A concise job objective is a key part of your resume when applying for International Affairs positions. Avoid generic statements such as "seek an overseas position to use my skills." Instead, tailor your objective statement to the specific job for which you are applying. The objective statement should clearly and quickly identify to a prospective employer how your specific skills -- foreign languages, time spent abroad, area studies degree -- would directly further the goals and meet the needs of the hiring company in the international arena.

General Objectives for International Jobs

In today's highly competitive employment market, your resume and cover letter need to set you apart from other applicants. One way you can do that is by crafting a focused job objective. Your purpose is to convince potential employers that you want to use your specific skills to benefit them. An objective statement does include your goals, but should also sell the employer on you and your experience. It should show how your goals are a fit for the organization's needs.

International Affairs Opportunities in Government

The federal government is a huge employer for jobs in the international arena. As such, government hiring offices receive thousands of resumes for available openings, and often your stated job objective may be the only thing hiring officials read to decide whether to consider your resume further. Tie your previous experience directly to a clearly stated desire to serve the country by furthering the country's foreign policy objectives. For example, use a specific statement such as "Latin America specialist with seven years' experience seeks analyst position with a U.S. government intelligence agency to enhance U.S. knowledge of Latin American trade practices."

International Business Opportunities

Companies of all types continue to expand into international markets, increasing opportunities for qualified applicants in fields such as banking, commerce, publishing, social media and travel planning. Your objective statement for such jobs should include a reference to your international awareness and experience. Include all languages you speak or any experience you have living abroad. This is particularly important if you are seeking employment with a foreign firm or organization. International resume expert Jean-Marc Hachey advises that foreign employers are looking for indications that your overall personality, not just your skills, will be a good fit for their organization.

Non-traditional International Postions

Organizations such as the Peace Corps or overseas mission groups are often willing to trade specific job experience for a clear commitment to working abroad in difficult conditions. You can clearly state this in your objective statement with phrases such as "desire to bring experience working with children to an under-served rural area to provide elementary-level education programs," or "apply engineering degree to help local communities improve access to clean water."