Still, many resume experts argue that a traditional objective statement is irrelevant and the space is better used in other ways, such as highlighting career accomplishments and notable skills.

Sometimes, an objective statement is not necessary, since it takes up prime real estate right on your resume, where you could be selling yourself instead. In some cases, it could be repetitive.

Ideally, use exact words from the job description in your resume objective statement. This means—I’m so sorry to say—that you need to write a new one for every position you’re applying to.

If you don’t have the exact job title, you can focus on the organization or company when writing a resume objective. Have different objective statements for all the jobs you want to apply.

Basically, resume objective statements are a few sentences stating your value to the employer, strengths and why you are seeking the position relevant to your long-term goals.

And that's true, generally. But there's one occasion when your resume should, in fact, return to the objective statement: when you're making a huge career change. Think about it.

Career Advisor Dear Advisor: I am an accounting major who is about to enter the job market. Should I include an objective on my résumé? I have been told by some people that I should, and by ...