Resume Advice from Phil

Dear Phil:

I am stumped on my objective and need resume advice! What would you write as your ‘objective’ if you wanted to change industry or job type? I currently work at a bank, and I have held this position for the last four years. I recently decided that I enjoy working with youth; I would like to try to find a position in the social service industry. I do not have a degree, but I have some volunteer experience in the field.

Can you please help me phrase my objective?

This is how it sounds in my head: “looking to change fields, for a more fulfilling position in the Human Services industry.”

I don’t like it at all! Please help with some resume advice!

Sincerely,

Anonymous
Chicago, Illinois

Dear Head Case:

If you do not like what you are hearing, maybe it is time to stop listening to those voices in your head. Please make sure that you NEVER mention the little people controlling your brain on a job interview. Resume advice? Maybe psychiatric help is the place to begin!

Okay, in all seriousness: congratulations on being a super fox who is ready to try to do something you love. It sounds like you are a little uncertain of your qualifications. I can assure you that recruiters can read confidence on paper. Let’s tackle of a couple of your concerns:

1. Objective

Most HR representatives will tell you that they scan your resume for about 15 seconds to determine whether it deserves a more thorough examination. Although you have probably been told differently, the first place they look is NOT your resume objective.

A resume objective is designed to state your goal or purpose. Isn’t everyone’s purpose “To get a job that pays the bills and buys those designer jeans at Macy’s,”?

Solution 1: You can leave the objective off! Recruiters and HR professionals do not look at them. Why worry about writing a fantastic objective, when the objective is not read?

Solution 2: You can write a relevant objective.

2. No experience

No problem. You do not have to be an industry insider to break into social services. Unquestionably, your position at the bank promoted strong communication skills and teamwork abilities. By focusing on transferable skills, you will show the industry professionals that you are capable of meeting their needs. Avoiding the most common resume format (reverse chronology) is a good start.

Solution: Use a resume format that accentuates accomplishments versus work history.

If those voices have not shut up yet, tell them that you have the resume advice that you needed, and they need to hibernate…indefinitely. Remove your objective and read up on different types of resumes.

Once you tweak these things, apply for a few positions of interest. If you do not receive a call for an interview, do not worry yet. The best resume advice I can give is to tell you to make sure that you gauge the effectiveness of the resume you are sending. If one resume is not working, you should make additional changes and see how the new version fairs.

Use the Resume Dictionary for resume help. The site contains power words and examples, plus other resources for a great resume.

Copyright 2010 Phil Baker and Resume Dictionary