How to Write a Career Summary
         Generate Interest with a High-Impact Summary Statement

 Hiring managers are busy people. A single job posting might attract thousands of resumes. To get noticed, create a career summary (AKA career objective) statement. The goal of this section is to develop a hard-hitting introductory declaration packed with your most sought-after skills, abilities, accomplishments and attributes. On your Monster resume, use the Objective section to present your summary.

Take these six steps to create a winning career summary:

1. Conduct Research on Your Ideal Job

The more closely you can target your profile to the employer's needs, the better your results will be. Start by searching jobs for your ideal position. Compare the ads and write a list of common job requirements and preferred qualifications.  

3. Relay the Value You Bring to the Table

The next step is to weave your top credentials into your summary. Keep in mind that the summary helps the hiring manager determine if you should be called for an interview. Include a synopsis of your career achievements to show that your dedication to results is transferable to your next employer. Explain how you would help solve their problems. Ask yourself, "How will the employer benefit from hiring me?"

4. Add a Headline

A headline on a resume hooks your readers and compels them to continue reading. A headline should include your job target as well as the main benefit of hiring you.

5. Focus on Your Goal

The most effective summaries are targeted on one career goal. If you have more than one possible objective, consider drafting different versions. Fill your summary with keywords related to your career field. Your profile can also be supplemented with a bulleted "Key Skills" section, which provides an easy-to-read listing of your core capabilities.

6. Proofread, Refine and Perfect

First impressions are lasting impressions. Is your summary persuasive and free of errors? Is your tone appropriate for your career field? Avoid empty, generalized statements such as "excellent communication skills."

The Finished Product

Here is an example of an effective career summary:

Corporate Real Estate Executive
Increasing Bottom-Line Profitability Through Real Estate Strategies

Professional Profile

Accomplished executive with a proven ability to develop and implement real estate strategies that support business and financial objectives. Have led key initiatives that reduced operating budget by Rs.32 million and contributed to 550 percent stock increase. Recognized as an expert in applying financial concepts to asset management decisions.

Respected leader, able to build highly motivated management teams focused on achieving revenue goals. Keep up-to-date with changes in the industry through continuing professional development (earned an MBA in finance/real estate and master of corporate real estate designation).

Areas of Expertise

• High-Volume, High-Dollar Negotiations
• Strategic/Tactical Planning
• Multimillion-Dollar Operating and Capital Budget Administration
• Analytical and Financial Skills
• Statistical Modeling and ROI Analyses

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