fresh graduate looking for your very first job or a student signing up for your first internship, a resume objective will show the hiring manager that you have the drive to develop your skill set and grow within the company.
Making a career change. If you worked as an engineer in an app development company for the past three years and you’re now applying for a marketing job in a start-up, a resume summary just won’t do. A well-written resume objective, on the other hand, can highlight how your current skills are relevant to the position and how enthusiastic you are for this next step in your career.

How to Write a Convincing Resume Objective

Your resume objective can tip the scales in your favor during your job search .

Resume objectives are structured in three main parts:

Who you are. You can mention what your level of experience is and why it’s relevant. (E.g.: Recent Finance graduate, looking to kickstart my career in accounting. )
What you offer the company. This is where you can highlight skills that would make you a good fit for the job. (E.g.: Proficient in MS Excel, Word, and Mathematics. )
How you’ll help the company accomplish its goals. Mention what your goal within the company is. (E .g.: Eager to contribute to Business X’s growth by reducing costs. )

Not too hard, right?

To make things even easier, you can just follow our tried-and-tested resume objective template:

In a nutshell, a resume objective is a great way to draw attention away from your lack of relevant work experience and, instead, show the hiring manager what essential skills and other experiences you have and how they can help you succeed in the company.

(1) [SKILL/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION RELEVANT TO THE JOB WITH JOB TITLE] . Looking to apply my (2) [years/months of EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO THE JOB DESCRIPTION] at [COMPANY YOU ARE APPLYING TO] , to help (3) [TYPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES YOU WILL HELP OUT WITH SUCCESSFULLY] .

In practice, it looks something like this:

CPA-certified forensic accountant with demonstrated experience in financial record examination. Looking to apply my 3 years of experience at Company X to help the team at ABC Inc. improve their activity-based accounting techniques in the role of a managerial accountant.

So, basically, a badly written resume objective is overly generic and doesn’t say anything new about the candidate. But when done right, a resume objective can help your application stand out.

5 Tips for Writing an Awesome Resume Objective

If you follow the formatting we laid out for you, then you’re already 90% ready with your resume objective.

Now, all you have to do is take it to the next level by following these tips:

#1. Tailor Your Resume Objective to the Job

Make sure to tailor your resume objective to the specific position or organization you are applying to. After all, a vague “ engineer looking for an engineering job ” doesn’t impress anyone.

A tailored resume objective shows the employer that you've taken the time to research the company and the position and that you've carefully thought about how your goals align with the company.

Start by thoroughly reading the job description and picking out the key skills, work experience , and qualifications that the employer is looking for. You can also check their website to learn more about their mission statement or company culture. Then, think about how your background makes you a good match for them.

For example, if you're applying for a marketing position at a company that promotes sustainability, your objective might be:

Aspiring Marketing Coordinator seeking a role at EcoTextile Innovations. Strong foundation in communication and ethical business practices, aimed at promoting fair-trade textiles. Ready to drive innovative marketing strategies in a dynamic team environment with a deep commitment to sustainability.

When you match your resume objective to the employer’s needs, it shows you're not just looking for any job—you want this job. As such, tailoring your resume objective like this can make a strong impression and convey your genuine interest in the role.

#2. Include Relevant Skills

Your resume objective should include skills, knowledge, and abilities that you know will help the company achieve its goals.

This paragraph isn’t just about yourself or your career—it’s about how you’re going to help the company, which is what the hiring manager is looking to find out.

So, even when you’re professionally inexperienced, you might have skills that you’ve acquired in other ways, such as through internships, volunteer work, or any relevant coursework . What you need to do is focus on listing those in your resume objective instead of traditional work experience, and show that you’re prepared to add value from day one. Just go through the job description and reflect on what your transferable skills are and how you match the job requirements.

Always be specific and use concrete examples of where you gained those skills. For example, if you are applying for a human resources position, your resume objective could be:

Psychology graduate seeking an entry-level Human Resources Assistant role at Bright Futures Inc. Eager to apply strong organizational and communication skills honed through academic projects and volunteer work. Aimed at contributing to team management and enhancing employee satisfaction within a dynamic corporate environment.

This shows that you have plenty of the knowledge and soft skills that the job needs and that you can bring value to the team.

#3. Stick to the Facts

It might be tempting to use grand statements to impress your potential employer, but bragging and vague language have no place in your resume objective.

So, instead of making yourself sound cool with vast words and declarations, use as many facts and numbers as possible to back up your experience. Say, for example, that you’re going from Marketing to Advertising. It’s one thing to say “Expert at Advertising” and another to say “Experienced in managing 5-figure advertising spend from my previous position as a Facebook Marketer.”

Sticking to the facts gives you a lot more credibility. When you back up your skills and experiences with hard data, you're not just telling the employer what you can do; you're proving it.

So, how do you put this into practice? Just dig into your professional and academic history. Think about when and how you made a difference.

Did you increase sales, cut costs, or improve efficiency? Maybe you did something during an internship, any of your courses, or while working a part-time job? Quantify any of those impressive achievements you want to add to your resume objective, and you’re good to go.

Focusing on the facts shows that you know your stuff, and it demonstrates a level of professionalism and attention to detail that employers love. It’s exactly those details that can tell your story and make your resume stand out from the crowd.

#4. Relate Your Goals to the Company

If you have a resume with no work experience , you can include a career goal in your resume objective. Just make sure it’s something related to the company you’re applying to.

Your focus should always be on showing the hiring manager how your goals support the company’s needs. For example, if you’re applying for a customer support representative position, your resume objective should relate to customer service excellence, not your dream to eventually become a professor.

For example, if you’re applying to a tech firm for a customer support role, here’s what your resume objective can be:

IT graduate Looking to join Company XYZ as a Customer Support Representative. Eager to use my interpersonal skills and understanding of technology to improve customer satisfaction and contribute to the company’s tech advancements.

Framing your career goals to reflect the company’s objectives shows the hiring manager that you understand the role and that you’re ready to contribute right from the start.

#5. Keep It Simple

There’s no need to use complex words in your resume objective.

Using complicated language and words to make yourself sound smart usually leaves a bad impression and makes you come off as arrogant.

For example, instead of "contemplate,” just say "think." Instead of using "undertake,” use "do.” They both mean the same thing anyway, and you want your achievements to speak louder than the fancy words you use.

This makes your resume objective much more straightforward to understand and serves as a subtle hint that shows you can communicate clearly . After all, your resume objective aims to make you shine as a candidate, not show off your vocabulary.

Good Example VS Bad Example

Let’s drive the point home by showing you the difference between a resume objective that follows our tips and one that doesn’t.

XYZ Inc. is looking for a sales representative manager for its German branch . Minimum of 3 years of working experience in management. Daily duties: planning, directing, and overseeing the sales representative team.

And here is a no-no kind of resume objective:

I am looking to appertain my exceptional skills in management by being part of a groundbreaking and innovative company for a few years, then eventually switching to a job in AI.

This is what makes the above a bad resume objective:

“Exceptional” is subjective. The hiring manager has no way of knowing whether this bold statement is true.
The language needs to be simplified. Why use “appertain” when you can just say “apply”?
Giving the company empty flattery doesn’t leave a great impression. Most companies think of themselves as “groundbreaking” or "innovative," so you’re not showing the company why you’re interested in them.
The entire resume objective sounds more focused on you than on the company, and yet it doesn’t tell them anything relevant about you as a candidate.
Your career goal tells them you won’t be sticking with them for too long. That’s a major red flag for any employer, so you’re not getting a call.

On the other hand, here is a great resume objective:

Sales manager trained in Berlin. Looking to apply my BA in Business Management and acquired skills at XYZ Inc. by making sure the sales representative team is staffed and follows quality standards, helping XYZ increase revenue and market share in the process.

Here’s why this resume objective is good:

The professional experience is summarized and backed up with concrete facts.
It mentions abilities that make you stand out and match the job requirements, like being trained in Germany.
The resume objective shows that you understand the role and responsibilities the position requires, and you describe how you’ll do them successfully.
It also includes the skills and experience relevant to the management position.
The overall language is simple, down-to-earth, and objective, and it’s tailored to show that you genuinely care about the overall goals of the company.

3 Most Common Cases for a Resume Objective

By now, you have all the information you need to write an amazing resume objective.

So, let’s look at the three most common cases when you’ll need to write one.

#1. Recent Graduate Resume Objective

The most common situation where you’d need a resume objective is when you don’t have any work experience and need a way to stand out from the rest of the applicants.

So, if you’re a recent graduate looking for a job , your resume objective should focus more on your education, internships, and extracurricular activities , if applicable. Here’s an example:

Motivated Liberal Arts graduate eager to join ABC Inc. as a junior graphic designer. Looking forward to applying skills in Photoshop and Canva to create eye-catching visuals that captivate audiences.

You can also write an eye-catching resume objective that will grab the hiring manager’s attention, even if you’re a job-seeker without a relevant degree in the field. You just have to focus on your best personal traits, skills, and motivation instead of work experience or education.

Organized and hard-working professional looking to join XYZ Inc. as a marketing assistant. Looking to take advantage of my copywriting and editing skills to help XYZ Inc. with their marketing efforts.

#2. Internship Resume Objective

If you’re looking to land an internship, writing a great resume objective can be just as beneficial.

It’s your best bet at piquing the hiring manager’s attention, getting them to read the rest of your resume, and getting that internship .

In this case, you want to focus on:

Your educational background and achievements
Your most relevant hard and soft skills
Any other relevant experience, such as personal projects or volunteering experience

And here’s a practical example:

Recent graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration, looking to start a career in Finance through an internship at XYZ Inc. Experienced in analyzing financial statements and annual reports for several university projects. Seeking to further develop my theoretical know-how with strong mentorship at XYZ Inc.

#3. Career Change Resume Objective

The next most common situation where you’d use a resume objective is if you’re going for a career change .

A resume objective helps the hiring manager understand how your skillset from a previous field helps translate into the job you’re applying for.

Here, you can mention:

Relevant skills for the job you’re applying for
Previous work experience
How your background will help you excel at the job

Here’s how this looks in practice:

Customer Support Representative with 3+ years of experience in over-the-phone technical support looking to leverage communication skills as a Sales Representative at XYZ Inc. Excellent track record in delivering quality support service, having maintained a 4.6+ star “Helpful” rating over the past 2 years.

75+ Resume Objective Examples

Now, you’re ready to write your resume objective!

But before you get started, though, you might need some inspiration.

So let’s go through our list of 75+ resume objective examples for different professions!

Sales and Customer Service Resume Objective Examples

#1. sales associate resume objective.

“Charismatic, communicative worker seeking an entry-level sales job at XYX Inc. Tech-savvy, who can pick up product knowledge quickly. Previous experience as a Sales Clerk at Random Retail Store X.”

Read the full sales associate resume example here.

#2. Account Manager Resume Objective

“Diligent graduate with a B.A. in Business Management at University Y seeking to provide excellent client service at XYZ Inc. as an Account Manager. Strong communication skills from my job as a Sales Manager at Company X. Outstanding project management skills, having worked on over a dozen business projects in university.”

#3. Technical Support Specialist Resume Objective

“IT student seeking a part-time role as a Technical Support Specialist at XYZ Inc. Experienced using help desks and CRM systems. Skilled in written communication with intermediate knowledge in the IT-sphere.”

#4. Customer Service Representative Resume Objective

“Multi-lingual communicator looking to help XYZ Inc. provide stellar customer experience. Strong communication skills. Fluent in English, French, and Russian. Basic knowledge of CRM systems.”

Read the full customer service resume example here.

#5. Cashier Resume Objective

“Enthusiastic, courteous waiter seeking the role of a Cashier at XYZ Inc. Currently working part-time at Restaurant ABC, looking to fill up the rest of my time. Strong communication skills and a genuine love for working with people. Good at carrying out mathematical calculations.”

Read the full cashier resume example here.

#6. Retail Manager Resume Objective

“Experienced retail worker looking for a job as a Retail Manager at XYZ Inc. Skilled in inventory management, having worked as a warehouse manager in two separate organizations. Dependable math skills from working as a cashier at Company X.”

Read the full retail manager resume example here.

#7. Barista Resume Objective

“Customer-focused individual with a passion for creating delightful coffee experiences, looking for a position as a barista at Coffee House X. Strong communication and teamwork skills, dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction, and a positive attitude.”

Read the full barista resume example here.

#8. Server Resume Objective

"Aspiring Server with years of restaurant experience as an expo and host. Demonstrated ability to maintain a clean and efficient dining environment, combined with a strong commitment to exceptional customer service. Eager to leverage my restaurant expertise to enhance the dining experience at Fine Dining Bistro."

Read the full server resume example here.

#9. Waiter Resume Objective

“Experienced service industry worker seeking to apply for the position of Waiter at XYZ Restaurant. Experience includes working as a bartender, busser, and line cook. Thrives in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.”

Read the full waiter resume example here.

#10. Front Desk Agent Resume Objective

“3rd-year Medical Student looking for a summer job as a Front Desk Agent at XYZ Hotel. Experience in working face-to-face with customers, having worked part-time jobs as a cashier and waitress. Social, positive, and hard-working.”

#11. Housekeeper Resume Objective

“Seasonal worker seeking a housekeeping job at XYZ Hotel. Diligent and organized, having spent the past 3 summers working in Nantucket. Previous roles include bussing at Restaurant Y and prep cooking at Local Restaurant X.”

#12. Line Cook Resume Objective

“Recent graduate from Houston Culinary Arts School seeking a position as a line cook at Fancy Restaurant XYZ. Looking to further develop cooking skills learned at school. Previous experience working in a high-stress environment as a part-time Sandwich Maker at Fast Food Place X.”

#13. Food and Beverage Management Resume Objective

“Seasoned Server with 10+ years of hospitality industry experience looking to help Restaurant XYZ take its business to the next level. During my time as a server, I helped 3+ restaurants with hiring and training new staff, as well as coming up with promotional strategies for specific foods and drinks.”

Read the full bar manager resume example here.

Administrative and HR Resume Objective Examples

#14. receptionist resume objective.

"Friendly and efficient multitasker with a knack for creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, seeking a role as a Receptionist at ABC Office Solutions. Strong organizational and communication skills and dedication to providing exceptional service in a professional setting."

Read the full receptionist resume example here.

#15. Recruiter Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, equipped with a solid academic foundation and a passion for connecting talent with opportunities. Hands-on experience in conducting interviews, strong communication skills, and a commitment to finding the best candidates. Eager to launch a career as a Recruiter at XYZ Talent Solutions, where I can contribute to building exceptional teams."

Read the full recruiter resume example here.

#16. Human Resources Specialist Resume Objective

“Psychology graduate looking for a position as a Human Resources Specialist at XYZ Inc. Completed an internship at Company X. Looking to further develop my experience in the field and help XYZ Inc. go above and beyond with satisfying their employees’ needs.”

Read the full human resources resume example here.

#17. Office Manager Resume Objective

“Experienced Office Manager seeking to help XYZ Inc. provide a stellar customer experience and take the Portsmouth branch to the next level. Experienced in managing teams of 15+ in several different restaurants, such as Restaurant A and Restaurant B. Handled every aspect of the business, from hiring new staff to managing marketing initiatives.”

Read the full office manager resume example here.

#18. Secretary Resume Objective

“Recent Communications graduate looking to apply for the role of Secretary at XYZ Inc. Extremely organized with good writing and multitasking skills. Practical experience in management gained through several university projects, which involves coordinating tasks between different team members and ensuring that everyone was in sync with the latest information.”

#19. Executive Assistant Resume Objective

“Freelance Virtual Assistant looking to switch to the position of an Executive Assistant. Worked with 5+ online businesses, helping with everything from data entry to customer support. Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills. Proficient in Excel, and Photoshop. Intermediate copywriting skills.”

Read the full executive assistant resume example here.

#20. Administrative Assistant Resume Objective

“Organized and hardworking professional looking to work at XYZ Inc. as an Administrative Assistant. Previous experience in several related fields, such as working as a Secretary for 3 years, in addition to being an Executive Assistant for 1 year. Strong organizational skills, as well as a keen eye for detail.”

Read the full administrative assistant resume example here.

#21. Data Entry Resume Objective

“Meticulous graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration looking to fill the Data Entry Clerk position at company XYZ Inc. Skilful typer with an average typing speed of 85 WPM. Possessing 2+ years of experience using typing tools such as MS Word and MS Excel for task tracking and automation.”

Read the full data entry resume example here.

Finance Resume Objective Examples

#22. accountant resume objective.

“Graduate with an M.A. in Accounting and Finance seeking the position of a Junior Accountant at XYZ Inc. Highest grades in relevant courses, including Intermediate Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Advanced Finance, and more.”

Read the full accountant resume example here.

#23. Financial Analyst Resume Objective

“Finance student with 3.92 GPA seeking an entry-level Financial Analyst position at XYZ Inc. Skilled in financial data analysis, reading financial sheets, with excellent knowledge of accounting and tax legislation.”

Read the full financial analyst resume example here.

#24. Bank Teller Resume Objective

“Customer Support Representative with 2+ years working client-facing roles seeking a job as a Bank Teller at XYZ Inc. Experienced in working with customers over the phone as well as by email. Excellent math skills, having graduated high school with a specialization in mathematics.”

Read the full bank teller resume example here.

#25. Banker Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Finance, equipped with strong analytical and mathematical skills. Eager to launch my career in banking at XYZ Bank, where I can apply my knowledge gained through coursework and internships to help clients achieve their financial goals."

Read the full banker resume example here.

Business Resume Objective Examples

#26. business analyst resume objective.

“Business Student at University X seeking a summer internship as a Business Analyst at XYZ Inc. Strong business know-how, with a focus on analyzing and interpreting data. Completed 10+ real-life business consulting case studies as university projects. Skilled in financial and managerial accounting.”

Read the full business analyst resume example here.

#27. Business Development Manager Resume Objective

"Experienced Project Manager skilled in overseeing complex initiatives and achieving project goals. Seeking a role as a Business Development Manager to utilize my expertise in project planning, client relations, and market analysis for driving growth and expansion at XYZ Company.”

Read the full business development manager resume example here.

#28. Project Manager Resume Objective

“Detail-oriented software engineer with 5+ years of experience in Node.js and React looking to transition into the role of an IT-focused Project Manager. Practical experience conducting daily scrum meetings and following agile project management methodologies.”

Read the full project manager resume example here.

Marketing and Advertising Resume Objective Examples

#29. marketing executive resume objective.

"Experienced Sales Lead with a background in driving revenue growth and customer engagement. Looking to put my skills into a Marketing Executive role at XYZ Inc. Proven success in building and managing teams and a solid understanding of consumer behavior to help craft effective marketing strategies."

Read the full marketing executive resume example here.

#30. Marketing Manager Resume Objective

“Recent graduate with an M.A. in Marketing Strategy looking to further my career in advertising at XYZ Inc. Strong skills in copywriting and graphic design, coupled with a creative mind. Practical experience in creating social media ads (Facebook, Instagram) as a marketing intern.”

Read the full marketing manager resume example here.

#31. Social Media Marketing Manager Resume Objective

“Enthusiastic Marketing graduate with a passion for all things digital seeking a Social Media Marketing position at Digital XYZ Inc. Skilled in copywriting and basic graphic design. Personally started and grew a Facebook page to 5,000+ likes, and an Instagram page to 8,000+ followers. Looking to help Digital XYZ’s clients improve their social media marketing and establish an online presence.”

#32. Content Creator Resume Objective

“Articulate graduate with a B.A. in Media and Mass Communication seeking a Content Creator position at XYZ Startup. Experienced in writing articles for local newspapers and online magazines. Hoping to apply my journalistic writing abilities to improve XYZ Startup’s blog on ABC Industry/Category.”

#33. SEO Specialist Resume Objective

“Detail-oriented graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration looking to apply for a Junior SEO Specialist position at Digital XYZ Inc. Theoretical knowledge of SEO, including some practical experience in using Google Analytics. Seeking to further develop my online marketing skills as part of the Digital XYZ team.”

Read the full digital marketing resume here.

#34. PPC Specialist Resume Objective

“Result-driven SEO specialist with 3+ years of experience designing and implementing SEO campaigns for e-commerce companies. Looking for a PPC Specialist position at XYZ Agency to leverage strong knack for web analytics and SEM to drive traffic and increase sales.”

IT and Software Development Resume Objective Examples

#35. it specialist resume objective.

“Competent Support Specialist with 3+ years of experience in AWS storage cloud services. Maintained a constant customer satisfaction rate of 98% while working at XYZ Agency. Currently looking for a position as an IT Specialist with a focus on cloud services at ABC Inc.”

Read the full IT resume example here.

#36. Software Engineer Resume Objective

“Result-oriented QA Engineer with 5+ years of experience in the banking and finance sector looking for a Junior Software Engineer job at XYZ Bank. Strong understanding of software engineering paradigms and testing frameworks for C++, Java, .NET (C#).”

Read the full software engineer resume example here.

#37. Cyber Security Resume Objective

"Computer Science student with an interest in cyber security, seeking an internship at XYZ Tech. Strong analytical skills and a foundational understanding of network security, gained through academic coursework and personal projects. Committed to skills in a practical setting and contributing to XYZ Tech's cyber security initiatives while gaining hands-on experience in the field."

#38. Web Developer Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Bachelor's in Computer Science, focusing on web development. Engaged in university projects and freelance work, developing proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and responsive design. Excited to bring technical skills and creative problem-solving to ABC Web Solutions."

Read the full web developer resume example here.

#39. Computer Scientist Resume Objective

“Graduate with an M.Sc. in Computer Science and Information Systems seeking a position as a Research Assistant in the computer science department of XYZ University. 2+ years of experience in designing and implementing deep convolutional neural networks with TensorFlow and Scala. Enthusiastic about furthering research conducted on the study of artificial intelligence.”

Read the full computer scientist resume example here.

#40. Data Scientist Resume Objective

“Diligent Computer Science and Mathematics student with a 3.98 GPA looking for an internship at XYZ Inc. as a Junior Data Scientist. Specialized in statistical analysis, experienced with packages such as R, SQL, STATA, and Python.”

Read the full data scientist resume example here.

#41. Data Analyst Resume Objective

“Enthusiastic recent graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration and Mathematics seeking a Data Analyst position at Company XYZ. Competent in mathematical statistics and possessing a certification in business analysis from ABC Institute. Hoping to apply my extensive knowledge of SQL databases and SQL as a querying language to help Data Analysis Co. fulfill its goals.”

Read the full data analyst resume example here.

#42. DevOps Engineer Resume Objective

"Experienced IT professional looking for a DevOps Engineer role. Proven expertise in software development and system administration, including skills in automation, continuous integration, and cloud technologies. Looking to bring a comprehensive technical background to XYZ Company's DevOps team, driving efficiency and innovation."

Read the full DevOps engineer resume example here.

#43. AI Engineer Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Master's in IT and a minor in Artificial Intelligence. Solid foundation in machine learning, neural networks, and data analysis through academic projects and research. Eager to apply this knowledge at ABC Tech Company and contribute to cutting-edge AI solutions and advancements."

Read the full AI engineer resume example here.

#44. Java Developer Resume Objective

"BA Software Engineering student seeking an internship at XYZ Company. Hands-on experience with Java-based projects and collaborative coding initiatives, now eager to enhance real-world development skills and contribute to Java-based solutions."

Read the full Java developer resume example here.

Health and Medicine Resume Objective Examples

#45. nurse resume objective.

“Recent RN graduate seeking to help Hospital XYZ provide an excellent level of patient care. Experienced in working in high-stress environments. An excellent team player who thrives under pressure. Passionate about helping people and making an impact.”

Read the full nurse resume example here.

#46. Medical Assistant Resume Objective

“Certified, energetic medical professional with volunteer experience for XYZ Hospital looking for a position as a Medical Assistant at ABC Clinic. Dedicated team player with the ability to work both day and night shifts.”

Read the full medical assistant resume example here.

#47. Dental Assistant Resume Objective

“Licensed and enthusiastic dental practitioner with 1+ years of experience working at a private Dental Practice ABC seeking a Dental Assistant position at XYZ Dental Inc. Highly meticulous at carrying out dental procedures and assisting during surgeries.”

#48. Dentist Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, skilled in various dental procedures and patient care. Participated in multiple clinical rotations, gaining hands-on experience in preventive and restorative dentistry. Keen to apply this expertise at ABC Dental Clinic, delivering quality dental care and contributing to patient wellness."

Read the full dentist resume example here.

#49. Pharmacist Resume Objective

"Pharmacy student in the final year of study, with a focus on clinical pharmacology and patient care. Engaged in practical training through internships and university-led clinics, developing skills in medication management and patient counseling. Seeking a position at XYZ Pharmacy to further enhance practical knowledge and community healthcare."

Read the full pharmacist resume example here.

Creative Resume Objective Examples

#50. graphic designer resume objective.

"Fine Art student with a focus on graphic arts, skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and digital illustration. Proven skills through various class projects and freelance assignments. Seeking an internship at XYZ Design Agency to contribute to innovative design projects and gain professional experience."

Read the full graphic designer resume example here.

#51. Game Designer Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a degree in Game Design, equipped with knowledge of in-game mechanics and storytelling. Collaborated on university-led game projects, showcasing creativity and teamwork. Eager to join XYZ Game Studio to create engaging player experiences."

Read the full game designer resume example here.

#52. Animator Resume Objective

"Experienced Concept Artist moving towards an Animator role. Solid background in storyboarding and character design, with recent training in animation techniques. Looking to apply a unique artistic perspective and animation skills at XYZ Animations."

Read the full animator resume example here.

#53. Illustrator Resume Objective

"Aspiring Illustrator with a portfolio of freelance and personal projects. Proficient in various illustration techniques and mediums, both traditional and digital. Committed to bringing creative ideas to life at XYZ Company."

Read the full illustrator resume example here.

#54. Photographer Resume Objective

"Former model with a keen eye for composition and detail, shifting focus to professional photography. Hands-on experience behind the camera in various freelance projects. Ready to capture unique perspectives and contribute to the team at Photography Agency ABC."

Read the full photographer resume example here.

#55. Actor Resume Objective

"Drama and Theater Arts graduate, with a strong stage presence and versatility in various roles. Participated in several university theater productions, honing acting and improvisation skills. Excited to bring dramatic flair and dedication to the ensemble at XYZ Theater."

Read the full actor resume example here.

#56. Writer Resume Objective

"Aspiring Writer with a talent for storytelling and content creation honed through personal blogs and freelance assignments. Skilled in research, editing, and creative writing. Aiming to bring fresh ideas and narrative skills to the content team at XYZ Company."

Read the full writer resume here.

#57. Editor Resume Objective

"English Literature student with a minor in Translation Studies, with a passion for languages and a keen eye for detail. Experienced in proofreading and editing university publications, which further honed my understanding of grammar, style, and text clarity. Seeking an internship at XYZ Publishing to refine editing skills and contribute to high-quality publications."

Read the full editor resume example here.

Education Resume Objective Examples

#58. professor resume objective.

"Best-selling author with a rich background in contemporary literature, now aspiring to educate and inspire as a Professor of English Literature. Deep understanding of literary analysis and creative writing, eager to share knowledge and foster a love for literature at ABC University."

Read the full academic CV example here.

#59. Teacher Resume Objective

“B.Sc. in Education from University XYZ with a concentration in Chemistry seeking to start my career as a teacher at XYZ High School. Passionate about teaching, both in and out of the classroom.”

Read the full teacher resume example here.

#60. Tutor Resume Objective

“Skilled Mathematics graduate looking to apply for the position of Math Tutor at XYZ School. Worked as a part-time Linear Algebra tutor during my time at University X. Strong knowledge of Advanced Linear Algebra, Calculus I-IV, Mathematical Statistics, and Trigonometry.”

#61. College Student Resume Objective

"College Freshman majoring in Sociology, seeking an internship to apply academic learning in a practical environment. Strong analytical skills and a passion for social research and mutual aid, aiming to contribute to meaningful projects at XYZ Nonprofit Organization."

Read the full college freshman resume example here.

#62. High School Student Resume Objective

"High school student with excellent time-management and navigational skills, looking for a part-time position as a pizza delivery driver at Delicious Pizzeria X. Responsible, reliable, and committed to providing prompt, friendly service."

Read the full high school resume example here.

Other Resume Objective Examples

#63. architect resume objective.

"Recent Architecture graduate with a strong portfolio of academic and personal design projects. Skilled in CAD software and sustainable design principles, ready to contribute innovative ideas to XYZ Architecture Firm."

Read the full architect resume example here.

#64. Electrical Engineer Resume Resume Objective

"Engineering student with a focus on mechanical and electrical systems, seeking an internship at Company X. Practical experience from university labs and team projects, aiming to apply technical skills in a professional engineering setting."

Read the full electrical engineer resume example here.

#65. Interior Designer Resume Objective

"Interior Designer with a Bachelor's in Design and a successful Instagram page showcasing personal projects. Innovative, trend-aware, and skilled in client-focused design solutions, eager to bring a unique aesthetic to Design Studio Q."

Read the full interior designer resume example here.

#67. Construction Project Manager Resume Objective

"Experienced Logistics Manager now aiming to apply organizational and leadership skills as a Construction Project Manager. Proven ability in managing resources and coordinating complex projects, ready to ensure efficiency and quality at MNO Construction."

Read the full construction project manager resume example here.

#68. Operations Manager Resume Objective

"MBA student with a focus on operations management, seeking an internship at XYZ Corp. Strong background in business analytics and process optimization, looking to apply and enhance these skills in a real-world business environment."

Read the full operations manager resume example here.

#69. Event Planner Resume Objective

"Experienced professional seeking to leverage my extensive professional background in logistics and project management to excel in the field of event planning. Proven track record of coordinating complex projects and ensuring smooth operations. Excited to contribute my skills to the dynamic world of event management at DEF Event Solutions, where precision and creativity intersect to deliver extraordinary events."

Read the full event planner resume example here.

#70. Warehouse Worker Resume Objective

“Retail worker seeking the position of a Warehouse Worker at XYZ Supermarket. Previous experience doing several retail jobs, including working as a stocker for produce and groceries at XYZ Family Market. Skilled in stocking, inventory replenishment, tracking and processing relevant paperwork, and using pallet jacks.”

Read the full warehouse worker resume example here.

#71. Welder Resume Objective

"Diligent individual skilled in various welding techniques, seeking a position as a Welder at ABC Metalworks. Proven ability in MIG and TIG welding from personal projects and vocational training. Committed to safety, precision, and high-quality craftsmanship."

Read the full welder resume example here.

#72. Real Estate Agent Resume Objective

"Former Sales Professional now pursuing a career as a Real Estate Agent. Extensive experience in client relations, negotiation, and market analysis. Ready to leverage these skills at XYZ Realty to deliver exceptional service and successful property transactions."

Read the full real estate agent resume example here.

#73. Flight Attendant Resume Objective

"Hospitality graduate with a passion for travel and customer service, aspiring to be a Flight Attendant at AirGlobal. Trained in emergency procedures and customer care, enthusiastic about ensuring passenger comfort and safety."

Read the full flight attendant resume example here.

#74. Paralegal Resume Objective

"Law student with a strong foundation in legal research and documentation, seeking a paralegal internship at XYZ Law Firm. Experience in drafting legal documents and assisting in case preparation through academic projects and volunteer work."

Read the full paralegal resume example here.

#75. Social Worker Resume Objective

"Recent graduate with a Master's in Childhood Development and Psychology, equipped with knowledge in case management, counseling, and community resources. Internship experience in child and family services, eager to contribute to the team at ABC Community Services."

Read the full social worker resume example here.

Key Takeaways

That’s a wrap on resume objectives!

We’re sure you’re ready to conquer that new career on the horizon.

But before you go, let’s go over what we mentioned so far:

Resume objectives are a great choice for candidates who are switching careers or don’t have enough work experience to write a resume summary.
The three most common cases when you’d need a resume objective are at the very beginning of your career when you have no work experience, when applying for an internship, or during a career change.
A good resume objective can sway the hiring manager to give you a chance if you do it right. Start by tailoring it to the job description, matching your career goals with the company’s, and focusing on your most relevant skills.
If you’re having trouble thinking up a resume objective, you can just scroll back up for some inspiration! Check out the examples we gave for different professions and get inspired.

Want to get the most out of your career? Don’t forget to follow our career blog for some industry-leading career advice!

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12 resume career objective examples and tips for writing one

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How to write a career objective for a resume

4 career objective examples for beginners

4 career objective examples for experienced professionals, 4 objective examples for student resumes, land the interview in just a few sentences.

Your resume is one of the first materials your potential employer sees from you. It needs to catch their eye and attract interest — at least enough to get you in the door for an interview .

As a job seeker , one great way to win over employers and become a top candidate is to write a strong career statement .

A career statement, also known as your career summary or career objective, is your personal elevator pitch . It’s a few brief sentences at the top of your resume clearly explaining what your career goals are and how this job will help you get there.

An objective statement is a great addition to your resume, particularly if you’re a new graduate or don’t have a lot of experience. If you aren’t sure where to begin, h ere are a few career objective examples t o get you started.

How to write a career objective for a resume

The average recruiter only looks at a resume for about seven seconds , meaning they don’t read every bullet point in depth. You need to wow them from the beginning and encourage them to learn more about you, your experience, and your relevant skills.

That’s where the career objective comes into play. Usually at the top of your resume, a recruiter should be able to read your statement in just a few seconds and have a clear picture of what you’d bring to the role you’re applying for. It should emphasize the unique skills, credentials, and experience that make you the ideal candidate, all in just a few seconds.

But keep in mind that some recruiters advise against including summaries and objectives . If your work experience already speaks for itself, or you have lots of skills and certifications, it might be best to use that space for something other than an objective statement. Objectives and summaries are most helpful when you have something to say — like what kind of environment you’re looking for — that you can’t include elsewhere.

If you do want to learn how to write an objective for a resume, start by creating a custom statement for every job application. It might be tempting to write a generic objective that suits any job in your industry, especially if you’re applying for the same position with multiple companies. But saying you want to work as a “sales representative at XYZ Company” makes for a stronger statement than “seeking a sales position ” because it shows specificity and drive. And a tailored statement is more likely to catch a recruiter’s eye.

Here are a few more essential guidelines for writing your career objective:

1. Write it in third-person singular

Writing in the third person is the standard for resume objective statements. First-person pronouns like I, me, and my come across as personal and informal to a reader, and your resume should be as professional as possible.

To avoid the first person, your statement doesn’t have to be a complete sentence. Instead of saying “I’m looking for a job in the front office,” your career objective could read, “Seeking a role as an administrative assistant with [company name].” That way, it’s more formal and you have more space to explain your career path .

2. Emphasize your strongest traits

Your resume and cover letter aim to prove that you’re a top candidate for the job. And to do this, they need to mention the strengths you bring as an employee. Do you have years of specialized experience? Exceptional communication skills ? Put those qualities front and center in your career objective. The goal is to show what makes you stand out.

If you’re unsure which traits to highlight, scan the job description and look for keywords that apply to you. If the employer asks for someone self-motivated and results-driven, use those words to describe yourself. Just make sure you aren’t stretching the truth at this stage. Start your professional relationship on the basis of trust .

3. Add a few skills

You can tell a recruiter that you’re hardworking, driven, or experienced at a job. But proving those facts with specific examples is much more effective. If you want to focus your resume objective example on your abilities, use the space to explain how you’ve used them well in the past.

Someone applying for a marketing manager position might emphasize a successful social media project with metrics that show its success. And a prospective healthcare professional might point out their certifications or knowledge of regulatory practices for their role. Remember, the best skills for your resume are specific to the job you want, so use the job posting to guide your selections.

4. Explain your goals for yourself and the company

If you’ve ever looked up sample resume objectives, you may have noticed that many start with “Seeking a position” or include “expand their skillset” as part of the sentence.

But these statements are vague and obvious. If you’re applying for a job, the recruiter or hiring manager already knows you’re looking for a job. “Seeking a position” tells the recruiter how they can help you, not how you can help them.

Instead, tell a company what you bring to the table and how you can help them reach their goals . While it’s still fine to mention your career growth objectives — a recent grad might state that the job will launch their career in a certain field — explaining how you’ll benefit the company by working for them is even more important.

5. Keep it brief

Your career objective needs to be short and sweet to save room for more important information. Try to limit the entire statement to two or three lines. Pack those sentences with strong action verbs and job-specific qualities, and your resume will stand out from your fellow applicants.

Career objective statements are particularly important for beginners seeking entry-level positions . At this point in your career, you may not have enough work experience to fill out your resume, or at least not as far back as a resume should go .

The career objective statement on your resume should highlight your strengths no matter where you are in your career, persuading the company to give you a chance. Here are a few examples:

Organized and motivated employee with superior [skill] and [skill]. Seeking to join [company] as a [position] to help enhance [function].

Certified [position] looking to join [company] as a part of the [department] team. Hardworking individual with [skill], [skill], and [skill].

Detail-oriented individual seeking to help [company] achieve its goals as a [position]. Excellent at [skill] and dedicated to delivering top-quality [function].

[Position] certified in [skill] and [skill], looking to help [company] increase [goal metric]. Excellent [position] who can collaborate with large teams to [achieve goal].

Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder after years with the same company or reentering the applicant pool for a career change , seasoned employees can still use objective statements. The key is to point to your work history. Here are a few professional summary examples for resumes of workers with professional experience under their belt:

Experienced [position] looking to help [company] provide excellent customer service . Over [number] years of experience at [company], demonstrating excellent [skill], [skill], and [skill].

[Position] with [number] years of experience looking to help [company] improve its [function]. Diligent and detail-oriented professional with extensive experience with [hard skill].

Hardworking [position] with [number] years of experience at a [type of environment]. Seeking to bring [skills] and experience to benefit [company] in the [department].

Dedicated [position] with over [number] years of experience looking to move into [new field]. [Graduate degree title] from [school name]. Excellent [skill], [skill], and [skill].

Students seeking their first post-grad job may feel like their experience isn’t good enough to discuss. But as a student, you can still highlight your talent and skills with a career objective statement.

Instead of work history, emphasize assets like your GPA, degree title and expected graduation date, and skills you’ve learned in any apprenticeships or internships . Here are a few examples:

Detail-oriented college student at [school] with [GPA]. Graduating in [year] with [degree title]. Looking to use [skills] as a [position] for [company].

High school student with proven [skills] looking for a [position] at [company]. Proven [skill] as [extracurricular position]. Wishing to use [skills] to [achieve goals].

Hardworking recent graduate in [degree] from [school]. Excellent [skills] and [skills]. Experienced in [function], function, and [function] at [company].

[Degree] candidate in [subject] from [school] seeking a [position] at [company]. Experience in [function]. Exceptional [skills], [skills], and [skills].

As the career objective examples above demonstrate, this statement highlights your skills and demonstrates how you’d be an asset to your potential employer’s organization.

Whether you point to your project management experience, human resources accomplishments, or soft skills you’ve developed throughout your life, a good objective will make your resume stand out — even if the recruiter only takes a quick glance. Take your time and craft something that’s true to you. If you get it right, it could bring your next great job opportunity.

Understand Yourself Better:

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Asking for a salary range: how to start the conversation, 7 tips to make your resume stand out and get that job, career advice: 24 tips for each stage of your career, 6 job training programs that will lead to a career you love, use these honors and awards resume examples to land your next job, choosing between two jobs to find a satisfying career, lateral moves: 4 signs you're ready to go sideways, virtual job shadowing: sneaking a peek at your dream job, stand out to your hiring panel with a personal value statement, tips for how to write a linkedin summary and examples, resume dos and don’ts: 29 tips for writing your best resume, learn to sweat the small stuff: how to improve attention to detail, how to write a resume summary that works + examples, 10 personal achievements examples that can inspire yours, 9 elevator pitch examples for making a strong first impression, 15 career goals examples to inspire you to set your own, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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40+ Resume Headline Examples: Stand Out from the Crowd

August 29, 2024
In Resumes & Cover Letters

If you’re looking for effective ways to make your resume stand out, crafting a strong resume headline is crucial. A compelling resume headline serves as a concise introduction, capturing the attention of hiring managers and showcasing your unique value proposition. Explore these resume headline examples to inspire your own standout headline and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

What is a resume headline ?

A resume headline is a short, attention-grabbing phrase or sentence that highlights your experience, skills, and qualifications. It is typically placed at the top of your resume, just below your name and contact information. The purpose of a resume headline is to quickly capture the attention of hiring managers and make them want to read further into your resume. It serves as a concise summary of your value as a candidate and can help you stand out from other applicants.

Tips for writing a resume headline

1. ensure relevance to the position.

Take the time to carefully review the job description and identify the key experience, skills, and qualifications that are required. Highlight those that align with your own background and include them in your headline. Additionally, be sure to include the exact job title in your headline to demonstrate your specific interest in that role.

2. Incorporate keywords from the job listing

To increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS), include relevant keywords from the job listing in your resume headline. Look for critical requirements and recurring keywords in the job description, and incorporate them into your headline along with the job title. This will not only help you stand out but also show that you possess the necessary qualifications for the position.

3. Make your headline visually appealing

Your resume headline should visually stand out and immediately catch the reader’s attention. While it should be distinct from your name, it should still be one of the first things the hiring manager sees. Consider incorporating your headline into the overall design of your resume, placing it at the top of the page before your resume summary, and using a font size and style that differentiate it from the rest of the text. This will help make your headline visually appealing and draw attention to your key qualifications.

4. Keep it concise

A resume headline should be concise and to the point. It should be a brief one-liner that introduces your value as a candidate. Remember, you will have the opportunity to expand on your qualifications and skills in the body of your resume. Keeping your headline short and focused ensures that it serves its purpose of quickly highlighting your strengths without taking up valuable space.

5. Tailor your resume headline for each role

Take the time to tailor your headline for each position you apply to. While it may require some additional effort, customizing your headline demonstrates your enthusiasm and specific interest in the job. Incorporate the essential requirements that you fulfill into your headline, showcasing your relevant experience and skills. By doing so, you can make your headline more impactful and increase your chances of standing out to hiring managers. For example, if you are a project manager applying for a role that emphasizes event management, include your experience in event management in your headline.

Resume Template 150020 Download it here →

Resume headline vs. resume title

A resume headline is a brief phrase or sentence at the top of your resume’s summary section, highlighting your key strengths and qualifications. It grabs the reader’s attention and answers the question, “Why should we hire you?” By showcasing your impressive achievements and skills, it provides a concise overview of your value as a candidate.

On the other hand, a resume title is a straightforward statement, placed below your name and contact information, that states your professional title or job position. It helps the reader understand your area of expertise and establishes your professional identity.

Resume headline examples for different levels of experience

#1. resume headline examples for sudents.

“Detail-oriented student with a passion for research and data analysis”
“Creative and adaptable student with a strong background in graphic design”
“ D iligent student with a 4.0 gpa and extensive leadership experience seeking internship in marketing”
“ A ward-winning scholar with 3 years of research experience eager to contribute to scientific innovation”
“ M ultilingual student with fluency in 4 languages and study abroad experience seeking international business internship”

#2. Resume Headline Examples for Entry-Level

Recent graduate with strong coding skills and test strategy experience
Ambitious recent graduate with a strong work ethic and proven leadership skills
Motivated Entry-level professional with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities
Detail-oriented recent graduate with a track record of meeting deadlines and delivering quality results
Energetic and enthusiastic entry-level candidate ready to contribute to a dynamic team
Results-driven recent graduate with a passion for learning and a drive to succeed
Personable customer service representative proficient in Zendesk (CRM) system

#3. Resume Headline Examples for Mid-Level

Experienced project manager with 5+ years, delivering 95% on-time project completion
Financial analyst with 5+ years, improving profit margins by 15% annually
HR Manager with 5+ years, reducing turnover by 25% through effective retention strategies
Results-driven marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in digital campaign management
Experienced project manager skilled in cross-functional team leadership and process optimization
Seasoned human resources specialist with expertise in employee relations and talent acquisition

#4. Resume Headline Examples for Senior-Level

Senior project manager with 15+ years, delivering 98% on-time project completion rate
Seasoned financial executive with 20+ years, optimizing profit margins by 25% annually
Senior HR Manager with 12+ years, reducing turnover by 30% through strategic retention initiatives
Accomplished sales director with 10+ years, consistently exceeding sales targets by 30%
Results-driven operations executive with a history of improving efficiency and reducing costs by $1 million annually
Seasoned marketing director with a proven track record of increasing market share by 20% in competitive industries
Senior software engineer with extensive experience in developing scalable solutions for enterprise-level applications

#5. Resume Headline Examples for Managers

“Strategic marketing manager with expertise in brand development and market penetration strategies”
“Results-driven sales manager known for building high-performing teams and exceeding revenue targets”
“Experienced human resources manager with a focus on talent acquisition and employee development strategies”

#6. Resume Headline Examples for Customer Service

“Results-driven customer support specialist achieving a 30% reduction in average customer wait times”
“Dynamic customer service professional recognized for achieving a 40% improvement in Net Promoter Score (NPS)”
“Customer service supervisor ensuring 98% on-time delivery of Service Level Agreements (SLAs)”
“Energetic customer care team lead facilitating 30% growth in customer service team productivity”
“Customer relations specialist resolving 90% of customer issues within a 24-hour turnaround time”

#7. Resume Headline Examples for Multiple Jobs

“ A daptable team leader driving a 40% improvement in operational efficiency and cost savings in manufacturing and logistics environments”
“ M ulti-skilled specialist recognized for achieving a 50% reduction in procurement costs and a 30% improvement in vendor relations in supply chain and finance sectors”
“ D ynamic project manager delivering a 30% increase in on-time project delivery and a 25% reduction in budget overruns across it and construction projects”
“ A daptive sales professional with a 40% growth in client base and a 35% increase in revenue generation across real estate and financial services”

#8. Resume Headline Examples for Nurse

Skilled nurse with expertise in workflow optimization, leading to a 25% improvement in efficiency
Dedicated nurse delivering excellence in patient care

#9. Resume Headline Examples for Engineer

Results-driven engineer with a track record of increasing efficiency and cost savings by 20%
Experienced engineer with a strong background in project management

In summary, crafting a powerful resume headline is vital in today’s competitive job market. By using relevant keywords and showcasing your unique qualifications, a well-crafted headline can grab the attention of recruiters and set you apart from other candidates.

Resume Headline Examples FAQ

Why is a resume headline important .

A well-crafted resume headline helps make your resume stand out, especially when recruiters scan through numerous applications. It immediately communicates your most relevant skills and achievements, making it easier for employers to see your value. A strong headline can improve your chances of getting selected for an interview.

How long should a resume headline be?

A resume headline should typically be a brief one-liner, around 5-10 words. It should be concise, clear, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Avoid lengthy sentences or excessive details; save those for your resume summary or experience section.

What are some examples of strong resume headlines?

“Certified IT Specialist with a Focus on Network Security and Cloud Solutions”
“Detail-Oriented Project Manager with Risk Management Expertise”
“Experienced Registered Nurse with 5+ Years in Critical Care & Patient Management”

Should entry-level candidates use a resume headline?

Yes. Even if you’re new to the workforce, a resume headline can highlight your top skills, education, or relevant internships and volunteer work. For example, “Recent Business Graduate with Data Analysis & Market Research Skills” or “Entry-Level Graphic Designer with Internship Experience in Adobe Creative Suite & UX Design.”

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Resume and Cover Letter
27 Great Resume Headline...

27 Great Resume Headline Examples to Stand Out

10 min read · Updated on August 20, 2024

An effective resume title headline can increase your chance of getting noticed

If you think you've finished writing your resume, think again. There's probably something you've missed or at least didn't put enough effort into. Take a step back from your computer and look at your resume. You should be able to instantly identify the type of position you're seeking.

Does your resume title announce that desired position?

Do you even have a resume headline to announce that title?

The headline on your resume can be one of the simplest ways to immediately capture a hiring manager's attention. Unfortunately, many job seekers neglect this important tool. We want to help you avoid that trap so that your resume doesn't get lost in the crowd. Seems easy enough, right? Well, getting it right can be harder than you think. That's okay, though, because we've got you covered!

What is a resume headline or title?

A headline for your resume is a single line that sums up your relevant skills and professional experiences. It's located beneath your name and personal information and serves as a summarization of your resume summary .

Resume title

It's different from a simple resume title, which is nothing more than the job title that you're seeking. Resume titles do not include mention of skills or achievements or anything else of value. If you're applying for a Human Resources Specialist role, the title of your resume would simply be “Human Resources Specialist.” Obviously, that simple approach is pretty dull – and does nothing to help you stand out from the crowd.

Resume headline

On the other hand, an effective resume headline can capture the attention of recruiters and hiring managers as they're quickly skimming a stack of resumes. A well-written headline can also provide you with another opportunity to inject relevant keywords and phrases into your resume, which can help your submission to get past the ATS .

27+ resume headline examples by industry

The best way to understand great resume titles and headlines is to review some resume headline examples. Feel free to steal one of these for yourself or use them as inspiration in crafting your own stand-out resume headline.

Resume headline examples for accounting

Meticulous CPA with Over 8 Years of Experience in Corporate Taxes

Staff Accountant with Expertise in Account Reconciliation and General Ledger

Resume headline examples for customer service

Bilingual Customer Service Representative with High Customer Satisfaction Rate

Enthusiastic Customer Service Representative Specializing in Retail

Resume headline examples for engineering

Committed Environmental Engineer with 6 Years in Wastewater Treatment

Analytical Civil Engineer Specializing in Electrical Power Lines

Resume headline examples for finance

Investment Specialist Passionate about Securing Clients' Financial Futures

Diligent Financial Controller with 4+ Years of Successful Error Mitigation

Resume headline examples for hospitality

Resort Manager with 10-Year Track Record of Increasing Profits by $4 Million

Director of Catering Events Specializing in Quality Foods for Refined Palates

Resume headline examples for human resources

Executive Recruiter and Headhunter with Expertise in Identifying Top Talent

Leadership Development Specialist with a Flair for Managing Employee Relations

Resume headline examples for manufacturing

Plant and Production Manager with Extensive Experience in Using Agile Methodologies

Process Technician with Record of Reducing Costs by $300,000 Annually

Resume headline examples for marketing

Proven Social Media Marketer with Expertise in Managing $2 Million in Annual Advertising Spend

Quick-Witted Copywriter with 3+ Years Working with Restaurants in 50+ Markets

Resume headline examples for nursing

Compassionate RN Registered in Florida With a Strong Emphasis on Pediatrics

California-Licensed Registered Nurse with 5+ Years of Emergency Room Experience

Resume headline examples for project management

IT Project Manager with 6+ Years Overseeing Website with 5 Million Monthly Views

Senior Project Manager Focused on Construction Scheduling

Resume headline examples for real estate

New Home Sales Consultant with 5+ Years of Experience in Development

Senior Leasing Officer and Real Estate Broker Specializing in Commercial Real Estate

Resume headline examples for sales

Personable Sales Representative who Consistently Exceeds Target Goals

Senior Sales Executive with Experience in Auto and Home Insurance

Resume headline examples for technology

Innovative IT Manager with a Proven Track Record of Hitting Deadlines

Reliable IT Support Analyst with 3+ Years of Experience in Troubleshooting within KPIs

Resume headline example for a student with no experience

Driven Journalism Student with a Passion for Telling Stories

Why does having a headline for your resume matter?

Of course, the main goal of a resume headline is to help your resume stand out from your rivals, but having a compelling resume headline can also ensure that you make a lasting first impression. Taking the time to write something more than a simple title shows that you pay attention to the details.

When you set yourself apart from the competition, employers will have a reason to read further into your resume. They will instantly recognize that your application demands attention.

Spending a few extra minutes on your headline strengthens your personal brand and showcases the things that make you the best candidate for the job. Ultimately, the time spent creating your resume could be just what you need to help your resume grow legs, stand up on the hiring manager's desk, and shout, “Hey, look at me, I'm the one!”

How to write a resume headline

Now that you have some resume headline examples, it's time to write your own creative resume title. Keep these tips in mind as you craft the perfect one-liner for your resume:

1. Use specific keywords and phrases

Your resume headline is a great opportunity to include specific keywords relevant to the job posting. This not only helps you stand out, but it can also help your resume to rank higher in companies' applicant tracking systems.

To determine the best keywords to include in a good headline for your resume, study the job listing.

Which words are used to describe the ideal candidate?

Are specific certifications or experiences required?

If so, consider including those in your resume headline.

2. Customize it for each job application

Because each job is different, it's important to carefully consider your resume headline when applying to different positions. Look through each job opening and consider the required skills, experiences, certifications, and soft skills. Once you have an idea of what the company needs for a new staff member to do in the role, use those keywords in your headline. This is called tailoring .

3. Use the right adjectives

Using an adjective in your resume headline can help you stand out, but you should avoid overused words like hard-working, detail-oriented, innovative, and creative. Instead, use attention-grabbing adjectives like instrumental, energetic, imaginative, driven, or responsive.

If you need inspiration, check out our great post, 100 Powerful Resume Adjectives that Can Help Make Your Resume More Compelling .

4. Show – don't tell

Are you a doer or an achiever? Instead of using your resume headline to “tell” the reader you're an effective employee, show it with awards, numbers, or certifications.

Here are some resume headline examples that show how achievements can make an impact:

Personable Sales Representative who Consistently Exceeds Target Goals by 30%

Seasoned Facebook Ad Copywriter with Average Click-Through Rate of 2%+

Certified Professional Scrum Master III with 98% Customer Satisfaction Rate

5. Make your headline stand out

Finally, it's important to make sure your strong resume headline stands out – literally. Leverage your resume's design to highlight your headline or title. It shouldn't be as big or as bold as your name at the top of the page, but it should be one of the first things the hiring manager sees before scanning down to your resume summary.

Key takeaways on how to write your headline:

Write it directly beneath your contact information

Keep it on one line

Include the title of the role you want with some keywords from the job description

Use title case

Tailor it to every job you apply to

Mention certifications if you have them

Include an achievement

Common mistakes to avoid when writing your resume headline

We've already established that using a title rather than a headline is boring and won't serve you very well when you're trying to stand out from the crowd. There are other mistakes you'll also want to avoid, though. We've highlighted a few below.

Don't be too generic

The concept of targeting and tailoring your resume is critical. Fail to do so at your peril. When you lack specificity in your resume, including your headline, you do nothing to set yourself apart from others.

Many people think that if they have a general resume, they can use the same one for every job they seek. That simply will not work, and the main reason has to do with modern applicant tracking systems.

These applicant tracking systems search all incoming resumes against the keywords and phrases they're programmed to look for. If the ATS doesn't find the requisite keywords, your resume is sent to the bottom of the pile.

Avoid jargon, buzzwords, and superlatives

Even if you think that industry-specific terminology will help demonstrate your familiarity within your field, it's important to recognize that excessive use of jargon could be a turnoff for hiring managers and recruiters. Considering that they're spending just seconds skimming through your resume, you don't want to include any words that might cause confusion.

PRO TIP: The fact that you're applying for a tech role, for example, doesn't necessarily mean that a tech person will be the only person reviewing your resume.

While we're on the subject, you should also give buzzwords the boot. Instead, use action words that show how your past achievements will resonate with future employers.

With that said, they don't want to see a bunch of superlatives. You know, those words that end with "-est" or "-ly" like "best-in-class," "highest revenue generator," or “expertly.” If you're going to write something on your resume about generating the highest revenue, prove it by using numbers.

Wrong: Sales Representative Acknowledged as Highest Revenue Generator

Right: Sales Representative Acknowledged for Generating $27M in Revenue

Remember: Substance matters!

When your headline sings, you'll get more interviews

It's not good enough to treat the headline of your resume as one more box to check off on your resume-writing to-do list. You should spend a fair amount of time on it to ensure that it's properly tailored to the job you want in a way that will sing your praises to a hiring manager and help you to stand out from the crowd.

Check your headline to ensure that it:

Will leave a lasting impression

Has the right keywords

Doesn't have buzzwords and jargon

Includes an achievement

Is an authentic representation of your skills and experience

When you hit all of these notes, you'll have a killer headline that's sure to wow the hiring manager and win a coveted spot at the interview table.

Want help crafting an impressive resume headline? A professional resume review is a good start.

This article was originally written by Carlson Kohler and has been updated by Marsha Hebert and Ken Chase.

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Step Up Your A-Game

How to Write Career Objectives That Speak to Your Soul

Imagine this: you’re in a job interview. The recruiter asks, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Your answer could either fall flat, blending into the sea of candidates, or it could ignite something. Something real. Something authentic. That’s what your career objective is for—giving your future a voice on paper.

Download 30 Career Objectives Examples

How to Write Career Objectives

Your career objective isn’t just the first line of your resume—it’s the first impression of who you are and where you’re headed . You’ve got one shot to grab their attention. Make it count.

Set a clear direction , align it with your passions , show them how you’ll make an impact , and most importantly— keep it real .

If you nail this, you won’t just be another applicant—you’ll be the one they remember.

Step 1: Set High but Realistic Goals

Your career objective is the compass for your resume. It sets the direction for what you want to achieve. Most people make the mistake of being either too vague—“I want to grow in my career”—or too unrealistic—“I want to be CEO in two years.” You need a goal that excites but grounds you .

Here’s how: Picture the ideal version of your professional life five years from now. But don’t get carried away. Is this realistic given your current skillset and the company you’re applying to? Find the sweet spot between ambition and practicality. A great career objective will speak to both what you can achieve and where you’re headed .

Example: “To leverage my five years of experience in project management to lead cross-functional teams in a dynamic tech environment, ultimately driving key initiatives that enhance company growth.”

Step 2: Align It with Your Personal Passions

Employers want to know what makes you tick . What wakes you up in the morning? What makes your work meaningful? A heart-centered career objective does more than list qualifications—it reflects your passions . It shows that your goals align with your values, not just the job description.

Here’s where to start: Think about the why behind your career choice. Why do you want this role? How does it connect with what drives you at a deeper level? Your objective should reflect more than just a desire to get hired—it should reveal your soul .

Example: “To combine my passion for sustainability with my expertise in supply chain management to lead impactful, eco-friendly projects that drive both profit and positive environmental change.”

Step 3: Make It About What You Can Do for the Employer

Your career objective shouldn’t be a self-serving statement. Flip the script. Think about how your goals benefit the company. You’re not just applying for a job; you’re offering to solve problems, create value, and push the company forward. Frame your objective as a win for both sides.

Ask yourself: “What can I bring to the table that helps this company grow?” A tailored objective that highlights the company’s needs, combined with your specific contributions, gives your resume a purpose beyond self-promotion.

Example: “To apply my digital marketing expertise to develop innovative strategies that increase brand engagement and customer retention, helping the company achieve its long-term goals.”

Step 4: Keep It Simple, Keep It Strong

Less is more. Your career objective should pack a punch in just a few sentences. Clarity and impact —those are your best friends here. Avoid jargon or overly complex language. Be direct, be bold, and keep it real .

Example: “Looking to apply my background in UX design to create intuitive, user-friendly digital products that enhance customer satisfaction and drive business growth.”

A well-crafted career objective is more than just a headline on your resume—it’s the beginning of your story. One that connects your heart with your ambition and shows the employer why you’re the perfect fit. So, don’t settle for boring. Write with soul, write with purpose.

That’s how you go from just another resume on the pile to the one they can’t ignore.

Heart and Soul Resume

Many years ago, while browsing the shelves of Book Sale, I stumbled upon a hidden gem: Heart & Soul Resumes . I was looking for something that would help me stand out in the job market, and this book struck a chord. It wasn’t just about formatting or listing experience—it taught me to write with purpose, with passion. It was like the book was saying, “Don’t just create a resume, create a story.”

Back then, I was applying for a teaching job at Jubilee Christian Academy, and I decided to put the principles from this book into practice. My resume stopped being a list of job titles and dates; it became a reflection of who I am, what I believe in, and the value I could bring. It felt like I was pouring my heart and soul into those few sheets of paper. Since then, I’ve had two-page resumes, one-page resumes—it didn’t matter. What mattered was that each one told my story.

Here’s the thing: I haven’t written or updated my resume in over 15 years. These days, I’m the one receiving resumes from others. Every time I go through them, I’m reminded of that day in Book Sale and how I crafted my own “heart and soul” resume. And as I look at the resumes coming in—some of them great, others lacking—I realize that the lessons from that book still matter, maybe even more now, in the age of LinkedIn, JobStreet, and Indeed.

So, if you’re looking to refresh your resume, here are the key strategies I learned from Heart & Soul Resumes :

1. Set Realistic but Ambitious Goals

Your resume should tell the story of not just where you’ve been, but where you want to go. You can’t just list your past jobs and hope for the best. Set career objectives that are both inspiring and achievable . You’re aiming for something that excites you, but also makes sense given your current skills and the company you’re applying to.

2. Use Creative Visualization

Close your eyes and imagine your ideal career. Picture yourself in the role you want, doing the work that fulfills you. Once you have that picture in mind, write your resume as if you’re already on that path. This isn’t just about listing accomplishments; it’s about projecting confidence and belief in your future.

3. Focus on Career Strategy

A resume without a strategy is like a ship without a compass—it’ll drift anywhere. When you write, think about how each experience and skill ties into your bigger career picture. Tailor your resume to show how your past experiences prepare you for where you’re headed .

4. Bring Your Passions to the Forefront

What do you care about? What drives you? Employers want to see more than just qualifications—they want to know what makes you tick. Weave your passions into your career narrative. This is what gives your resume a heartbeat. It’s what makes your application stand out .

5. Write for the Employer’s Needs

It’s easy to write a resume that’s all about you , but that’s a rookie mistake. The best resumes frame everything in terms of what you can do for the employer . How can you solve their problems? How can you help them grow? Shift your perspective from “Here’s what I’ve done” to “Here’s what I can do for you.”

6. Make It Simple, Make It Powerful

Forget the fluff. Your resume should be clear, direct, and impactful . Strip away any unnecessary details, and focus on the meat of what makes you valuable. Every word should count.

7. Let It Reflect Your Soul

This one is the hardest but the most important. Don’t try to mimic someone else’s style. Your resume should be uniquely you . Whether it’s the way you describe your accomplishments or how you talk about your passions, let your personality shine through. People can sense when a resume is authentic, and that’s what makes it memorable.

Now, in the era of digital resumes and AI-driven screening systems, some might argue that these principles are outdated. But I don’t buy that. No matter how much technology changes, a resume with heart and soul will always stand out .

If I can give one piece of advice, it’s this: Your resume should tell your story, not just your job history. That’s how you make a real connection with whoever is reading it.

30 Career Objective Examples

Now that you know how to write career objectives that speak to your soul, it’s time to get specific. Below are 30 examples of career objectives that may inspire you. Think of this as your personal swipe file —a collection of phrases, goals, and ambitions that you can draw from.

Don’t just copy and paste . I want you to write these out by hand. Why? Because writing helps you internalize the message. It helps you feel the weight behind the words.

When you write by hand, you’re not just copying—you’re absorbing. You’re making sense of what each career objective intends to do . And as you write, you’ll find that you can tweak and personalize each example until it becomes your own . You want this career objective to reflect you, not just someone else’s words.

So, grab a pen and get started. Write what matters most to you .

1. Digital Marketing

“To leverage my 3+ years of digital marketing experience to create data-driven campaigns that enhance customer engagement and increase ROI for a progressive brand.”

2. Project Management

“To apply my expertise in project management and process improvement to lead cross-functional teams in delivering projects that exceed expectations and drive business growth.”

3. Software Development

“To contribute my skills in full-stack development to build scalable, user-friendly web applications that solve real-world problems.”

4. Customer Success

“To bring my passion for customer service and experience in SaaS to help clients realize the full potential of our software, driving customer retention and satisfaction.”

5. Finance

“To use my financial analysis skills to guide data-driven decision-making and support company growth through strategic investments.”

6. Sales

“To use my relationship-building skills to exceed sales targets and contribute to the expansion of a growing, innovative company.”

7. Human Resources

“To foster a positive work environment by implementing employee development programs and creating policies that support both business objectives and employee satisfaction.”

8. UX/UI Design

“To design intuitive, user-centered interfaces that improve the overall experience for users, ensuring our product is both functional and enjoyable to use.”

9. Content Writing

“To produce compelling, high-quality content that aligns with the brand’s voice, drives traffic, and engages our audience across platforms.”

10. Public Relations

“To craft effective communication strategies that enhance the brand’s reputation, engage stakeholders, and build long-lasting relationships.”

11. Supply Chain Management

“To optimize supply chain operations through strategic planning and collaboration, reducing costs and improving efficiency across the board.”

12. Healthcare Administration

“To leverage my skills in healthcare management to improve operational efficiency, enhance patient care, and contribute to the growth of our healthcare system.”

13. Data Science

“To utilize data science techniques to uncover insights that drive business decisions and fuel innovation within a forward-thinking tech company.”

14. Operations Management

“To streamline operational processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity within a fast-paced and growing company.”

15. Education

“To inspire and educate students, fostering a love for learning and critical thinking that will prepare them for success beyond the classroom.”

16. Graphic Design

“To combine my creative skills with my passion for branding, creating visuals that communicate the essence of the company and engage target audiences.”

17. Business Development

“To drive business growth by identifying new opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and expanding market presence.”

18. Engineering

“To apply my engineering expertise to solve complex problems, driving innovation and contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies.”

19. Marketing Analytics

“To leverage my data analytics skills to inform marketing strategy and optimize campaigns for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.”

20. Legal

“To use my legal expertise to provide sound counsel, protect the company’s interests, and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.”

Remember the Process:

Set Realistic but Ambitious Goals Your goal should reflect where you want to go in your career. Aim high, but make sure it’s grounded in reality.
Align It with Your Personal Passions Don’t just write a career objective for the sake of it. Write something that reflects what you’re passionate about.
Make It About What You Can Do for the Employer Your career objective should show the value you can bring to the company, not just what you want from the job.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Strong Clarity is key. You don’t need to overcomplicate it—just be direct and clear about your intentions.

21. Environmental Science

“To apply my knowledge of environmental science to create sustainable solutions that address climate change and promote eco-friendly practices.”

22. Nonprofit Management

“To lead a nonprofit organization in making a meaningful impact in the community, driving initiatives that support education, health, and social justice.”

23. IT Support

“To provide exceptional IT support, resolving technical issues efficiently and ensuring systems run smoothly for optimal business operations.”

24. Event Planning

“To plan and execute memorable events that exceed client expectations, utilizing my organizational skills and creative problem-solving abilities.”

25. Corporate Training

“To design and deliver training programs that empower employees to develop new skills, improve performance, and contribute to company success.”

26. Cybersecurity

“To protect sensitive data and prevent cyber threats by developing and implementing robust security protocols for a leading tech company.”

27. Real Estate

“To leverage my real estate experience to assist clients in finding their dream homes while delivering exceptional customer service and building long-lasting relationships.”

28. Hospitality

“To bring my passion for guest satisfaction and my attention to detail to deliver exceptional experiences at a high-end hotel or resort.”

29. Photography

“To capture stunning, authentic moments through my lens, delivering high-quality visual content for clients in both personal and commercial settings.”

30. Architecture

“To design sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces that positively impact the people who use them.”

The Final Stretch

As you continue to read and write, keep asking yourself, What matters most to me? You’re not just writing to get a job—you’re writing to create a connection.

Keep this swipe file close. Write down what resonates with you. Absorb each example. And when you’re ready, use these objectives as fuel to craft one that speaks with your voice.

Your resume isn’t just a list. It’s a story. Your story.

About The Author

Jef Menguin

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Career Blog

Writing a Compelling Resume Objective: Tips and Examples

Your resume objective is the first thing that a hiring manager reads when they look at your resume. It is a short statement that should summarize your career goals and the skills you can bring to the job. A well-crafted resume objective can help you stand out from other applicants and make a great first impression.

Explanation of what a resume objective is and why it’s important

In simple terms, a resume objective is a brief statement that outlines your career goals and objectives. It usually appears at the top of your resume, just after your contact information. The purpose of a resume objective is to give a clear picture of what you want to achieve in your career and how the job under consideration can help you achieve it.

Having a strong resume objective is important because it helps you to portray yourself as a valuable asset to the company you wish to work for. It is the first glimpse the employer has of you and it is important that it highlights your strengths and clearly articulates your career goals.

Importance of a compelling resume objective

A compelling resume objective can help to create a positive first impression with a potential employer, setting you apart from other candidates. It should be concise and specific, highlighting your skills and qualifications that make you the best fit for the role.

A good resume objective will also showcase your enthusiasm for the position, demonstrating your commitment to the company’s goals and values. This can increase your chances of getting called in for an interview and ultimately, landing the job.

A compelling resume objective can make a huge difference in your job search. By summarizing your career goals and highlighting your skills and qualifications, it can help you to stand out and leave a lasting impression on employers.

Understanding Your Target Audience

To write a compelling resume objective, you need to understand your target audience. Who are they? What do they want? What are they looking for in a candidate?

Identifying your target audience

Start by identifying your target audience. This can be done by researching the company and the job posting. What is the company culture like? What does the job entail? What are the desired qualifications?

Once you have a clear understanding of who your target audience is, you can begin tailoring your resume objective to fit their needs.

Analyzing job descriptions and requirements

It’s important to analyze job descriptions and requirements to understand what skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Look for keywords and phrases that are repeated throughout the job posting. These words and phrases will give you insight into what the employer values most.

Use this information to shape your resume objective. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. This will show the employer that you are a good fit for the position and that you have taken the time to understand their needs.

Tailoring your resume objective to fit the job

Tailoring your resume objective to fit the job is crucial for getting noticed by employers. Use the information you gathered during your research to craft a compelling resume objective that highlights your relevant skills and experiences.

Make sure your objective is clear, concise, and specific. Avoid using generic statements that could apply to any job. Instead, focus on what you can offer the employer and how you can help them achieve their goals.

Remember, your resume objective is the first impression you make on an employer. Make it count by tailoring it to the job and the company. This will show the employer that you are a serious candidate who is committed to making a valuable contribution to their team.

Key Elements of a Compelling Resume Objective

The objective statement is the first thing employers see on your resume. Therefore, it should be well-crafted to make a lasting impression. An effective objective is one that captures the recruiter’s attention and communicates your job objectives. Here are the key elements of a compelling resume objective that you should keep in mind:

1. Clear and concise language

Your objective statement should be short and to the point. Use simple language and avoid technical jargon that might be hard to understand. Remember that you have limited space to make a good impression, so use it wisely. Be clear and concise in your language to get your message across quickly.

2. Strong action verbs

Use strong and impactful verbs to communicate your skills and achievements. Action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “implemented,” and “improved” are great for showcasing your abilities. Strong action verbs help your objective statement stand out and grab the employer’s attention.

3. Specific and measurable goals

Your objective statement should state specific and measurable goals that you want to achieve. It should project confidence in your abilities to excel in the role. Avoid vague and generic statements, such as “seeking a challenging position” or “looking to grow my career.” Instead, state a specific goal, such as “to obtain a position as a marketing manager at a top-tier healthcare company.”

4. Relevant keywords

Use relevant keywords related to the position you are applying for. Keywords are specific words or phrases that recruiters use to screen resumes. They help your objective statement rank higher in an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) for recruitment purposes. Review the job description and use relevant keywords in your objective statement to match the employer’s needs.

A well-crafted objective statement is the first step towards getting hired. It should be clear, concise, and specific while showcasing impactful verbs and relevant keywords. By following these key elements of a compelling resume objective, you can increase your chances of standing out from the competition and landing your dream job.

Crafting a Compelling Headline

As important as the content of your resume objective statement is, nothing matters if you can’t get the attention of the hiring manager. This is where the headline comes in. A good headline can grab the reader’s attention, convey your message quickly, and persuade them to read on. Here’s why a headline is crucial and some tips for crafting an effective one.

Importance of a Good Headline

First impressions matter, and hiring managers likely have a stack of resumes to sort through. A good headline can make your resume objective stand out and give the reader a reason to keep reading. A headline can be an opportunity to show off your unique selling proposition (USP) and let the hiring manager know what sets you apart from the other candidates.

Moreover, some companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for relevant keywords. In these cases, a compelling headline can help ensure your resume doesn’t get filtered out due to a lack of relevant keywords.

Examples of Effective Headlines

Here are a few examples of strong headlines that can inspire your own:

Data Analyst with 5+ Years of Experience in Financial Reporting
Marketing Specialist with a Passion for Brand Storytelling and Visual Design
Social Work Professional Dedicated to Improving the Lives of At-Risk Youth
Experienced Human Resources Manager Skilled in Recruitment Strategy and Employee Engagement

These headlines are specific, concise, and highlight the candidate’s USP. They give the hiring manager a glimpse into the candidate’s experience, skills, and passion.

Tips for Writing a Strong Headline

Here are some tips for crafting a headline that grabs the reader’s attention:

Be specific and concise: Use your headline to convey your USP in a clear and concise manner. Avoid generic buzzwords and emphasize what makes you stand out.

Tailor it to the job description: Use keywords from the job posting to show that you’re a good fit for the role. This can also help your resume pass through ATS.

Focus on benefits, not features: Highlight what you can do for the company, not just what you’ve done in the past. For example, instead of saying “Experienced Sales Manager,” try “Revenue-Boosting Sales Manager with a Track Record of Exceeding Targets.”

Use action verbs: Start your headline with an action verb to make it more compelling. For example, “Dynamic Marketing Manager with a Proven History of Driving Results.”

Proofread and test: Make sure your headline is free of errors and reads well. Test it out on friends or colleagues to see if it grabs their attention.

A strong headline is essential in making your resume objective stand out. Use it as an opportunity to showcase your USP, tailor it to the job posting, and highlight the benefits you can bring to the company.

Writing a Strong Opening Statement

The first section of your resume that a potential employer will read is your opening statement, making it a crucial aspect of your job application. A strong opening statement can make a powerful impression and set the tone for the rest of the document. Here are some tips for writing a persuasive opening statement that will leave a lasting impression:

Making a strong first impression

The purpose of your opening statement is to grab the attention of the employer and persuade them to continue reading. You want to make a strong first impression that showcases your unique skills, qualifications, and personality.

Tips for writing a persuasive opening statement

Be concise: Keep your opening statement brief and to-the-point, ideally no more than 2-3 sentences.
Focus on the employer’s needs: Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.
Personalize it: Use language that reflects your personality and shows why you are a good fit for the company culture.
Use keywords: Incorporate keywords that are relevant to the job posting to help your resume get past computer screening systems.
Avoid clichés: Phrases like “results-driven” and “team player” are overused and don’t add value to your statement.

Examples of effective opening statements

Here are some examples of opening statements that effectively showcase the candidate’s skills and qualifications:

“A skilled marketing professional with 5 years of experience in developing and implementing successful digital campaigns.”
“A seasoned customer service representative with a track record of providing exceptional support to clients in fast-paced environments.”
“An innovative graphic designer with expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and a passion for creating visually stunning designs.”

Your opening statement is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and immediately capture the employer’s attention. By following these tips and using examples as inspiration, you can craft a persuasive statement that will elevate the rest of your resume and help you land your dream job.

Showcasing Relevant Skills and Experience

One of the most important sections in your resume objective is showcasing your relevant skills and experience. This is where you have the opportunity to highlight your strengths and achievements that make you the best candidate for the job.

Highlighting your strengths and achievements

When highlighting your strengths and achievements, it’s important to focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. This could include specific technical skills or soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, or leadership. Don’t just list off your skills, but also provide context for how you’ve demonstrated them in previous roles.

Additionally, be sure to showcase accomplishments that demonstrate your capability and success in your past roles. These could include awards, certifications, promotions, or successful projects.

Tips for showcasing skills and experience in your resume objective

To effectively showcase your skills and experience in your resume objective, consider the following tips:

Be concise and specific: Keep your statements short and to the point, and use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experiences.
Tailor to the job description: Use keywords and phrases from the job description to emphasize how your skills and experiences align with the position.
Start with strong action verbs: Use strong verbs such as managed, developed, or implemented to demonstrate your accomplishments and leadership.
Use numbers and data: If possible, use numbers and data to quantify your achievements and provide context.

Examples of effective skills and experience statements

Examples of effective skills and experience statements in a resume objective include:

“An experienced project manager with a track record of successfully leading cross-functional teams and delivering projects within budget and on time.”
“A skilled marketer with expertise in social media management, content creation, and email marketing resulting in a 20% increase in website traffic and 15% increase in sales.”
“A results-driven sales executive with a proven track record of exceeding quotas and developing new business relationships resulting in a 25% increase in revenue.”
“A customer-focused support specialist with exceptional problem-solving skills and a high customer satisfaction rating of 95%.”
“A detail-oriented accountant with experience in financial statement preparation, budget management, and tax compliance resulting in a clean audit report and significant cost savings.”

By following these tips and examples, you can create a compelling resume objective that showcases your relevant skills and experience, and makes you stand out as the best candidate for the job.

Formatting and Structure

One of the most important aspects of writing a compelling resume objective is selecting the right format. There are several formats to choose from, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

One popular format is the headline format, in which the objective is written in a large font at the top of the resume. This format is great for highlighting your key skills and achievements, but it can also be a bit overwhelming for some readers.

Another popular format is the paragraph format, in which the objective is written in a few brief paragraphs. This format is often more conversational and allows you to include more detail about your experience and qualifications.

When choosing a format for your resume objective, it’s important to consider your target audience and the requirements of the job you’re applying for. If you’re applying for a job in a creative field, a headline format might be a good fit. However, if you’re applying for a job in a more traditional field, a paragraph format might be more appropriate.

Once you’ve selected a format, it’s important to structure your resume objective in a way that’s easy to read and understand. Here are some tips for structuring your resume objective:

Start with a clear and concise statement that explains why you’re applying for the job and what you hope to accomplish in the role.
Use bullet points to highlight your key skills and achievements. This makes it easier for the reader to quickly scan your resume and identify your strengths.
Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. This helps to convey a sense of accomplishment and demonstrates your ability to take initiative.
Keep your sentences short and to the point. Long, complex sentences can be difficult to read and may detract from the impact of your objective.

Here are some examples of effective formatting and structure for a resume objective:

Example 1: Headline Format

Objective: Award-winning journalist seeking a position as a news reporter with a leading media organization.

Example 2: Paragraph Format

Objective: As an experienced marketing professional with a proven track record of success, I am eager to apply my skills and expertise to a challenging role in digital marketing.

By following these tips and examples, you can create a compelling resume objective that will grab the attention of hiring managers and help you stand out from the crowd.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Your resume objective is one of the most important sections of your resume, as it allows you to showcase your skills and explain why you are the best person for the job. However, there are common mistakes that many job seekers make which can cost them the opportunity to land the job they want. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when writing your resume objective:

Pitfalls to avoid in your resume objective

Being too generic.

Don’t use a generic statement such as “Seeking a challenging position where I can utilize my skills and experience.” This type of statement gives little insight into what you can bring to the company and does not set you apart from other candidates.

Focusing too much on yourself

Avoid focusing solely on your own personal goals and objectives. While it’s important to highlight what you want out of the job, it’s equally important to show what you can contribute to the company and how you can help them achieve their goals.

Using buzzwords and clichés

Many job seekers make the mistake of using buzzwords and clichés in their resume objective, such as “team player,” “results-driven,” or “detail-oriented.” While these phrases may seem impressive at first, they are overused and do little to set you apart from other candidates.

Being too long-winded

Don’t make your objective statement too long. Hiring managers typically spend only a few seconds scanning your resume, so make sure your objective is clear and concise.

Tips for overcoming common mistakes

Tailor your objective to the job.

Make sure your objective is tailored to the job you are applying for. This means researching the company and understanding their goals, and then highlighting ways in which you can contribute to those goals.

Be specific

Avoid using generic language and be as specific as possible about your skills and experience. Use examples wherever possible to illustrate your strengths and achievements.

Show your value

Focus on the value you can bring to the company, rather than just your own personal goals. Use metrics wherever possible to show the impact you have had in previous roles.

Use action words

Use active, action-oriented language in your objective, such as “develop,” “create,” or “implement.” This shows that you are proactive and results-driven.

Examples of common mistakes

Example 1: too generic.

“Seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization where I can utilize my skills and experience.”

Example 2: Focusing too much on yourself

“Looking for a job that will fulfill my personal and professional goals.”

Example 3: Buzzwords and clichés

“Results-driven team player seeking a position that will allow me to utilize my skills and knowledge.”

Example 4: Being too long-winded

“Looking for a job where I can use my skills and experience to contribute to a dynamic organization that values teamwork and innovation.

Keeping Your Objective Up To Date

In writing a compelling resume objective, it’s not enough to create a strong and engaging statement; it’s also essential to keep it fresh and up to date. Here are some tips for updating your objective:

Tips for Updating Your Resume Objective

Stay current with your career goals: Review your objective regularly to ensure that it reflects your current professional aspirations.
Make it specific: Avoid generic statements that could apply to any job seeker. Instead, tailor your objective to the specific job you’re applying for.
Keep it concise: Your objective should be clear and concise, so the hiring manager quickly understands what you’re seeking and how you can help the company.

Examples of Updates to Make and When to Make Them

When applying to a new industry or job type: If you’re changing careers or applying for a different job type, update your objective to reflect this change.
When your skills or experience change: If you’ve gained new skills or experience that makes you more qualified for a particular job, update your objective to highlight these strengths.
When applying for a specific job: Review the job description and tailor your objective to highlight your relevant skills and experience for that specific job.

Importance of Keeping Your Objective Fresh

Keeping your objective up to date is crucial because it shows that you are still actively pursuing your career goals and not stuck in a previous job or industry. Additionally, an updated objective demonstrates that you have taken the time to research the job and company, which impresses hiring managers.

Updating your resume objective is an essential component of writing a compelling resume. By following the above tips and regularly reviewing and refreshing your objective, you will increase your chances of landing your dream job.

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How to write a resume headline with 25+ examples

It’s short and snappy

It grabs serious attention , it accentuates your value, examples of resume headlines for different careers, 1. consider your top skills , 2. tailor your resume headline, 3. keep it concise yet impactful, 4. quantify your experiences , 5. use action verbs , 6. proofread and edit.

Do you really need to dedicate space to a resume headline? Should you cut out a precious work responsibility to make room for this seemingly repetitive phrase? The quick answer is yes.

Resume headlines give you a chance to stand out in a few pithy words. If you understand how to write a great resume header, that one line of type will be worth the cost of the real estate.

In the following guide, we take a look at what a resume heading is, some of the best resume headline examples, and expert-backed tips on how you can write yours.

What is a resume headline?

A headline is a phrase that gets to the heart of your message. A resume headline serves the same function: It advertises your experience and skills to the hiring manager or recruiter. Here are the main things you need to know about your resume header before you get started:

Spoiler: your resume headline is not long. Much like a headline in a newspaper, it’s just a handful of words long. You can think of it as the title of your elevator pitch or, if you prefer, the slogan that leads off the marketing campaign for your next great job.

The remainder of your resume will consist of section titles and text that get deeper into your career, so a headline gives you the best chance to quickly raise an eyebrow.

Any opportunity to differentiate yourself at a glance is one you should not pass up. The headline for your resume is also a grabber—the aha! That makes recruiters smile and read on because they may have found who they are looking for.

A good headline for a resume sums up not your career, but the job you want to do by signaling that you already do it and do it very well. Despite this, keep in mind that your focus is the present—what you do now or have done. This is not a career objective statement , which tells hiring managers what you would like to do in the future.

How to write a resume: Expert guide & examples (2024)

Learning how to write a resume takes a certain finesse. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Read our complete guide and take a look at our examples now.

Below, you will find resume headline examples for different careers. Use these for some ideas, then check out our tips and takeaways at the end of the article.

For more specific ideas, check out Resume.io’s more than 500 resume examples and guides for more inspiration.

Accounting and finance

Mid-career financial analyst and expert auto industry market forecaster
Financial advisor with 10+ years of helping clientele grow their nest eggs
Auditing clerk with expertise in QuickBooks and record compliance
Loan officer specializing in attracting small business accounts

Business and management

Project manager who kept 10 projects on schedule and under budget this year
Business development manager with high level of customer retention and expansion
Business analyst with expertise in fashion and beauty trends and markets
Newly minted MBA with concentration in entrepreneurship

Hospitality and catering

Deliciously creative chef with 5+ years cooking at Michelin star restaurant
Restaurant manager focused on limiting waste and retaining staff
Concierge and lifelong city resident; winner of US Hotel Employee of the Year, 2018
Unflappable line cook known for perfectly seasoned burgers every time

Resume header: Examples, instructions and tips to getting the top of your resume right

The header is the crucial section at the top of your resume that contains your name, occupation and contact info. How you format the header can make or break your application.

Maintenance and repair

Carpenter/craftsman who designs and builds custom furniture
Master electrician with 6 years of experience in household rewiring
Plumbing contractor with 5 years of new construction expertise
Industrial repairman with 10+ years of experience in heavy machinery
Dedicated marketing associate with 2 years focusing on digital campaigns
Content writer with specialty in B2B client services and 5+ year track record
Marketing consultant with 15+ years of high-profile client satisfaction
Creative director overseeing complete redesign of $5M+ food product line
Attentive registered nurse with 7 years experience in cardiac units
Licensed pharmacist with 8-year error-free record in lab work
Soothing dental assistant known for easing patient anxiety multi-specialty practice
Physical therapist specializing in traumatic spinal injury
IT salesperson generating $1.4 million in revenue yearly
Friendly sales associate with 2 years selling power tools at hardware store
Sales manager whose team exceeded consulting sales goals by 10% three years running
Account executive with 4+ years of 95%+ client satisfaction numbers

Teaching and education

Dedicated middle school teacher with 7+ years of classroom experience
Empathetic teacher ensuring students maintain a 3.0 to 4.0 GPA
Special ed teacher confident in delivering individualized education programs (IEPs)

Where does the headline on a resume go?

Now that you’ve checked out the resume header examples, let’s talk about where yours should go. Usually, the headline sits directly below your name or above your summary statement , depending on the design of your resume.

Put simply, it’s one of the first things that the hiring manager should see. The above placement ensures a direct link between your name and this key statement about yourself.

Since you want recruiters to link your name with your achievements , you should not move your resume headline too far from your name. Keep them close together.

Learn how to write a resume personal statement. We also provide personal statement tips and examples, plus free templates.

Tips to create a good resume headline

Ready to get started and write your resume headline? You can use the resume header examples we have shared for inspiration. However, you might want some additional tips to help you along the way. Here are some pointers that you should keep in mind:

Make a list of every responsibility, type of knowledge or desirable characteristic you can think of and organize it in a way that makes the most sense to you. You may make a list of hard skills , one of soft skills and another of accomplishments to which you can attach supporting data. List all the software and specialized equipment you have used as well.

That list will form the basis of your resume headlines. Don’t sell yourself short here. Feel free to use strong, positive descriptions. You’re not just a salesperson; you’re a dedicated salesperson.

Personalization rules. Take the time to research the business to which you are applying and edit your resume headline accordingly. This offers hiring managers a quick way to find out what you think is the greatest asset you will bring to the job.

Using keywords associated with the job or company in your resume headline is a quick way to beat the bots. Only around 25 percent of candidates make it past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) screening. By taking this extra step along the way, you significantly boost your chances.

Your resume headline should be less than one line long. Although there’s no standard format for this feature, most headlines will end up with similar structures because of the limited number of words and space.

You might have seen that in our resume headline examples. They start with a job title or description, followed by a career highlight, expertise, or impressive achievement.

Resume headlines may also include years of experience or a phrase such as “highly experienced” that alludes to your length of tenure. This immediately tells the reader what you are bringing to the table. Here are three examples for a corporate accountant:

Resume headline example: Corporate accountant with an eagle eye for cost savings

Resume headline example: Corporate accountant with 5+ years specializing in tax compliance

Resume headline example: Corporate accountant with expertise in financial statement analysis

Your resume headline should pack a real punch. One approach you can use is incorporating action verbs into this short line. These words put you in the driving seat, showing that you have the power to add real value to the business. Examples include the following:

Orchestrated
Outperformed

You can use the above words in the past or present tense, depending on what you choose for your resume headline. Peppering this line with these words could make a huge difference.

When the hiring manager glances at your resume, the headline is one of the first things they will see. Should it have a typo, you will immediately lose their interest.

While this is only a short piece of content, it’s important to proofread and edit it well. You can also use Grammarly here.

Resume headline vs. resume title: the difference

And finally, don’t make the mistake of confusing the resume headline and title. These are not the same thing. Here’s a quick breakdown of each to help you out:

Resume title . This is usually 2-3 words and simply states your job title.
Resume headline : This short line also mentions your achievements, years of experience, and special skills.

When you are writing your resume , it’s important not to get these two things confused. Your resume title just tells the reader what job you are aiming for. On the other hand, as we have shown here, the resume headline can directly target the role and grab attention, too.

Key takeaways

Your resume headline is your chance to grab the reader’s attention. This one-liner expresses your career at present, not your goals. Link your name firmly with your headline to help recruiters remember you. Showcase your greatest skills or achievements and highlight how you will solve the company’s problem. That way, you increase your chance of landing an interview.

Looking for some extra help along the way? Look at our resume templates so you can create your resume!

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Career Planning
Finding a Job

How to Write a Resume Headline (With Examples)

Tips for Writing a Resume Headline

Resume headline examples, resume headlines vs. resume profiles.

Examples of Headlines With Profiles

Resume Example With a Headline

Frequently asked questions (faqs).

What is a resume headline, and how can it help you showcase your credentials? A resume headline, also known as a resume title, is a brief phrase that highlights your value as a candidate.

Located at the top of your resume under your name and contact information, a headline allows a recruiter to see, quickly and concisely, what makes you the right person for the job.

Resume headlines are ideal for candidates with a lot of experience. A headline allows you to condense your skills and work experience into a brief phrase that will quickly impress the hiring manager. However, less experienced applicants can also use headlines to highlight personal attributes and skills.

Read below for tips on writing a resume headline, as well as examples of strong resume headlines.

Key Takeaways

A resume headline is a way to show an employer why you're an excellent match for the job.
Your resume headline should be a brief phrase that highlights your key skills, qualifications, and attributes.
It’s important to customize your headline for each job you apply for.
You can also add a profile to your resume that includes a short paragraph or series of bulleted points summarizing your value as a candidate.

Katie Kerpel / The Balance

Keep it concise. A resume headline should be one brief phrase; it should not even be a complete sentence. The goal is to concisely state your value as a candidate. Anything longer than a phrase defeats the purpose of a headline.
Capitalize your headline. Capitalize the words in your headline so that it looks like a title to your resume. This is a helpful way to make your headline stand out.
Make a match. After reading the job listing, make a list of the skills, experience , and attributes that make you a strong candidate. Then incorporate these into your headline. This will get the hiring manager's attention and show you're a match for the job.
Write a new headline for each job. While it will be a little extra work, be sure to create a new headline for each job application. Again, this alerts hiring managers that you’ve taken the time and care to tailor your resume specifically to their job opening (as opposed to sending them a generic resume).
Use keywords. Use keywords that demonstrate your skills and experience as related to the job listing. Using words directly from the job listing for which you are applying will demonstrate you are a good fit for the job. If possible, use the job title in your headline.
Avoid clichés. Because you want your headline to make you stand out as a strong candidate, avoid clichés that employers probably see on every resume. Phrases like “hard worker” and “good communication skills” are common on resumes and do not provide much information on what makes you unique.

By highlighting your experience and skills and using keywords, you will individualize your headline and impress the hiring manager.

Reviewing a few examples of good resume headlines will help you when coming up with your own. Notice how these are brief and attention-grabbing, much like a catchy title to an article that makes you want to read on.

Goal-Oriented Senior Accountant with Five Years of Accounting Experience
Successful Manager of Dozens of Online Marketing Campaigns
Cook with Extensive Fine Dining Experience
Award-Winning Editor Skilled in Web Design
Detail-Oriented History Student with Curatorial Experience
Army Veteran Awarded for Determination and Strong Work Ethic
Bilingual Nursing Graduate with Experience in Rural Health Care
Honor-Roll Student with Tutoring Experience in Numerous Subjects

Resume headlines are similar to resume profiles in that both provide a brief summary of an applicant’s qualifications. However, a resume headline is one brief phrase, whereas a resume profile is a small paragraph or series of bulleted points.

Remember that resume profiles are different from resume objectives. In an objective, you write about the position you are seeking, not your skills.

A profile is typically not capitalized like a headline is. For these reasons, headlines are even more eye-catching than profiles. Some applicants may include both a headline and a resume profile, using the headline to attract the reader, and then a profile to provide further information.

Examples of Resume Profiles With Headlines

Resume headline sample #1.

Detail-Oriented Worker with Years of Administrative Experience

Successfully implemented an innovative scheduling system to efficiently organize meetings and travel schedules.
Award-winning customer service skills.
Fluent in Spanish.

Resume Headline Sample #2

IT Professional with 10 Years of Experience in Software Support

Skilled at operating on a wide range of platforms.
Experience training interns and new hires in various software.
Capable of explaining complex software issues in easy-to-understand terms.

Resume Headline Sample #3

Sales Executive with Experience in Insurance and Healthcare Management

Created and implemented sales strategies to achieve 35% revenue growth per year. Highly effective management skills; able to motivate sales force and design incentive programs to achieve short- and long-term sales goals.

Resume Headline Example #4

Dedicated Special Education Teacher with 8 Years’ Success Supporting Students K-12

Well-versed in tailoring IEPs to enhance students’ skill attainment and emotional development.
Easily build collaborative rapport with students, parents, teachers, and other staff.
Trained and certified in Crisis Prevention Institute protocols, first aid, and CPR.

Resume Headline Example #5

Detail-Oriented Controller Providing Flawless Financial Reporting in Manufacturing Sector

Skillfully led accounting teams in uncompromised month-end close processes for corporate AP/AR, payroll, bank reconciliations, and journal adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP standards. Diligent in maintaining financial controls and performing internal audits.

Here's an example of a resume with a headline and a template to download (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

The Balance

Does a resume need an objective?

Some experts argue resume objectives are considered outdated and don’t need to be included on a resume. Instead, you can include a profile or summary that showcases your most relevant qualifications for a job.

How many years of experience should you list on a resume?

Ten to fifteen years is the standard amount of work experience to include on a resume, but you may want to include more, depending on the employer's job requirements and how your experience fits those requirements. For example, if jobs you held earlier in your career are a match for the position for which you're applying, you may want to list them.

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary ."

CareerOneStop. " Why You Need a Great Resume ."

CareerOneStop. " Applicant Tracking Systems ."

How To Write The Best Resume Headline, With 50+ Examples

In today's competitive job market, a well-crafted resume can be the difference between landing your dream job and getting overlooked by potential employers. While the content of your resume is essential, the way you present it can also make a significant impact.

One crucial element that can help your resume stand out is a strong, eye-catching headline. But why is having a resume headline important?

In this article, we'll discuss what a resume headline is, the importance of having a compelling resume headline, how to write one, and provide you with examples to help you craft an attention-grabbing headline that will make your resume stand out from the crowd.

What is a resume headline?

A resume headline, also known as a resume title, is a short statement or phrase that appears at the top of your resume, just below your name and contact information. The purpose of a resume headline is to quickly and effectively communicate your value proposition as a strong candidate.

A good headline should convey your key skills, experience, or achievements in a clear and concise manner and entice the employer to read further. Think of it as your personal brand statement or elevator pitch that summarizes your professional identity and makes you stand out from other candidates.

Your number one goal is to make a hiring manager stop in their tracks and have their interest piqued enough that they'll want to find out more about you. A well-crafted resume headline can help you grab the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of being invited for an interview.

What's the difference between a resume headline and a resume title?

The terms "resume headline" and "resume title" are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different meanings depending on the context.

In general, a resume headline or title refers to a short phrase or sentence that appears at the top of a resume and serves as a concise resume summary of the candidate's experience and qualifications. This is often the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will see when they review a resume, so it should be attention-grabbing and clearly communicate the candidate's value proposition.

Some people use the term "resume headline" specifically to refer to a brief statement that highlights the candidate's most relevant skills or achievements, while "resume title" may refer to the name or title of the job the candidate is applying for.

Ultimately, the specific terminology may vary depending on the industry, job market, or individual preferences of the candidate or employer. The most important thing is to make sure that the resume headline or title effectively communicates the candidate's strengths and piques the employer's interest in reading further.

Why are resume headlines important?

You might be wondering why a resume title is important. Surely the other 90% of the page is where the real enticing information is? That may be the case, but there are added benefits that come with having a catchy headline.

You're instantly grabbing the hiring manager's attention. ‍ Going through hundreds of resumes is time consuming for recruiters, so they're only looking at each one for a few seconds. Having relevant information at the top of your resume means that they'll be more likely to stop at yours and keep reading to see if you're a good fit.
Your strengths are front and center. ‍ Even for less experienced applicants, you can establish credibility in your industry from the very beginning with your most relevant and highest qualifications and outcomes listed first.
It makes your resume unique and contextual. Even with a similar work history, no applicant should have a headline that's exactly the same as yours. You're also helping hiring managers to understand where your experience fits into the broader picture and how it applies to the position you're hoping to get.
You can include your resume headline on your online profiles, like LinkedIn. Many job applications require online profiles, and resume headlines are often displayed prominently on these platforms, which can help increase your visibility and attract potential employers.

A strong resume headline is an important part of your job search toolkit, helping you to make a great first impression and stand out from the competition.

How do I write a resume headline?

Your resume headline is typically the first thing a potential employer will see, so it's important to make it count. In this section, we'll explore how to write a compelling resume headline that will catch the attention of hiring managers and help you stand out from the crowd.

Here are some steps you can follow to write an effective resume headline:

Keep it concise

Your headline should be brief and to the point, ideally no more than a few words or a short phrase. The purpose of the headline is to quickly summarize your skills and experience and grab the attention of the hiring manager. A concise headline is more likely to be read and remembered than a long, convoluted one.

Keep in mind that your headline is just one part of your resume, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to expand on your hard skills, soft skills, and experiences in other sections. Focus on crafting a headline that's short, snappy, and relevant to the job opening you're applying for.

Tailor your headline to the job

A memorable resume headline should be customized to the job listing you are applying for. By tailoring your headline to the job, you're increasing the chances that your resume will catch the hiring manager's eye and get noticed.

A tailored headline shows that you've taken the time to understand the job requirements and have positioned yourself as a good fit for the position. This can help to increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Use Our Headline Generator

You can simplify the process entirely with our Resume Headline Generator tool, which writes a relevant headline based on both your career history, as well as the details of the specific job you're optimizing the resume for.

Use keywords to highlight your relevant skills and experience

Before writing your headline, take some time to identify your key skills , qualifications, and achievements that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.

A well-crafted headline that's tailored to the job should include specific keywords from the job description. This will make it easier for the employer to see how you can contribute to their organization.

Use Teal's AI Resume Builder to quickly compare the skills and keywords in the job posting to those in your resume. Make sure to add any relevant experience to your customized resume and to your application answers.

Use action-oriented language

Use strong resume action words and descriptive language to convey your skills and experience. For example, instead of "Experienced Sales Associate," try "Proven Sales Leader with 5+ Years of Experience."

Highlight your unique value proposition

A good resume headline should communicate your unique value proposition and what sets you apart from other job seekers. Consider highlighting any awards, certifications, or other impressive achievements that make you stand out.

Review and revise

Once you have drafted your headline, review it for clarity, relevance, and impact. Revise as needed to ensure it is an accurate reflection of your skills and experience and is tailored to the job you are applying for.

You should already be customizing your resume to the jobs you apply for, and the same goes for your resume headline. You can speed up this process by creating multiple resumes in a tool like Teal's AI Resume Builder , where you can pull in different sections and adjust them as needed.

Some of the most impressive resume examples that we've seen strike a nice balance between being concise and attention-grabbing.

How can I make my resume headline stand out?

A great resume headline that stands out typically has certain qualities. Here are some tips for writing a resume headline that gets noticed:

Clarity: The headline is clear and easy to understand, even for someone who is not familiar with your industry or profession.
Impact: The headline makes a strong impression and captures the reader's attention. It should communicate your unique value proposition and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.
Differentiation: The headline sets you apart from other candidates and highlights what makes you unique.
Quantifiable: If possible, include quantifiable bullet points or metrics that demonstrate your skills or accomplishments examples in your headline.
Positive and enthusiastic: Use positive language and avoid clichés and negative words or phrases. Your headline should convey enthusiasm and confidence in your abilities.
Use title case: Capitalizing the first letter of each major word in your resume headline using title case can enhance its readability and professionalism.
Echo the voice in the JD: It is important for the voice in your resume headline to match that in the job description because it helps to convey your personality in a way that aligns with the employer's expectations and company culture. Additionally, using the same voice as the job description can help your application pass through any applicant tracking systems (ATS) that screen for relevant keywords and phrases related to the position.

Teal's AI Resume Builder includes a Professional Summary section with an AI integration feature where you can draft and save multiple headlines. Easily swap them across multiple resumes, depending on the job title you're tailoring your application for.

50+ resume headline examples

When you have limited words to play with, your resume headline needs to be as strong as possible. But how do you convey possibly years, even decades, of work into only one short phrase?

Every industry will require something slightly different, but here are a few examples of resume headlines to get you started:

Marketing, sales, or administrative roles

Content Writer With 4+ Years’ Experience Writing Advertising Copy and Content in the Food and Beverage Industry.
Social Media Manager With 5 Years Experience Growing Online Presence and Increasing Engagement for Globally-Recognized B2C Brands.
Senior Sales Account Manager for Luxury Goods and Retail Businesses, Consistently Hit Sales Goals the Past Four Quarters.
Office Assistant With 7 Years Experience in Schedule Management and Customer Service.‍
Creative Marketing Professional with a Proven Track Record of Driving Sales Growth through Innovative Strategies.
Results-Driven Digital Marketing Specialist with Expertise in SEO, PPC, and Social Media Marketing.
Highly Organized Administrative Assistant with Strong Technical Skills and Collaborative Spirit.
Dynamic Sales Manager with a Passion for Helping Clients Achieve their Financial Goals and Delivering Top-Notch Insurance Solutions.
Experienced Graphic Designer with a Passion for Creative Solutions and Visual Storytelling.
Creative and Analytical Marketing Manager with Expertise in Social Media Strategy.
Personable Sales Representative with a Strong Customer Focus and Strategic Vision.

Technical, engineering, or IT positions

Award-Winning Civil Engineer With 10+ Years Experience in Government Agency Infrastructure Management.
Highly Experienced Data Analyst for Healthcare and Wellbeing Businesses, Proficient in Power Bi and Tableau.
Environmental Engineer With 3 Years Experience in Climate-Friendly Building Supplies and Ecological Architecture.
Experienced Field Engineer Specializing in Aerospace Design and Manufacturing.
Experienced Technical Support Technician with Strong Troubleshooting and Customer Service Skills.
Senior Member of Technical Staff with Strong Software Engineering and Distributed Systems Skills for Large-Scale Operations.
Data-Driven Technical Specialist with Experience in Optimizing Business Processes and Improving Performance.
Accomplished Mechanical Engineer with a Strong Background in Product Development and Project Management.
Experienced Technical Support Professional with Expertise in SQL and Javascript.
Data Analyst with expertise in SQL, Python, and Machine Learning for Process Improvement and Data-Driven Business Strategy.
Experienced Manager of Risk Advisory and Consulting with Expertise in SOX and IT Audit and Cybersecurity Frameworks.
Expert Software Engineer with Proven Track Record of Developing High-Quality Code.

Healthcare and professional services

Registered Nurse With 10 Years Emergency Room Experience and Experience Leading Outpatient Clinical Procedures.
Tri-Lingual Pediatric Nurse With Experience Communicating With Patients in Spanish, French and English.
Senior Certified Public Accountant Specializing in Family Businesses and Succession Planning.
Tax Preparer With Experience Using Proconnect Tax Online, Proseries Professional, Lacerte, and Cch Axcess Tax.
Compassionate Registered Nurse with 10+ Years of Experience in Patient Care and Clinical Leadership.
Skilled Healthcare Administrator with a Strong Background in Operations, Quality Improvement, and Regulatory Compliance.
Compassionate Social Worker with MSW Degree and LGSW/LICSW Licensure, Dedicated to Delivering High-Quality Patient Care.
Registered Dietitian with Expertise in Nutrition Policy and Guidance.
Board Certified Oral Surgeon with Exceptional Clinical Expertise and Patient Care.
Financial Inventory Specialist Driving Financial Optimization and Accuracy in Inventory Control Processes.
Experienced Clinical Trial Attorney with Sound Legal Judgment and Strong Drafting Skills.

Management and leadership roles

Navy Veteran With Over 20 Years Experience Leading Project Management Teams of 10+ People.
Operations Director Overseeing a $3 Million Annual Budget Across 7 Departments.
Warehouse Manager With Experience Leading Departments of 50+ People, Over 10 Years of Forklift Experience and Efficiency-Focused Operational Skills.
Group Director with 10+ Years Experience and Expertise in Customer Experience Across Multiple Channels.
Experienced Senior Project Manager with Proven Results in Strategic Sourcing, Negotiation, and People Management in Supply Chain and Operations Management.
Inventory Manager with Expertise in Procurement, Item Management, and Financial Analysis for Optimal Supply Chain Performance.
Data-Driven Project Leader Skilled in Managing and Developing High-Performing Teams.
A Visionary Leader with 10+ Years of Expertise in Program Management and Global Technology Initiatives.
Experienced Managing Director with Strong Leadership Skills in B2B Business Development and Strategy Building.
Experienced Client Executive with Proven Track Record of Driving Revenue Growth and Building Strong Relationships.
Certified Special Education Autism Teacher with Exemplary Organization and Planning Skills.
Veteran High School Teacher Proficient in Utilizing Technology and Subject Matter Expertise.
Compassionate Elementary School Teacher Committed to Maintaining Professionalism and Constructive Working Relationships.
Collaborative Special Education Co-teacher With 7+ Years of Experience and Ability to Adapt to New Directions and Deadlines With Composure.
Experienced Paraprofessional With a Focus on Student Success and Support in Educational Environments.

Students and recent graduates

Software developer intern with experience in Python, C++, HTML, Java and Unix.
Aspiring disease and chronic illness researcher, current biology student.
Early childhood education major with 2 semesters of hands-on lab experience and student teaching experience.
Innovative Computer Science Major with Strong Coding Skills and a Keen Interest in Artificial Intelligence.
Proactive Journalism Major with Experience in Reporting and Editing for Campus and Community Publications.
Creative Recent Graduate with a Passion for Design and a Strong Portfolio in Graphic Design.
Detail-Oriented Recent Graduate with a Degree in Accounting and Relevant Internship Experience.
Enthusiastic Recent Graduate with a Degree in Marketing and Experience in Social Media Management and Branding.
Creative and Ambitious Marketing Intern with a Passion for Digital Media and Brand Strategy.
Analytical and Driven Finance Intern with Experience in Data Analysis and Financial Modeling.

How to create a resume that matches your resume headline and helps you land more interviews

No matter what industry you work in, presenting yourself as the ideal candidate to fill an open position should always be top of mind when updating your resume.

Clear and concise resume headlines are the best way to get noticed and move your application to the top of the hiring manager's stack.

With Teal's AI Resume Builder , you can create customized resumes that will grab the attention of any recruiter. With several professional templates to choose from and seamless integration to pull information from your LinkedIn account, you can quickly put together the information you need to tailor your resume for each job application.

Want to craft a catchy LinkedIn headline? Check out our guide on the best LinkedIn headlines for job seekers .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an effective resume headline be, can i use a resume headline if i'm changing industries, should my resume headline include keywords from the job description.

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3. Lead with your biggest accomplishment. If you've had a big win in your career, highlighting it in your resume objective can help you stand out among other job seekers. For example, "A content marketer who's generated over 30 million views in a single calendar year looking for a full-time position.". 4.
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2. Criminal justice resume objective. "Experienced criminal justice professional looking to apply 10 years of experience to a position that allows for growth and advancement opportunities, the implementation of policies and practices and positive changes to the justice system in the United States.". 3.
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Y = Years of experience and quantified success/results. Z = How these results apply to the specific job role. Keep this formula in mind, and you'll surprise yourself with professional and engaging results like the objective below: X = Ambitious, adaptable, eager, self-motivated, and efficient.
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5. Keep it brief. Your career objective needs to be short and sweet to save room for more important information. Try to limit the entire statement to two or three lines. Pack those sentences with strong action verbs and job-specific qualities, and your resume will stand out from your fellow applicants.
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3. Use the right adjectives. Using an adjective in your resume headline can help you stand out, but you should avoid overused words like hard-working, detail-oriented, innovative, and creative. Instead, use attention-grabbing adjectives like instrumental, energetic, imaginative, driven, or responsive.
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A great resume headline example for a restaurant server resume is: Time Out's Server of the Year, Chicago, 2017. It introduces the candidate by presenting a big professional achievement while being short and concise. A good resume headline is short and effective, like an elevator pitch.
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The former is the statement or name of your profession, whereas the latter can be longer and more detailed. Examples of resume headline & title: Resume Title: Graphic Designer. Resume Headline: Innovative Graphic Designer with 4+ Years Experience in Commercial Design.
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1. Consider your top skills. Make a list of every responsibility, type of knowledge or desirable characteristic you can think of and organize it in a way that makes the most sense to you. You may make a list of hard skills, one of soft skills and another of accomplishments to which you can attach supporting data.
How to Write a Resume Headline (With Examples)
Resume Headline Examples . Reviewing a few examples of good resume headlines will help you when coming up with your own. Notice how these are brief and attention-grabbing, much like a catchy title to an article that makes you want to read on.
How To Write The Best Resume Headline [18 Examples]
Quantifiable: If possible, include quantifiable bullet points or metrics that demonstrate your skills or accomplishments examples in your headline. Positive and enthusiastic: Use positive language and avoid clichés and negative words or phrases. Your headline should convey enthusiasm and confidence in your abilities.
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Staff Accountant Resume Objective Examples Good Example. Driven accountant with 2+ years of experience and a B.Sc. in Accounting (3.8 GPA), eager to join LC Insurance as a staff accountant. Seeking to maintain, improve, and optimize accounting processes while providing accurate reporting and ensuring full compliance with relevant regulations ...
Custodian Resume—Job Description, Sample, & Objective
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Stocker Resume—Job Description, Sample, & Skills
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