12 QUESTIONS EVERY JOBSEEKER SHOULD ASK BEFORE CHOOSING A PROFESSIONAL RÉSUMÉ WRITER

Avoid getting burned by hiring the wrong person to write your resume. Interview 3 writers before choosing and ask 12 important questions to protect your career.

With the unemployment rate soaring to over 6%, its no wonder more than 9 million are having a hard time finding work, and most are prolonging unemployment by writing their own résumé. Thats the equivalent of a dentist cutting his own hair, a mechanic drilling his own teeth, or an accountant repairing his own car," said Susan Geary of 1st Rate Résumés. Most people dont have the experience to write a compelling document that elicits a callback for an interview." Laura DeCarlo, of A Competitive Edge Career Service concurs, The job search is the only competitive sport where you never get to see your competition perform." Since it rarely states in the job application to submit a self-written résumé, more and more people are seeking professional help to gain an edge in the competition.

So how do you find a qualified résumé writer? Not everyone who claims to be a résumé writer has the skills to get an applicant an interview, so choose carefully. First, ask for a referral. If that doesnt produce any leads, contact a résumé association such as the Professional Résumé Writing and Research Association or CertifiedResumeWriters.com.

Essentially, there are 12 questions every jobseeker should ask before choosing a Professional Résumé Writer. Applicants should spend the time to interview at least 3 writers and ask the following questions (it is their career, after all):
1.   What kind of experience do you have with my occupation? Just as doctors specialize in various parts of the body, there are résumé writers who specialize in particular careers. Some only handle federal job searches, while others might only work with IT or Broadcasting clients. Knowledge of your occupation and its challenges is a huge plus.

2.   Can you provide me with references? Yes, its a confidential business; however, most satisfied clients are more than happy to speak on behalf of their résumé writer, particularly if the résumé and cover letter netted them several job interviews and a higher salary.

3.   Are you a member of any professional organizations? Dedicated professionals join industry associations such as the Professional Résumé Writing and Research Association or CareerMasters Institute. If you ever have a complaint, you have an added resource that will help resolve your issue.    

4.   Do you have any credentials or certifications? Some writers will say they dont matter, but wouldnt you rather have someone working with you that has taken the time to learn all they can about their own career, and has taken a test to prove their skills?
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5.   Have you attended any professional conferences in the past year? Even doctors, computer experts, dentists, and stylists know its in their best interest to stay up to date on the latest skills and techniques. The person you hire to handle your job search should be doing the same.

6.   Have you won any awards for your work? An accolade such as a TORI or Best Résumé Award means your writer has been recognized by their peers as one of the best in the industry.

7.   Do you have samples I can look at? This will give you an idea of the style your writer uses. Most samples are posted on the writers website. Do the documents grab your attention within 15 seconds?

8.   What is the procedure? This is where many writers differ: some require that you fill out lengthy questionnaires; others prefer to just ask you questions in a particular order, either over the phone, or in person. Turn around time varies from 2 days to 7 days depending on how busy your writer is, and how much youre willing to pay. Rush jobs always cost more.

9.   Can I get an electronic copy of the résumé? Since you are purchasing the copyright and reprint rights to your document, it is not out of line to ask for an emailed copy of it that can be edited should you move or need to make a minor change.

10.   Do you accept major credit cards? This is a good clue that youre dealing with a professional. Be wary if they accept major credit cards through PayPal only.

11.   What if Im not happy with your work? Most writers will not refund money, but they should do everything possible to make sure you are satisfied. Keep in mind that the final judge is whether or not youre getting any response from your document, which usually takes 3-8 weeks. If youre getting callbacks, then your writer has served you well.

12.   How much do you charge? Some writers dont charge enough, others, too much. Expect to pay between $250 and $850 depending on how many years of experience you have, income level, and add-ons that include, cover letters, formatted references, interview coaching, and follow-up thank you notes. If youre looking for a $75 résumé, youre gambling that a minimum wage employee with little experience will make you look good on paper. Choose your writer by value, not price. You really do get what you are willing to pay for.

Finally, ask to speak directly with your résumé writer before making a commitment to make sure you have a good rapport. Do you like each other? Does your writer ask lots of questions that extracts valuable information out of you, or are they rushing to get you off the phone?

September is Update Your Résumé Month. If youre looking for a job, get started now. Susan Geary of 1st Rate Résumés has passed 3 industry certifications, served on the Board of Directors for the Professional Résumé Writing and Research Association, and judged the annual TORI awards. For more information about résumé writing and the 12-step program toward a better job, contact her at (337) 234-4622 or visit her website at www.1strateresumes.com