Resume Services and Rates - Do They Add Up?
A resume writer has to size up a client's professional life and
career direction in short order. It is not always
straightforward - a good resume writer will uncovers
accomplishments and provide consultation to career goals. That
said, it is difficult for a resume writer to answer the
question, "How much do you charge to do a resume? If a resume
writer charges a receptionist and a VP of Sales the same price,
something is wrong. This article will help you to see things
from the perspective of a resume writer.
Let's "listen in" on a call from a job seeker seeking to have
their resume "typed up."
Resume Writer: "Good morning, XYZ Resume Service. How may we
help you?"
Caller: "Yes, I'd like to know how much you charge to type up a
resume."
Resume Writer: "Our prices start at $225 and go up from there
depending on the complexity of the resume."
Caller: "$225! To type up a one-page resume? Wow, I didn't
realize it was that much!"
Resume Writer: "No, the typing is free."
Caller: "What do you mean?"
Resume Writer: "Yes, I know that sounds strange. But, please let
me explain. It is important for you to understand that a
professional resume service is very different from a typing
service. The word processing work that goes into the creation of
the resume is to materialize the resume. That aspect of the
resume development process involves a lot of creativity to
produce a very crisp looking, attractive resume that will stand
out in a pile of poorly formatted, disorganized resumes. And
honestly, that's the easy part. Before we get to that point, we
provide in-depth consultation to ask many gold-mining questions
that are specific to what your particular job is about and what
your current situation is behind why you need a resume.
For example, are/were you . . .
* A new graduate?
* Recently laid off?
* Returning to the workforce?
* Seeking to acclimate your career from the military to civilian
workforce?
* Bored in your current job and need a change?
"More than just typists, we are qualified to answer many
questions that go beyond the resume preparation, such as how to
answer tough interview questions or how to post your resume
online. If you tell us you are not sure what type of position
you are seeking, we will not be able to develop your resume
because our resumes are very focused. Like you, we want yourz
resume to WORK! We do not write one-size-fits-all resumes."
"Our expertise is sure to make a big difference between your
getting a job and making your next career move. We take the
necessary time to understand what you do and to obtain important
information about your work history and accomplishments. Yes, it
is not just about your responsibilities. A strong resume needs
to focus on your strengths and achievements. Once we have the
right information, we organize it and develop a strategy that
often results in a format unlike the simple chronological
format. When we are done, we engage in the follow up process to
review the resume and make necessary revisions. Considering the
work that goes into it and the end result (most important), $225
(or more) is an excellent investment for such a service."
What did you get out of listening in on this conversation? Did
you only want to hear the price, or did you find yourself
interested in the value behind the price? The answer to this
question will measure how seriously you take your career. With
the stiff competition out there, your resume is vital -- it is
your calling card.
Contact a qualified resume writer who will take the time to
speak with you about your needs. Sure, money is important. You
don't want to spend it foolishly. But, there is a difference
between spending and investing.
So, how much do you think you should pay a resume writer who
will partner with you to develop a resume that is going to
generate many favorable interviews, prepare you for your
interview, and contribute to your increased confidence level?
The next time you call a resume service, try something like this:
"Hi, I was just on your website and am interested in your resume
services. I'd like to know what your process is and what you
would charge someone like myself with 14 years of experience in
capital equipment sales. My background has been in health care,
but I'd like to try retail or pharmaceutical sales."
This is a great way to inform the resume writer where you are in
your career and to facilitate a positive conversation from the
onset that is not solely based on price.