How to choose the best professional resume writing service
An attractive and up-to-date resume can positively impact hiring managers and lead to interview invitations. In Singapore, where the job market is highly competitive, especially in the finance, technology, and healthcare industries, having an attractive resume is crucial.
Creating a resume that meets the latest industry standards, can pass an applicant tracking system (ATS), and looks modern is no easy task. 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 resume-writing service and how to choose one. Here's what we'll 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 Singapore
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a professional resume writing service?
A resume writing service is a company or a freelance professional resume writer. They can customize your resume for a target job, update your career profile, and prepare cover letters for you. Hiring managers may receive hundreds of applicants for a single position. They usually spend an average of seven 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 need more interview requests. Here are some profiles of people who typically engage in writing services:
- Fresh graduates: Graduates may use these services as they don't 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 resumes more stylish and current in design and formatting.
Benefits of hiring professional resume writers
When navigating Singapore’s competitive job market, partnering with a professional resume writer can significantly impact your application. Let’s explore the key benefits of using an expert to craft your resume.
1. 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.
2. 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 do you choose the right resume-writing service?
Going through the sea of resume-writing services can be daunting, but with a few key considerations, you can find the perfect fit. Let's explore how to make the right choice.
1. Qualifications of resume writers
When choosing a company that offers resume writing services or a freelance writer, check how long they've been in the business and 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 resume writers.
You can also check if the writer is an accredited member of a writing organisation. Some recognised and prestigious credentials include Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), Nationally Certified Resume 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 resume writing.
2. Know the different types of resume writing services
Companies may offer various services according to your experience level and target job. For example, if you're a fresh graduate, you could opt for an entry-level resume. Likewise, they provide mid-career, executive and career-change resumes.
If you are applying for a government job or academic position, you should also seek speciality services. These services specialise in preparing all the documents for government job applications and may also offer interview preparation for panel interviews.
Academic resumes often require an emphasis on your education and research publications. They're typically longer and targeted towards programmes or researchers you hope to join or work with. Here's a sample resume a professional writer may create:
3. Understand the process
Contact the company or writer to inquire about the process. A personalised process usually yields better results than a one-size-fits-all approach. Professional services usually require an initial consultation, during which the writer gathers information about your education, career history, accomplishments, skills, and career goals.
In Singapore, it's beneficial to look for services that understand the local job market, such as the importance of including relevant qualifications like the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) and experience with multinational corporations (MNCs) or government-linked companies (GLCs).
They may also ask you about the industry in which you want to work. This information helps them tailor your resume to highlight your strengths. Then, they may request additional information, such as previous resumes, 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.
4. 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, thank-you letters, and a resume.
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're willing to spend. See this service as an investment for your career and choose a high-quality service to increase your chances of getting interviews.
5. Guarantee and support
Some services offer satisfaction guarantees or unlimited revisions until you're happy with the final product. For example, some companies offer a 60-day guarantee. This provision may mean they'll rewrite your resume for free or refund the full amount if you don't get an interview during the guarantee period.
After delivering the resume, check if your service provides support, such as job application or interview tips. Some companies may provide advanced career consultations and interview preparation services.
6. Personal fit
Finally, choose someone you're comfortable with. They should understand your career goals and commit to customising a resume that accurately reflects your skills and accomplishments. You should feel comfortable communicating with them and trust they'll do well.
Cost of engaging a professional resume writer in Singapore
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's a comparison table showcasing established professional resume writing services in Singapore, what they include in their packages, and the associated costs:
Company | Packages and costs |
Starter package for Graduates (SGD 190)
Professional package for experienced executives (SGD 590)
Premium package for senior leadership (SGD 1190)
| |
Resume writing services
|
Bottom line
Using professional resume writing services can be a valuable investment. You can get a personalised, effective, and ATS-friendly resume that helps you land an interview for your target job. In today's highly competitive job market, such services can help you stand out.
Consider whether you need this service based on your career goals and professional level. Also, consider how much you're willing to spend and the specific services that might benefit you.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about resume writing services:
- Do I need a professional resume-writing service?
If you're aiming for a promotion, getting a professional to create a good resume that features your latest accomplishments and top skills might benefit you.
You may also need this service if you still need to secure interviews or have below-average writing skills. Professional resume writers can also deal with employment gaps and highlight your transferable skills if you're switching careers. - Should I use a professional resume 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, especially if you're new to the job market, changing careers, or returning to work after a long period.
AI tools like ChatGPT can generate a template you can personalise for a specific position. It can also suggest relevant keywords to make your resume ATS-friendly.
The drawback is that recruiters may notice the use of AI, which could lead to rejection. A professional resume writing service provides a human touch and a high level of personalisation that AI can't match.
If you're not keen on getting professional help, you could use AI as a source of inspiration and a starting point. Customise the AI-generated template and check for spelling, grammar, repetition, and inaccuracies. Then, run it through a plagiarism checker. - How can I ensure I'm choosing a reputable resume-writing service?
Review the testimonies on the service's website and request samples to check the quality of its work. If you're working with a writer directly, check their online presence. They should have an established website, an up-to-date professional profile, and a presence on other social media platforms.
For Singapore-based services, looking for local reviews on platforms like Seedly is beneficial, as it provides community-driven insights and reviews on various services.
Look out for credentials from professional associations for resume writers, such as the National Resume Writers Association and the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.
These organisations provide training for resume writers and usually require them to undergo assessments before awarding certifications. In Singapore, relevant local credentials include certifications from organisations like the Institute for Human Resource Professionals (IHRP).
Seek reviews on Yelp, Google, or other review sites. You can also ask your colleagues, friends, or relevant professional associations for recommendations. - What should I do if I'm not satisfied with my professional resume?
Ensure you understand your package and read the fine print before signing up. Check how many revisions the company provides and request one if necessary. The company may offer a refund if you're unhappy or have no interviews within a certain time frame. - Are professional resume writing services beneficial for those without extensive work experience?
Yes, they're helpful even if you're 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's best to update your resume once every three months and after each performance review. Consider your recent projects and performance-based accomplishments and include them with tangible evidence.
