For individuals with a talent for writing and strategic thinking, professional resume writing is a rewarding field. This role allows you to impact the careers of others by crafting documents that open doors to new opportunities. Becoming a professional resume writer involves understanding the role, honing specific skills, and building a business.
Understanding the Role of a Professional Resume Writer
A professional resume writer is a career strategist. The role requires analyzing a client’s professional life to identify their accomplishments and align them with future aspirations. This process begins with a consultation to understand the client’s career history, skills, and job targets, allowing the writer to craft a narrative that positions them as an ideal candidate.
This strategic work involves tailoring each resume to specific industries and job postings. A primary part of the job is optimizing for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which are programs that scan resumes for keywords. The writer must include relevant terms to pass these systems while also creating a document that is clear and compelling for a human reader. The role extends beyond the resume to include cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and executive biographies.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
While no mandatory degree exists, a foundation in writing and communication is required. This includes an exceptional command of grammar, spelling, and style, along with strong editing and proofreading abilities. Beyond writing mechanics, a resume writer must be a skilled researcher, able to learn about different industries and job functions to use correct terminology and highlight relevant qualifications.
The ability to interview clients effectively is also necessary to draw out quantifiable achievements and career stories. This requires strong interpersonal skills to ask probing questions. Familiarity with chronological, functional, and combination resume formats is needed to choose the best structure for each client’s unique situation. A background in human resources, recruiting, journalism, or communications provides an advantage.
Gaining Credibility Through Certification
Professional certification offers a clear path to building credibility. While not required, a credential signals a commitment to the profession and a demonstrated level of expertise. It can be a tool for attracting clients and justifying higher service fees, as it assures them the writer has met established industry standards.
Several organizations offer certification programs. The Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC) offers the Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) credential. The National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA) provides the Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) certification. These programs typically involve training, examinations, and the submission of a portfolio of work, ensuring that certified writers are proficient in current best practices.
Setting Up Your Resume Writing Business
To become a business owner, first establish a professional identity with a business name. Next, decide on a legal structure. Many freelance writers start as a sole proprietorship for its simplicity, while others choose a Limited Liability Company (LLC) for personal liability protection.
A professional online presence is needed to attract clients. Create a website that showcases your services, expertise, and client testimonials. Your website should also feature a portfolio of anonymized sample resumes to demonstrate your work quality. Streamline operations with standard tools, including a detailed client questionnaire to gather necessary information, a formal contract or service agreement to outline expectations, and a reliable system for processing payments.
Developing a Pricing Strategy
A clear pricing structure is needed for a sustainable business. A common approach is a flat-rate, per-project fee that provides clients with an upfront cost. Another option is an hourly rate, suitable for complex projects. Many writers also offer tiered packages that bundle services like a resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile optimization at a discounted rate.
Your pricing should be influenced by several factors. Your experience and professional certifications will affect your rates. The client’s career level is also a consideration, as an entry-level resume is priced lower than an executive resume. Research what other writers with similar credentials in your market are charging to ensure your rates are competitive.
Finding and Managing Clients
To acquire clients, build a professional network to generate leads. Participate on platforms like LinkedIn by sharing content and engaging with professionals in your target industries to raise your visibility. Joining freelance marketplaces such as Upwork or Fiverr can also provide an initial stream of projects, helping you build a portfolio and gather testimonials.
A structured management process ensures a professional experience. The client process includes several steps:
- Begin with an initial consultation to discuss the client’s needs and goals.
- Gather detailed information through a questionnaire and a follow-up interview.
- Deliver a first draft for the client’s review.
- Perform one or more rounds of revisions to refine the document.
Asking for referrals from satisfied clients can lead to new business.