What is a Professional Objective at the beginning of the resume?

When employers go through all the applications they receive, they scrutinize based on various aspects. Usually, an employer looks to hire someone who knows what they want and what they can bring to the company. It shows how much a candidate is driven and whether his work profile is in line with his desired career path.
To give such an impression, curating an effective career objective is important. Your career objective comes first on your resume after your name and contact information. It is a brief statement that expresses your professional goal. Stating this in your resume significantly increases your chances of getting hired. As much as it makes your resume stand out, be careful not to mention the professional objective if the instructions clearly say so.

Tips for writing an effective professional objective

1. Keep it concise and meaningful The key points to keep in mind while writing your professional objective are to be realistic, concise, and targeted, but not restrictive. Remember, it is a brief functional statement that reflects your career goals/interests and should help in organizing your resume/CV.
2. Avoid using common phrases Do not use common phrases like "a challenging position", "a progressive company" or "an opportunity for advancement". These terms may sound unique and attractive to you but have little to no effect on the employer.
3. Narrow down the objective The professional objective includes either one or both — the position you are seeking and the industry you are willing to work in. Using both the criteria narrows your objective down to a particular area.
4. Include skills Keeping it precise, try including 1-2 relevant skills so as to increase your chances of selection. Try to not repeat the same skills in your resume.
5. Work-centered, not self-centered Your professional objective must be work-centered and not self-centered. Emphasize more on what you can bring to the position/organization and not what it will do for you.
6. Proofread for any errors The professional objective is the first thing your employer will see. It is important to create a good first impression. Always check for any spelling mistakes or grammatical errors.
7. Make it more personalized Do not write a general objective statement. Search for details of your work profile and personalize the professional objective likewise. The more specific your statement is, the better are your chances of getting hired.
8. Give an idea of what the resume holds As mentioned before, this statement is your first impression on the employer. When you highlight certain skills and goals in the professional objective, you give the recruiter an idea of what to expect in the rest of the resume. Make sure it's captivating.
9. Mention important certifications/degrees If you have any licenses, certificates, or degrees related to the position, make sure you mention them. Your resume mentions your educational experience, however, for any impressive achievements, writing them in the statement helps your resume to stand out.
10. Describe how you will add value An important aspect that recruiters consider while scrutinizing an application is what and how the candidate will add value to the work profile and the company. You can include your work ethic and ambition to clearly state your value propositions.

Sample Professional Objectives for various fields

1. For an Entry-Level Assistant Quality Control Manager A highly-skilled engineering graduate interested in holding an Entry-level Assistant Quality Control Manager position with Mackus Technologies, LLC; bringing professional and technical skills that can help the company achieve its vision. Tip: Mention your skills.
2. For a Junior Assistant to the CEO A proactive individual with an MBA seeking to fill the position of the Junior Assistant to the CEO at Sapphire Financials where excellent organizational and result-driven leadership skills will be utilized. Tip: Speak about relevant skills and how you will utilize them.
3. For a Senior Chef An experienced chef desirous of a Senior Chef position at Ritz Hotels, bringing a wealth of experience in preparing a broad range of menus, with the ability to cater to the nuances of picky clients. Also, possess the leadership ability to lead a team. Tip: Mention your experience and strong attributes.
4. For an Accountant A qualified public accountant with an MBA seeking the role of an Accountant at Nokk Co. Equipped with technical and professional expertise along with 5 years of work experience in the tax environment. Tip: Add expertise in a particular field and any special degree.
5. For a Catering Manager A certified dietician and caterer with 5+ years of experience in the foodservice industry, equipped with the skill to launch innovative strategies to grow customer base and contribute excellent relational skills to bring a water-tight customer service methodology in the capacity of Catering Manager with Carlos Suites. Tip: Lead with certification, skills and prior experience.
6. For a Server A problem solver with managerial and communication skills seeking a Server role with Millo Restaurant; possess a warm personality and the stamina to meet company goals. Tip: Keep it concise and clear.
7. For a General Manager Looking to gain a challenging leadership role with Valens Corp as a General Manager; bringing lean management and innovative problem-solving skills to take the company to market leadership and superior profits. Tip: Mention how you will add value.
8. For a Production Manager Desirous to contribute the best effort, passion, and talents with Rogan Corp. as a Production Manager; looking to maximize administrative, supervising, and management skills to ensure the growth of the company. Tip: Speak about your passion and skills for the work profile and company.
9. For a Front Desk Receptionist A creative individual desiring a full-time engagement as a Front Desk Receptionist to answer calls, receive clients and manage the office space and equipment. Tip: Mention your interest and keep it specific.
10. For a teacher A highly talented and result-driven elementary education teacher seeking a teaching position at Topnote School; bringing creative curriculum development skills and 5+ years of teaching experience. Tip: Talk about experience and how you stand out from others.