Resume Profile vs Resume Objective: What is the Difference?

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As you are working on writing your resume, it is possible you have heard about adding a resume profile or resume objective. These additions to your resume can provide a brief summary of your level of experience or showcase what type of position you are currently seeking. It is not necessary to include either element, but it is important to understand the difference between the two. 

Both elements may be one to two sentences, but they each add a different meaning. This article will explain the difference between the two, how to write each and more information to help you decide which one you should add to your resume. 

What is the difference between a resume profile and a resume objective?

When updating your resume for a new career position, you may want to add a profile or objective. This is not to be confused with a cover letter. A cover letter is a document attached to your resume. A profile or objective has a dedicated space in your resume layout. 

A profile is a summary of your work history identified by years of experience, a brief description of your skill set and abilities, and a summary of your qualifications. The profile is focused more on your past work experience, while the objective is focused more on what type of employment position you are wanting to obtain. If you have a lot of experience, a profile will be more beneficial for your resume.

It is not recommended to include both on a resume as the section can get too long. Instead, focus on which element you think is right for you based on your work history. 

Tips and examples for writing a resume profile

When you begin to write a resume profile, consider it your personal elevator pitch on why someone should be interested in you as a candidate for a position. This is the time to list your top qualifications. You want to make sure this area is only one to two sentences. 

Here are some things to consider when writing your resume profile:

Take some time to think about your qualifications

  • How many years of experience do I have working in this career field to make me qualified for this position? 
  • What is a skill set I possess that could be beneficial for this company? 
  • How would I describe myself to a hiring manager if I only had a brief amount of time?
  • What is an example of my previous work experience that would be important to highlight?

Here’s an example using a marketing background to answer the questions above: 

  • More than 15 years of experience 
  • Qualifications include understanding digital media, creating monthly goal reports and updating budget sheets
  • Personal descriptors: detail-oriented, dedicated, organized 
  • Creating strategy plans to unite a marketing team

Once you have answered the questions, next you can begin to write the resume profile

Here’s an example of a resume profile:

Detail-oriented Marketing Professional with more than 15 years of experience in creating monthly reports to identify strategic initiatives for digital media campaigns. A dedicated individual who works well with small and large teams.

As you can see, you do not have to use all of the answers you provide, but it will help you as you are writing your resume profile. This is the time to highlight the best qualifications and skill sets you want to describe yourself as an employee.  

Tips and examples for writing a resume objective

An objective is one to two sentences that briefly states what type of job you are seeking in your career field. The objective is usually a forward-thinking statement describing what kind of position you are hoping to obtain. It is common to see resume objectives for a candidate looking for an entry-level position.  

Use the job description to pick the keywords you want to feature in your objective

For example, here is a job description that lists the duties and responsibilities a candidate will need to possess: 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Digital marketing services sales lead and subject matter expert in your market
  • Develop and execute go-to-market social media strategies and tactics that result in positive outcomes for company revenue targets
  • Establish, maintain and grow meaningful client relationships

Some main keywords to use will be: 

  • Digital marketing
  • Expert
  • Strategies
  • Client relationships

Now, read the example objective below: 

 Marketing expert looking to obtain a position to create digital strategies to grow meaningful client relationships. 

How can I tell the difference between a resume profile and a resume objective?

Now, let’s compare a resume profile to a resume objective to spot the differences: 

Resume profile example: 

Detail-oriented Marketing Professional with more than 15 years of experience in creating detailed monthly reports to identify strategic initiatives for digital media campaigns.

Resume objective example: 

Marketing expert looking to obtain a position to create digital strategies to grow meaningful client relationships.

As you can see, the resume profile tells a potential employer who you are as a candidate, while a resume objective tells what you are looking for in a potential position. They are both one to two sentences.

Why should I include a resume profile or resume objective?

You do not have to include a profile or objective on your resume. However, if you are going to include one, it is better to include the profile. The profile should quickly summarize your experience, qualifications and education in a meaningful way. A potential employer will identify if you are the right candidate for the position based on the details you provide. With a strategically written profile, you have the potential to be the correct match for an interview. 

The objective is more common for an entry-level candidate. As stated above, it is not recommended to include both on a resume. Before submitting your resume, thoroughly review the job description and your resume profile or objective to make sure it is complementary to the position.