Resumes

5. Make a strong first impression through appropriate use of summary of objective sections.

Most recruiters scan from the top of the first page, so make sure you include reference to all of your selling points in the first page.

A summary or an objective section can help to highlight the key points, but you should choose one or the other. Both should be very closely tailored to the job description, as this is your first chance to show how closely you match the job requirements. It can be helpful to imagine that the recruiter will only read your summary or objective section and nothing else. What do you need to tell them to show you can do the job?

Summary Section

The summary should highlight your professional skills and qualifications and should be tailored to the requirements of the job:

Place a summary at the top of the resume.
Draw attention to relevant information.
Keep it short. Two to three sentences only.
Keep it succinct and easy to read.
Focus on evidence that you will add value - not on what you want.
Do not include information that does not match. the job specification.
Do not oversell yourself.

Objective section

The objective is a statement that spells out the type of job you are seeking.

For the objectives to have any added benefit for your resume it needs to be tailored, succinct and well phrased. It must match the job for which you are applying and must strike a good balance between being specific (about the type of job you want) and being flexible (showing that you are adaptable to the needs of the company).

Generally, the only situation in which an objective section adds value is when you have a clear understanding of the job. You don't want to risk being screened out because the employer wants a sales assistant, and you have stated that you want to be a "merchandiser".

If there is any doubt regarding the value of an objective in your resume then leave it out.