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See Research StudiesAs an Executive Resume Writer, I know for certain that getting a resume and LinkedIn profile professional written is not for everyone.
By and large, my clients tend to fall into one of 5 categories:
- Don’t have the time or skills to write DIY
- Are facing steep competition
- Are trying to make a career/industry 180 or return to a role/industry after a long absence
- Have not had to write about their experience in years
- Are not seeing results
If these scenarios don’t resonate, then paying for your resume may not make sense. However, if you identify with one or more of these categories, you may be contemplating delegating this part of your job search to a professional.
Before diving in, it is important to recognize that collaborating with the right person or firm is key. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all when it comes to writers.
I recommend you consider the following 4 points before taking the plunge and partnering with someone to create the tools you need to market yourself in today’s job market:
Credentials
There are several resume writing credentials out there. Each has slightly different requirements, but the bottom line is that each requires the writer to submit a resume for approval by an expert panel.
TIP: Perform a quick search under “resume + writing + associations.” These associations have directories that list writer profiles for your review.
Also read: 3 Things You Must Understand if You Haven’t Needed a Resume in Years
Process
Every writer or firm has a slightly different process. What works for one customer may not work for another. Are you comfortable completing a questionnaire? How do you feel about handling revisions? Is working with the same writer from start to finish critical? Do you need a resume ASAP or can you wait a week or 2?
TIP: Evaluate your needs and identify your non-negotiables before making an investment.
Recommendations + Samples
Hiring anybody, much less the person who is going to convey your years of blood, sweat and tears onto paper, can be overwhelming. Recommendations from others can help. So can samples of past work.
TIP: Ask friends and colleagues for names, or go to a writer/company’s LinkedIn page or website to read testimonials and recommendations. A professional writer confident in their product and service should be willing to provide samples upon request.
Also read: Before and After: How a Professional Writes Resumes
Budget
Resume fees range from city to city, can depend on the level of expertise of the writer, and often take into account the level of experience of the client as well as the complexity of the task at hand.
TIP: Do some competitive shopping based on factors #1 – #4 to get a sense for pricing. From there, interview 2 or 3 firms or writers before making any decisions.
Investing time and money when you are job hunting or out of a job can be daunting, and should involve thoughtful consideration. However, when carefully evaluated, a strong writer-job seeker collaboration can reap huge ROI.