Professional resumé writing services: benefits and tips
An attractive and up-to-date resume can make a positive impression on hiring managers and lead to interview invitations. Creating a resumé that meets the latest industry standards, can pass an applicant tracking system (ATS), and looks modern is no easy task.
You could consider getting the help of a professional resume writing service to help you build a resume that stands out in the crowd. We can help you decide whether to employ a resumé writing service and how to go about choosing one.
Here is what we will cover:
- What is a professional resume writing service?
- Benefits of hiring professional resume writers
- How to choose the right resume writing service
- Cost of engaging a professional resume writer in Malaysia
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a professional resume writing service?
A resume writing service is a company or a freelance professional resume writer. They can customise your resumé for a target job. They can also update your career profile and prepare cover letters for you. Hiring managers may get hundreds of applicants for a single position. They usually spend an average of 7 seconds on a resume.
People may opt for resume writing services to stand out from the competition. Some job seekers use these services because they find it challenging to describe themselves objectively. You may also have little time to work on your resume or may not be getting enough interview requests.
Here are some profiles of people who typically engage in writing services:
- Fresh graduates
Graduates may use these services as they do not have work experience and much knowledge of industry standards.
- Mid-career switchers
People switching careers may lack industry expertise and may get the help of a resume writing service to highlight their transferable skills.
- Professionals
Professionals may lack the time to customise their resumes for more senior positions and turn to such services to showcase their skills and achievements.
- Older workers
Seniors may want to stay relevant and make their resumés more stylish and current in design and formatting.
Benefits of hiring professional resume writers
Here are two key benefits of using a resumé writer:
Expertise and customisation
Resume writers stay current with what hiring managers in different industries expect in job seekers' experience, skill level, education, and qualities. With their in-depth understanding, they skillfully highlight strengths and achievements using the right jargon.
Customising your resume for specific job roles and industries is also essential to getting interviews. It shows the hiring manager your genuine interest in the role and necessary qualifications.
Professional resume writers have expertise in customising resumes according to the target audience and expected role. They know how to use the right keywords and phrases in your resume to give it a high ATS ranking. They also understand which resume format is most ATS-friendly.
Time saving and efficiency
Looking for a job involves a lot of time and effort, from scrolling through job boards to preparing applications to getting ready for the interview. Getting a professional to prepare your important documents can be more efficient.
They can deliver a customised and high-quality resume in a short turnaround time. You can use this time to prepare for the interview by rehearsing answers to common questions instead. Professional writers can update your resume effectively with their expertise in organising and formatting information.
How to choose the right resume writing service
Follow these tips to get the best resume writing service for you:
Qualifications of resume writers
When choosing a company that offers resume writing services or a freelance writer, check how long they have been in the business. See if they have a positive reputation in the industry. Look for video testimonials, customer success stories, and samples on their website. Review the "About Us" or "About Me" page to learn about their credentials and experience. Check if the company employs verified professional resumé writers.
You can also check if the writer is an accredited member of a writing organisation. Some recognised and prestigious credentials include Certified Professional Resumé Writer (CPRW), Nationally Certified Resumé Writer (NCRW), and Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW). Certified writers usually undergo training, participate in conferences, and sit for exams. This learning equips them with extensive knowledge of various industries and expertise in resumé writing.
Know the different types of resume writing services
Companies offer various services tailored to your experience level and job target. For instance, if you are a recent graduate, you might consider an entry-level resume. Similarly, they provide services for mid-career professionals, executives, and those changing careers.
Speciality services cater to specific needs, such as government or academic positions. These services prepare all documents required for government job applications and may offer interview preparation for panel interviews.
Academic resumes emphasise education and research publications. They are usually longer and aimed at programs or researchers you want to collaborate with. When considering a professional resumé writer, review samples of their work. Ensure the samples reflect modern resumé trends and best practices, like readability, keyword optimisation, and clear formatting.
Understand the process
Contact the company or writer to enquire about the process. A personalised process usually yields better results than a one-size-fits-all approach. Professional services usually want an initial consultation where the writer gathers information about your education, career history, accomplishments, skills, and career goals.
They may also ask you about the industry you want to work in. This information helps them tailor your resume to highlight your strengths. Then, they may request additional information, such as previous resumés, job descriptions of target roles, and certifications. Ensure the writer has an effective communication policy. Some packages include phone consultations.
After gathering your information, they usually provide a first draft. You may then review the resume and request revisions. Find out how many revisions you can request and the turnaround time for each one. The writer usually professionally formats the final document and optimises it for ATS. You should then receive a printable version and a digital copy.
Compare pricing and packages
Resume writing services prices can vary, so get clear information about what the package includes. Some packages may contain cover letters, profile optimisation, and thank-you letters in addition to the resumé.
Find out how many revisions you can have and the turnaround time. For example, some services offer a maximum of two revisions and a 24-hour turnaround time.
If a service costs very little, you may receive a lack of personalisation or quality. Consider what you need and how much you are willing to spend. See this service as an investment for your career. Choose a high-quality service to increase your chances of getting interviews.
Guarantee and support
Some services offer satisfaction guarantees or unlimited revisions until you are happy with the final product. For example, some companies offer a 60-day guarantee. This provision may mean they will rewrite your resume for free. They may even refund the full amount if you do not get an interview during the guarantee period.
Check if your service provides support after delivering the resume, such as job application or interview tips. Some may provide advanced career consultations and interview preparation services.
Personal fit
Finally, select someone you feel at ease with. They should understand your career objectives and be dedicated to creating a resume that reflects your skills and achievements. You should feel comfortable communicating with them. Have confidence in their ability to deliver a high-quality result.
Cost of engaging a professional resume writer in Malaysia
Comprehensive packages that include additional services and guarantees tend to cost more. The cost also varies depending on whether you want to go for a company or work with a freelance resume writer.
Here is a comparison table showcasing established professional resume writing services in Malaysia, what they include in their packages, and the associated costs:
Company | Packages and costs |
ResumeWriter.MY | Starter package for junior executives (RM1,725) Junior resume writer Professional package for experienced executives (RM2,190) Experienced resume writer Premium package for senior leadership (RM4,190) Top 1% resume writer |
Hans.com.my | Resume writing services Fresh graduate: RM80 |
Conclusion
Professional resume writing services can be a smart investment. They create personalised, effective, and ATS-friendly rresumes. This boosts your chances of getting an interview. In a competitive job market, a polished resume helps you stand out.
Consider your career goals and budget when deciding if you need this service. Think about the specific services that might benefit you. For example, some services offer interview coaching or LinkedIn profile optimisation. Weigh the pros and cons based on your individual needs. A professionally crafted resume can make a significant difference in achieving your career goals.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about resumé writing services:
- Do I need a professional resume writing service?
If you want a promotion, a professional can help create a resumé that shows your best skills and recent achievements. This service is also useful if you are not getting interviews or have trouble writing. Resumé writers can address employment gaps and emphasise transferable skills if you are changing careers.
- Should I use a professional resumé writing service or AI to write my resume?
AI tools can help you create a complete resume in a few minutes. It can be an excellent starting point for inspiration. This is especially true if you are new to the job market, changing careers, or returning to work after a long period. AI can also suggest keywords to make your resume ATS-friendly.
However, recruiters might spot AI usage, which could hurt your chances. Professional resume writers offer a personal touch and better customisation. If you do not want professional help, use AI as a starting template. Personalise it, check for errors and repetition, and run it through a plagiarism checker.
- How can I ensure I am choosing a reputable resume writing service?
To choose a reputable resume writing service:
Check testimonials on their website.
Request work samples.
Review the writer's online presence, including their website and social media.
Look for credentials from associations like the National Resumé Writers Association or the Professional Association of Resumé Writers & Career Coaches.
Read reviews on Yelp, Google, or other sites.
Ask colleagues, friends, or professional associations for recommendations.
- What should I do if I am not satisfied with my professional resume?
Before signing up, understand what your package includes and read the fine print. Check how many revisions the company offers and request one if needed. If you are still unhappy or do not get interviews within a certain time frame, the company may offer a refund.
- Are professional resume writing services beneficial for those without extensive work experience?
Yes, they are helpful even if you are a fresh graduate and need a new resume. They can help you highlight your skills, certifications, and academic accomplishments to compensate for your lack of work experience.
- How often should I update my professional resume?
It is best to update your resume once every 3 months. and after each performance review. Consider your recent projects and performance-based accomplishments and include them with tangible evidence.
