With 10.7 million people in the US looking for jobs, resume writing services are in great demand. A professional resume writer helps clients land interviews by preparing compelling, result-driven resumes that emphasize their fit for the position. For that, a resume expert interviews the candidate, collects information about their background and skills and clarifies professional goals.
Being a resume writer is extremely rewarding as you help people pursue their dream jobs. This type of business gives you a lot of flexibility as you can set your working hours and manage the workload. Moreover, no matter the good or bad economy, people always look for jobs and need guidance with preparing job-related documents. In today’s guide, we are going to explain how to quickly start a resume writing and fixing business.
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Write my resume: 10 tips to start a resume writing service
Analyze the competition
To build a successful business, analyze what’s already on the market. Look for companies providing resume services in your area and perform a competitive analysis. Many people are wondering “Can I pay someone to write my resume for me?”, so you are likely to encounter many resume writers offering to write or fix my resumes.
Take a look whether your competitors offer a writing service only, or resume fixing and review as well. Consider the pay level, the turnaround time, and whether they work with clients by phone or email. Also, check if your competitors typically help someone in one industry (i.e. with teaching or tech resumes), or assist all types of clients.
Decide on the types of services you will provide
As a rule, a resume consultant writes a new resume for a client, or fixes the old one, updating it in line with modern trends and correcting mistakes. However, most resume businesses also provide related services including:
- Cover letter writing
- Thank-you letters
- Resignation letters
- LinkedIn profile development
- Interview tips and coaching
- Resume distribution, etc.
Choose your niche
Some resume services help job-seekers at all career levels, from students to top executives, and some are specialized. For example, if you have human resource management background in technology, you can offer resume services to professionals in this industry. Or, if you’ve worked in executive headhunting, you may start a high-end resume business for top managers. However, if your services are not limited to one industry, finding clients will be easier.
Plan startup costs
A resume-writing business has a low entry barrier, and does not require significant startup costs. Renting an office is not necessary, as most resume writers work with clients online these days. You will need to invest in a computer or laptop, word processing software, and costs for obtaining licenses and permits. Many resume writers also set up a website and obtain a professional certification to attract clients, but it is not absolutely necessary at the early stage.
Set a competitive price for your services
The average market price for resume writing is between $200 and $250. If you don’t have much experience with drafting job search documents, you can set a little lower price at the beginning to attract clients. Yet, avoid offering your services for too cheap, as for many customers, it is a sign of low quality.
On the contrary, if you have extensive experience in hiring and valuable expertise with the top companies, you can set the price above the market average (say, $500 per resume). To set an effective price, define your target buyers and think whether the price will be comfortable for them. Unless you set a very low price, writing resumes is profitable – the profit margin can reach 90%.
Consider additional training
Many resume writers enroll in resume courses or obtain industry certifications to find more clients. Aspiring resume writers can find relevant courses on such platforms as Coursera. Speaking of industry certifications, you can obtain one of these certifications to increase credibility and attract more customers:
- Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW)
- Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW)
- Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), etc.
Resume writing certifications cost between $200 and $500+, some also require a membership fee.
Choose your type of business
As you start a business, define the business models. Most beginners starting a resume writing business work as freelancers (this is called sole proprietorship). In this case, you can find clients on your own or join the agency.
However, experts recommend that you consider forming a legal entity and registering your business as a corporation. It will protect you from personal liability in case your business is sued. Registering your business also involves the additional costs.
Open a business banking account
Another important step is opening a new account for your business. It helps protect your personal assets, as, in case your business is sued, your personal funds will be protected. Moreover, with a separate account, you’ll find it easier to track your income and file taxes.
Set up a home office
Most resume writers run their business from home, and if you choose to do so as well, you’ll need to set up a comfortable home office. Find a well-lit location, get a desk and a comfortable chair, and create a zone for work where you will not be disturbed.
If you have a home office, you’ll be more concentrated and productive than if you had worked sitting on the couch or in the kitchen. To make your business a success, you will need to work a lot, so create a place where you’ll be comfortable working long hours.
Market and promote your services
Now that you are fully prepared to write resumes, it’s time to look for clients. Here are the most popular ways to market your services:
- Join professional affiliations to get more public awareness and get support from other resume writers in case you have questions;
- Tell your friends, alumni, and colleagues about your services and ask them to recommend you;
- Advertise your services through social media (pay special attention to promotion through LinkedIn);
- Set up a professional website with your portfolio to show examples of your work.
Starting a successful resume business takes writing and formatting skills, an understanding of the hiring process, and thorough preparation. Plan your business thoroughly and enjoy your new rewarding profession!
