The first thing to teach about writing resume objectives is the purpose for the objective statement. Job hunters should look at a resume as a small advertisement for themselves. Just as advertisers target their advertisements to their specific customers, job seekers should target their resumes to specific employers. Objective statements should call out to potential employers, catch their attention, and let them know you are just the right person for this particular job. A resume without a targeted objective statement can get lost in the crowd of hundreds of resumes from people with a wide variety of backgrounds.
Next, teach a simple pattern for writing resume objective statements. Based on the job announcement to which you are theoretically responding, decide on a specific job title to use. Then look at the qualifications the job announcement mentions, and consider your experience and strengths and mention those in your objective. The Rockport Institute recommends this pattern:
"Objective: A(n) ___a___ position in an organization needing (or seeking) _____b_____ and ____c____."
For example:
"Objective: A mechanic position with a busy garage seeking a responsible, competent mechanic with an excellent driving record, complete tool set, and extensive experience with all makes and models of vehicles."
Another example is:
"Objective: A copywriting position with a Web design company needing an experienced SEO writer with a technical background and broad subject expertise."
Have students practice by using actual job announcements from the computer or newspaper.
An objective needs to be brief and to the point. It should highlight the most important qualities a job hunter brings to the position. Teach students that a brief objective is the only objective that will get the right kind of attention from hiring managers. Teach students to avoid listing what they want from a position. Sentences such as "A job where I can gain more experience with corporate tax filings," are poor objective statements.
Remind students that a resume is not a summary of their entire life. It is an advertisement with a purpose. An objective statement is the introduction to their personal advertisement. Remind students to think about what they can give the company, not what they hope to get from the company. To reinforce this point, have exercises where the students read a job announcement, then make a list of what kind of person will best fit that position. They can then practice writing objective statements showing those qualifications.