Ready to kick your job search into high gear and need a top-notch resume in your arsenal before pulling the trigger? Wrote your own resume and not getting the results you’d like? With thousands of companies and individuals to choose from hiring a resume writer can seem daunting.
There is no such thing as one-size-fits all when it comes to resume writers. Before investing your trust (and money!) in a professional, consider these six factors to determine which writer or company is right for you.
#1 Credentials
The resume writing business is not regulated—anybody can hang a sign on the door and call themselves a writer. There are a number of industry-recognized resume writing designations and certifications. 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.
The National Resume Writers Association (NRWA), Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW-CC), Resume Writing Academy (RWA) and Career Directors International (CDI) all offer certification programs and rosters of certified writers.
Here’s a great article with details on each certification along with explanations of a few more specialized ones: http://www.certifiedresumewriters.com/resume-writer-certifications.
#2 High Touch or Client Directed Process
Each writer has a unique process. Some conduct consults via phone, others in person. Many let the client take the lead with email questionnaires. Decide what works best for you when making your selection.
#3 One-Stop Shopping or Niche Service
Many writers offer multiple services including resume distribution services and career coaching. Others focus on writing resumes and supporting career documents like LinkedIn profiles and cover letters. Ask yourself which services you need (and can afford) when making your determination.
# 4 Turnaround Time
Turnaround time can range from days to weeks. Some have waiting lists and others have teams of writers so can accommodate a last minute appointment.
Sometimes you can wait and sometimes you can’t. Many writers offer RUSH service delivery with an extra fee. Evaluate your needs before making an investment.
#5 Due Diligence
Hiring a writer sight unseen can be intimidating. Recommendations, samples and a phone call with your writer can put you at ease.
A professional writer confident in their work should have samples upon request. Look for accolades and examples on a writer’s website as well as on their LinkedIn profile.
#6 Budget
Resume writing fees range from city to city, the level of experience of the candidate and the writer, and the volume of services you require.
The adage that you get what you pay for usually applies, which is why clients should weigh all factors when searching for a writer that is a perfect fit.