So I'm looking for a new job and have to update my resume for the first time in 4 years. "Ugh" about sums it up. I've been looking at other people's resumes to get an idea of what format I want to go with, and have noticed that the "Objective" line is becoming less and less common, particularly for people who have substantial experience and expertise in one area. Is the "Objective" line always necessary? Are there instances in which it's a bad idea?

Any general resume advice would be appreciated as well. Mine is still very basic (it's the one I used to get my first "real" job). For what's it's worth, some relevant details are: I've worked for 4 years as a C++ programmer, and am almost done with my MBA. So, I'm looking to move from tech to a business field. Are there any special considerations for career changers? Should I still emphasize my technical skills even though I'm applying for a non-tech position? I've been looking through various templates, but any additional suggestions are much appreciated.

 

I always put, "To rock out with my cock out" and if thats seems too informal I put "Hang out with my wang out"

 

I'm not sure if this helps or not, but I once had my resume professionally done and those folks didn't include an Objective line. Instead, they used a "Highlights of Qualifications" line, with bulletpoints of my qualifications for a job I wanted.

I too have noticed that there are less people using an Objective line in their resume...I'm still wondering about that myself...

 

To obtain a challenging and interesting position in (x field), where my expertise in (X,Y,andZ) will be utilized, enhanced and supported.

Something like that.

 

of course I've heard that the term utilized is a fluff word that is looked down upon. Some people would say to utilize "used".

 

LOL!

 

I think in your case it would be a good idea to specify that a business-oriented position is your goal, since most of your background is technical.

 

I'm old-school and hate reading resumes without an objectives/goal type of statement. Highly specialized roles don't need it because the experience and skillsets speaks for itself. But business can be quite general and I want some peace of mind that the candidate has some sense of direction with his/her career; as well as to make certain that their career goal can be achieved with my company.

However, in lieu of an objectives statement, you can use a "summary of qualifications" statement. This assumes that the role you are applying for is defined as opposed to fishing companies for potential openings.

 

Thanks for all the input guys! It's appreciated!

I ended up ditching the "Objectives" line and went with a "Summary" section instead. In the "Summary" section, I wrote a brief blurb about my main qualifications, and then used bulletpoints to emphasize a few key strengths that are relevant to the job I'm applying for.

Since my background is technical and I'm applying for a business position, I tried to emphasize leadership roles and skills throughout the resume, and then listed my business courses and expected MBA graduation date. I did, however, retain a "Technical Skills" section just to show that I know a thing or two about tech.

I did consider using an "Objective" line to convey that I'm looking to move from tech to business, but ultimately decided against doing so, and just explained that in my cover letter.

Hopefully it all works out. Again, thanks a bunch!