A concise statement at the top of a nursing resume traditionally served to summarize the candidate’s career goals and desired position. For example, a new graduate might have stated a desire to obtain a position as a staff nurse in a specific unit to gain experience in a particular specialty. This statement provided a quick overview of the applicant’s aspirations within the nursing profession.
Historically, such statements were considered essential for focusing the hiring manager’s attention. They provided a clear picture of the candidate’s immediate professional targets. However, current best practices often favor a more skills-focused approach, often utilizing a resume summary or a professional profile highlighting key qualifications and career accomplishments instead of a stated objective. This shift stems from a move towards emphasizing what a candidate offers rather than what they want. The skills-based approach helps showcase the candidate’s value proposition more effectively.
