Many individuals are happy to take your money for a “professional” resume; but how do you know that you are truly dealing with a professional resume writer?
- Ask for their certifications. Career Directors International is the premier organization offering certifications for resume writers, such as Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW).
- Ask for their memberships. Among other notable industry organizations are the National Resume Writers Association (NRWA) and Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC).
- Ask for samples. Resume writers are creative; therefore, two individuals with the exact same credentials will approach the same resume differently. By looking at examples, you can determine if the writer’s style meshes with your own.
- Pay attention to the intake. Does the writer ask intelligent, probing questions or simply throw a fill-in-the-blank form at you? Does the writer seem familiar with at least one of the following: your industry, your field, or your level of experience?
- Find out about the process. Does the resume writer have a process that seems organized and efficient, giving you enough time to review but not dragging on for months?
- Find out who you will be working with. Some large firms will have a qualified person interview you but then parcel your resume out to whatever writer happens to be next in line, whether or not that writer meets your expectations.
- Look for reviews. Go beyond the resume writer’s own website to seek out online reviews of the service. Invitations to speak or participate in events for job seekers are also good indications that the writer has the respect of clients and peers.
- Read the contract carefully. Make sure you are getting what you need, whether that is a resume capable of passing through an ATS system or a complete package including resume, LinkedIn profile, and cover letter(s).
- Be leery of online resume builder services. A live person will create an individual—not generic—resume and will display expertise in grammar and proofreading—not merely the ability to hit the spellcheck button. A live person will give depth to your resume that singles you out from your competition.
- Be reasonable in your demands and budget. If you want a resume writer who works for free; who agrees with every decision you make on what to add, delete, or say in your resume; and who guarantees that this resume will get you a job, then you want a magician, not a professional resume writer. A professional resume writer is worthy of their fee, keeps abreast of the latest trends in resumes, and knows that a professional resume is just one step in a long process.
For over 20 years, Robin Schlinger has met every standard of professionalism in resume writing and career coaching. Contact Robin’s Resumes® today.