Tips for Writing Your Career Goals and Objectives on Your Resume

Alasdair Smith reports:

"It’s not always necessary to address your career goals and objectives on your resume if you’re already established in your field and are just looking for another position that will require the same skill set. However, if you’re just starting out, or changing your career direction, stating your goals and objectives on your resume is useful and appropriate. Presenting this information in a short personal statement will give a prospective employer a good sense of your direction and why you would be an asset to their company. Write down all your thoughts concerning you[r] future career goals. At this stage, be as open as possible to even the most outlandish ideas, ruling nothing out. Use this as an opportunity to reflect on what would make you truly happy and fulfilled in your professional life in the long term. Creating an ambitious vision is the first step in pursuing a fulfilling career and lifestyle that complements your interests. Review your list and narrow it down to those that most closely reflect your main interests. Focus on those that stir your passions will both stretch and satisfy you professionally...[Y]ou should set goals that are realistically attainable within a certain time period. If you set an impossible goal, you will quickly become disinterested and less effective. Your goals should motivate and inspire you to work hard towards your desired outcome. Identify individual career objectives that will help you to achieve your long-term goals. Consider individual objectives [a]s stepping stones towards your ultimate career goal...Combine the elements of your career goals and objectives into a powerful paragraph to head up your resume. This will help attract the interest of potential employers when recruiting. Keep it to no more than two or three sentences. This personal statement should set out what you're immediately seeking in a new job, the skills you bring, and your ultimate objective...Revisit and refresh your goals and objectives regularly as your circumstances and experiences change. Tailor your personal statement to each position and company to which you apply to maximize your chances of securing an interview."