Resume Writing Services

How to Choose a Professional Resume Writing Service

Guest Author Madeline Miller, Founder/Manager, Compu-Type Résumé Service, shares her advice on how to select a resume writing service.

Choose a Resume Service

How to choose a resume writing service? The simple answer is get the best available! The most important step in getting a job is getting in the door for an interview. A resume that stands out from others is the best thing you can do to get that opportunity. Job placement still comes down to what you have to offer (e.g. skills, experience, accomplishments), but presenting yourself in the best light available is key.

How a Resume Service Can Help

I have found that many clients are not capable of composing a resume that adequately highlights their abilities.

They usually have problems drawing out their strengths and matching them with what employers are looking for (i.e. organizational, teamwork, communication skills). Very often, I have had clients contact me with a resume they themselves composed which did not get results in the job market. After working with them to restructure their resume – incorporating and illustrating viable skills and utilizing more professional jargon – the difference in the number of interviews offered has been notably significant.

Remember, also, you need a strong targeted cover letter to complement and frame the resume in a manner that makes it seem like the job description was written just for you. The three key elements in choosing a resume writing service are: capabilities and experience, cost, and the “personal touch.”

Resume Service Capabilities and Experience

The resume service you select should be able to handle the full range of preparation services, including resumes, cover letters, and personal statements. In today’s economy that also means it must have a website. Check out the features on their website and make sure they have the following as a minimum:

Interactive worksheets for submitting your resume information
Toll free number for direct communication for technical assistance
Resume and cover letter samples so you can judge the quality of the work

Be sure to avoid websites that are cluttered and confusing because if you use them that’s how your resume will end up looking. It’s important to get the “best resume service in the nation” rather than just the “best local resume service.” With the Internet, this is now possible. Know who will be creating the resume. Will it be the company “expert” or will it be a less proficient staffer. The old axiom “there’s no substitute for experience” still rings true. Use an established resume company with a minimum of 10 years experience in resume preparation.

Resume Service Cost

The cost of a resume is small considering the money already invested in one’s job preparation (e.g. $100,000 for four years of college), as well as the importance of a good resume in securing that dream job. However, you should conduct comparative shopping to make sure the cost for the service you are considering is in the right ballpark. Make sure the company guarantees your satisfaction. But beware of services that offer unusually inexpensive costs. Most of the time, you get what you pay for.

The “Personal Touch”

Only use a resume service that can provide you with personalized service – one where you can have direct communication with the resume provider though the creation cycle by both e-mail and phone. It’s important to have this interaction so that your resume truly puts you in the best light. You have to feel comfortable with the service.