When you are done creating the resume, the client will let you know if they are happy with the results and will work with you on revisions. When it is finalized, it is recommended to only send an email version of the resume to clients because they need to learn how to modify their resumes if they want to ensure a successful job search campaign (this is something you must teach them). This is the more affordable and efficient solution for both you and your clients because the hard prints quickly become obsolete. You should never send a cover letter in hardcopy because the cover letter must be personally addressed to the hiring manager/company. This should only be provided in electronic form i.e. email or disk/CD. Another very important form of the resume the client will need is a plain text version (ASCII). You will need to learn how to convert and format the resume to plain text so the client can upload their resume to major job boards such as monster.com, hotjobs.com, and careerbuilder.com.

DEFINING YOUR BUSINESS

A resume writer falls into two categories – a resume generalist or niche market. A resume generalist writes for all occupational disciplines and a niche market resume writer specializes in one occupation such as teachers, or a career level such college students. If you decide to target a niche market, you will be expected to have an expertise in this area. So be sure to master everything you need to know in that occupational area. You might not get as much business as a generalist would in the beginning, but as the years progress you will grow your niche business if you work hard and smart.

ESTABLISHING CREDIBILITY

Job seekers need to know they can trust you before paying you. One way is to establish yourself with resume writing organizations. They include the National Resume Writers’ Association (nrwaweb.com), the Professional Association of Resume Writers (parw.com), Career Masters Institute (cminstitute.com), and the Professional Resume Writers and Research Association (prwra.com). Annual memberships range from $150 to $175. You will have the opportunity to network with other resume writers on an e-list, have access to monthly newsletters, attend annual conventions (conventions are a few hundred dollars to attend), and get certified by taking (tough) certifying tests to get certified as a professional resume writer. Each organization has their own guidelines. Modest test taking fees average a couple of hundred dollars and the average first-time pass rate is 50% with the opportunity to re-test without having to pay additional fees. After that, the wait time is generally six month or a year to test again for a fee.

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

Check with your local Chamber of Commerce and accountant to set up your business structure, business registration, and taxes.

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