The opinions expressed are solely those of Find My Profession. Click to see our Advertising Disclosure.

Best Certified Resume Writers

Best Certified Resume Writers 2024

We've compiled a list of the best certified professional resume writers in the US and Canada. Compare costs and reviews for the top CPRWs.

Steven L.

2024 Winners: Add your badge to your marketing materials.

Did you know that a simple Google search for “Professional Resume Writers” will yield over 115 million results?

After hearing from readers time and time again how difficult it is to choose a resume writer out of the masses, we decided there should be a better way.

That’s why we filtered through more than 1,000 resume writers covering the United States and Canada in order to hand-pick the top certified resume writers in North America.

Below, we will also briefly discuss what it means to be a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and if you should choose a writer that is certified.

Best Certified Resume Writers

Mike Podesto

What Is A Certified Resume Writer?

In order for a resume writer to become certified, they must first select one of the major resume certification companies to get certified with.

As of now, these options are somewhat limited to two main companies:

  • Resume Writing Academy
  • National Resume Writers’ Association

Once you have decided which certifying company to go with, you will typically have to undergo some level of testing.

The testing usually requires the writer seeking certification to write a sample resume and cover letter, then send it to the certifying organization for review. If the resume meets the basic standards, the writer will become a Certified Resume Writer! The entire process takes ~4 weeks.

Should You Hire A Certified Resume Writer?

The answer is: Yes and no.

If the writer that you choose happens to be certified, that’s a great bonus. But more important than a writer’s certifications are the writer’s skills.

A friendly writer with excellent resume samples and amazing reviews would take the cake any day!

There is absolutely no guarantee that a certified professional resume writer will yield greater results than someone who is not certified.

It’s important to keep in mind that there are 1,000s of “certified resume writers”. Bad seeds slip through the cracks. Just because someone has a certification does not mean you should avoid reviewing samples, and reading reviews.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of our top resume writers who also just so happen to be certified!

Top Certified Professional Resume Writers

Mike Podesto

Mike Podesto

Mike Podesto is a Master Resume Writer and Executive Resume Leader whose work has been published on Forbes, Inc, Thrive Global, Zety, Motherly, and Recruiter just to name a few.

Mike is often sought out to provide thought leadership for various organizations and publications as it relates to resume writing and career coaching.

As the innovative founder of the  Original Reverse Recruiting Service  and author of  Ace Your Next Interview , Mike Podesto knows what it takes to land individuals of all career levels jobs.

With a special focus on executive resume writing, Mike is proud to be known as a resume guru. In addition to working with executives, Mike has successfully written and revised resumes for individuals in more than 50 industries and professions across the globe.

Lindsay Duston

Lindsay Duston

Lindsay Duston is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with 18+ years of progressive experience in resume writing, resume team leadership, proofreading/editing, and creative writing.

Although Lindsay has made her way into more of a leadership role, she is one of the absolute best certified resume writers we have ever come across.

With over 10,000 resumes written and reviewed throughout her career, a Bachelor’s degree in English, and various certifications in the resume writing industry, Lindsay has gained expertise in a variety of industries including legal, healthcare, marketing, finance, and technology just to name a few.

Lindsay Duston is a huge advocate of ATS compatible resumes. Her ability to spot issues with resumes that are not ATS compliant is unmatched. If perfection is what you are looking for, look no further.

Best Companies That Help You Find a Job

Need Help With Your Job Search?

Did you know there are companies you can hire to help with your job search? Whether you need resume help or want someone to apply to jobs for you, we’ve reviewed the 20 best companies to help you find a job.

Andy Ricardo

Andy Ricardo

Andy Ricardo is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) that comes with over 25 years of experience in Human Resources; specialized in staffing and recruitment within both the private and public sectors. He designs resumes with the primary focus on illustrating the unique value of each person and the benefits he/she offers to an employer.

Andy Ricardo has authored internship programs for three organizations, which have contributed to the educational enterprise. Andy earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from St. Thomas University and is a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC).

Having served as the Recruitment Division Head overseeing the annual processing of over 8,000 resumes, and having successfully written hundreds of resumes personally, Andy knows what is needed to create a successful resume.

Bruce Hillman

Bruce Hillman

Bruce Hillman is a non-certified resume writer. However, despite not being certified, Bruce is one of the best federal resume writers we have ever seen.

Bruce is a writer/editor, communications professional, and attorney with experience obtained in 25+-year legal analyst and editorial management career with a national financial services publishing/new media corporation.

Subsequent successful 14-year career preparing/crafting Senior Executive Services (SES) resumes and Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) narratives. Bruce Hillman regularly consults with federal government executives, managers, agents, military officers, and private sector C-Suite management clients to aid in their job search.

Clients include the staff of Department of Defense, all branches of the military, Department of Homeland Security, Defense Intelligence Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Secret Service, Department of Justice, Department of Energy, NASA, Department of Transportation, and many more.

Greg Faherty

Greg Faherty

Greg Faherty is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 20 years of professional resume writing experience and a better than 99% satisfaction rate for his customers.

Greg has written more than 14,000 resumes during his career and is also an expert at cover letters, Linkedin profiles, executive biographies, and other job search documents. He also conducts regular resume preparation workshops at schools, libraries, and career fairs.

Greg Faherty is quoted regularly in newspapers and has created several career search aid standards, procedures, and documents used industry-wide. He also has extensive experience in technical, scientific, clinical, business, educational, and creative writing.

Greg is a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches, and his work has been cited in several resume writing guides. He is also the author of “The New Guide to Writing a Perfect Resume”.

Kimberly Sarmiento

Kimberly Sarmiento

Kimberly Sarmiento is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) who leverages her background in journalism to help job seekers tell their “professional story” via impactful and engaging resumes.

In 2010, Kimberly became a certified resume writer and has helped thousands of clients to articulate their strengths, achievements, and unique value proposition in resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.

A Florida native, Kimberly earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and a Master’s in Political Science from the University of Florida. She has written several books, including two publications on career management.

Resume Writing Services

Is Your Resume Working Properly?

If you are having trouble landing interviews, it might be time to hire a professional resume writer. Check out our #1 pick for the best resume writing service.

Pam Duquette

Pam Duquette

Pam Duquette is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with 10+ years of professional writing experience. She creates resumes aimed at getting results and carefully crafts each client’s document to project the perfect professional image.

By highlighting what the individual brings to the table, Pam’s work has won her client’s job interviews and offers.

Pam earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Salem State University and is a long-term member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

Rebecca Skov

Rebecca Skov

Rebecca Skov is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) who has been employed in Human Resources and Career Counseling for over 25 years.

In 2003, she launched a recruitment and retention program on behalf of UC, San Diego called The Partner Opportunities Program. This program provides assistance and support in the employment search for spouses and partners of faculty candidates and appointees. During her tenure, more than 500 clients utilized the services of the Partner Opportunities Program.

Ms. Skov later founded and served as the Director of the Southern California Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (HERC). The mission of the HERC is to bring like-minded institutions together to share best practices related to recruitment and retention of high-quality faculty and staff.

Ms. Skov also worked as the Engineering and Technical recruiter at UCSD and held various positions as a Human Resources Generalist and Recruiter in the high technology community.

Rebecca Skov holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Arizona and is a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Directors International.

Key Takeaways

There are literally thousands of certified resume writers out there. It can be impossible to know which “one” is going to be perfect for you.

The reality is, there are probably 100 resume writers out there that would do an amazing job for you. Don’t worry about finding “the perfect” resume writer.

We have reviewed dozens of resumes from each of the individuals featured on this list and know first-hand that all of the resume writers above provide an amazing level of service.

Before choosing the best resume writer for you, remember our simple recommendations:

  • Speak with (phone or email) the resume company you are considering before purchasing.
  • Read online reviews. If they have a couple of bad reviews but mostly good ones, ask them to explain the bad ones
  • Don’t worry too much about certifications . Focus on resume samples that look great and 5-star reviews.

Wishing you the best of luck on your career journey!

Recommended Career Advice For You

Best Resume Writing Services in Houston, TX

Best Resume Writing Services in Houston 2024

Best Resume Writing Services in Virginia Beach, VA

Best Resume Writing Services in Virginia Beach 2024

Maximize the Benefits of Outplacement Services for Career Success

Maximize the Benefits of Outplacement Services for Career Success

which resume writing certification is best

10 Best Resume Writing Credentials

which resume writing certification is best

Are you struggling to land a job as a resume writer? Or do you simply not have the confidence to apply for a dream job? Often times the answer to these questions is the lack of certification in resume writing.

A certificate shows your clients that you’ve worked hard for the certification and you’re qualified to do the job well. But how to get resume writing certification? Click here to read in detail !

Other than that, today we take a look at the 10 best professional resume writing certification programs. Let’s begin.

1. Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW)

which resume writing certification is best

The Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW) is one of the best resume writing certification programs for beginners offered by Career Directors International (CDI). For entry-level resume writers, the CARW is a really good choice.

All resume writers will need to pass through 4 stages of testing.

  • Resume sample submission
  • Resume and cover letter writing
  • Information gathering on clients and short-essay questions
  • Exam on spelling, grammar, design, resume writing, and related skills

Pricing for the Certification

The base price for getting this resume writing certification is $200. But writers also need to become a member and pay the membership fee of $97.

Advantages and Disadvantages of CARW

Every writer with a professional certification in resume writing from CARW will receive all free tools and resources from CDI.

The only downside of this certification is that if you fail at any one stage, you won’t get the certification.

CDI offers resume writer training, courses and programs on a bunch of other programs that we will be discussing soon. But if you can’t hold your horses, click here to learn more about it right now!

2. Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW)

which resume writing certification is best

CDI offers a higher-level certification in resume writing courses to all writers. This is known as the Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW). It is one of the oldest-known certifications in resume writing and will have others take you seriously as a writer.

Applicants need to go through an evaluation process that involves submitting some materials. The things that need to be submitted are:

  • A 1000-word essay highlighting your skills in writing as well as philosophy
  • A portfolio that has 7 professional resumes
  • 1 ATS-friendly resume
  • 2 Samples of cover letters

The resume writing certification course itself costs $297, but there is also a membership fee of $97. An important thing to keep in mind here is that you will need to renew your CMRW credentials every 3 years for $75.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the CMRW

Being the oldest-known certification, this will present you as an expert with a professional resume writing certification. You will be landing the resume writing jobs that were slipping out of your hand before.

Everything about the CMRW is really good, save for the fact that it is only valid for 3 years. You need to get it renewed once the 3 years are over. Want more out of your next job application? Get resume writing training right away!

3. Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM)

which resume writing certification is best

If you want to get a bit more advanced certification, then the Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM) is the perfect choice as a resume writing certification course. It’s a perfect choice for executive resume writers.

This certification in resume writing is held in high regard. There are less than 25 CERMs in the entire world.

Unlike the CARW, the CERM requires a bit more before someone can complete this resume writing certification course.

There are also two stages that a writer needs to pass.

  • Submit 4 examples of real-life executive resumes that are done by you
  • Take part in a Competency Review test comprised of 10 questions

Anyone can get a CERM without becoming a member of the CDI. But that will cost you a lot compared to what a member has to pay. For CDI members the fee is $297. For non-members, however, that fee is $564.

Advantages and Disadvantages of CERM

Like every other CDI certification, writers will enjoy the resume writing certification free resources. Aside from that, since there are so few CERMs in the world, a writer with one will have a higher demand than an average resume writer.

As for disadvantages, for non-members, the price is really steep. At that point, it’s better to just become a member of the CDI.

4. Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X)

which resume writing certification is best

If you only need certification in resume writing for a particular niche, then the Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X) is your best choice. CDI offers 20 different options to choose from for becoming a specialist, which you can find on the CDI website.

Since this is a specialist certification, CDI requires that you hold a previous certification in resume writing.

Applicants need to submit the following documents to get started on getting the CRS+X:

  • A portfolio that has 4 resume samples for the specializations being targeted
  • A detailed essay about your expertise in the specialization

You can apply for multiple specializations. Each one will cost $197. You will also need to pay the membership fee. Seeing as how CDI offers some other resume writing certification free services, you should definitely get the membership.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the CRS+X

The CRS+X is the best resume writing certification for those who’d like to stick to their preferred niches. It’s also one of the cheapest certifications in resume writing courses. For specialists, there is no better option.

Although the pricing is good for one specialization, when you take into account multiple specializations at once, the amount gets quite large, and there are no discounts.

5. Certified Career Storyteller (CCST)

which resume writing certification is best

The Certified Career Storyteller (CCST) is a certification program that comes with its own training. CDI trains writers to incorporate elements of storytelling into their resumes.

Writers are required to do the following to complete the course:

  • Each part has a lesson completion part and also a review part
  • Upon completing all the lessons, a final story-based portfolio has to be submitted
  • Within 3-4 weeks, the portfolio is reviewed and sent back.

One thing is for certain, the CSST is not the cheapest resume writing certification. This course will cost you $2997, and you also have to be a member of the CDI.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the CSST

CSST resume writers are always in high demand. They are also paid more than any other resume writers. You can take some really challenging yet rewarding jobs when you have the CSST certification.

But the price of the course is what makes many resume writers shy away from getting this certification in resume writing.

6. Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW)

The Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) certification is provided by the Resume Writing Academy (RWA). This organization is known for training writers first instead of testing them.

As for the ACRW, it’s a 3-month-long course that gives you the resume writing certification after completion.

To get the ACRW course, there are two payment options. You can make a one-time payment of $1895. You can also divide this into 3 payments of $650 and pay it in instalments.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the ACRW

Since all writers receive 3-months of training, upon completion, they become ready to handle professional work from the industry.

For a one-time payment, the price is quite high. But as there is the option of paying it in instalments, it shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

7. Academic Certified Federal Resume Writer (ACRW-Federal)

Similar to the ACRW, the Academic Certified Federal Resume Writer course is designed to train writers to make them ready to write resumes for federal jobs. If you don’t know, the resumes for federal jobs are different from your traditional job resumes.

RWA has a diverse training program for writers pursuing the federal resume writing certification. This includes training from instructors as well as participating in quizzes and evaluations.

Just like the regular ACRW, there are two payment options. If you want to pay it all in one go, it will be an amount of $2195. You can also make 3 payments of $735 each.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the ACRW-Federal

The ability to write federal resumes has to be one of the key takeaways for the ACRW-Federal. Writers become capable of creating resumes that will land their clients a federal job with ease.

In terms of disadvantages, there really aren’t any. But for some writers, the workload of the training becomes a bit too much.

8. Academy Certified Career Storyteller (ACCS)

which resume writing certification is best

Similar to the CCST, this program from the RWA trains writers to incorporate story-telling elements in resumes. It’s an advanced-level certification from the RWA. Applicants must have an industry-recognized prior certification to qualify for the ACCS.

Pricing for the certification

For members of the RWA, the ACCS certification course will only cost $669. For non-members, on the other hand, that will go up to $869.

Compared to the CCST, the ACCS is really cheap. And since this is based on training, resume writers are better prepared to deal with any type of client.

But as it’s an advanced level certification in resume writing, the difficulty is a bit higher than other certifications.

9. Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

which resume writing certification is best

The Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) is a certificate from the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC). If you’re asking what the best resume writing certification authority is, the PARWCC is definitely out there.

Writers are required to take an exam for the CPRW in order to get the certificate. The questions are sent to the writers via email and must be completed within 3 days.

In order to get the certificate, writers need to be a member of the PARWCC, which costs $150, and the CPRW exam enrollment will set you back another $250.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the CPRW

You get to show off your CPRW certification everywhere. You will receive a certificate as well as use the CPRW logo on your website. You can also use CPRW credentials in your name.

For downsides, the requirement to be a member is an additional cost. Other than that, there are no issues.

10. Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW)

which resume writing certification is best

The Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) certification is provided by The National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA). This is one of the most challenging certificates out there. Those who want the NCRW, need to offer proof of Continuing Education Units (CEU) that are gained from the association.

Writers also have to pass a sample quiz followed by the main NCRW exam itself. And collecting the CEUs is no easy task either.

The membership for the NRWA costs $175. For the sample quiz, it costs $75, and for the exam registration, it’s an additional $250.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the NCRW

Similar to the CPRW, you can use the NCRW credentials after your name. You also have the right to use the logo on your website.

There are too many additional costs involved for this certificate. On top of that, the examination process is the hardest one there is.

What certifications look best on a resume?

As long as the certification is recognized internationally, any certification will look good on a resume. Some people ask “Are Udemy certificates useful?”. Yes, they are useful as well, which you can learn about from us here .

How do I become a resume writer?

If you want to know how to become a resume writer, you will need to get a certificate from a renowned authority. We have guides on how to do that , which you can check out.

Which resume writing service is best?

There are a number of good resume writing services online. If you find one where the resume writers cost is affordable, and they are certified, then you can consider that. Check out our list of the best resume writing service that comes with certified writers and their detailed costs here .

How do you become a CPRW?

The CPRW is one of the oldest certifications for resume writers out there. If you want to become a CPRW, you will need to become a member of the PARWCC. After completing the certification exam, you can become a CPRW.

which resume writing certification is best

Career Expert

Our editor is Jennifer Broflowski. Jennifer has been a freelance writer for more than ten years. Having graduated from the University of South Australia, where she used to edit the university’s literary journal, Jennifer devoted her life ...

Relevant articles

which resume writing certification is best

Adding D&D to your resume can be a good talking point in an interview. It can be interesting to know how to put Dungeons and Dragons on a resume and how the conversation will be shaped if you have D&D included in your resume. If you are a fun person and enjoy this exciting game,…

which resume writing certification is best

LinkedIn is one of the social media platforms designed for business professionals to make business connections and keep abreast of professional updates relevant to the respective careers of users. Well, writing on LinkedIn can be technical and tricky. This platform has become one of the most revered and important social media networks that professionals use to network…

which resume writing certification is best

A US-style resume highlights all your critical job skills to potential employers… in North American companies. But what if you apply to a non-US company or for work overseas? Would you know how to turn your resume into a CV, and does it even matter? Why Should You Even Bother? Some job seekers need to…

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Admission Consulting The Five Best Graduate School Admissions Consultants Reviewed

Resume Writing CompTIA Certification on Resume: How to Put It [+Examples]

Resume Writing Can You Put Udemy On Resume?

which resume writing certification is best

Top 11 Writer Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette

Updated July 20, 2023 17 min read

Certifications are important for writers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the craft. They provide employers with evidence that a writer is capable of producing quality work and has a strong understanding of the topics they write about. Certifications can also open up doors to new opportunities, as employers may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time to obtain certifications in their field. Additionally, certifications can help writers earn higher salaries, as employers often value credentials and may be willing to pay more for highly qualified professionals. Finally, certified writers are better equipped to stay on top of industry trends and developments, which can give them an edge over other candidates when looking for work.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications available to writers and explain how they can help enhance a writer's career.

What are Writer Certifications?

Writer certification is a process in which writers demonstrate their skills and qualifications in order to prove that they are capable of producing high-quality content. Certification can include tests, portfolios, writing samples, and other requirements that must be met before the writer can receive certification.

Writer certification can help writers gain recognition for their work and establish themselves as professionals in their field. It also allows employers to quickly identify qualified candidates for writing jobs. Certification can also provide a competitive advantage when it comes to bidding on projects or negotiating higher fees. Additionally, certified writers may be eligible for discounts from certain businesses or access to exclusive resources. Finally, certification helps ensure that the content produced by certified writers meets industry standards and is of the highest quality possible.

Pro Tip: When considering writer certification, make sure to research the organization thoroughly and read reviews from other writers who have gone through the process. This can help ensure that you are getting a quality certification that will be recognized by potential employers.

Related : What does a Writer do?

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Writers today.

1. Certified Professional Writer (CPW)

Certified Professional Writer (CPW) is a certification program that recognizes and validates the writing skills of professionals in the field. CPW certifies that individuals have met certain standards of excellence in their writing, including grammar, punctuation, spelling, clarity, and organization.

The CPW certification process typically takes about two months to complete. To get certified as a CPW, individuals must first take an online assessment test to assess their writing skills. After passing the assessment test, they must then submit a portfolio of their work for review by a panel of certified writers. The portfolio should include samples of professional-level writing such as articles, blog posts, web copy, press releases, and other types of content.

Once the portfolio has been reviewed and approved by the panel of certified writers, applicants will be awarded their CPW certification. The cost for this certification varies depending on the type of assessment test taken and the number of pieces included in the portfolio submission but generally ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

2. Certified Technical Writer (CTW)

A Certified Technical Writer (CTW) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of technical writing. This certification is offered by the Society for Technical Communication (STC). To become certified, applicants must pass an examination that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as document design, grammar, punctuation, and style.

The CTW exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete. It costs $395 for STC members and $495 for non-members. To prepare for the exam, applicants can take advantage of the many resources available from STC, including study guides, practice exams, webinars, and online courses.

In order to receive the CTW certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking an additional exam or completing continuing education requirements.

3. Certified Creative Writer (CCW)

Certified Creative Writer (CCW) is a certification program from the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors (IAPWE). It is designed to recognize writers who have demonstrated excellence in the field of creative writing. The certification requires applicants to submit a portfolio of their work, which is then evaluated by a panel of expert judges.

The certification process takes approximately three months from start to finish. Applicants must first register for the program and submit their portfolio for review. Once accepted, they will be required to complete an online course on creative writing techniques and principles. After successful completion of the course, they will receive their CCW certificate.

To get certified, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a minimum of two years’ experience in professional writing or editing, having published work in at least one medium, and being able to demonstrate knowledge of grammar and syntax rules. They must also pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the craft and principles of creative writing.

The cost for the CCW program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online course or attend an in-person workshop. The online course costs $99 USD while attending an in-person workshop costs $399 USD. Both include access to IAPWE resources such as webinars, forums, and discounts on services offered by IAPWE members.

4. Certified Freelance Writer (CFW)

A Certified Freelance Writer (CFW) is a professional designation earned by writers who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of freelance writing. The certification is awarded by the Professional Writers Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in freelance writing.

The CFW certification process includes an online application, a written exam, and an interview. Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the fundamentals of freelance writing, including topics such as grammar and punctuation, research methods, marketing strategies, and client relations.

The entire certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To apply for the CFW certification, applicants must submit an online application form with a $50 fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take a written exam that covers all aspects of freelance writing. Upon successful completion of the written exam, applicants will be invited to participate in an interview with members of the Professional Writers Alliance board of directors.

The cost for obtaining the CFW certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the Professional Writers Alliance. For non-members, there is an additional membership fee that must be paid in order to become certified; this fee is currently $100 per year.

5. Certified Copywriter (CCP)

Certified Copywriter (CCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Copywriters Association of America (CAA). It is designed to recognize and reward copywriters who demonstrate excellence in their craft. The CCP certification requires that applicants pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in writing, editing, and researching for marketing and advertising copy.

The CCP exam is administered online, and typically takes about two hours to complete. Applicants must have at least three years of professional experience as a copywriter or related field to be eligible to take the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, structure, research methods, persuasive writing techniques, and more.

To get certified as a CCP, applicants must submit an application form with proof of their professional experience and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. After submitting the application form and passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CCP certification within four weeks.

The cost of taking the CCP exam is $200 USD. This fee covers all costs associated with taking the exam including registration fees, study materials, and access to practice exams.

6. Certified Grant Writer (CGW)

A Certified Grant Writer (CGW) is a professional who has completed specialized training and passed an exam to become certified in the field of grant writing. The CGW credential demonstrates a mastery of the principles, techniques, and strategies of successful grant writing.

The certification process typically takes several months to complete. It includes completing an online training program that covers all aspects of grant writing, including research, proposal development, budgeting, and evaluation. After completing the training program, applicants must pass an exam to demonstrate their proficiency in grant writing.

To become a Certified Grant Writer (CGW), you must first complete an approved training program. There are many online courses available for those interested in becoming certified. Most programs require between 15-20 hours of coursework and include topics such as research methods, proposal development, budgeting, and evaluation. Once you have completed the coursework, you must then pass an exam to demonstrate your proficiency in grant writing.

The cost of becoming a Certified Grant Writer (CGW) varies depending on the training program chosen. Most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition and fees associated with the coursework and exam.

7. Certified SEO Writer (CSEO)

A Certified SEO Writer (CSEO) is a professional who has been certified by an independent organization to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of search engine optimization (SEO). The certification is designed to ensure that writers have the necessary skills and understanding to create content that meets the needs of both search engines and readers.

The certification process typically takes between two to three months, depending on the organization offering it. To become certified, applicants must pass a series of tests and assessments related to SEO topics such as keyword research, content optimization, link building, analytics, and more. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work for review.

The cost of obtaining a CSEO certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Some organizations offer free certifications while others charge a fee for their courses or exams. It’s important to research each organization before signing up for a certification program in order to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Overall, becoming a Certified SEO Writer can be an invaluable asset for any writer looking to break into the digital marketing industry. It provides proof of your knowledge and expertise in this ever-evolving field, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or freelance gigs.

8. Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS)

Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of business writing. The CBWS certification is awarded by the Professional Association of Business Writers (PABW), an international organization that sets standards for excellence in business writing.

The CBWS exam covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, document design, and audience analysis. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to write effective business documents and communicate effectively in a variety of formats.

It takes approximately two hours to complete the CBWS exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in business writing or related fields and submit a portfolio of their work for review by PABW.

The cost of the CBWS exam is $200 USD and includes access to study materials and practice tests. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive a certificate from PABW recognizing their achievement as a Certified Business Writing Specialist.

9. Certified Journalism Professional (CJP)

Certified Journalism Professional (CJP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Journalists (IAJ). It is designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of professional journalism. The CJP is awarded to journalists who demonstrate excellence in their field and have achieved a high level of professional accomplishment.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. The criteria include having at least five years of experience in journalism, being a member of IAJ or another international journalism organization, and submitting two samples of published work. Applicants must also submit a statement outlining their commitment to ethical practices in journalism.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions about journalistic ethics, media law, news writing, and reporting techniques. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the CJP exam is $250 USD for IAJ members and $350 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 USD for those who wish to maintain their certification status.

10. Certified Web Content Strategist (CWCS)

Certified Web Content Strategist (CWCS) is a professional certification offered by the Content Strategy Alliance. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated comprehensive knowledge and skills in web content strategy.

The CWCS program consists of two parts: an online course and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as content strategy fundamentals, writing for the web, SEO, user experience design, and analytics. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and requires two hours to complete.

The cost of the CWCS program is $495 USD, which includes access to the online course and the final exam.

11. Professional Resume Writer Certification (PRWC).

Professional Resume Writer Certification (PRWC) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the skills and knowledge required to write effective resumes. This certification is offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC).

The PRWC certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as resume writing techniques, job search strategies, career planning, and interviewing skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the PRWC certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in resume writing or related fields. They must also submit a sample resume for review by PARW/CC.

The cost of the PRWC certification varies depending on the applicant's membership status with PARW/CC. For non-members, the fee is $295 USD; for members, it is $195 USD. The fee includes access to the online exam and one year of membership in PARW/CC.

Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive their PRWC certificate within four weeks via email or mail. The certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Writer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a writer certificate depends on what type of writing you are planning to do. If you are writing for publication, such as books, magazines, newspapers, or websites, then it is likely that you will need some kind of certification. Many publishers and editors require writers to have some kind of professional credential in order to be considered for publication.

However, if you are an aspiring writer who just wants to write creative pieces for yourself or to share with friends and family, then a writer certificate may not be necessary. Even if you want to get published one day, there are many other ways to build your portfolio and credibility as a writer without having a formal certificate. You could take courses on writing from online schools or community colleges; join writing groups; attend workshops; volunteer for literary magazines; read books about the craft of writing; practice your skills by joining online forums and submitting work for feedback; and submit articles and stories to publications. All of these activities can help you hone your craft and build your reputation as a writer without needing a formal certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a writer certificate depends on their individual goals as a writer and what they hope to accomplish in their career. If becoming certified is something that will help them reach their goals faster, then it might be worth pursuing. However, if they plan on taking more time-consuming but ultimately more rewarding routes towards achieving their goals as writers, then they may decide that it’s not necessary for them at this stage in their career.

Related : Writer Resume Examples

FAQs About Writer Certifications

Q1. What is a Writer Certification?

A1. A Writer Certification is an accreditation that demonstrates the writer has met certain standards of writing proficiency. It is usually awarded by an organization or educational institution after the writer has completed a course or program in writing, and it can be used to demonstrate their writing skills to employers and clients.

Q2. How do I obtain a Writer Certification?

A2. To obtain a Writer Certification, you must typically complete an approved course or program in writing from an accredited organization or institution. Different certifications may require different levels of education, experience and/or examinations in order to qualify for certification.

Q3. Are there any benefits to having a Writer Certification?

A3. Yes, having a Writer Certification can help you stand out amongst other writers in your field and show potential employers that you have the skills necessary to perform well as a professional writer. It can also open up new opportunities for employment, as some organizations prefer candidates who have been certified in their particular field of writing.

Q4. What types of Writing Certifications are available?

A4. There are many types of Writing Certifications available, such as Technical Writing Certifications, Journalism Certifications, Creative Writing Certifications and Business Writing Certifications, among others. Depending on your area of expertise and the type of job you are seeking, different certifications will be more beneficial than others for demonstrating your skill set to employers and clients.

Q5. Is there a cost associated with obtaining a Writing Certification?

A5. Yes, there are often costs associated with obtaining a Writing Certification depending on the type of certification you pursue and the organization offering it. These costs may include tuition fees for courses or programs related to the certification as well as examination fees or administrative fees associated with obtaining the certification itself

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles

  • Top 11 Copywriter Certifications
  • Top 11 Underwriter Certifications
  • Top 11 Insurance Underwriter Certifications
  • Top 11 Marketing Copywriter Certifications
  • Top 11 Junior Underwriter Certifications
  • Top 11 Mortgage Underwriter Certifications
  • Association Leadership
  • Code of Ethics
  • Grievance Procedures
  • History of The NRWA
  • NRWA Partners
  • The NRWA Newsletter Archives
  • 2024 ROAR Award
  • Industry Hero Award
  • Vivian Belen Award
  • DEI Calendar
  • Search For A Professional Writer
  • Find a Nationally Certified Resume Writer
  • Find a Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert
  • Step 1: CE Units (CEU)
  • Step 2: Sample Review
  • Step 3: Exam
  • Recommended Books
  • NCOPE Certification Coursework
  • Conference 2024 Registration
  • 2023 Conference Review
  • 2022 Conference Review
  • 2020 Virtual Conference Review
  • 2019 Conference Photos
  • 2018 Conference Photos
  • 2017 Conference Photos & Recap
  • 2016 Conference Photos
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • On-Demand Webinars
  • Writing Excellence: Boot Camp Application Information
  • Writing Excellence: Foundations
  • Resume Writing 101: Self-Directed Training
  • The NRWA Business Growth Lab
  • Education Resources
  • (Previous Offering) Best Business Practices Course
  • Membership Benefits
  • Becoming a Resume Writer
  • Affiliate Program
  • Grant Application
  • NRWA Success Stories
  • Calendar of Events
  • Current Events
  • Virtual Storefront
Log in with Facebook Log in with Google



', placeHolder = gadgetHorMenu.parents('.WaLayoutPlaceHolder'), placeHolderId = placeHolder && placeHolder.attr('data-componentId'), mobileState = false, isTouchSupported = !!(('ontouchstart' in window) || (window.DocumentTouch && document instanceof DocumentTouch) || (navigator.msPointerEnabled && navigator.msMaxTouchPoints)); function resizeMenu() { var i, len, fitMenuWidth = 0, menuItemPhantomWidth = 80; firstLevelMenu.html( holderInitialMenu).removeClass('adapted').css({ width: 'auto' }); // restore initial menu if( firstLevelMenu.width() > gadgetHorMenuContainer.width() ) // if menu oversize { menuItemPhantomWidth = firstLevelMenu.addClass('adapted').append( phantomElement).children('.phantom').width(); for( i = 0, len = holderInitialMenu.size(); i

ON THE NCOPE CERTIFICATION COURSE

resigned from a 25-year career in business development, operations, and sales leadership to create Career Thinker Inc.



T he National Résumé Writers' Association  8120 Lehigh Ave Morton Grove, IL 60053

Click here to join our mailing list!

Member Services: 847.647.8919 or   [email protected]

This site uses cookies to enhance the user experience. click here to review our privacy and security policy..

We Help Resume Writers Build Successful & Profitable Resume Writing Businesses

We Love Helping Resume Writers Whether They're Researching, Launching or Scaling Their Businesses

Do You Need To Be a Certified Resume Writer?

By Teena Rose

CPRW . NCRW . CMRW. CARW. ACRW .

When you look at the certifications after some resume writer’s names, you start to wonder what the heck they all stand for, do you need one, and, if you do need one, which ones are the most important in order to A) impress your clients and B) be considered a professional within your chosen industry. This is especially true if you’re new to resume writing and looking for that first certification.

Which organization is the best?

Which offers the most ‘bang’ for the buck?

You might even be wondering if you need resume writing certifications.

After all, people were writing resumes for decades before certifications became the norm in the industry, so why all the hoopla about being certified?

Here, I will answer resume certification questions for you, plus provide specific information on the various certifications available to resume writers today.

By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll have the information you need in order to make an informed decision about which, if any, certification is right for you.

Okay, let’s get started!

Why Do You Need to Become a Certified Resume Writer?

The quick answer is that writing certifications aren’t the be-all. This may seem controversial for those reading this post who plan to secure or have resume certifications.

To be blunt, certifications alone don’t guarantee resume writing skills. Sure, resume writing certifications imply some level of ability. Yet, it’s important to note that some resume writers ace the testing to get that certification while others squeak by.

If you are good at what you do and continue to hone your craft, you’ll eventually become a great resume writer, and subsequently, succeed.

There are no certifications for fiction writing, technical writing, medical journal writing, etc. (Although you can get academic degrees in those, and other, areas.) Plenty of people writes for a living without certification or a degree.

Resume writing certifications can be a sizable investment, depending upon the resume writing organization you join. For example, training company Resume Writing Academy (RWA) costs $1800+ to acquire the ACRW certification .

However, it doesn’t hurt to become certified. Why?

There are a number of reasons, including:

1. Training = Greater Skill.

No matter what your field – writing, teaching, construction, driving a big rig, or taking care of animals – the more training and education you have in your chosen job, the better you will be at it.

Remember the old adage, ‘Practice makes perfect?’ Well, you can add ‘Training builds skills’ to that concept.

Certification programs will teach you the ‘tricks of the trade,’ give you examples of resumes that work and don’t work, and demonstrate how to obtain the right information from your clients.

2. Business Growth.

The field of resume writing is very competitive, and customers are looking to get as much value as they can for their dollar. So they’re doing their homework, not only about individual writers but also the industry in general.

A lot of them are aware of certifications and want their writers to have one.

3. Professional Recognition.

Let’s face it. If you’re interested in writing an article for the local paper or giving a presentation at the local Chamber of Commerce meeting or library, it looks better to have professional credentials.

Think about it – if an organization wants to have someone come in and give a lecture on resume writing, won’t they be more likely to hire someone who is ‘Certified’ rather than someone who isn’t?

Having a professional designation automatically means you sound qualified at what you do.

Now that you know there are good reasons for getting a certification, it’s time to begin thinking about which one to get. At last count, there were more than 10 main certifications a resume writer could obtain.

The Top 3 Resume Certification Organizations

This section will provide details on the Top 3 certifying agencies and the specific resume writing certifications that they offer.

I. Professional Association of Resume Writers/Career Coaches

The PARW/CC is the oldest credentialing organization for resume writers, founded in 1990.

Prior to their formation, there were no associations for resume writers or career professionals. The organization was formed to achieve several purposes, the most important of which was to set quality standards in resume writing and to help resume writers share information about their craft.

Today it is the most widely-held certification among resume writers and (depending on who you talk to) either the Number One or one of the Top Two most respected designations a writer can hold.

CPRW Certification Prospective professional resume writers must pass a multi-part test comprised of multiple-choice questions and essay questions, all dealing with the different aspects of resume writing. [Editorial Note: Be sure to also check out our post titled, “ How Difficult Is The CPRW Exam .”

There is a study guide that applicants have several days to learn, and the final part of the exam involves creating a resume and cover letter from a mock client’s raw data.

The examination is timed, and the applicant can obtain and return the test via email or fax. Tests and sample resumes are reviewed by a team of industry professionals, and then a grade is issued.

The price of the study guide and examinations is $225, and applicants must demonstrate basic skills in resume writing before being approved to take the examination. To date, no sample CPRW test is available to the public.

Because the CPRW is both the most recognized designation in the industry and possibly the most highly regarded, more resume writers pursue this certification than any other. This is both a good and bad situation for new CPRWs because it means having a true industry-standard designation but it also means not standing out from the crowd anymore.

In addition to the CPRW designation, the PARW/CC also offers the following certifications:

Certified Employment Interview Professional (CEIP) Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC)

II. National Resume Writers Association (NRWA) www.nrwa.com

Formed originally as an offshoot of the Professional Association of Resume Writers (the Northeast Resume Writers Association), it evolved into the NRWA in 1997 and today boasts more than 400 members.

NCRW Certification Individuals wishing to obtain an NCRW designation are required to take an examination that covers resume writing, cover letter composition, proofreading, and electronic resume preparation.

Unlike the CPRW designation, before taking the exam a prospective writer must first obtain 10 continuing education units (CEUs). These can include outside courses, attending conferences, and performing self-study. Once received, the NCRW is valid for 3 years.

Retaining the certification is based on continuous membership in the NRWA and obtaining 15 CEUs during each 3-year period.

The price to take the certification test is $140, plus a $50 fee for submitting samples for evaluation. This is in addition to whatever membership fees the organization charges and the costs of CEUs.

While the NCRW program doesn’t offer anything that isn’t included in the CPRW designation, the NRWA’s policy of requiring continuing education throughout the writer’s career does tend to provide some impetus for keeping up-to-date on the latest trends.

On the other hand, some would object to the cost this involves and say a true professional will always keep abreast of changes in their industry and licensing shouldn’t depend on how many conferences are attended during a 3-year period.

III. Resume Writing Academy www.resumewritingacademy.com

The newest of the resume writing organizations, the Resume Writing Academy was founded by two resume writing professionals with extensive credentials, Wendy S. Enelow and Louise M. Kursmark. It is the only organization devoted entirely to providing advanced education to help professionals become certified resume writers.

From their website: “Graduating from the Resume Writing Academy is a true professional accomplishment. The program is tough, the grading is tougher and the expectations of your trainers.”

The program is much more intense than the other credentials, with a combination of classroom (in person or self-study), training assignments, independent learning projects, and examinations. Included with resume and cover letter preparation, the program also covers grammar, client positioning, and more.

Details: Part I includes 8 teleseminar classes plus weekly homework. Part II includes 3 independent learning programs (bi-weekly custom projects)

Students must earn an A or B for each assignment; a lower grade requires the assignment to be redone and resubmitted.

At the end of the 11-week program, students with all passing grades earn the Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) credential plus 36 continuing education credits (CEUs).

Pricing As might be expected for a program billing itself as the most extensive resume-writing credentialing program, the price is higher than any of the others. Registration for the Resume Writing Academy is $1,895 (formerly $2,295) and includes all training sessions, course materials, audio recordings, and more.

They also offer additional CE classes ranging from $99 to $199

Supplemental Certifications for Resume Writers

Various organizations offer other certifications for individuals looking to move beyond resume writing and into other areas of career and job search assistance.

Here are some of the most common of these:

1. Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC) This organization offers two non-resume writing certifications: the Certified Employment Interview Professional (CEIP) and the Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC). The CEIP involves specialized training in how to prepare clients for employment interviews. CEIPs assist their clients with interview training, question/response preparation, and making a positive impression during the interview.

As the title states, the CPCC is for professionals who focus on identifying life goals, ambitions, and career options for their clients, and then crafting customized career and job search strategies to help their clients achieve those goals. CPCCs are in demand to assist employed and unemployed individuals, recent college graduates, and people looking to pursue a career change.

2. International Coach Federation (ICF) This organization offers three different credentials: Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Master Certified Coach (MCC).

3. The Coaches Training Institute (CTI) This organization offers the Certified Professional Co-Active Coach designation. In order to achieve a CPCC, coaches must complete a multi-course core curriculum and then a 6-month certification program.

4. Career Coach Institute (CCI) The CCI offers the designation of Certified Career Coach (CCC). This program involves a series of study exercises, tests, e-based classes, practice coaching sessions, and a final examination. The CCI also offers the Certified Workforce Development Coach (CWDC) designation, which involves a similar curriculum and testing process.

5. Career Coach Academy (CCA) The first certification is the Certified Career Management Coach (CCMC), which is a rigorous 3-month training program including studies, examinations, and live coaching evaluation covering a wide range of topics.

The CCA’s second credential offering is the Certified Job Search Strategist (CJSS), in which coaches learn how to facilitate their clients’ success through job search strategy design and job seeker evaluation tactics. Coaches also learn online search strategies and tools, network fundamentals, interviewing concepts, and more.

6. Career Planning & Adult Development Network (CPADN) This organization offers Job & Career Transition Coach (JCTC) and Job & Career Development Coach (JCDC) credentials. Each credential is achieved by completing 3-day, hands-on workshops.

7. Career Thought Leaders Consortium (CTLC) To achieve this organization’s CCM designation, career professionals must already hold a Master’s Degree or higher, previous certifications in the field, published articles, previous CEUs, public speaking experience, volunteer experience, and more.

8. Life Purpose Institute (LPI) This organization offers a variety of certifications, including Life Purpose & Career Coach (LPCC), Certified Life Coach (CLC), and Certified Coach (CC). All programs involve a series of weekly teleclasses followed by nine to 12 practice sessions with real clients and an oral examination.

9. Reach Communications Reach Communications offers a Personal Branding Program certification (Certified Personal Branding Strategist – CPBS). This patented program teaches coaches how to provide custom, innovative career management strategies for their clients.

10. World Coach Institute (WCI) The WCI offers the ICF-approved Certified Career Coach (CCC) designation, which includes career assessment, networking, interviewing, communication skills, career advancement, transformational coaching, and other training areas.

which resume writing certification is best

Resume Writing Academy

  • 1-855-333-5793

Member Login

  • Job Seekers - Find a Writer
  • Certification
  • Testimonials
  • Find a Writer
  • Free Resources
  • Student Access

RESUME & PROFILE WRITING CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

RWA has a long history of training the top writers, keeping writers ahead of trends, and setting the standard for professional career marketing materials.

Professional resume writers like you come to the Resume Writing Academy because they want to be confident that every resume they write will win clients interviews ... that every LinkedIn profile will attract the right audience ... they want to be the expert who stands out from the sea of resume and social media profile writing advice.

Do you want the confidence to charge what you are worth for the work you do?

Do you want to be the expert your career services office needs to teach resume and social media strategies that improve job placement?

If so, read on to learn more about the Resume Writing Academy certification programs!

What really transformed their writing and built their confidence was consistent feedback on their work.RWA's certification programs provide English language, formatting, and writing assignments -- each carefully crafted to test your command of strategy, design, and writing.

is available for your questions one-on-one, holds regular office hours to help you with class and client assignments, and continues this support after your graduation.

PLUS -- no membership is required and certification is built into the program. You'll work hard to create each assignment, rewrite a few assignments, and earn your certification at the end -- no test to take or separate fee to pay.


program is an intensive 3-month resume training and certification program leading to your Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) credential.

• Differentiate your candidates from the crowd – develop expert resume-writing skills.
• Position candidates to win interviews – develop expert cover letters and e-note writing skills.
• Design resumes that stand out and pass applicant tracking systems – develop expert resume-design skills.
• Be confident! Position yourself as one of the top writers globally, write faster, and earn more money.





is an intensive 3-month training in writing and optimizing social media profiles leading to your Academy Certified Profile Writer (ACPW) credential.

• Keep readers engaged – learn to write profiles with personalities that tell your candidate's story.
• Get candidates found – learn to optimize profiles so they rise to the top in a recruiter's search.
• Position clients for their career goals – learn to manipulate social media profiles aligned with career strategy.
• Stay ahead of trends! Position yourself as an expert in a growing area of need for career management and job search.


DIGITAL BADGES

Career Thought Leaders and Resume Writing Academy have partnered with Acclaim to deliver digital badges you can add to your social media profiles to validate your professional expertise!

We're here to support you !

If you have questions about any of these programs, you can use this link to set up a time to talk with Marie Zimenoff  here.

We look forward to speaking with you now and supporting you throughout your program.

Subscribe to Our Weekly Newsletter! Stay up to date with the latest news and trends!

  • Finding Resume Writers is easy by searching our trusted network of top-rated Resume Writers.
  • How It Works
  • List Your Company
  • Browse Categories
  • Browse Locations

Resume Writing Academy X

  • Resume Writers - Get Listed Today
  • Resume Writing Academy
  • All Rights Reserved
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • RWA Graduates Create Listing Create Free User Account
  • Learn How to Get Listed! Become a Certified Writer

Harvard and MIT’s $800 Million Mistake

Your source for the latest news and trends in online education.

600 Free Google Certifications

Most common

  • computer science
  • web development

Popular subjects

  • Artificial Intelligence

Digital Marketing

Computer Science

Popular courses

ODS en la Agenda 2030 de las Naciones Unidas: Retos de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible

Cryptography I

How to Succeed at: Interviews

Class Central

  • classcentral.com
  • Browse Courses
  • Write a Review
  • About Class Central
  • Best Courses
  • Free Certificates
  • Best Free Online Courses of All Time
  • Most Popular Online Courses of All Time
  • Featured Articles
  • Online Learning Guides
  • Student Voices

Disclosure:  Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

8 Best Resume Writing Courses for 2024: Get that Job!

Make an outstanding first impression and grab that job with the best resume writing online courses for various situations, plus some interview skills.

which resume writing certification is best

Resumes are pretty much the very first step while applying for almost any job. They give potential employers a first-hand idea of who you are and why you might be a good fit for that job before they even get to meet you. So your resume needs to be top-notch.

In this Best Courses Guide (BCG), I’ve selected the 10 best free and paid resume writing online courses for you from the 50+ resume writing courses in our catalog by following our well-defined methodology that you can find below.

Click on the shortcuts for more details:

What is Resume Writing?

Why you should trust us, how we made our picks and tested them.

Click to jump to course details:

Course for Resume Writing and Job Search Basics (LinkedIn Learning) 2-3 hours
13 hours
2-3 hours
Short Course for Beginners (Professor Heather Austin) 1-2 hours
(Saylor Academy) 5 hours
Course for Data Science Resumes (Great Learning) <1 hour
12 hours
6 hours

which resume writing certification is best

Related Guides

  • Public Speaking
  • Copywriting
  • Negotiation
  • English Grammar

Heading 1

Recommended Guides

  • Dropshipping
  • Microsoft Word
  • Emotional Intelligence

Heading 1

Trending Guides

  • Graphic Design
  • American Sign Language (ASL)

A resume is a formal document, typically of one to two pages, that highlights a candidate’s education, experience and skills. Job seekers write resumes while applying for a job so recruiters can evaluate their competency and worth. Employers may collect resumes in person, through a company’s career website, a job search engine, or a professional social media page.

The word “resume” originally comes from the French word ‘ résumé ’, past participle of résumer which means “to summarize”. However, this term is primarily used in America and Canada to represent a document that showcases your skills and work experiences, and not in France and other parts of Europe where a curriculum vitae (or CV) is used instead. In India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, biodata is often used in place of a resume.

Fun fact : Did you know that Leonardo da Vinci was the first recorded person to write a resume in the 15th century (even though it was more of a letter)?

which resume writing certification is best

Why are Resume Writing Skills Important?

Resumes create your first impression to potential employers. Indeed notes down a few more reasons why resumes are important:

  • Provides an opportunity to market yourself to employers
  • Outlines your skills, background and education so employers can easily see how your experience can contribute to the success of a company
  • Helps employers eliminate unqualified candidates
  • Allows you to demonstrate your written communication skills
  • Combined, these courses have accrued over 780K enrollments and views.
  • 4 courses are free or free-to-audit and 4 courses are paid .
  • The most-represented course providers are Udemy and YouTube, with 2 courses each.
  • All 8 courses are in English including 1 with subtitles in Hindi.
  • The Resume Writing subject is followed by over 8.6K learners on Class Central.

Best Free Course for Resume Writing and Job Search Basics (LinkedIn Learning)

which resume writing certification is best

My pick for the best resume writing online course is Writing a Resume , available for free on LinkedIn Learning. In fact, LinkedIn Learning is a great resource for free and paid resume-writing courses, which is no surprise given their focus on networking and career advancement.

In this course, you’ll learn:

  • Basic components of Resume Writing : objective statement, skills, work experience, education, and technical skills
  • Customization : tailor resume components to match specific job requirements
  • Enhancements : upgrade resume with achievements, awards, and publications
  • Formatting : choose the right layout and formatting for an effective resume
  • Alternative designs : explore different resume designs for various industries and regions
  • Handling challenges : address career changes, employment gaps, and long-term unemployment in resumes
  • Stand out : use the resume to showcase skills, achievements, and stand out from other applicants
  • Job search strategies : conduct a successful job search by focusing on objectives, desired skills, education, and volunteer work
  • Best practices : learn how to use resumes in online applications, interviews, networking, and informational interviews
  • Proactive job search : identify potential companies, determine fit, and find contacts for a proactive job search.

Stacey Gordon is focused on improving workplace cultures. Her mission is to reduce bias in global talent acquisition and management. She offers diversity, inclusion and career related online courses on LinkedIn Learning. Her book, “ UNBIAS: Addressing Unconscious Bias at Work ”, is an ‘action manual’ for you to remove barriers and ensure equity throughout your organization.

LinkedIn Learning courses on writing specific types of resumes include:

  • Writing a Tech Resume (1 hour)
  • Resume Makeover (2 hours)
  • Designing a Resume for Creatives (1-2 hours)
  • Designing a Resume in InDesign (<1 hour)
  • Creating a Video Resume (<1 hour)
  • Find Your Dream Job: Interview Techniques and Resume Writing (2 hours)
LinkedIn Learning
Stacey Gordon
Beginner
2-3 hours
483K
4.8/5.0 (5.8K)
Free
Practice exercises, quizzes
Free

Best Intermediate Course for Business Style Resumes (University of Maryland, College Park)

which resume writing certification is best

Writing Winning Resumes and Cover Letters is a free-to-audit course for intermediate learners with B2 English skills who want to grab the attention of prospective employers using the language they already speak inside their organization. You’ll get answers to any related questions that you might have, and convert a boring resume into a dynamic asset statement. By the end of this course, you’ll be able to write your resume in a language that employers understand.

You’ll learn to:

  • Customize resumes for specific job opportunities
  • Rank high in relevance scales used by top organizations
  • Craft powerful accomplishment statements
  • Summarize experiences in language employers understand
  • Choose the best format for career goals
  • Prepare for electronic submission
  • Write an effective cover letter
  • Know what information to exclude from your resume
  • How to follow up after an interview

Charles Duquette is a lecturer and Marketing Coordinator at University of Maryland, College Park. He studied Biology at Georgetown University, Finance at University of Maryland, Mechanical Engineering at The Catholic University of America, and Computer Science at Johns Hopkins University.

University of Maryland, College Park
Coursera
Charles Duquette
Intermediate
13 hours
51.5K
4.6/5.0 (316)
Free audit
Quizzes
Paid

Best Beginner Course to Design Professional Documents and Build InDesign Skills (Skillshare)

which resume writing certification is best

Are you a student, a marketing professional or a freelancer? Redesign Your Resume: Designing Professional Documents will teach you how to design professional documents and use InDesign to enhance communication. Using resumes as the starting point, you’ll explore some great examples by creative professionals. You’ll also build InDesign skills that you can apply to other documents as well.

In this course:

  • Take inspiration from resumes, CVs and general documents
  • Work on key design concepts, layouts, text boxes, and details in InDesign
  • Create master pages, learn design terms and concepts
  • Discover tips for working with fonts and type
  • Finalize your document.

Anne Ditmeyer is an American designer and creative coach based in Paris, France.

Skillshare
Anne Ditmeyer
Beginner
2-3 hours
6K
100%
Paid
Projects
Not available

Best Free Short Course for Beginners (Professor Heather Austin)

which resume writing certification is best

Within just a couple of hours, you’ll have a great resume that will get you noticed, with How To Write A Winning Resume – Top Resume Writing Tips by Professor Heather Austin on YouTube.

This short, free course will guide you through the process, including important resume writing tips and secrets that will put you ahead of the crowd. You’ll explore examples of good resumes and also get to know where to find sample resume templates that you can download and tailor to apply for your next job.

  • Start with a template and examples
  • Write a resume summary
  • Create an ATS-friendly resume
  • Craft a resume with little or no work experience
  • Increase chances of getting hired
  • Format a resume quickly and effectively
  • Include achievements in a resume
  • Access additional resources for resume writing

Heather Austin is the host of #TheCareerClub on Facebook and the creator of ProfessorAustin.com . She teaches professionals how to navigate the job search process from building a solid social media presence on LinkedIn to nailing those tough interview questions.

YouTube
Heather Austin
Beginner
1-2 hours
17.3K
Free
None – video lectures only
Not available

Best Course for Resumes and Cover Letters with Free Certificate (Saylor Academy)

which resume writing certification is best

PRDV102: Resume Writing is designed to guide you through the intricacies of crafting a compelling resume and cover letter. It’s comprehensive, covering the basics of resume structure and advanced techniques for making your application stand out. You’ll learn how to effectively communicate your skills and experiences, tailor your application to specific job descriptions, and avoid common pitfalls. This course is accessible to anyone looking to improve their job application with up-to-date advice and practical tips.

What you’ll learn:

  • The fundamental structure and essential elements of a resume and cover letter
  • How to tailor your resume and cover letter to match job descriptions
  • Strategies to enhance the appeal of your resume and cover letter
  • Common mistakes in resume and cover letter writing and how to avoid them.

Saylor Academy is a nonprofit organization established in 2008 to offer free and open online courses to all who want to learn.

Saylor Academy
Beginner/Intermediate
5 hours
Free
4.7/5.0 (3)
Quizzes
Free

Best Free Course for Data Science Resumes (Great Learning)

which resume writing certification is best

If you want to break into the data science field and secure a job in top companies, this free course is for you. Great Learning offers How to Write an Effective Data Science Resume designed to guide freshers on crafting an effective Data Science resume. It emphasizes the importance of a well-constructed resume, highlighting that it is often the first step to getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers. The course covers why a good resume is crucial, provides an 8-step process to build a Data Science and Machine Learning resume and offers a checklist for resume creation. This course focuses on the specific needs of the data science industry and is particularly beneficial for those with no prior experience in resume writing for this field.

What you will gain from this course:

  • Understand the significance of a well-crafted resume in the data science job market
  • A step-by-step guide to creating a Data Science and Machine Learning resume, including layout, format, and cover letter
  • How to craft a professional summary, detail technical skills and expertise, and present work experience effectively
  • Tips on showcasing academic or personal projects, education, and other relevant details
  • Guidance on creating a GitHub profile to enhance your resume
  • Answers to frequently asked questions about Data Science resume creation.

Great Learning aims to make quality education accessible to anyone who wants to learn.

YouTube
Great Learning
Beginner/Intermediate
<1 hour
English with subtitles in Hindi
2.8K
90 thumbs-up
Free
Examples
Not available

Best Course for InterviewIng, Resume/LinkedIn, and Networking Skills (Udemy)

which resume writing certification is best

The Complete Resume, LinkedIn & Get Your Dream Job Course! is a 3-part course that teaches you the three most important topics for getting a job: interviewing, resume/LinkedIn and networking skills. No matter at what stage of your career you’re at, this course will help you get the job you want.

  • Build the perfect resume
  • Interview better than others
  • Make the best LinkedIn profile
  • Network better than anyone else
  • Get your dream job.

Chris Haroun is the founder and CEO of the online Haroun MBA Degree Program and the founder and CEO of Haroun Education Ventures. He’s also the author of a book, “ 101 Crucial Lessons They Don’t Teach You in Business School ”.

Udemy
Chris Haroun
Beginner
12 hours
117K
4.6/5.0 (6.7K)
Paid
Downloadable resources
Paid

Also Great Course for Resume and Cover Letters, Interview and Networking Skills (Udemy)

which resume writing certification is best

No matter what stage you are in your career, you’ll learn resume writing, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters, interviewing and networking skills in Career Hacking: The Ultimate Job Search Course (Now w/ AI!) . These skills are necessary to get the job of your dreams, and this course makes it all possible.

  • Prepare a keyword-rich, targeted resume
  • Present yourself powerfully on LinkedIn
  • Interview competently and persuasively
  • Create career opportunities using traditional and non-traditional methods
  • Build relevant professional networks
  • Set the stage for a rewarding career
  • Now with AI prompts for ChatGPT & Claude.

Davis and Ludell Jones are, respectively, Chief Learning Officer and COO of Eazl courseware, that launched in 2013. Today, Eazl courseware helps teams at many leading organizations make faster progress on their goals.

Udemy
Davis Jones, Ludell Jones, Emma Jeffers
Beginner
6 hours
80K
4.5/5.0 (9.2K)
Paid
Quizzes, downloadable resources
Paid

Class Central , a Tripadvisor for online education, has helped 60 million learners find their next course. We’ve been combing through online education for more than a decade to aggregate a catalog of 200,000 online courses and 200,000 reviews written by our users. And we’re online learners ourselves: combined, the Class Central team has completed over 400 online courses, including online degrees.

I (Archisha) am a Guided Project Instructor and a Beta Tester at Coursera, having tested many courses before they’re officially launched. I have taken over 50 online courses in various subjects. Throughout school and college, I was taught to write good resumes as part of my curriculum. I scored high and landed a pretty decent job!

My experience as an online learner and teacher has given me some perspective on what to look for in an online course. I used my experience to evaluate the courses in this list.

I built this guide following the now tried-and-tested methodology I used previously ( you can find them all here ). It involves a three-step process:

  • Research: I started by leveraging Class Central’s database. Then, I made a preliminary selection of resume writing courses by rating, reviews, and bookmarks
  • Evaluate: I read through reviews on Class Central, Reddit, and course providers to understand what other learners thought about each course and combined it with my own experience as a learner
  • Select: Well-made courses were picked if they presented valuable and engaging content and fit a set of criteria: comprehensive curriculum, release date, affordability, ratings and enrollments.

The end result is a unique selection of courses that combines a decade of Class Central data and my own experience as an online learner. I’m confident these recommendations will be a reliable way to learn how to write a quality resume.

Pat revised the research and the latest version of this article.

Best Courses Guides. Start Learning, Stop Procrastinating.

Archisha Bhar

Leave a reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Browse our catalog

Discover thousands of free online courses from top universities around the world like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard.

Computer Science 29,218 courses

  • Algorithms and Data Structures
  • Internet of Things
  • Information Technology
  • Computer Networking
  • Machine Learning
  • Deep Learning
  • Cryptography
  • Quantum Computing
  • Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
  • Distributed Systems
  • Blockchain Development
  • Operating Systems
  • Computer Graphics
  • Automata Theory
  • Digital Image Processing

Business 26,496 courses

  • Management & Leadership
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Strategic Management
  • Industry Specific
  • Business Intelligence
  • Human Resources
  • Project Management
  • Design Thinking
  • Business Software
  • Customer Service
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Operations Management
  • Corporate Governance
  • Business Plan
  • Business Proposal

Humanities 11,279 courses

  • Language Learning
  • Grammar & Writing
  • Linguistics
  • Library Science
  • Crisis Management
  • Emergency Management
  • Performing Arts
  • Religious Studies

Data Science 6,528 courses

  • Bioinformatics
  • Data Mining
  • Data Analysis
  • Data Visualization
  • Jupyter Notebooks
  • Process Mining
  • Text Mining
  • Social Network Analysis
  • Computational Analysis
  • Data Collection
  • Information Retrieval
  • Data Processing
  • Data Wrangling
  • Data Extraction
  • Data Manipulation
  • Monte Carlo Simulation
  • Network Analysis
  • Data Preparation

Personal Development 9,373 courses

  • Communication Skills
  • Career Development
  • Self Improvement
  • Presentation Skills
  • Self-Control
  • Growth Mindset
  • Self-Assessment
  • Survival Skills
  • Sleep Improvement
  • Career Planning
  • Empowerment
  • Personal Growth
  • Social Skills
  • Dog Training

Art & Design 30,929 courses

  • Digital Media
  • Visual Arts
  • Design & Creativity
  • Art Therapy
  • Art Composition
  • Character Design
  • Fashion Design
  • Inspiration
  • Golden Ratio
  • Pattern Design
  • Geometric Patterns
  • Jewelry Design
  • Botanical Drawing
  • Animal Illustration
  • Anime Drawing
  • Observational Drawing
  • Clay Modeling

What’s the #1 Thing Blocking You From Building a 6-Figure+ Business?    Take Our Quiz Now

Global Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches

Certification, Training, and Awards For Resume Writers and Career Coaches

Learn, grow, and take your business to the next level

CDI will set you apart by raising the bar on resume writing through our cutting-edge training with award-winning writers and our suite of distinctive resume writer certifications to help you meet any goal. By joining the elite team of CDI-certified and trained writers you can be assured that you can meet any resume challenge and be recognized as one of the best the industry has to offer.

At CDI we offer training and certification options for wherever you are at in this process!

Membership is not required for the majority of CDI courses and programs but members do benefit from a 25% savings on all certifications and most courses and programs. Where membership is required, it will be noted and an opportunity to join will be provided.

Purchasing CDI courses, certifications, or programs is also the only way to join the association when membership registration is closed.

Resume Writing Courses

Are you ready to build your resume writing expertise and/or demonstrate to the world that you have what it takes to earn a top industry certification or award? CDI truly sets you apart by raising the bar on resume writing with our outstanding training, 1-1 mentoring, and certification programs.

Where should I start? Click here for guidance.

Since you’re here you are likely in one of three positions:

You’re considering resume writing as a professional and wondering how you get started in building your skill set.

If this is you, take a look at our Resume Mastery course with CARW certification and our Certified Advanced Resume Writer credential. 

You’ve been writing resumes for a while, either personally or professionally, and you recognize it’s time to get certified as a resume writer or first get help in fine-tuning your expertise.

If this is you, check out our Certified Advanced Resume Writer credential and our Resume Master Mentor program. 

You already have a resume writing certification but recognize the market is crowded and are looking for credentials and/or skills that set you apart from everyone else who is certified.

If this is you, there are many options to serve you. For credentials look at our Certified Master Resume Writer, Certified Executive Resume Master, Certified Graphic Resume Architect and our Certified Resume Specialist (allows you to earn one of 19 industry/specialty niche certifications ranging from IT to military transition). You may also benefit from our Resume Master Mentor program. 

You want to take your skills from excellent to awesome. 

If this is you, check out our Certified Career Storyteller course. 

You are a CMRW and have escalated your skill to managing a team of writers.

If this is you, check out our new Certified Master Resume Writer – Executive Editor credential. 

You don’t actually write resumes and just review them.

If this is you, check out our Certified Resume Analyst credential.

Go back to top >>

Resume Writing Certifications

Do you want to stand out from the competition in the crowded certified professional resume writing market by earning a top or niche resume certification?

First Credentials

Advanced credentials, career coaching certification & training.

Are you ready to empower yourself and your clients with the tools of a strategic job search? CDI positions you to be that go-to resource with actionable programs from interview coaching to online job search. You can begin using immediately to educate, coach, and support your clients in the areas they need most.

Business Start-Up / Development Courses and One-on-One Consulting

Would you like to turn your passion into profits? CDI offers a variety of programs from 1-1 business consulting to step-by-step start-up programs and how-to sales kits to get you from zero to sixty in no time. Whether you are just starting your first careers industry business or making your next million, we have the program for you.

Awards & Competitions

What if there was a way to almost instantly position your business for outstanding success and growth? That’s what CDI award competitions such as the coveted Toast of the Resume Industry (TORIs) have been doing for industry professionals for over a decade.

Registration is open until July 18, 2024

  • PARWCC Membership
  • Testimonials
  • View All Resources
  • Video Library
  • Spotlight Magazine
  • Member Logos
  • Thrive! Conference
  • All Certifications
  • Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW)
  • Fundamentals of Résumé Writing
  • Certified Executive Résumé Writer (CERW)
  • Certified CV Writer (CCVW)
  • Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC)
  • Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC)
  • Certified Digital Career Strategist (CDCS)
  • Certified Interview Coach (CIC)
  • Certified Motivational and Empowerment Professional (CEMP)
  • Certified Veteran Career Strategist (CVCS)
  • Advanced Writing Techniques
  • Become a Career Coach
  • Build Your Business
  • Find a Professional
  • Code of Ethics
  • Frank X. Fox IV Scholarship Fund

Fundamentals of Resume Writing Badge

The Résumé Writing Training Program

What is the fundamentals of résumé writing program.

The résumé writing profession has changed a lot over the last 30 years, but it’s never been more accessible as a career choice than it is right now. While “how to” information is available at the click of a mouse…the source of the information can be well, questionable.

Like most worthwhile things, becoming a professional résumé writer takes hours and hours of practice. The more you practice GOOD habits, things that we know have worked for actual clients, the sooner you reach a point where people will pay you for the career services you provide.

Is designed for anyone who wants to improve their skills in résumé writing, including those who want to learn the basics of résumé writing.

  • Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the “how’s” and “why’s” of résumé writing through the lenses of content, formatting, and strategy.
  • Includes numerous samples and instructional material, as well as coaching support.
  • John Suarez facilitates a guide for either starting or strengthening your approach to marketing people on paper.

Active PARWCC membership is required to enroll. If you are not a current member, you will be prompted to join at checkout (PARWCC Membership is $175).

You’ll gain behind-the-scenes access to the fundamental thought processes and writing skills that allow you to

(No certification included in this program)

Learn the Fundamentals of Résumé Writing

  • Learn the art and craft of marketing people on paper ©The Fundamentals of Résumé Writing program delivers 135+ pages of instructional content, writing exercises, and a wealth of samples to illustrate the key copywriting, formatting, and strategy decisions that face the professional résumé writer every day.
  • You’ll gain behind-the-scenes access to the fundamental thought processes and skills that allow you to differentiate your clients, position them to stand out in a crowded market, and create résumé designs to satisfy human and computer-based audiences.
  • Program administrator John Suarez, a CPRW and long-time PARWCC member and one of the foremost educators on résumé writing, has collected an entire volume of clues during four decades of experience working with real clients in real job search situations.
  • If you’re serious about learning how to market people on paper, this will surely help you on your journey. Register now for the Fundamentals of Résumé Writing program!

This program delivers instructional content, writing exercises, and a wealth of samples to illustrate the key copywriting, formatting, and strategy decisions that face the professional résumé writer every day.

  • Upon completion of registration, you will receive an automatic email with a link to download the course manual. (link expires in 30 days)
  • The study guide consists of 135+ pages of instructional content.

Monthly Office Hours with Master Writer John Suarez , which you can schedule by email, will answer questions you have, identify key development areas, and help you plan a course for even greater exploration. If résumé writing certification is in your plans, you’ll get feedback to let you know how your skills match the expectations of a certification committee member.

CPRW and Writing Fundamentals Bundle

Chapter 1: Start with Why

  • Chapter 2: Know Your Audience
  • Chapter 3: The Professional Mindset
  • Chapter 4: Collecting Information
  • Chapter 5: Résumé Basics
  • Chapter 6: Using Verbs
  • Chapter 7: Mechanics
  • Chapter 8: Style
  • Chapter 9: The Summary
  • Chapter 10: Formatting
  • Chapter 11: Résumé Strategy
  • Chapter 12: The New Fundamentals
  • Chapter 13: Cover Letters
  • Chapter 14: Newsletter Articles & Samples
  • Chapter 15: Writing Exercises
  • Chapter 16: Putting it All Together

An Hour with John Suarez

Once you have studied the material and worked through some of the exercises, you have the opportunity to spend an hour with John Suarez on the phone or via Skype.

Together you’ll collaborate to identify key development areas, plan a course for even greater exploration, and he’ll answer any questions you have. If certification is in your plans, you’ll get feedback to let you know how your skills match the expectations of a CPRW certification committee member.

Why PARWCC? Voices from our Community

The CPRW Certification is the benchmark for being a recognized resume writer.

Debraca R Testimonial

Investing in the continuous training and education provided by PARWCC makes me a trusted advisor…My hobby turned into a 5-figure business in one year because I invested in my education and received the career coaching credential from PARWCC.

Dustin B Testimonial

PARWCC’s extensive library of resources, networking opportunities, and career services insights have significantly enhanced my ability to deliver exceptional services to my clients…and equipped me to help job seekers achieve their career goals with confidence and expertise.

PARWCC Code of Ethics Badge

I was fortunate to be a part of the 1st cohort of the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC), and Dr. Saunders’ expertise, homework exercises, and her breadth of resources enhanced my understanding of the material by providing practical hands-on exercises.

Tali S Testimonial

I’ve gotten so much value out of being part of this community! I love the monthly networking calls and webinars included in the membership, and attending the in-person Thrive! conference was truly a highlight of the year for me.

“Here’s to the beginning… if you’re ready to dive in, I’m ready to share.”

  • Mattress & Sleep
  • Kids & Baby Gear
  • Beauty & Grooming
  • Tech & Electronics

The Best Resume Writing Services Of 2024, Chosen By Our Editors

  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to Linkedin

A good resume can make a lasting impression on a potential employer, and the best resume writing services can help you get your foot in the door that much faster. Sure, you can tackle the task yourself, but between navigating computerized application tracking systems and adapting to their ever-changing standards, building a modern resume that stands out in the crowd is no easy feat. That’s why we researched dozens of resume writing services to help you land the role you deserve. Our overall favorite is TopResume , which lets you choose from four different packages, but we included seven more options below.

The best resume writing services can help you make a lasting impression on employers.

When selecting our favorite resume services, we considered how easy each was to use, customization options available and turnaround times. Whether you’re looking for a little polish or have no idea where to start, there’s a service on this list for you. After all, why wouldn’t you hire a professional to handle one of the most important documents standing between you and your dream job: a finely-tuned resume? Below, the best resume writing services that cover everything from editing to one-on-one career counseling. And once you get the job, make sure you’re set up for WFH success with our favorite office chairs , standing desks and business laptops .

  • Best Overall Resume Writing Service: TopResume
  • Best Resume Writing Service With Custom Bundles: Resumeble
  • Best Resume Writing Service With Career Consulting: TopStack Resume
  • Best Resume Writing Service For Executives: ZipJob
  • Best Resume Writing Service Built By Recruiters: ResumeSpice
  • Best Quick-Turnaround Resume Writing Service: Craft Resumes
  • Best Value Resume Writing Service: ResumeCompanion
  • Best Free Resume Building Service: Resume.com

Best Overall Resume Writing Service

A popular service for professionals.

I am an assistant editor for Forbes Vetted currently residing in Austin, Texas. I primarily cover deals and consumer shopping, and previously worked as a deals staff writer for Wirecutter. My byline has also appeared in the New York Times. I have over four years of experience writing in the e-commerce sphere, and spend most of my time scouring the web for the latest consumer news and best discounts.&nbsp;

For product reviews, gift ideas, and latest deals, Subscribe to the Forbes Finds newsletter .

Tiers: Starter, Premium, Ultimate and Executive Elite | Turnaround time: 4 to 7 days

Pros: 

  • Free resume review
  • Customizes your resume by writers certified in 65+ industries 
  • 60-day guarantee; double the job interviews or they’ll rewrite it for free

Cons: 

  • Limited to two revisions 

TopResume is a popular option for mid- to high-level professionals seeking resume advice. You can choose from four different packages (Starter, Premium, Ultimate and Elite) that range in price from $149 to $699 and offer a variety of services. No matter which package you choose, you’re guaranteed a professionally written resume from an expert in your chosen industry. If you already have a resume, you can also opt to get a free review on it, and receive feedback on its layout, language and how effectively it communicates your skills.

Best Resume Writing Service With Custom Bundles

A great combo service for your resume and cover letter.

Tiers: Standard, Professional and Premium | Turnaround time: 4 days

  • Standard package includes resume and cover letter
  • Customizable based on your industry
  • 60-day guarantee; receive an interview or rewrite for free
  • No refunds on Standard and Professional packages (however, Premium packages include a Money Back Guarantee)

Resumeble offers three package tiers: Standard, Professional and Premium. If you’re just starting your career, the Standard package offers bang for your buck, since it includes a resume and cover letter (most services require you to at least upgrade to the mid-level package for both). Next up, the Professional package is geared toward mid-level employees looking to promote or pivot and includes a LinkedIn profile refresh; and the Premium package, designed for seasoned executives, offers all that plus a back-up resume, cold emails to recruiters and more. While no refunds are offered on Standard and Professional packages, the Premium package comes with a Money Back Guarantee if clients don’t receive at least one job offer within 180 days.

Best Resume Writing Service With Career Consulting

A global platform that focuses on the full professional picture, topstack resume.

Tiers: Basic, Standard, Professional and Premium | Turnaround time: 1 to 2 weeks

Pros:  

  • Can view final resume before paying 
  • Provides advanced career consultations and interview prep
  • Donates 5% of profits to the Fisher House Foundation
  • 60-day guarantee limited to Professional and Premium packages
  • Longer turnaround time; takes 1 to 2 weeks

TopStack offers four different packages that range from $139 for your basic professional resume to $649 for a more robust selection of services (including career consulting plus help with your resume,​ cover letter and LinkedIn profile). It also focuses on ensuring your resume is ATS-optimized, a must in the modern hiring world.

Best Resume Writing Service For Executives

A service built with leaders in mind.

Tiers: Launch, Fast Track, Premium, Executive | Turnaround time: 3 to 7 business days

  • Comprehensive; includes resume, cover letter, thank-you note and LinkedIn profile
  • Resumes are ATS-optimized
  • 60-day interview guarantee
  • On the pricier side

ZipJob is a great choice for professionals at all levels, but its comprehensive executive package makes it especially suited for those at the top of their game. Offerings include an executive-level resume and cover letter, LinkedIn profile optimization and a customizable thank-you letter. To ensure everything is up to standard, you also get a phone consultation with your writer and multiple revisions for all of your documents. And just like ZipJob’s other packages, the executive bundle checks that your resume is ATS-ready (Applicant Tracking Systems), so you can pass early screenings with flying colors.

Best Resume Writing Service Built By Recruiters

A highly rated platform developed by hr and hiring managers, resumespice.

Tiers: Entry Level, Professional and Executive | Turnaround time: 2 days

  • Wide range of services offered including for resume, cover letter, Linkedin profile, interview prep and career coaching 
  • Quick 2-day turnaround
  • 60-day guarantee; rewrite if you don’t get an interview 

Cons:  

  • Expensive; $479 for an entry-level resume

ResumeSpice is more expensive than other services. That said, it was developed by recruiters, aka people who’ve truly homed in on what prospective employers are seeking. It’s also one of the highest-rated services on Trustpilot . The company offers a quick two-day turnaround, pre-built packages depending on your experience and the option to tack on its highly rated career-building services. ResumeSpice also has free resume resources and a selection of sample templates, if you’re more interested in the DIY approach.

Best Quick-Turnaround Resume Writing Service

A platform that gets you the fastest first draft, craft resumes.

Tiers: Resume Writing, Basic, Optimal, All-In-One | Turnaround time: 1 day

  • 24-hour turnaround time for first draft 
  • Writers are PARWCC- or NRWA-certified
  • International service; some users experience grammar issues due to language barrier

If you’re in a time crunch, this writing and editing service has a 24-hour turnaround for the first draft of your resume. Craft Resumes features an easy-to-navigate website and delivers resumes tailored to your experiences and desired career path. Like a few other services, Craft Resumes offers a series of à la carte options, such as LinkedIn profile writing, thank-you letters and follow-up letters.

Best Value Resume Writing Service

A subscription-based diy resume builder, resumecompanion.

Tiers: Monthly or 2-week access | Turnaround time: Self-paced

  • Affordable; subscription costs $8 a month or 14-day access for $3
  • Choose from dozens of professional resume templates
  • Offers cover letter, job search and tracking tools
  • Self-directed; no hands-on help from writers

This resume builder is a great budget option for a self-starter who wants to learn the ropes and take things into their own hands. You can select from a variety of templates, narrow down the type of job you’re seeking and follow a step-by-step process to perfect your own resume. However, because it’s subscription-based, you’ll have to renew the service if you want to edit your materials in the future.

Best Free Resume Building Service

A robust resume and cover letter resource—at no cost to you.

Tiers: Free | Turnaround time: Self-paced

  • Free with dozens of templates to choose from
  • Integrated with Indeed; easy to apply to jobs
  • Some users say it’s difficult to cancel subscription

If your budget is tight and you don’t mind going the DIY route for your resume, Resume.com is a great resource. It has an intuitive user interface and offers over 20 different resume and cover letter templates to choose from. There’s also an open career advice portal where you can read about career development, interview tips and more.

The 8 Best Dog Shampoos To Keep Your Pup Fresh, Clean And Comfortable

The high-tech mill food recycler is on sale for the first time ever, why trust forbes vetted.

The Forbes Vetted team has published a large library of tech guides , including reviews on a variety of online tools and home office essentials like the best document scanners and all-in-one printers .

  • Consumer tech editor Rebecca Isaacs and executive editor Dave Johnson oversee this guide and its iterations; they have over a decade of experience in the industry and both enjoy testing and reviewing the latest in tech.
  • Assistant editor Jordan Thomas has over four years of experience covering deals and consumer shopping. For this guide, she scoured the web for the most reputable resume writing services and compared each option to find the best.
  • We continue to monitor the best resume services and routinely update this guide to provide the most current information about pricing and offerings. It was last updated in May 2024 by tech updates writer Alexandra Garrett to expand our buyer’s guide.

How We Chose The Best Resume Writing Services

To compile this list, we sought out well-known resume writing services with overwhelmingly positive customer reviews and compared key offerings.

  • We looked for reputable resume writing services with proven results; each service had to meet our standards in terms of overall value, turnaround time, professionalism and satisfaction guarantees.
  • We evaluated each service side-by-side to determine which performs better at writing a robust resume in an accurate, timely manner.
  • Everyone has unique needs when it comes to searching for a job, so we made sure to recommend options that span different career goals and budgets, whether that includes getting career consultation or polishing up an existing resume.

What To Look For When Choosing The Best Resume Writing Service

Resume writing services come in a wide range of prices, and the best options for you will largely depend on your needs and budget. Affordable services like ResumeCompanion offer a step-by-step process for building your own resume for $8 a month, while other services provide a more hands-on approach for around $150. Packages typically go up to $250-$300 when you add Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)-optimization, cover letter writing, interview prep and career coaching.

Turnaround Time

If your job application has a set deadline, take a look at the service’s turnaround time before committing. Most services take anywhere from two days to two weeks to provide a finalized resume. Some promise a draft in 24 hours, like Craft Resumes .

Ease Of Use

When deciding on a resume writing service, take a look at how easy the website is to navigate. Is it difficult to browse different templates, download your files or customize your resume? The job application process is often stressful, so a resume writing service should alleviate—not contribute to—some of that stress.

Customization Options

A resume needs to accurately reflect your unique qualifications, skills and industry standards. For this reason, consider which customization options the service provides. Many of our recommendations use writers, recruiters or HR professionals to tailor your application documents to your unique needs.

Writer Qualifications

With AI solutions like ChatGPT readily available, you’ll want to check whether or not your resume writer is qualified to provide the help you need. To do this, take a look at the service’s writer qualifications. Some services use writers certified by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC) or National Resume Writers Association (NRWA), while others are run by recruiters or HR professionals.

Privacy Policies

Because some websites and apps collect your personal information, it’s important to check the privacy policies before signing up. Look for whether the site stores or shares that information with third parties, and whether you can adjust your privacy settings to opt out of this setting.

Is It Worth Paying For A Resume Writing Service?

Professionally-written resumes through a reputable service can help you stand out from the competition. They’re often designed to highlight your best qualities, and are keyword-optimized for most applicant tracking systems. If you’re struggling with employment gaps or career changes, a resume writing service can help give you a leg up. And some services will also provide reviews for custom cover letters, Linkedin profiles, interview prep and career coaching.

What’s The Best Resume Writing Company?

The best resume writing company is affordable, offers high-quality review and writing services and is easy to use. Our top pick overall— TopResume —provides the professionalism and quality most mid- to high-level job seekers need, from its free resume review to its customizable options.

Jordan Thomas

  • Editorial Standards
  • Reprints & Permissions

IMAGES

  1. Certifications on a resume (best tips + examples) · Resume.io

    which resume writing certification is best

  2. How to Correctly List Certifications on a Resume in 2022 (With Examples

    which resume writing certification is best

  3. How to List Certifications on a CV (with Samples)

    which resume writing certification is best

  4. best resume writing certification

    which resume writing certification is best

  5. How to List Certifications on Your Resume [+ Examples]

    which resume writing certification is best

  6. Best Resume Writing Certification Programs

    which resume writing certification is best

VIDEO

  1. Writing an Effective Resume: No Certification Needed. #ad

  2. One Tip To Help You Write A More Confident Resume

  3. Technical Report Writing Tutorial Problems Test Your Knowledge @electro_teach

  4. Best Resume Format for job, internship, MBA, MS, PhD

  5. Writing your Resume

  6. RESUME WRITING // 10 AND 15 MARKS QUESTION IN BOARD EXAMS

COMMENTS

  1. 6 Great Seasonal Worker Resume Examples

    LiveCareer's staff writers are career advice experts and Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW), accredited by the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Our team is dedicated to transforming work lives. Our diverse experts bring valuable insights to help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers.

  2. 12 Top Certifications for Professional Resume Writers

    10. Certified Graphic Resume Architect. As the name suggests, the Certified Graphic Resume Architect credential is for professional resume writers who also want to get recognized as graphic resume designers. Graphic resumes predominantly use visual elements, which contrasts the style of traditional "plain" resumes.

  3. How To Get a Resume Writing Certification in 6 Steps (With Types)

    A resume writing certification is a document that confirms a professional's ability to create and edit effective resumes for various positions. This type of certification usually entails undergoing training for a set duration with the completion of an exam that tests professionals on resume-related knowledge. A variety of organizations offer ...

  4. Certification

    The NRWA offers two certifications for resume writers. To become a Nationally Certified Resume Writer, a candidate must first prove their experience in and commitment to the resume-writing industry by completing the two-part sample review process. Candidates must first submit a sample writing package (resume and cover letter) for review by an ...

  5. Best Certified Resume Writers 2024

    Lindsay Duston is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with 18+ years of progressive experience in resume writing, resume team leadership, proofreading/editing, and creative writing. Although Lindsay has made her way into more of a leadership role, she is one of the absolute best certified resume writers we have ever come across.

  6. Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW)

    Member Cost: $295. Non-Member Cost: $470. Successful CPRW Candidates Recieve: CPRW Gearbox Marketing Tools. Use of "CPRW" credential after your name to denote the earned certification. A CPRW Certificate for display in your office. Announcement of your earned credential in the PARW/CC Spotlight.

  7. Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW) Credential

    1. Choose one of the following: Essay of no less than 1000 words on your philosophy and approach to resume writing, and why you feel you are a qualified candidate to be awarded the CMRW credential. <or>. Article of no less than 1000 words on a topic about or relating to resume writing that demonstrates your knowledge and expertise.

  8. Best Resume Writing Certification Programs

    The Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW) is one of the best resume writing certification programs for beginners offered by Career Directors International (CDI). For entry-level resume writers, the CARW is a really good choice. All resume writers will need to pass through 4 stages of testing.

  9. Top 11 Writer Certifications

    Top 11 Writer Certifications. Here's our list of the best certifications available to Writers today. 1. Certified Professional Writer (CPW) Certified Professional Writer (CPW) is a certification program that recognizes and validates the writing skills of professionals in the field.

  10. Explore PARWCC Certifications for Career Advancement

    The Certified Executive Résumé Writer (CERW) program is an exclusive certification for career services professionals who excel in executive branding storytelling, recognized as the gold standard for executive-level résumé writing. Building on the Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW) credential, CERW represents advanced expertise in ...

  11. NCOPE Certification

    7 KEY TAKEAWAYS: Our 5-session interactive certification program will give you: 1. The ability to craft branded, engaging, conversational, value-based LinkedIn profiles (and an understanding that a great LinkedIn profile is born from a great resume) that get found and land clients more interviews (and you'll get more clients!). 2.

  12. Writing Winning Resumes and Cover Letters

    5. Use the resume skills tier method to strengthen your resume. 6. Write summary sections and objective statements aligned to a job position. 7. Take advantage of web resources to find power language for your resume. 8. Produce a strong resume in a format that is suitable both to your background and the position you're interested in. 9.

  13. Do You Need To Be a Certified Resume Writer (CRW/CPRW)?

    Registration for the Resume Writing Academy is $1,895 (formerly $2,295) and includes all training sessions, course materials, audio recordings, and more. They also offer additional CE classes ranging from $99 to $199. Supplemental Certifications for Resume Writers.

  14. Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW)

    After more than a decade, the CARW is gaining traction as the certification for best-of-breed resume writing professionals. This rapidly growing awareness reflects the rigorous, non-compromising standards CDI employs in our testing processes and our ongoing reinforcement of the need to uphold standards.

  15. NCRW Certification

    Becoming a Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) associates you with the NRWA's standards of resume excellence, which reflect sales-focused, relevant, succinct career search documents that are quality-oriented and visually appealing.. While not a prerequisite, in our experience those with the greatest chance of NCRW exam success have had at least 2 years of experience writing resumes and ...

  16. Resume & Profile Writing Certification Programs

    The Academy Certified Resume Writer program is an intensive 3-month resume training and certification program leading to your Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) credential. • Differentiate your candidates from the crowd - develop expert resume-writing skills. • Position candidates to win interviews - develop expert cover letters and ...

  17. 8 Best Resume Writing Courses for 2024: Get that Job!

    Workload. Best Free Course for Resume Writing and Job Search Basics (LinkedIn Learning) 2-3 hours. Best Intermediate Course for Business Style Resumes (University of Maryland) 13 hours. Best Beginner Course to Design Professional Documents and Build InDesign Skills (Skillshare) 2-3 hours.

  18. Training & Certification for Resume Writers & Career Coaches

    Learn, grow, and take your business to the next level. CDI will set you apart by raising the bar on resume writing through our cutting-edge training with award-winning writers and our suite of distinctive resume writer certifications to help you meet any goal. By joining the elite team of CDI-certified and trained writers you can be assured ...

  19. Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches

    Become a PARWCC Member. Since 1990, The Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches™ has helped career professionals to collaborate, enhance their skills, and demonstrate their commitment to job seekers. Together, we are dedicated to providing excellence through professional services that not just meet, but aim to exceed ...

  20. Home

    The mission of the National Résumé Writers' Association, a nonprofit trade association for career services professionals, is to increase the visibility of the industry, encourage ethical practices, promote excellence, and raise industry standards through peer marketing and training. Read more.

  21. 11 Easy Certifications for your Resume (Plus Benefits)

    Here are 11 role- and industry-specific certifications that are easy to obtain. 1. Information technology (IT) certifications. If you work in IT, there are several certifications to consider adding to your resume. IT professionals work with the hardware and software of computer systems.

  22. How To Become a Resume Writer

    1.Obtain a bachelor's degree. The first step in working as a resume writer is earning a Bachelor's Degree in English, Communications, Journalism or a similar area of study. You need strong writing and editing skills, and business knowledge can also help you learn common terms used in the corporate world.

  23. Fundamentals of Résumé Writing

    The Fundamentals of Résumé Writing Training Program. Member Cost: $500. Non-Member Cost: $675. You'll gain behind-the-scenes access to the fundamental thought processes and writing skills that allow you to. Differentiate your clients. Position clients to stand out in a crowded market. Create résumé designs to satisfy human and computer ...

  24. Best Resume Writing Services 2024

    Best Resume Writing Service For Executives: ZipJob. Best Resume Writing Service Built By Recruiters: ResumeSpice. Best Quick-Turnaround Resume Writing Service: Craft Resumes. Best Value Resume ...