If you’re back in the game of job hunting, your first priority is to bring your resume up to date with all the skills, training, and accomplishments that have added a feather in your cap since your last job hunt. Whether you’re just starting out on your job search or you’ve been at it for a while, it’s time to seek professional help to make your resume land at the top of the stack.
Here are 5 things to keep in mind when hiring a professional resume writer:
- Credentials
The bane of the internet is that anyone can claim to be an expert. Keeping that in mind, when hiring a resume writer, it’s important to check the person’s credentials. A writer with accomplished awards or one who has publications to his/her credit definitely has an edge. A writer who has won or has been nominated for a resume-writing award knows how to put together a solid resume. There are also a handful of professional certifications writers can attain, from Certified Resume Writer to Personal Branding or LinkedIn Specialist. These certifications not only showcase the writer’s ability but also their desire to learn and be at the top of their field.
- Social Proof
When hiring a resume writer, you need to have the peace of mind that your resume is in good hands and will fetch you returns. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from their past clients and also check out their website to see client testimonials. Alternatively, you can also track their online presence on LinkedIn to see what others have to say about the writer’s work and past success.
- Process
Before you engage a resume writer, there are a couple of things that both parties should have clarity on. Firstly, you need to have a good understanding of your needs for job satisfaction and your short-term career goals. This is important to give the writer a clear direction to produce the best career documents possible.
Secondly, you should clarify the writer’s process. Your career and background information can be collected in different ways and it’s best to know how much time will be invested on both sides before you get started.
- Price Tag
It’s vital to strike the right balance between the experience of the writer and their quoted price. Remember, you often get what you pay for – a cheap option here will not always be better. An experienced resume writer should bring value far above their quoted price, even if that quoted price is high. Therefore, it’s important to understand a writer’s pricing structure. A reputable writer will most likely have starting prices posted on their website as well as a number of available packages that will include various documents, programs, and resources.
- Rule of Three
Regardless of the type of professional service you are looking for, it is best to research at least three different resume writers before making a decision. Resume writers can have specialized skills pertinent to certain industries. Expert writers are well aware of the current hiring practices, trends, and changes required to be incorporated in the resume to land you the interview. Take time to get to know the writer and choose someone you can connect with and go with your gut.
Hiring a professional writer is in your best interest for any new job search, regardless of whether you’re looking for a lateral, horizontal, or full career move. An expert resume writer can be the right investment to shorten your job search and land you the right job.
Working with a résumé writer is an investment in your career. Most jobseekers who work with a career professional find a job faster and earn more at their next job than they’re currently making. So remember, it’s more than about price — it’s about value. Make sure your résumé writer is the right fit for you!
You can learn more about me here: https://www.totalresumes.com.au/meet-carolyn/
