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17X Award Winner in the International Toast of the Resume Industry Awards

2023

1st Place: Best Classic High Tech Resume 2023
2nd Place: Best Classic Difficult Transition Resume 2023
2nd Place: Best Healthcare/Medical Resume 2023
3rd Place: Best New Graduate Resume 2023
3rd Place: Best Sales Resume 2023

2022

2nd Place: Best Difficult Transition Resume 2022
Best Sales Resume 2022 Nominee 2022

2021

1st Place: Best New Graduate Resume 2021
2nd Place: Best Healthcare Resume 2021
3rd Place: Best Executive Resume 2021
3rd Place: Best Sales Resume 2021
3rd Place: Best High Tech Resume 2021

2020

1st Place: Best Executive Resume 2020
1st Place: Best Healthcare/Medical Resume 2020
1st Place: Best Marketing Resume 2020
2nd Place: Best Sales Resume 2020
Best Accounting/Finance Resume Nominee 2020

2019

2nd Place: Best Hospitality (Travel/Tourism) Resume 2019
3rd Place: Best Sales Resume 2019
Best Accounting/Finance Resume Nominee 2019

2018

Best International Resume Nominee 2018

2017

Best Hospitality Resume Nominee 2017

See the Services Page for Packages and Individual Services

Industry Certifications & Memberships

Australia’s first and only certified career storyteller.

1 of Australia’s leading executive resume writing strategists.

1 of only 3 Certified Executive Résumé Masters in Australia.
(1 of 35 CERMs worldwide)

The only resume professional Australia wide to hold all 5 certifications.

98.8% interview-winning success rate for executives, managers and professionals.

Member of the Career Directors International Certification Committee

We’re Global!

We’ve worked with clients in 20+ Countries

Resume Health Check

Does your CV pass the 6 second test? Let’s Do a Resume Health Check!

A resume today, is no longer your career obituary – a list of all the jobs  you’ve held and what you did there. The resume has evolved to become a foundational marketing document for your career, communicating the stories of success that demonstrate your value to a target employer. 

If your value fails to stand out, your resume will be tossed aside on the “no” pile and never looked at again. Are you sending out your current resume but not getting selected for interviews? If yes, the first place we need to look is your resume. You have come to the right place!

Over the years, the job market has changed dramatically. Previously, just having a “chat” with a potential employer was often enough to get your foot in the door. Now, the single most important document you need to sell your skills and experience to a potential employer is an outstanding resume/CV.

Simply put, you have 6 seconds to get the attention of the reader. How can you do this when you are competing against hundreds of other applicants for the same position? 

At Total Resumes our team of certified, savvy and experienced resume writing professionals have a proven track record in preparing and assisting applicants worldwide by creating tailored, professional documents! With Total Resumes help, you’ll stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons and not the wrong ones.

Our Resume Review service costs $29. Upon submission, you will be sent to the product page to make payment.

  • Max. file size: 50 MB.

How Does Your Resume Stack Up?

If you are not hearing back from employers for those jobs you know you are “perfect for,” then there’s likely a lot going wrong with your resume.

Would it help to learn the number #1 resume improvement that you can make in minutes to get you more interviews?

Investment or Cost

How long does it take for a professional resume to pay for itself?

How much income are you losing every day that you are looking for work?
Just divide your annual salary by 52 weeks, and divide that by 5 days per week and there’s your answer.

Example 1

Office Administrator | TAS – former salary = $55,000 annually ÷ 52 = $1057/week ÷ 5 days = $211 per day in lost wages.

Investing $600 in a Professional Resume Package
paid for itself in just over 3 days!

Example 2

Sales Manager | VIC – former salary = $100,000 annually ÷ 52 = $1923/week ÷ 5 days = $384 per day in lost wages.

Investing $750 in a Management Resume Package
paid for itself in less than 2 days!

“If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur.” – Red Adair

Examples of Our Work

Workforce Planning Manager

View Example

Healthcare Executive

View Example

Technology Executive

Presentation Full Colour Design Resume Example

View Example

Schedule a time to speak with Carolyn

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Wondering where to Focus your Efforts?

Here’s what recruiters say will get a resume rejected:

  • Impersonal Applications (No Hiring Manager’s Name) – 84%
  • No Thank You Note After Interview – 57%
  • Resumes Aren’t Customised and Tailored – 54%
  • No Cover Letter – 45%
  • No Follow Up With Employer After Interview – 37%
    (Careerbuilder) 

What hiring managers want  from job seekers:

  • Resumes Tailored to the Open Position – 63%
  • Skill Sets Listed First on a Resume – 41%
  • Cover Letters – 40%
  • Application Addressed to the Hiring Manager – 22%
  • Links to Personal Blogs, Portfolios, or Websites – 16%
    (Careerbuilder)

Additional informative takeaways:

Recruiters take an average of six seconds to scan a resume
(TheLadders)

41% of employers say that they might not interview a candidate if they can’t find them online.
(Careerbuilder)

Some of our proudest achievements at Total Resumes include:

98.8

Interview-winning success rate in less than 60 days

180

average length that job searches were shortened
(from 9+ months to 3 months or less)

30

of clients secure interviews in 2 weeks or less

Need help? Contact Carolyn today!

eBooks & Programs

From the author of:

5X Self-directed Career Advancement Programs

Job Search Secrets Exposed eBook, and

Getting Started with LinkedIn in Your Job Search eBook

Total Resumes Testimonials

Feedback From Our Valuable Clients

Carolyn completely transformed my resume and gave it a total 'Wow' factor. I received great feedback from people about it and I start my new role in less than two weeks, so I'm certainly a happy customer. Carolyn gathered all the pertinent data and positioned it brilliantly to tell my story. She was fast, efficient and professional and I have already recommended her to others.

Karen, Change Leader & Operations ManagerSydney NSW

Carolyn is just amazing. I am truly impressed with her professionalism, skills and service. Highly recommended and definitely the very best!

Yana, Executive AssistantSydney NSW

Thanks Carolyn for showcasing my talents and putting them together in a professional and well-presented resume.

Adam, Operations ManagerMelbourne VIC

I just briefly looked through the documents and must say I'm impressed with how you've crafted the story. It's what I've always had in my head, but was never able to articulate it in such a clear and crisp way. Thank you so much for your excellent work on this project. I couldn't be happier with the final result. I really appreciate the quick and professional follow-ups you've provided. Also, many thanks for the additional resources.

Gerhard, Healthcare ExecutiveHong Kong

I had the fantastic opportunity to avail Carolyn's executive resume writing services. She just put your thoughts and achievements fabulously in your resume. She is very dedicated with her clients be it resume writing or even helping you out with small details to make a long lasting impact with your resume. She is very committed and has always kept to her timelines and is very approachable. She is always available for a conversation with her clients. I would definitely recommend Carolyn for her resume writing skills and would love to work with her again in the near future.

Anuradha Wadhar, Business Process Improvement ManagerSydney NSW

Dear Carolyn, I am quite overwhelmed by the quality of your work, an how much better my information presents. I am truly excited now. Thank you so much!

Katrina, Regional ManagerCanberra ACT

I join [name withheld] in a weeks' time 😊. In the past six weeks, I have been pinged through LinkedIn at least once a week by recruiters in the industry. It is an awesome feeling to finally be in a position to turn down jobs! A number of people in [name withheld] have approached me for my secret sauce for getting a job. Of course you have come up in my many conversations. [name withheld] just mentioned that she is about to commence working with you on her resume and LinkedIn.

Richard, Product ManagerSydney NSW

After you created my resume, I have landed my dream job today as HACCP Coordinator. It all happened because you put so much effort into my resume. I seriously want to thank you.

Parambir, HACCP CoordinatorSydney NSW

Carolyn has an empathy and deep understanding of the new age job market, its competitive nature and the need to define individuals by achievement and the value they offer. Her unique ability to weave the story of a candidate's achievements and clear communication skills set her apart from most resume writers. But the most prevalent attribute that Carolyn brings is her commitment to her clients, working to meet difficult deadlines, following up with improvements, and ensuring that she remains the trusted advisor to her clients.

Michael, General ManagerBrisbane QLD

I am very happy to recommend Carolyn to anyone requiring assistance with a resume, cover letter or employment application. Not only is Carolyn extremely adept in this area with wonderful communication and presentation skills she demonstrated great insight regarding the current requirements of recruiters and potential employers. She is a very lovely person who takes a very genuine interest in her clients and is an example to us all of how customer service should be. Working with Carolyn made the task of showcasing my skills and experience very easy thanks to her professionalism, commitment and dedication to the task. The finished result was perfectly tailored for my purposes and I would not hesitate to engage Carolyn again or to recommend her services to others.

Ed, Operations ManagerSydney NSW

Having been in the same job for the last 8+ years the thought of producing my resume was extremely daunting for me - until I found Carolyn. Carolyn was simply outstanding. Dealing with Carolyn was seamless, prompt and to put it simply - just so easy! When I received my completed resume, I was totally overwhelmed with how Carolyn had captured not only my strengths and competencies, but amazingly she captured the essence of me, who I am as a person - what I represent as my 'own brand'. I couldn't recommend Carolyn highly enough to anyone needing their resume created from scratch, or to have their resume revamped, you will not be disappointed.

Janet, Customer Experience ManagerPort Lincoln SA

I must express the professionalism and attention to detail when working with Carolyn. I could see in the end result, the time and effort that was put into the content for my resume. I would certainly recommend dealing with Carolyn. The end result was certainly worth it for me.

Sally, Executive Personal AssistantHobart TAS

WOW! When I read the resume you created for me it brought a tear to my eye. Seeing myself on paper was quite overwhelming. Thank you so much. I am very happy.

Rachael, Administration Officer, NOW Employment Services ConsultantHobart TAS

I engaged Total Resumes to write a professional resume on my behalf and to say I was impressed is an understatement. My employment history was dull and I didn't believe that I had achieved anything outside of my job description. When I read my resume for the first time I was amazed. I would have hired myself on the spot!! I highly recommend Carolyn to anyone looking for further their career. Her resumes are 5 star and get results.

Jane, HR ManagerWagga Wagga NSW

I just wanted to say thank you once again for the wonderful resume and letter you created for me. I applied for a management position with ***** **** and I'm over the moon to let you know that not only was I selected for interview, but I got the job. YAY go me!! The store owner said that my resume was the best she has ever seen and that she knew she wanted to meet me as soon as she read my application. That's saying something for someone that has only ever had 2 jobs. I can't thank you enough. I will be recommending you to everyone I speak to.

Anna-Belle, Retail ManagerPerth WA

I highly recommend Total Resumes to anyone in need of a quality resume. I had been a chef with the one company for 12 years and was looking for a career change. Working with Carolyn made the process simple. She produced an outstanding resume for me that highlighted things that I hadn't even thought of. When faced with the challenge of applying for jobs that were using my current skills but very much outside my expertise I had no idea where to start. When I attempted to write my own resume I got as far as my name and address but had no idea what to write next. I am pleased to say that I now have confidence in my skills and experience and my new resume has enhanced my career.

Rodney, ChefGold Coast QLD

I engaged with Carolyn to create my resume. I was moving interstate and had not had the need for a resume for the past twenty eight years. Carolyn compiled all of my information to create a resume that was perfectly suited to my needs. I was able to gain employment soon after my relocation and was fortunate enough to secure the position I was after. I would recommend Carolyn for anyone who needs their resume to be updated or completed.

Karen, Sales ManagerAdelaide SA

Thank-you so much for your stellar effort. I am absolutely thrilled with the documents. I am blown away by the service I have received. I cannot believe the overwhelming support and professionalism you have demonstrated. Carolyn, I honestly thought customer service and individuals that care about their work as much as I do were a thing of the past. Thank you so much for proving me wrong. You have not only restored my confidence in customer service and pride in one's work, but you have also more importantly restored the confidence in myself with your beautifully constructed documents. I cannot thank you enough.

Peter, Health, Safety & Environmental ConsultantSydney NSW

I appreciate your services because you're honest, professional, up to date with the marketplace and know what hiring managers look for. I have received compliments on my resume / career documents such as: "It is the best resume I have ever seen," "We were impressed when we saw your CV but unfortunately we are restructuring our business and cannot hire now," and "Our Director and GM are greatly interested in your CV. I have accepted a position as Project Manager." (Posted / Emailed 6 Resumes; Invited to 3 Interviews; Received 2 Job Offers)

N Georges, Project ManagerSydney, NSW

I appreciate your services because of the professionally developed CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile, prompt in replying to my queries, providing extra material which were great and I look forward to avail more services in future. I have received compliments on my resume/career documents such as: detailed, comprehensive, eye-catching, and as per the requirement / industry standards. I'm very satisfied with your services. Initially, I was little reluctant to avail your services and now feel it was a good investment. I would definitely recommend you to friends and colleagues. (Posted / Emailed 50 Resumes; Received 15 Responses; Invited to 10 Interviews; Received 2 Job Offers in 4 Weeks)

S Pradhan, Executive ManagerSydney, NSW

I appreciate your services because of the differentiation I was able to demonstrate in the market. I have accepted a position as Executive Manager of XXX (name withheld), a role of higher standing and higher compensation and benefits. (Posted / Emailed 20 Resumes; Received 18 Responses; Invited to 24 Interviews; Received 3 Job Offers)

JR, Executive ManagerSydney, NSW

Your brand map moved me and brought a tear to my eye! In fact this whole process with you has been so cathartic! When a company says goodbye to you so abruptly it does hit hard and hurt and makes you doubt who you are and what you have achieved.
Filling in your template reminded me of all that I have achieved and the positive impact I have had on others, and then to read the New Me on the brand map has continued to help me come out the other side with only positive thoughts and feelings. THANK YOU!!!

Your plan to initially focus on me in the way you have done in this draft is spot on. Let me work my magic now, and we together, I know will shine!!

In reality, your information gathering document was invaluable to me as it gave me the jolt I needed to realise who I am and what I have to offer. You helped me far more than recompiling my resume, and I am indebted to you for that realisation. Thank you so much!!

Ian O’HanlonIO, Global Operations Executive

The feedback was that my resume stood out from the rest - it was very well received, and so that was an initial step in the right direction. I was pretty nervous before the interview and settled my nerves by rereading my resume and answers to the selection criteria. This helped focus my attention on the good I had done over the last 21 years.
When I went in, I was able to just be myself, and I was happy that I had presented myself in the best manner possible. I was thrilled last week to hear that the board had ratified the principal’s decision to give the job to me.
I really want to thank you for the tremendously professional resume you produced for me. The questionnaire was quite thorough and really helped me to focus on my achievements, something I certainly hadn’t done much of. I love the final product and felt honoured to send it in with my application.
Once again, my sincerest thanks, and I hope that all your next clients come away with the sense of accomplishment that I now feel.

Shirley VerriestSV, School Principal

Hi Carolyn,

I know we haven’t quite finished this yet - but I thought I’d let you know the good news that I’ve been successful getting a new role, a Head of Technology and Innovation that’ll report to the CEO of (Name Witheld) a Mental Health and Disability-Support NFP.

I genuinely believe that your work on these resumes made this happen. To be honest, I have been very successful getting interviews with this resume and ended up turning down two other roles for this one!

DJ, Head of Technology

David JohnstonDJ, Head of Technology

Over the last ten years, I have spent a small fortune on my resume and used many companies worldwide in pursuit of a person that takes the time to really understand me and my achievements in the specialist world of financial services across two continents.

Until now, no one has been able to articulate and properly capture my achievements, capability entirely, and importantly my leadership style in a resume, so it tells a story about the person

I recently had the first draft of a resume that captured all the things that have been missing for many years.

A huge thank you to Carolyn Whitfield ★ Australia's Only Certified Career Storyteller

Tony BeavenChief Executive Officer | Head of Operations

Carolyn is THE BEST resume writer! Be prepared to be impressed! I came to know Carolyn 5 years ago while I was trying to advance my career. From the moment I engaged in her service, she has never ceased to amaze me! The resume and cover letter she created for me landed me the job I applied for, which was a dream come true!

In 2022 I wanted to apply for a leadership position in a different field. Carolyn helped me again with her superb writing skills and expertise. The resume and cover letter she wrote for me once again landed me this role, which is absolutely phenomenal. I cannot begin to describe how impressed I am with all her fantastic work and assistance along the way.

Carolyn has tirelessly supported me with her expert advice, career guidance, and in-depth knowledge before and after the interview process. She even went above and beyond and negotiated a higher salary for me, professionally! I was constantly in awe of her. Carolyn is a true master in resume writing and career coaching. I think whoever engages in her service will find themselves extremely lucky. Personally, she is the best thing that has happened to me in the journey of my career.

(Submitted 2 Applications; Invited to 2 interviews; Received 1 Job offer)

Yana JiangWork Integrated Learning Team Leader

Career Articles

Career ManagementCareer TipsJob Search Tips
May 28, 2021

Managing Your Career Brand Series (Part 2) – Shaping Your Professional Identity for Success in Your Current Job and Your Future Career Path

In the Total Resumes 2-part Career Brand Series, I talk about managing your career brand. It’s about telling the story of you. See part 1 here. How Having a Personal…
Career ManagementCareer TipsJob Search Tips
May 28, 2021

Managing Your Career Brand Series (Part 1) – Shaping Your Professional Identity for Success in Your Current Job and Your Future Career Path

In the Total Resumes 2-part Career Brand Series, I talk about managing your career brand. It’s about telling the story of you. Why a Personal Brand is Important You must…

See the Services Page for Packages and Individual Services

Why Choose Us?

  • Our Principal is the only certified career storyteller and 1 of 5 Certified Executive Résumé Masters (CERM) in Australia
  • Experience as the decision maker in the recruitment and selection of staff
  • 10 years of resume screening and candidate selection experience
  • Industry memberships and affiliations ensuring recognised certifications and up-to-date knowledge
  • We follow the standards of the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA), and Career Directors International (CDI), and the Association of Online Resume and Career Professionals (AORCP)

Food For Thought

Did you know that resume writing is an unregulated industry in Australia? So literally anyone can set up business as a resume writer and claim to be an expert in the field. Are you willing to put your career and earning potential in the hands of just anyone? NO WAY! That’s why all of the writers at Total Resumes are highly experienced, certified professional resume writers, with additional qualifications in a diverse range of professions.

Competitive Job Market

It’s a competitive market out there with 40,000 new resumes being added to Monster.com each DAY; Many companies receiving hundreds and frequently thousands of unsolicited resumes each week (Google receives 1,500 per day); 45% of surveyed employees stating they are looking for new and better employment positions.

For most, a home is the biggest and most important investment — and future financial independence on that real estate ownership.

What’s your biggest asset?

This one asset isn’t your home, your bank account, or even your knowledge.

This might surprise you, but your biggest asset is your resume. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking, “What the heck are you talking about?”

But, let me explain…

…this one document literally determines your current and future earning power. Far too many people overlook this asset because they see it as nothing more than a piece of paper that has one primary function. Yet, this “piece of paper” has more power over your destiny than you think. And therefore, the quality of your resume determines how hiring companies perceive you.

So, this one asset has the power to send you down the most profitable career path — or acts more like an anchor, costing you more and more opportunities and more and more success.

You might be counting on your own resume writing skills for this — or opting for discount support. But at the end of the day, you really need to wonder, just what it’s cost you up to this point; e.g. time, effort, and future salary earnings were lost?

Is Your Resume Hurting Instead of Helping?