Do You Need a Resume Writing Service?

As you navigate how to compose the perfect resume that stands out from the ones submitted by other applicants, you may want to consider hiring a resume writing service. This represents a great way to turn your record of job skills, experiences and past employers into a dynamite document that employers notice right off the bat.

Not every resume writing service is the same. Before you hire someone to write your resume for you, take into consideration several criteria. Unfortunately, many scam websites exist that may promise a great resume only to deliver one in broken English or simply send back a different format with the same verbiage you submitted. Avoid choosing a resume writing service based on a top 10 list, as that list may be completely fake, written by one of those scamming companies. Look at the Better Business Bureau's website to find real ratings for these types of businesses.

Examine the look of the website, and ask yourself a few questions. Does the website look attractive and organized? Can you navigate the website easily? Are the terms of service easy enough to read, and does it offer some kind of quality or money-back guarantee? Do not choose a resume writing service on the look of its website alone, but if a company can produce a great looking website, chances are it has a vested interest in its customers.

Look for credentials on the website. The most common one says "Certified Professional Resume Writer," which means someone passed some level of competency. Examine professional degrees, years of experience, client feedback, past work experience and any published books on resume writing. Did this resume writer work in human resources for 10 years? Even better, was this person an HR executive in the past?

Take a look at writing samples posted to the website. Every good resume writing service should have two or three samples of work. The company may not post every type of resume it produces simply because other firms may copy the work. However, the business should have some viable writing samples available for you to peruse.

Avoid low-end providers that promise quick turnaround times. A good resume writer makes one to two of these documents per day and has a turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours once the provider receives the order. Call the company to ask your questions. Does this service provide a free resume evaluation? Make sure you get a firm price from the person you talk to on the phone.

If you find a professional service is not the way to go, you can always enlist the help of your friends, family, colleagues and contacts. Have someone else look over your resume, and take that person's advice carefully. Read a book or two on how to write a great resume, or read professional articles about the subject on the Internet. In a similar fashion to hiring a service, decide which books and articles have the most clout based on the author's experience and years in the business.

A resume writing service is a great tool if you have trouble with grammar, spelling and resume style. A professional resume writer knows what the current trends are among HR managers and recruiters — another advantage to hiring a professional.

Photo courtesy of CUS Visual Media at Flickr.com