With that in mind, hiring a professional resume writer is an option to consider. It can help you get your foot through the door. This article will help you decide whether it is the right option for you and how to choose a reputable service that delivers good results.
What Is a Resume Writer?
Professional resume writers are skilled specialists with the knowledge and expertise to document your qualifications, work history and talents in a way that strikes a chord with recruiters. From your resume objective to your key skills, they create an engaging narrative that aligns your experience not just with the requirements of any given job opportunity, but also with the wider objectives of the hiring organization. They structure your resume in a logical sequence and design an appealing layout that is both eye-catching and easy to read. In addition to their persuasive language and formatting skills, professional resume writers can research and identify key words and phrases relevant to the job posting. These are incredibly important, as before your resume reaches the eyes of the hiring manager it may well be passed through an applicant tracking system (ATS). ATS software is used by many employers as a screening tool, narrowing down a generally vast candidate pool to those most suited for the post. Professional resume writers produce content designed to pass the ATS stage and land your resume on the recruitment team’s desk, enabling real human connection.
How Much Does a Professional Resume Writer Cost?
The amount charged by professional resume writers varies greatly. At the lower end of the scale, you can source services for $100 or less. However, these should be avoided as they’re often inexperienced writers whose input will be of little benefit to your career prospects. Whilst some top-end agencies charge in the low thousands, these are typically for executive-level requirements. A good benchmark figure for a graduate or mid-level resume sits somewhere between $200 and $500 depending on its complexity. It may seem like a lot to pay out, but along with a quality writing service, you’re getting added value in the form of experience. Many professional resume writers have worked on the other side of the equation, either as a hiring manager within a business or as a recruitment consultant. This gives them valuable insight into how to write for this specific audience. It is also an investment that can save you money in the long run. If you’re currently out of work and struggling to land those all-important interviews, the long-term loss of income could be more costly than the price of a resume that increases your chance of successful employment. If you’re in work and looking to progress, it’s an investment that could land you a substantial pay rise.
How Does the Professional Resume Writing Process Work?
If you already have a resume and have a particular position you’d like to apply for, the process typically starts with a full evaluation of your current content alongside the description of the job on offer, before your resume writer contacts you in person for greater insight into your career experience and aspirations. If you’re starting from scratch or want to revamp your resume for wider use, you’ll start out with a comprehensive interview. This is designed to uncover what you want to achieve, your long-term career goals and where your professional skills lie. In both cases, once your resume writer has collated all the necessary information, they will set about writing the first draft. Included in your quotation should be a fixed number of revisions or a satisfaction guarantee to ensure you are happy with the final product. Along with their knowledge of your professional profile and goals, your resume writer will also conduct company or industry research and use their understanding of the recruitment process to craft a compelling and fitting version of your career history.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Resume Writer?
If you’re in two minds regarding hiring a professional resume writer, here are the 10 top benefits to help with your decision:
1. A Top-Quality Resume
The most obvious benefit of hiring a professional resume writer is that it provides you with a fully polished, top-quality end product. You’ll have a document that’s expertly written, sells your key competencies and skills in a way that piques the interest of hiring managers and sets you apart as a candidate of exceptional quality, as well as being presented in the professional resume format.
2. Less Stress
Compiling a strong resume is no easy feat. It is often a stressful experience, particularly if you have to work to an impending job application deadline. Outsourcing the task to a professional unburdens you of this stress, giving you one less thing to worry about in your quest for new employment. It further removes the stress of questioning whether your resume is of a sufficient standard.
3. Be Competitive in a Tough Job Market
A well-crafted, professional resume sets you apart from the competition. If your resume writer has done their job properly, not only will you pass the screening stages of recruitment, but you will also be held in high regard by the interview panel before they’ve even met you. Your competitive edge won’t end with your resume either. Professional resume writers often ask thought-provoking questions as part of their research which help you understand your own professional experience in greater detail. This makes you better placed to perform effectively in competency based interviews or, indeed, any other form of interview, putting you another step ahead of less prepared applicants.
4. Edit and Improve Your Writing
If you have already written your resume but don’t feel it is quite up to scratch, a professional will take your work, edit and improve on it. Of course, this results in the previously discussed benefits, giving a top-quality resume as a result, but you will also develop new skills that help you to move forward. By comparing the edits made against your original work, you can begin to understand the intricacies of professional writing and what makes it tick. Using your newfound knowledge you can improve your abilities. An experienced resume writer understands this and keeps abreast of current trends. From the most important skills to show on your resume to linking your online profiles and using dynamic language in line with current industry values, a professional resume writer will make sure you tick all the right boxes.
6. More Time
Job hunting itself is a full-time job. Finding opportunities, filling out applications and preparing for/attending interviews takes a considerable amount of time and effort. In using a professional resume writer, you clear one of the most time-consuming activities off your desk. This gives you more chance to focus on the things only you can do, like nailing that interview for your dream job.
7. Get an Objective Opinion on Your Strengths and Weaknesses
As part of the professional resume process, you will be quizzed on your attributes and key skills. Whilst we would all like to think we know what our best assets are, these interviews offer an unbiased perspective on the matter, helping to identify what an outsider would consider your greatest strengths… and your weaknesses as well. As these are common questions at interview, having an objective opinion is an additional bonus from hiring a professional resume writer.
8. Beat the ATS
An ATS scans your resume for key words and phrases and decides whether you are a suitable candidate to present to the hiring manager. Around 70% of resumes never make it that far; they are dismissed before they ever reach human eyes. It is a skill to write effectively for ATS software, one that professional resume writers excel at. So, in hiring one, you stand a far better chance of passing the initial screening phase and getting your resume read by a person with the authority to put you through to interview.
9. Land That Interview
As well as beating the ATS, professional resume writers have the skills to connect on a human level and make your application stand out with engaging, dynamic and relevant language. Using the job description, they will match key responsibilities with your experience and skill set. They will also research the company and make sure your resume aligns with its core values and culture. If there is no specific job description to work with, they will tailor your resume to fit with the wider objectives of your industry and the roles you want to land. All in all, you will be presented as a star applicant that hiring managers are eager to meet in person.
10. Develop Your Professional Profile
Your resume is not the only place an employer might look for an initial insight into who you are and the value you offer to their business. They may also head to your LinkedIn profile or any other platforms where you have a professional presence, such as a personal website. Since you have invested in a polished, effective resume, it makes sense to use this as a basis for developing your online persona, using key messages to create a consistent impression across the board.
Are There Any Cons?
Of course, there are some downsides to hiring a professional resume writer, beyond the cost alone. It is not always the most appropriate solution. You may be a skilled writer yourself but need some guidance on style and formatting, in which case you’d be better served by downloading a professional resume template and working from there. Many freelance editors and proofreaders will also check a resume for spelling and grammar, and often for a smaller fee. Then there is the question as to whether recruiters can spot a resume written by a professional. This all comes down to the skill of the person you choose. Some writers will churn out industry-specific resumes that can be somewhat generic, and these are the ones most easy to identify as being paid for. However, the best professional resume writers will tailor content to you and you alone, which is why it’s always worth paying more for a quality service. Another potential issue is that you’ll end up with a resume that doesn’t match your writing style. If you’re asked to provide a cover letter as part of your application, the two may not sit comfortably side by side. Many writers can also provide a cover letter as part of the service, solving this issue, although likely for more cost. But if you choose to write your own, use your professional resume as a guideline for language and tone to make both documents as close in style as possible.
What to Consider When Choosing a Resume Writing Service
Opting to use a professional resume writer is a big investment with big consequences. A lot is riding on every job application you make, so it is important to do due diligence when choosing a service.
Are They an Experienced Professional?
The best resume writers will have years of experience and, in many cases, hold a professional certification. If working with an individual, check their credentials. If going through an agency, ensure they only outsource work to fully vetted, certified writers.
Do They Hold Accreditation?
Unfortunately, there are scammers out there happy to take your money and provide nothing of value in return. To avoid falling victim to one, check your service provider for accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). There you’ll be able to see a service rating and any complaints lodged against them before making your decision.
What Are Their Fees and Timescales?
Make sure you know their fees and everything they cover upfront to avoid unexpected costs. It is also important to check turnaround times, as these vary widely. If you are updating your resume because you’re considering a career change, you may be fine with waiting a month or more. If you’re actively seeking employment, you’ll need a service that delivers fast.
Do They Have Good Reviews?
Check what past clients are saying about your chosen provider. This is the best way to get an honest, trustworthy opinion. You can look for reviews on Google and other reputable third-party platforms but ensure these are verified. Fake reviews are a big problem, so look for trust badges on any feedback you read.
What Is Their Process?
The best professional resume writers will detail their process in full, so you know exactly what to expect. This information may not be available online, in which case, contact them directly. This will also give you a chance to speak to them in person and establish if they are a good fit for you. To assist you, we have compiled a list of the top 10 resume services available in the US:
1. Top Resume
Top Resume is a well-established company, founded in 2014, and boasts an impressive 1,500+ writers. It is rated 4.4 (or excellent) on Trustpilot, with over 9,000 reviews. It has three packages available:
Basic package ‘Professional Growth’ – $179 Mid tier package ‘Career Evolution’ – $219 Comprehensive package ‘Executive Priority’ – $349
It has a professional and easy to navigate website packed with information and testimonials, with the option to upload your resume for a free review on the homepage. It is certainly a tried and tested industry leader within professional resume writing. Unlike other companies, their CV writers collaborate directly with you across multiple revisions, highlighting the very best of your capabilities along with your shining achievements with a strong focus on keyword optimisation to best tackle ATS (applicant tracking systems). Take advantage of their Lowest Price Guarantee today and they will match any qualifying and equivalent offer you have received from another company (please forward the offer to them directly). The CV Centre also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This means that they will continue working with you to revise your CV until you are entirely happy with the outcome. You can get started right now by booking a free 15 minute consultation with one of their expert CV writers. It has an eye-catching website full of useful resources, in addition to the career services on offer, such as a regularly updated blog and links to the ‘Career Warrior’ podcast. Let’s Eat, Grandma offers more in terms of distinct packages than most of the resume writing websites out there and seems to address a wider demographic. There are student packages starting from $15, including digital guides on how to get your first job, resume templates and access to an exclusive Facebook group. The resume writing packages are among the more expensive out there, ranging from $299 to $499; however, unlike most other services, even the basic package includes a professionally written cover letter in addition to a resume. In response to the recent covid-19 pandemic, the company has also introduced ‘Urgent Care Packages’ which include ATS-friendly templates, video feedback from a professional writer and various digital resources. These options are available at more affordable prices, ranging from $49 to $69, to assist people during these challenging times. It also offers the quickest turnaround available, with the Ultimate Package ($485) promising an initial resume draft in only one business day. It also offers specialist federal resume options. If you find yourself short on time to get your application in and have a reasonably sized budget, Resume Professional Writers is a company to consider. It sets itself apart by hiring what it describes as ’elite’ writers who, it promises, are capable of producing the highest quality of work in the industry. The elite writers work with a diverse range of people, right from entry-level candidates to executives to federal workers, and will cover any industry. It also offers an assurance that every single resume will be reviewed by at least two career consultants. Prices start from $395 for an entry-level resume. In addition to resumes, it also offers an elite career coaching and counseling service and a ‘Legendary Career Finder’ service where it matches clients to jobs and applies on their behalf. It uses its unique, trademarked, four stage META Job Landing System to assist already successful, senior position-holders to climb further up the career ladder. This is more than just a resume writing service. Its unique packages include a range of career coaching, keyword optimization, strategy sessions, interview preparation and negotiation techniques. Prices range from $2,987 to $6,987, with payment plans available. Prices are split into three tiers:
Launch – $139 Fast Track – $189 Premium – $299
It also only hires writers who are ATS (Applicant Tracking System) trained and have an understanding of keyword optimization, which it claims will ensure your resume will make it past the bots and through to a hiring manager. Its approach is extremely comprehensive in comparison to some of the other services out there and includes a cover letter, unlimited rewrites (within the first 30 days) and a phone call as standard. The site also prices on a sliding scale, depending on the level of seniority of the job role, using this as an indicator of how time-consuming the project will be for the resume expert. This gives a more bespoke feel to the service, which is reflected in the price. With years of experience as a writer, journalist and roles within corporate communications, her small business offers a personal touch. She works on all of the projects herself from the initial consultation to the finished product. Unlike almost all of the other services we have referred to, Virginia Franco requests a 90-minute telephone consultation with all of her clients to gain an understanding of their background, aspirations and experience: no paperwork, no forms, just a one-on-one chat. Prices range from $925 to $2,075 for resume writing with many alternative services available, including interview cheat sheets, cover letters and distribution packages. Its most popular package costs $199.95, or you can opt for an executive upgrade for $299.95 to be assigned one of the most experienced writers. Alternative packages are offered, including those for students, those undergoing a career change, a military to civilian package, and a tech/IT-specific package. Each price tier offers an impressive 72-hour turnaround as standard. It dramatically increases your chances of passing initial screening tests, impressing recruiters and getting your name on the interview list. By hiring a professional resume writer, you are giving yourself a much-needed competitive edge, along with a host of additional benefits that come from outsourcing what is, for many people, a challenging and arduous task. It is important to do your research and select a reputable service that you feel is right for you, your needs, any time constraints and of course your budget. However, it is important to remember that this is just the beginning of your journey. Your resume may be outstanding and land you that important job interview, but don’t let this fact lead you into complacency. It is important to live up to the promise of your resume: prepare thoroughly for your interviews, research the company you have applied to, be prompt and be professional. A specialist resume is a start; the next steps are up to you.
