Dear Workforce Which Résumé Is Preferable?

Dear Objecting:

In my experience, and in speaking with a number of recruiters, an objective on a résumé is not only outdated, but usually unnecessary. Unless the candidate is a recent graduate, changing careers or going in a new direction that necessitates some explanation, most recruiters bypass any stated objectives to focus instead on a person’s experience. Their main interest is in determining whether a person is a viable candidate for the job.

Most recruiters only look at an objective to answer things that don’t make sense in the résumé itself. This might occur if someone applies for a sales position but lists no sales experience.

This candidate might include an objective as to why they are interested and/or qualified for this position, even though their background is in something that appears unrelated to the sales position.

SOURCE: Kelly A. Hamm,Futurestep, Los Angeles, December 4, 2008

LEARN MORE: There’s a lot of talk about video résumés, but the jury is still debating their effectiveness.

The information contained in this article is intended to provide useful information on the topic covered, but should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion. Also remember that state laws may differ from the federal law.