Choosing the Right Resume Writing Service: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Define Your Needs and Goals

The decision to hire a resume writing service is a significant one, and the choice should be based on individual needs and career goals. Several factors should be considered to ensure the best possible outcome.

2. Research and Evaluate Services

Before selecting a service, assess your specific requirements. Are you a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or an executive? Do you need a complete resume rewrite, or just an edit and some feedback? Are you targeting a specific industry or role? Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your options

3. Key Features to Look For

• Writer Qualifications: Look for certified writers with experience in your field. Certifications like CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer) can be a good indicator of expertise.

• Collaboration and Process: Determine how much interaction you want with the writer. Some services offer phone consultations and direct communication, while others are more hands-off.

• Reviews and Guarantees: Check third-party reviews on sites like Trustpilot or Sitejabber. A satisfaction or interview guarantee can reduce the risk.

• Pricing: Compare pricing models and what’s included in each package. Be wary of services that promise unrealistic outcomes or have hidden fees.

• ATS Optimization: Ensure the service understands Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and can format your resume to pass these systems.

• Customization: The service should tailor your resume to your unique skills and experiences, not use generic templates.

• Additional Services: Consider services that offer cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile development, and interview coaching.

4. How to Choose a Resume Writing Service

• Fiverr: Consider a freelance platform such as Fiverr, this way, you can speak directly to a professional, without the involvement of a company or agency.

• Upwork: Upwork has the same benefit as Fiverr, you can view profiles and experience, and get a true idea of the professional you’ll be working with.

• MyStar Resumes: A small agency of industry professionals, meaning an appropriate writer is assigned to your order and you’ll speak directly with them to create the most impactful brand image.

• Resume Spice – Another service that hires its writers, rather than paying a pittance to freelancers.

Services to avoid:

• Topresume: This service has fairly poor reviews and the company’s size means your order is allocated to an anonymous writer, all of whom are paid a tiny percentage of the fee you pay. Their free review is also known for being autogenerated and generic, with no real substance.