Is it Worth Using a Resume Writing Service?
We get it. The idea of paying someone to write your resume can seem counterintuitive, especially if you consider yourself an above-average wordsmith. But here’s the thing: just like outsourcing marketing and branding tasks allows businesses to maximize productivity in their day-to-day operations, hiring an expert to take over the resume writing process allows you to focus on searching for jobs, networking, and planning out your career path.
Still wondering whether it’s worth using a resume writing service? In this post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons, explain the general process, and offer you a few tips to get the most out of the experience (if it makes sense for you).
What does a resume writer do?
A resume writer revises or creates new resumes for clients based on specific job listings or positions job seekers intend to pursue. They start the process by interviewing each client via phone, video, or email to learn their unique qualifications, employment history, professional accomplishments, career goals, and anything else that will help them stand out in the job search. Then, referencing a specific job listing the client wants to target, as well as the latest application tracking system (ATS) requirements, the writer drafts a resume, sends it to the client for review, and makes any requested changes before finalizing the document. Resume writers can also write cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, professional bios, thank you letters, and any other copy related to the job search.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Resume Writing Service
PROS:
You’ll be more likely to pass first-level screening. Resumes written by an expert resume writer are more likely to get higher ATS ratings, and are therefore more likely to be seen by hiring managers. That’s because resume writers spend a lot of time researching the latest ATS programs and know which keywords and phrases to target for specific job postings and industries.
You’ll stand out in the applicant pool. A professional resume writer can present your information to employers with unique formatting, content, and style that are reflect your individuality and also fit within industry standards.
You’ll sound better to potential employers. Do you have a gap in your work history that’s difficult to explain clearly? Not sure how to leverage unrelated positions to land a job in a different industry or career path? An experienced resume writer has seen it all and can help streamline your current and previous jobs and other qualifications into a coherent path that makes sense to employers.
You’ll save time and effort. Just like going to the car wash or ordering take-out allows you to spend your time on more important things, hiring a resume writer allows you to focus on the actual job search. Instead of scouring over job postings for keywords, researching the latest guidelines for passing ATS screening, writing and rewriting summaries of your past work experience, and fussing with formatting, you can spend your time looking for jobs, scheduling networking meetings, and strategizing your next career move.
CONS:
It costs money. Like any other service, resume writing is an investment. Thankfully, at StandOut, we pride ourselves on fair prices and a variety of packages to fit every budget.
The voice of the resume might not sound like yours. A professional resume writer can only capture your unique voice if you let them get to know you, so it’s important that you are included in the process. Beware of resume writing companies that offer a 100% hands-off experience for clients; though this might save you time, it will end up being a waste of money because the result will be generic.
Curious about working with a StandOut resume writer?
Read more about the process, and click here to schedule a free consultation!
