Spot These Online Resume Writing Scams
Spot These Online Resume Writing Scams
If you do a web search for "résumé writer," you'll come across all kinds of sites, including those for complaints and free links that connect you to malware instead of a helpful person you want to hire. Some of the lowball offers that you see might seem too good to be true — and they often are. There's no doubt that a good résumé can generate enough interest to help you get an . But professional résumé writers can charge as much as $2,000, with no guarantee of results. (In fact, any résumé writer who "guarantees" that his or her work will land you a job is your cue to find another.) Here's how to get the "write" stuff without being wronged:
How skilled are you at working with people like me (and those in my industry)? Can you provide examples to quantify your answer?
Can I see samples of your past work that aren't posted on your website? Can you provide recent clients I can call for references? (Take a pass on those who provide neither.)
What did you do before becoming a résumé writer? What made you enter this profession?
How to Avoid Résumé Writing Scams
Make sure the writer you hire doesn' t write you out of a job opportunity — and your cash
Istock When looking for résumé writing assistance, make sure a con isn't attached. If you're struggling to get your in tip-top shape, then it might be time to call in some professional help. Before you hire a résumé writer, though, make sure you don't fall victim to a scam instead.If you do a web search for "résumé writer," you'll come across all kinds of sites, including those for complaints and free links that connect you to malware instead of a helpful person you want to hire. Some of the lowball offers that you see might seem too good to be true — and they often are. There's no doubt that a good résumé can generate enough interest to help you get an . But professional résumé writers can charge as much as $2,000, with no guarantee of results. (In fact, any résumé writer who "guarantees" that his or her work will land you a job is your cue to find another.) Here's how to get the "write" stuff without being wronged:
1 Consider reputable do-it-yourself options
If money is an issue, first try getting guidance to help you improve your résumé. In addition to , universities sometimes provide free or low-cost résumé writing classes, often hosted by faculty. Online help is available at and some USDA-affiliated . Avoid unfamiliar websites that promise résumé writing links or attachments; they could be a front for malware-spreading scammers.AARP Discounts
and more as an AARP member2 Where to find pros
Some (but not all) members of the and the have earned association-provided certification. While those credentials offer some indication of expertise, they aren't foolproof. When searching websites of résumé writing services, head to the "About Us" page. Better ones will have detailed info about their writers and company. On the other hand, a "résumé mill" typically uses template documents that others will not, says Ruth Pankratz of the NRWA. Also seek recommendations from career consultants, employment agencies or even your previous employer. Of course, you'll want to check reputations with the and do an online search on or other complaint boards.3 Do an interview
Never hire a résumé writer who relies solely on provided forms you're asked to complete; the good ones take time to interview clients about their experience, qualifications and goals. "It's really best to hire a local résumé writer," says Frank Fox of PARW/CC. "You want to personally meet with that person and know where they are while working for you." An online-only relationship is ripe for scams. Also ask résumé writers about their experience and understanding of your particular industry (and writing résumés for those in it).Résumé Tools
— Receive access to job search tools and resources, benefits and discounts Then ask questions such as: How will you tackle writing my résumé? How will that differ from your work for other clients?How skilled are you at working with people like me (and those in my industry)? Can you provide examples to quantify your answer?
Can I see samples of your past work that aren't posted on your website? Can you provide recent clients I can call for references? (Take a pass on those who provide neither.)
What did you do before becoming a résumé writer? What made you enter this profession?