How do you write a catchy and concise resume summary or objective for career fairs?

1 What is a resume summary or objective?

A resume summary or objective is a short paragraph that summarizes your main qualifications, skills, and goals for your job search. It usually appears at the top of your resume, under your name and contact information. A resume summary or objective is not mandatory, but it can help you highlight your value proposition and grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

2 How to choose between a summary or an objective?

A resume summary or objective is not the same thing. A summary is more suitable for candidates who have relevant experience and achievements in their field, and want to showcase their expertise and accomplishments. An objective is more suitable for candidates who are changing careers, re-entering the workforce, or have little or no experience, and want to express their interest and motivation for a specific role or industry.

3 How to write a catchy and concise resume summary or objective?

A resume summary or objective should be succinct, containing no more than four sentences. This should include your professional title, relevant skills and qualifications, main achievements, and career goals. To write a captivating and concise summary or objective, you should employ powerful action verbs, precise keywords, and quantifiable outcomes. Additionally, you should tailor your summary or objective to the type of career fair you're attending and the employers you're targeting. For instance, if you're attending a tech career fair, it's important to emphasize your technical skills and projects, as well as use words that match the job descriptions of the employers of interest.

4 Examples of resume summaries for career fairs

For different types of career fairs, here are some examples of resume summaries: a marketing manager with over five years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns, a passionate and dedicated elementary school teacher, and a talented and motivated mechanical engineer. These professionals have implemented innovative curriculum, designed and tested solutions, and increased brand awareness, engagement, and sales. They are all looking for new opportunities to apply their expertise and grow as leaders in their respective fields.

5 Examples of resume objectives for career fairs

When attending different types of career fairs, it's important to have a resume objective that is tailored to the specific job. For example, at an accounting career fair, one might include that they are a recent graduate with a strong academic background and knowledge of accounting software, standards, and regulations. At a healthcare career fair, they could mention their certificate in CPR and first aid, as well as their volunteering experience. And for a hospitality career fair, they may emphasize their certificate in customer service and hospitality management, as well as their experience as a receptionist at a four-star hotel. Having an objective that reflects your skills and experience can help you stand out and make a great impression.