A resume summary and an objective statement serve different purposes. In most cases, a summary is stronger because it focuses on what you offer, not just what you want.
Resume Summary
A summary is 2–4 lines that state your role type, experience, and key strengths. It answers "What do you bring?" Example: "Marketing manager with 10+ years driving growth in B2B SaaS through data-driven campaigns and team leadership." Use it when you have experience and want to highlight your value.
Objective Statement
An objective states what you want (e.g., "Seeking a marketing role where I can grow"). It is less common today because it focuses on you, not the employer. Use it only when you are changing careers or have very little experience and need to state your goal clearly.
When to Use Which
Use a summary when you have experience and want to lead with your value. Use an objective only when you are early career or changing careers and need to state your target role. In both cases, tailor to the job.
What to Include
Summary: role type, years of experience, 2–3 key strengths or outcomes. Objective: target role and 1–2 reasons you are a fit. Keep both short and professional.