The Smart Resume Blog

Objective statements are often too generic to be effective on any resume. Statements such as “Seeking an exciting and challenging position in [insert career field here]” or “To utilize my skills in [blank] to achieve [some professional goal]”, do not give an employer any insight into your professional experience. You can include your objectives - the type of position and opportunities you are seeking and type of organization you want to work for - in your cover letter. Given that most recruiters spend under 30 seconds scanning a resume, that prime real estate at the top of your resume should be used for something that is more likely to grab their attention.

A Qualification Summary Allows You To:

• Include additional skills to supplement your listed career experience. In a few bullet points you can address core strengths, work habits, and technical skills.
• Make your resume more keyword friendly for online submissions. The more matching keywords you include, the more likely your resume will show up in employers’ queries.
• Provide an employer with a better perspective of who you are and what you can offer.
• Mirror job requirements as listed in the posting.
• Make an effective case for a career change.

How to Write a Successful Qualification Summary:

• Don’t blindly write your qualification summary. Tailor it to the employer’s needs.
• Include your key strengths. Ask yourself what makes you the best candidate for the job?
• Start each bullet point with an action word or adjective.
• Avoid clichés and meaningless phrases.

Sample Office Manager Qualification Summary:

• Results-oriented and high energy professional with demonstrated experience in office management and employee relations.
• Expert knowledge of current human resources practices with comprehensive knowledge of hiring, training, and performance evaluation methods.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Creates and maintains positive business relationships with vendors, co-workers, and management.
• Technical skills include: Windows XP, Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.