A brief, compelling overview placed at the beginning of a resume, designed to capture a recruiter’s attention and highlight key skills and career goals. For example, a project manager might write, “Experienced project manager with a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time and within budget, seeking a challenging role in a fast-paced environment.” This concisely communicates the candidate’s core competencies and desired career trajectory.
This introductory section serves as a powerful first impression, allowing job seekers to showcase their most relevant qualifications immediately. It can significantly increase the likelihood of a resume being read thoroughly, as it provides a snapshot of the candidate’s value proposition. Historically, resumes often began with an objective statement, but these have largely been replaced by more impactful and versatile summaries or professional profiles focusing on what the candidate offers rather than what they seek.