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Professional Growth

An expertly written and keyword-optimized resume that sets you apart.

Professionally written - By experts that know your industry.

Keyword optimized - Your resume will be optimized to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems.

Formatted for success - Formatting that will get an employer's attention.

30-day Career.io subscription - Access to over 15 tools and resources to help you succeed in your career.

Career Evolution

Everything you need to apply to jobs, including a resume and cover letter.

Cover letter  - Employers are 40% more likely to read a resume with a cover letter.

60-day interview guarantee.

Career Confidence

Resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile, created by an executive writer.

Executive writer  - Top 10% of our network.

LinkedIn Makeover  - 97% of employers use LinkedIn; we'll rewrite your profile.

Elite Executive Priority Package

Looking for a larger career upgrade? With a dedicated account manager and an expert-writer from the top 1% in our network, this package has everything you need to rise above the competition in the job market.

Professional resume

Cover Letter

2-Day Delivery

Unlimited Revisions

LinkedIn Profile Makeover

2 Interview Prep Sessions

30-Day Career.io subscription

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“The initial impact the resume has when it looks so well done gives a whole different impression.”

J. Michael Williams Translator, 2 years

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Explore your dream career path

Your dream career is within reach, and TopResume can help. Click on the categories below to see how our team of professionals can take your resume to the next level.

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Business & Management

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Candidates who invest in a professionally written resume...

Visually-appealing, professionally-written resumes lead to 2-3X more interviews.

Get Results

Our 60-day guarantee: if you don’t get twice the interviews, your rewrite is free!

Great resumes get great results–we’re talking 3X more job offers!

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of a professionally written resume .

When you work with a resume writing service, you’re investing in a quicker job search and a more fruitful and satisfying career. To have job search success, your resume has to appeal to both the  resume scanning software and the hiring manager — or else you risk getting lost in the resume black hole where your job application is dismissed without consideration because of your resume .

How does the resume process work?

The resume process begins with us getting to know you and learning about your history and career goals. Once we’ve learned more about you, we’ll match you with a writer knowledgeable about your industry.

The resume process is simple! First, submit your existing resume or provide your career details. You’ll fill out an intake survey to provide your writer with accurate elements for your document. Then you’ll collaborate with a professional writer to craft a tailored resume . Finally, you’ll review and refine the draft to ensure it aligns with your career goals. Leaving you with a polished resume that showcases your strengths and maximizes your job search potential!

What qualifications do TopResume writers have?

We have a network of over 1,200 writers, including certified career coaches, former and current hiring managers, HR professionals, recruiters and professionals with specialized experience in over 65 industries. This ensures we can match each client with an expert who is a strong match for their needs. TopResume recruits and vets our writers based upon the value they can bring to our clients.

How do I collaborate with my resume writer?

Our resume -writing process is collaborative between the writer and the client. We use your old resume as a primary source of information. If you don’t have a resume , don’t worry, your writer will send you a brief questionnaire that will request all the information we need to get started. Once this has been provided, your new resume will be delivered to you in about a week. Then, you'll have another week to provide feedback to your writer, with up to two rounds of revisions. The process typically takes one to two weeks.

What is TopResume ’s 60-day guarantee?

We’re so confident in the skills of our experts that we offer a 60-day guarantee: If you don’t get twice the interviews after your initial resume rewrite, we’ll perform another rewrite for free. 

What if I’m applying for a government or an academic job?

Government and academic positions often have needs that go above and beyond the usual resume. If you need a  federal resume  or an  academic CV , we offer special services dedicated to fulfilling your needs.

What is Affirm?

TopResume has partnered with Affirm to offer our customers the option of paying over 3, 6, or 12 months periods. With rates from 0% APR or 10-36% APR. On a $349 purchase, you may pay $31.50 for 12 months with a 15% APR. Make sure to check and see if you qualify! If you want to know more about Affirm, click here.

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Resumes that get you hired

Achieve more with a resume that displays your strengths, works with recruiting software, and earns you interviews.

View Services Free Resume Review

Our clients get hired at top companies

Why zipjob, we combine expert resume writers with the same tech employers use so you can triple your interviews , get hired faster , and maximize your income..

Personalized experience

Your professional resume writer will work with you to create your unique resume.

Modern resumes

Resumes optimized for computer parsing technology. We’ll scan it to be sure.

Proven results

Earn 200% more interviews once you start applying with your ZipJob resume.

“My ZipJob experience was great. Got a great resume makeover and a LinkedIn profile that increased views from recruiters."

IT Professional

Advanced features to secure your next interview.

• Professionally written resume and cover letter plus
• A LinkedIn profile update
• Expedited delivery

“They did an excellent job with my resume. The process was quick, efficient, effective and great! Thank you again!"

Sales and Marketing

What you need for a quick career boost.

• A professional resume
• ATS optimization
• Direct writer messaging

"The ZipJob team was knowledgeable, professional, expedient, and provided an experience that exceeded my expectations."

The documents you need to apply to jobs faster.

• Everything included in the Launch package
• A cover letter
• 60-day interview guarantee

How we help

Our resume writers know what it takes to get noticed.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for polished, professional resumes that highlight your value. Tell us your skills, experience, and achievements. We’ll do the rest.

Valued-focused

Tailored keywords

Data-driven

Professional template

Correct file type

ATS optimized

Tech-Enabled

We make sure your resume won’t get lost in the ats.

Virtually all employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to filter and sort resumes. 3 out of 4 of those resumes will never be read by a human recruiter or hiring manager.

Only 1 in 4 job applicants will have their resumes read by an actual person .

Who we can help

Tailored support for every career path.

Our personalized resume assistance can help you take the next step, no matter where you are now.

Academic professionals

Our writers will shine a spotlight on your credentials for your academic resume or CV.

Returning to work

When life takes you out of the workforce temporarily, we can help you jump back in.

Military transition

Our military-to-civilian resume services help employers understand your achievements.

Our team helps people in more than 65 industries, at every level, and with any career goal.

Executive leadership

The full suite of professional documents to support your executive job search.

Changing careers

Leverage your transferable skills to create a resume that translates your talents.

Recent graduates

 Get a resume that displays what employers really want from an entry-level candidate.

Five star service

Read our success stories.

Your resume should be as dynamic as you are. We get that. Here’s what some of our happy customers had to say about our personalized service.

Katherine Sepulveda

This service has allowed me to send in more resumes to open jobs because I feel more confident. Absolute gem of a service!

I was pleased with the experience and results. Sal was terrific to work with! Super quick to reply, and communication was great!

I am thoroughly pleased with zipjob and the great job Nicole did for me. I believe she went above and beyond for me, something I don't expect anymore. I would highly recommend your services to any one looking to better themselves.

I am extremely happy with my resume and cover letter. It is helping me sell myself on interviews! It's pretty amazing what you guys can do! I only wish I found you earlier in my career! Thank you

Ashley was awesome, clear, concise and easy to communicate with. Highly recommend.

Sherry Dempsey

The best resume service ever. My writer is very professional. She helped me with process in an expertly and timely manner. I highly recommend this service to anyone wanting to update their resume. They provide a great service. I wish I could give them ten stars.

I was very impressed by the quick turnaround and the professional manner in helping me update and rewrite my resume.

Professional, timely and just the help I needed.

Hiwot Desta & Abegaz

Excellent customer service Made sure I was well satisfied

Timely and superlative editing of my resume and LinkedIn profile. Easy to communicate revisions with writer. Would recommend this service to all job seekers!

Amand was professional, easy to work with. Responded to all questions in a timely manner answering them in great detail! I will definitely recommend ZipJob.

They were amazing beginning to end!

We're with you from application to interview.

The world’s largest network of recruiters. When your skills match a new job, one of those 25,000+ recruiters will reach out to you.

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Best Resume Writing Services of 2024

Table of Contents

• Best Resume Writing Services
• Features to Consider

In an increasingly competitive job market, having the best resume possible is essential. While AI resources like ChatGPT are growing in popularity to generate generic resumes and cover letters, many individuals and businesses still offer resume writing services.

Although AI is free and easy to use, it cannot fully replace a specialized, personal touch from a long-time professional. The best resume writing services are comprehensive, affordable, offer a quick turnaround time, and use only certified or trained resume writers. You can find our top picks in this guide.

• Best Overall: TopResume »
• Best Budget: TheMuse »
• Fastest Turnaround Time: Craft Resumes »
• Best for Executives: Let’s Eat Grandma »
• Best for Federal Government Jobs: Federal Resume USA »
• Best Suited For Career Changes: ResumeSpice »
• Most Comprehensive: ZipJob »

Best Overall: TopResume

Offers free resume reviews

60-day interview guarantee

Able to customize resumes by industry

2x more interviews or will rewrite resume for free

Limit of two revisions

Results might be disappointing if not willing to buy highest-priced package

TopResume is a popular service providing free critiques of existing resumes and a relatively low starting cost for a new and customized resume. The process works by first having you answer a detailed questionnaire and then matching you with an experienced professional knowledgeable of your industry who assists with customizing your resume accordingly. TopResume employs a network of 1,200 writers.

Your document gets carefully written to pass through applicant tracking systems, or ATS, to provide the best chance of getting your documents in front of a hiring manager and increasing your interview odds. In addition to resumes, TopResume also writes cover letters and LinkedIn biographies. You should expect your first draft back within a week. TopResume offers a maximum of two rewrites.

While TopResume aims to get things right the first time, the service provides up to two rewrites if you aren’t satisfied with the result; while this is a good start, those in highly specialized or less common fields may not have access to as wide a pool of experts as others. If you are willing to pay top dollar for the most expensive plan, your access to writers with specialist knowledge will likely expand.

TopResume’s pricing plans work for professionals at all levels, making it the ideal service for the broadest range of job searchers.

• Pricing: Service starts at $149.
• Turnaround time: Average of seven to ten days; possible 48-hour window if you pay to expedite service. 
• Customization options: Resumes are created based on the information you share in a questionnaire; you then get paired with a resume writer knowledgeable about your industry.
• Writer qualifications: TopResume works with United States-based writers who have experience in human resources, career coaching, recruiting, and job search strategies.
• Customer support: Support is available by submitting a contact form on the website, emailing [email protected], or calling 1-800-604-1929 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST.
• Additional services: TopResume also provides cover letters and LinkedIn page biographies. Elite Executive Priority Package customers also get interview prep sessions.

Best Budget: TheMuse

Free resume templates and samples

Coaching is available for as low as $56

Options for all career levels

Job board with positions across various industries

Not a straightforward resume writing service

Slightly longer turnaround window than alternatives

No refunds for final resume or cover letter

TheMuse may primarily be known for sharing available jobs across multiple industries, but it is also a coaching and mentorship resource for job seekers. You not only have the chance to get your existing resume rewritten, but you can chat with a coaching professional by phone or Skype for 30 minutes; if unsatisfied, you get at least one round of edits.

In addition to tailored resumes, TheMuse provides coaching sessions, updated LinkedIn bios, and more. The service offers a combination of services meant to fit every budget and level of need. It’s easy to select only the features you need and avoid overpaying.

Although TheMuse provides valuable resume writing services, it does emphasize its coaching services over its resume and cover letter resources. TheMuse also works to update your existing documents instead of aiming to provide a resume built from scratch. If you already have a good foundation to work from, these services can be very useful for polish, but you may want to consider another service on this list if you are looking to start from the ground up.

Also be aware that you must be mindful of any errors in the draft as, aside from correcting spelling and grammar, no refunds get issued for final resumes or cover letters. You may be entitled to a single rewrite or unlimited rewrites depending on the service package you select. However, if you are simply displeased with the final version of the product for non-grammatical reasons, then it’s unlikely a refund will get issued.

• Pricing: Packages with resume rewrites start at $139.
• Turnaround time: Turnaround is about 7 to 14 business days.
• Customization options: Resumes are tailored to your specific needs and industry.
• Writer qualifications: Service tiers are divided based on the level of experience. Those at the “mentor” level have a few years of relevant experience, while master coaches have the most experience working with senior-level professionals.
• Customer support: TheMuse website has a chat tool and a support ticket system; you can also email [email protected].
• Additional services: Job board postings, career coaching, cover letters, LinkedIn profile updates, interview preparations.

Fastest Turnaround Time: Craft Resumes

Free resume review

Writes resumes and CVs

Affiliated with the NRWA and PARWCC

Relatively fast turnaround

Packages available for professionals range from entry to executive-level

Price listings could be more precise

Possible grammar issues due to language barrier

Craft Resumes is an internationally-based resume writing service with a team dedicated to assisting jobseekers worldwide. In addition to resumes and CVs, you can receive a custom cover letter, thank you note, and LinkedIn page. Additionally, you can order career coaching and receive round-the-clock support from team members. Its pricing ranges from about $139 to $630, making it suitable for job hunters of all economic backgrounds.

Craft Resumes offers one of the fastest turnaround windows we could find when researching resume writing services. You should receive your first draft within a day of requesting service, and the process takes about five days on average. If you need a new resume fast, this resume writing service could be your best bet.

One major caveat for native English speakers is that Craft Resumes often employs resume writers who are not; this means there is a potential for language barriers and miscommunications. Some customers have complained of this previously. Even so, most customers tend to be satisfied with the work provided by this company. Craft Resumes works with people worldwide, so they are ideal for people seeking employment outside of North America.

• Pricing: Service packages start at $139.
• Turnaround time: Possibility of getting your first draft back within 24 hours, though the average window is about five days.
• Customization options: Craft Resumes writers create resumes from scratch, tailored to each specific customer's needs.
• Writer qualifications: Craft Resumes states that it is associated with the NWRA and PARWCC. It also shares profiles of its writers and coaches, detailing their accomplishments and levels of expertise. 
• Customer support: If you need support, you can open the live chat on the website, email [email protected], or call 1-888-385-3312; the line is open Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. PST.
• Additional services: In addition to resumes, Craft Resumes also writes cover letters, follow-up notes, and thank you letters. The service also creates LinkedIn profiles and provides career coaching.

Best for Executives: Let’s Eat, Grandma

30-minute consultations

Completely customized resume

Free resume critique

Special executive-level concierge service

Very expensive compared to alternate services

Limit of rewrites unless you buy most expensive package

Let’s Eat, Grandma, sometimes called LEG, is one of the leading resume writing services available, though best suited for jobseekers with a more generous budget. Though it might be more expensive than some alternatives, its Executive Concierge Package is formulated and streamlined toward supporting the most senior-level members of the workforce who are looking to navigate from one role to the next.

If you want an executive-level resume writing service and experience, then Let’s Eat, Grandma is perhaps the most suitable option. That said, this company may not be the best fit if you are closer to entry-level or have a restricted budget. Let’s Eat Grandma’s main selling point is that it is not a budget resume writing service and is best suited for those seeking a premium, expert-level experience. If quality and expertise are your main concerns, and budget is not a primary consideration, then there’s a good chance Let’s Eat, Grandma represents good value for the money.

• Pricing: Packages start at $439.
• Turnaround time: Standard turnaround time is ten days for first drafts and an additional seven days for up to two revision requests. It is possible to get your request expedited, but there will be an added fee, and you need to reach out directly.
• Customization options: Resumes are tailored to each customer.
• Writer qualifications: Each writer undergoes an extensive testing process to determine their qualifications for the role. Afterward, they participate in a four-week onboarding process with ongoing support to ensure they continue to produce resumes that meet industry standards.
• Customer support: Support is available via email, [email protected] for general support, and [email protected] for customers who purchased the Executive Concierge Service. Let’s Eat, Grandma recommends contacting your writer directly with questions or concerns before submitting a general support request.
• Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile rewrites, hour-long career coaching sessions, access to a dedicated writer (for executives) and a representative.

Best for Federal Government Jobs: Federal Resume USA

Plans are specifically available for those seeking government jobs

Also provides resume services for military spouses

Plan options for veterans

Range of affordable plan options

Website is a bit dated

Payment plans and pricing a little confusing

Federal Resume USA is a resume writing service that is specifically tailored towards supporting those seeking government and military positions. It differs from practically every other resume writing business reviewed in that it is primarily government-focused. Federal Resume USA works with customers trying to obtain a government job or who are transferring away from federal and military roles and need a civilian or private sector-friendly resume. The pricing varies from around $100 for a critique to $300 for resumes tailored toward GS-14, GS-15, and SES PO positions, putting the pricing plans within the budget of most potential customers.

Though Federal Resume USA may be a service that is ideal for government job seekers, it is hard to ignore how dated the website is. It can be hard to distinguish one pricing plan from the next, raising the risk of customers accidentally opting for the wrong plan. Though the pages lack a modern charm, the service is well-suited to customers who want writers specifically familiar with creating resumes for federal government and military jobs.

• Pricing: As low as $99.95 (for resume critiquing)
• Turnaround time: Between three and five days; offers same-day “rush order” service.
• Customization options: Can convert federal military resume to civilian or private sector resume.
• Writer qualifications: Certified professional writers who have worked with more than 800,000 clients.
• Customer support: You can contact customer service by phone or by emailing [email protected].
• Additional services: Besides critiquing and writing resumes, the service also provides cover letters and thank you letters.

Best Suited For Career Changes: ResumeSpice

Creates resumes for a broad range of industries

Offers outplacement services to companies

DISC assessment to assist in navigating career path

Expensive resume service plans

No option to just get a resume written up

No clear refund policy

If you are looking to make a career change or need outplacement assistance, ResumeSpice is a leading resource for job hunters either making a change or preparing to move on from a current position. The process varies depending on the exact services you choose. For resumes, you select your preferred package; you can also choose to add other items, such as a cover letter.

After making your purchase, you should get an email from ResumeSpice and complete a quick questionnaire; the email also includes a link to schedule a consultation. Following a phone call with your resume writer, where you further explain your career goals and further expand on your questionnaire, the writer will get to work on your resume. ResumeSpice shares that first drafts are usually completed within two business days.

If you aren’t satisfied with the final product, ResumeSpice will rewrite your resume at no additional cost. The brand will also rework your resume if you fail to get a single interview within 60 days of working with them. While this may be agreeable to some customers, getting a refund appears difficult if you aren’t completely happy with the service.

• Pricing: Entry-level resumes start at $479. 
• Turnaround time: First draft within two business days.
• Customization options: Get a personalized resume based on the information you provide in the questionnaire and a one-on-one interview with your resume writer.
• Writer qualifications: ResumeSpice is a service built by experienced recruiters and is a PARWCC member.
• Customer support: Use the website contact form, email [email protected], or call 832-930-7378.
• Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile writing, career coaching and assessments, interview preparation, professional bios, and outplacement services for businesses. 

Most Comprehensive: ZipJob

Affordable plans

ATS optimization

No clear indication of turnaround time

Not necessarily transparent about refunds

ZipJob is a resume writing service that provides a series of resume writing plans that work for entry-level job seekers as well as specialized package for executive-level customers. The service works by asking that you send a copy of your most recent resume and answer a few questions. You are paired with a writer who collaborates directly with you to create a brand-new resume. Once the draft is complete, ZipJob runs your resume through an ATS scanner.

ZipJob is so confident in its process and the quality of the resume that it promotes a 60-day guarantee for its Fast Track and Premium tiers; if you don’t get twice as many interviews as before using their service, ZipJob will rewrite your resume for free. The terms of service indicate that all sales are final and there are no refunds.

Aside from questions about turnaround and refunds for dissatisfied customers, ZipJob is a comprehensive service provider that works to ensure you are provided the best quality ATS-friendly resume that it can.

• Pricing: Starts at $139 
• Turnaround time: Though not listed, some past clients claimed a turnaround of up to 10 days.
• Customization options: You work with a writer to build a unique resume.
• Writer qualifications: ZipJob is a member of the PARWCC; its writers are put through a strict examination before getting offered work with the company.
• Customer support: Email [email protected], message through the website, access the website chat or call 888-944-9929.
• Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile updates

The Bottom Line

Resume writing services remain a valuable resource for job hunting, whether you are unemployed or presently employed and seeking a move elsewhere. For those lacking resume writing experience, these services can help you connect with someone able to take your work experience or accomplishments and present them in a streamlined manner while representing your best qualities.

Unlike utilizing AI alone, working with a person or team of people allows you to prep for interviews, acknowledge and work on any professional setbacks, and get used to comfortably collaborating with other people. The best resumes go beyond SEO and keywords – they empower you to self-advocate. The best resume writing services empower and coach you in ways only possible when humans are involved.

What Is a Resume Writing Service?

A resume writing service is a person or company you hire to assist with tasks including writing or rewriting, editing, and/or formatting your resume when you're looking for a job. This service might also be able to help with your cover letter or align your resume with your online presence such as your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or website.

Although it's possible to use AI to polish your resume, having a personal touch can make a big difference. For instance, AI won't necessarily customize it for each job you apply for, include industry terminology or applicant tracking system keywords, and make sure the language used sounds natural.

Features To Consider When Looking for Resume Writing Services

Hiring the best resume writing service comes down to a core group of considerations, each contributing to the increased odds of landing your ideal job. Here’s what to look for to ensure you're selecting the best service for your needs.

Experience Level and Writer Certifications

Aim to work with a writer with at least a few years of resume writing experience. Be sure to look for a resume writing service that is open about its writer’s qualifications and willing to showcase its team members.

Be wary of businesses that make lofty, general claims without any verifiable output or customer testimonials. As Sarah Johnston, expert resume writer and owner of Briefcase Coach, notes, “Reviews can be faked, and follower count is not a direct correlation of quality of service.” Popularity alone is not always enough to indicate future satisfaction. Johnston recommends a closer look at the process and an eye toward “how the company is extracting your career narrative.”

In addition to considering resume writing experience, opting for certified resume writers is also best for increasing your odds of getting a good result. Certifications through the National Resume Writer’s Association (NRWA) or the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) are the most respected.

If you're looking for a verified resume writing professional or service, check if they are certified through these or similarly reputable organizations.

Pricing and Value

Consider everything that’s provided as part of the service when comparing plans or getting a quote. Are you only getting a resume written, or will you also receive a cover letter? Will you be speaking to someone over the phone or via video conferencing? The more features that come with the service, the more you can expect the price to rise. That said, receiving a valuable series of services that will strongly assist you in finding a new job should be considered good value for the money.

Entry-level jobseekers with a small budget may be more concerned with affordability, sticking to plans that provide just the necessities. However, a senior employee seeking an executive-level role will more likely seek higher-tier premium packages that offer far more than a well-written resume. Good value for money should include high-caliber coaching, extensive interview preparation, and ensuring their resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are close to flawless.

It is a good idea to aim for the best quality service you can afford, instead of prioritizing services strictly by which ones cost the least.

Combines AI With Human Expertise

While some services think of AI as something that could usurp their customer base, it has the strong potential to be a reliable resume-writing tool when combined with an organization’s pre-existing expertise and skill. Says Johnston, “AI can shorten the writing time, which, as a result, should decrease the cost of service.” As such, she says it makes sense for more price-conscious consumers to opt for a company that leverages AI.

Still, when it comes to AI, there should be a balance. For instance, some websites rely entirely on artificial intelligence or automation to construct a resume. You would input all the relevant information and generate a document. While that may be fast and convenient, there’s always the risk that you get left with something generic that doesn’t highlight your unique qualities as an employee or contractor. By working with a resume writing service, you are more likely to be paired with an expert who will showcase your best qualities.

Turnaround Time

The turnaround period refers to how long it typically takes a service to receive your questionnaire, existing resume, or instructions and then return a first draft. The average time among top-tier resume writing services is typically 7 to 10 business days; some brands will skew slightly faster or slower depending on their experience, the type of resume work requested, or their workload. In some cases, especially if you only need a critique or a single-page resume, you might come across a service offering a window of one or two days.

Please note that turnaround time isn’t strictly about how fast you can get a draft back; it also demonstrates how thorough a service is with your case. When considering a resume writing business, you should know how long it should take to get back a first draft and how long it should take to complete any necessary revisions. If you are in a hurry, check to see if the resume writing service will expedite the process, but be prepared to pay an extra fee in exchange for getting your documents back within a notably shorter window.

Customization and Personal Approach

There are resume writing services that use the same formatting and font for virtually every resume they create, which could be an issue if your goal is to stand out. Having a resume that is visually forgettable and features the same jargon and keywords as everyone else’s will ultimately work against your chances of getting selected for a role.

To avoid falling behind, you should seek out a resume writing service that provides custom resumes and takes a personal yet professional approach to formulating your documents. For example, Johnston shared that she and her team spend an average of 15 hours on each executive resume. “The whole goal of a resume is to demonstrate to the reader that you, as the candidate, are the solution to their pain points.” Johnston notes that jobseekers have a habit of trying to tell a “kitchen sink” story with their resumes, throwing in everything without much regard to how naturally items fit. As Johnston puts it, “[Resume writers] help refine their messaging, so it resonates with their target audience.”

How We Chose the Best Resume Writing Services

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our writers and editors combined consultations with industry experts, including a former recruiter and executive-level resume writer, with in-depth research to curate a list of high-quality resume writing services. We formulated a methodology based on the most relevant features that jobseekers often look to when deciding on a reliable resume writing service.

We considered affordability and value for the money, turnaround time, customization, and even what services are best according to where one finds oneself in their career path. With these features in mind, we narrowed our list down according to the resume writing services we felt best fit each category and so are most suited to your specific needs.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors each have years of experience with product research and testing and are often directly knowledgeable of the topics they write for us. For instance, Toni Matthews-El, the writer of this article, has years of experience drafting resumes and cover letters. She not only wrote and critiqued resumes for numerous clients, but she also earned a professional branding certification through Randstad RiseSmart.

Even if writing your own resume or using an AI-based generator saves money, there’s a good chance there are crucial qualities you may fail to include because you don’t think of them as essential or feel awkward promoting your achievements. As Johnston notes, “The majority of people are quite terrible at tooting their own horn. It truly helps to have an external party unearth your story. “

A high-quality resume writing service is staffed by professionals who’ve spent years polishing professional careers to achieve the highest luster so your resume shines when placed in front of a hiring manager. And as competition for roles tightens, it will take more than the right keywords to impress. Many top resume writing services also provide interview preparation and one-on-one coaching.

Finding an affordable resume writing service that provides a low-cost first draft and at least one rewrite is very easy. While it is tempting to go the free route to save money whenever possible, premium resumes and cover letters help you put your best foot forward in the job market.

If you are worried about not getting the best value for the money, check confirmed reviews of past customers. You should also ensure the service has a money-back guarantee, draft rewrites, and is willing to provide refunds to unhappy customers.

Whether resume writing services help with cover letters usually depends on your purchase package. In researching this article, the author found that some services had plans that only created or updated resumes and other upgraded packages that handled both. Some services bundled resumes and cover letters, while others offered the items separately. Because many companies often request a cover letter with a resume, it is generally a good idea to combine both items when possible.

If you opt for freeware or a resume generator, then there is a good chance your resume is the result of automation or AI rather than an actual person’s work. If you work with a reputable writing service, then there is almost always at least one confirmed human behind the process, especially if the writer or coach emails you directly to begin putting the resume together.

It is important to note that top-tier resume services are increasingly using AI as part of the writing process, which isn’t something to automatically be afraid of. “If you are a price-conscious consumer,” says Johnston. “It might make sense for you to use a company that leverages AI. AI can shorten the writing time, which as a result, should decrease the cost of service.”

Johnston recommends seeking resume writing services that are transparent regarding how much AI figures into the overall process. “My company does not use AI for our document creation. I have concerns over data privacy and limited control over content. “

If you don’t like the resume the service writes for you, make a note of everything you have an issue with. Are there numerous spelling and grammatical errors? Highlight them and ask that they be corrected.

If it is a matter of incomplete or incorrect professional information, or dissatisfaction with the formatting, make detailed notes and ask if the writer can make changes so that the final product will be in line with your preferences. It is important to be aware of how many rewrites you are entitled to and to ensure that you make every desired change with the allotted drafts; a final version may not be entitled to the rewrites you desire.

If the problems involve poor spelling and grammar, you might be entitled to a refund or extra rewrite for an otherwise final draft. It is best to check the resume writing service’s FAQs or terms of service to know exactly what you are entitled to. If it is a matter of preference, there is a chance that refunds aren’t available. If that’s the case, your best recourse is to note everything you didn’t like in the first draft and work carefully with the writer to get it to align with your preferred version.

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From the military to the workforce: How to leverage veterans’ skills

US employers face multiple challenges when it comes to filling jobs and retaining workers, including a shortage of skilled labor and an aging workforce. To meet the moment in this era of technological change, some companies are broadening their hiring lens beyond the traditional college résumé. They are evaluating candidates on their capacity to learn , their intrinsic capabilities, and their transferable skills.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Scott Blackburn , Michael Kim, Charlie Lewis , Hannah Oh, and Kallman Parry.

This is where military veterans can make a difference. Veterans represent a source of labor potential that is untapped relative to the breadth of experience and depth of skills  that they acquire and develop during their service. Members of the military receive technical training, operate under pressure in austere environments, and develop strong interpersonal skills throughout their service, making them well qualified for numerous civilian occupations. While not every military role is directly transferrable to a civilian job, most skills are—including those that correspond to US industries experiencing labor shortages, such as infrastructure and manufacturing.

And veterans aren’t the only ones who stand to benefit from a longer look by employers: the economic opportunity of unleashing the value of veterans’ work experience through skills-based hiring could reach almost $15 billion over a ten-year period, new McKinsey research shows.

In this article, we explore the complex employment picture for military veterans , including in jobs and industries that will be most affected by automation and generative AI . We look at actions the military can take to help service members prepare for their transition to civilian work. We focus particularly on enlisted veterans, who make up the majority of those shifting out each year but who tend to fare worse in the labor market because employers don’t recognize their technical skills. We then discuss ways that the military and the private sector can close the veteran opportunity gap by improving employment outcomes.

The veteran employment landscape

Military veterans are not a homogeneous demographic, nor is their labor profile. Veterans’ work experiences differ by age, skills, and educational degrees. Our research shows that, in the aggregate, veterans with bachelor’s degrees and those skilled through alternate routes (known as STARs 1 According to the not-for-profit Opportunity@Work, STARs are individuals who are at least 25 years old, are currently active in the workforce, and who have a high school diploma but no bachelor’s degree. ) outearn their nonveteran peers (Exhibit 1).

Veteran STARs are, on average, eight years older and earn $3.91 more per hour than civilian STARs, though they tend to cluster in fewer, technical occupations. The largest veteran STAR group is aged 45 to 54; this cohort has the highest median hourly wage ($26.44) of all STAR groups. The group with the highest median hourly wage overall ($42.58) is made up of veterans aged 55 to 64 and with a bachelor’s degree or higher.

The roles with the highest representation of veterans are often analogs of military specialties. These roles include aircraft pilots, flight engineers, and aircraft mechanics and service technicians, as well as detectives and criminal investigators. Veterans are also well-represented in middle- to high-wage occupations that are accessible from low-wage jobs and rarely require an undergraduate degree. These roles include occupational-health and safety specialists and technicians, crane and tower operators, paramedics, and construction and building inspectors.

When viewed as a monolith, veterans are doing relatively well. But when broken down into subsets, many veterans are struggling to find jobs that use, recognize, and compensate them commensurate with their level of military experience. This is especially true for those who have difficulty translating their experience to civilian employment opportunities—in particular, veterans without a four-year degree, who represent 61 percent of all employed veterans. 2 Opportunity@Work analysis of the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS) 2021 Annual Social and Economic Supplement (ASEC) to the Current Population Survey (CPS).

Of the roughly 150,000 active-duty service members who transition from the military each year, 3 Demographics report , US Department of Defense, 2021. approximately 90,500 earn less in their first year after being discharged than they did on active duty, resulting in billions of dollars of lost economic value (Exhibit 2). 4 Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS) 2022 Annual Social and Economic Supplement (ASEC) to the Current Population Survey (CPS), as well as data analysis of the US Census Bureau’s Veteran Employment Outcomes. And while some categories of veterans fare better than others—including former officers, as well as Special Forces and personnel who specialized in intelligence, IT, and cyber operations—veterans across categories are, on average, entering the civilian workforce at lower median wages than they had in the military.

Enlisted service members are disproportionately affected: veteran STARs tend to occupy lower-paying and more physically demanding roles than veterans with bachelor’s degrees, indicating that they may be hampered by not having a four-year degree.

Our methodology

To understand the lost economic opportunity associated with the lower wages for transitioning enlisted service members, we grouped junior enlisted service members who had undervalued occupational skills and noncommissioned officers (NCOs) who had undervalued managerial skills. We identified the one-year postdischarge salary for each category as a baseline, then assigned best-fit skills-based careers to each category. We narrowed the field of choices by factoring in required education, preparation needed, and projected annual job openings. Based on those choices, we identified salaries and calculated projected future earnings. We then determined the economic difference between current and potential salaries for all categories. Top careers included registered nurses; electricians; first-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers; industrial-machinery mechanics; and municipal and forest firefighters.

The cohort of enlisted veterans postdischarge excludes occupational groups (intelligence, Special Operations forces, and IT) that earn roughly equal to or greater than their last year of active-duty regular military compensation. The comparison of actual and potential average salary for enlisted veterans postdischarge is based on the latest data set to track income relative to military occupation from the US Census Bureau’s Veteran Employment Outcomes, which covers army veterans who left active-duty service between 2000 and 2015. 1 “Veteran Employee Outcomes,” US Census Bureau, accessed October 24, 2023. Actual earnings are from the Department of Labor; future-earnings projections are based on the 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics annual wage increase and converted to 2018 dollars to match the Department of Labor data set. We also referred to the Department of Defense’s digital employment tool, Occupational Information Network, or O*NET; a 2023 RAND report on service members’ knowledge, skills, and abilities 2 Elizabeth Hastings Roer, Jeffrey B. Wenger, and Jonathan P. Wong, Military-to-civilian occupational matching: Using the O*NET to provide match recommendations for the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force , RAND, 2023. ; and an internal survey of veterans working at McKinsey that matched the RAND findings.

McKinsey analyzed what the total potential loss of annual earnings for a cohort of 90,500 transitioning enlisted service members would mean in terms of lost overall economic potential (Exhibit 3). The research, which combined labor data and a skills-based analysis, found that the economic potential of improving employment outcomes for a single cohort of transitioning veterans could be almost $15 billion over a ten-year period (see sidebar, “Our methodology”). This presents a significant opportunity for the military, the private sector, and not-for-profit organizations supporting veterans as employers seek workers with ready-made skills.

How veterans’ skills apply to jobs—now and in the future

In the broad economic context, McKinsey research on the US labor market shows a disconnect  between available jobs and people qualified to fill them. Two industries in particular stand out: infrastructure and manufacturing.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) is expected to create hundreds of thousands of additional jobs on projects ranging from roads, bridges, and waterways to clean energy and electric vehicles. However, a labor crunch in construction jobs exists across sectors, occupations, and geographies . In manufacturing, McKinsey analysis suggests that reviving the industry —in which the bulk of employees don’t need four-year degrees—could boost GDP and add up to 1.5 million jobs. 5 “ Delivering the US manufacturing renaissance ,” McKinsey, August 29, 2022.

Veterans map well to these high-demand jobs. To identify the specific actions that can help improve veterans’ employment outcomes in these industries and others, the research matched military specialties and skills to their full spectrum of civilian occupations. The goal was to identify high-potential pathways that are likely to improve veterans’ livelihoods based on skill overlap. 6 To focus the analysis and gain an understanding of the distribution of veterans across occupations, their education attainment levels, and incomes today, we examined employment and demographic data from external sources such as the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and the US Census Bureau, in addition to analysis from internal sources such as the McKinsey Global Institute. For the purposes of this research, veterans’ livelihood represents their overall well-being, as well as the strength of their means to provide essentials (for example, food, shelter, clothing, healthcare) to support themselves and their families. Our ratings of veterans’ occupational skills were based on a 2023 RAND survey of more than 5,100 veterans and augmented with a small sample of McKinsey veteran employees. For more, see Elizabeth Hastings Roer, Jeffrey B. Wenger, and Jonathan P. Wong, Military-to-civilian occupational matching: Using the O*NET to provide match recommendations for the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force , RAND, 2023.

The analysis found that enlisted veterans are highly rated on occupational skills associated with trades such as electricians, mechanics, and construction professionals. For example, veterans were consistently rated higher on technical skills such as installation, equipment maintenance, repairing, and troubleshooting than the threshold required for the average civilian occupation.

Conversely, enlisted veterans were rated lower on “softer” occupational skills associated with management, sales, and office and administrative-support roles, such as reading comprehension, persuasion, and negotiation, suggesting real or perceived deficiencies in interpersonal skills that are required to succeed in business environments. However, these lower ratings tended to improve with military rank and the accompanying experience that rank brings, as both midlevel and senior noncommissioned officers (NCOs) scored above average on all occupational skills. 7 Melissa A. Bradley et al., Helping soldiers leverage army knowledge, skills, and abilities in civilian jobs , RAND, 2017.

Veterans overall score higher on service orientation, which the analysis defined as “actively looking for ways to help other people,” than the threshold for the average civilian occupation. However, this skill may not fully capture inherent veteran strengths, such as dependability, punctuality, discipline, and integrity.

While the typical veteran tool kit favors technical ability over verbal and written communication, veterans can consider developing and refining their soft skills to allow for better access to high-potential “gateway” roles , while continuing to pursue in-demand occupations that require technical skills. 8 “New research finds workers without four-year degrees not realizing wage gains despite having the skills for higher-wage work; identifies 51 job roles that unlock economic mobility,” Opportunity@Work press release, accessed October 30, 2023. These roles create a bridge between frontline work and destination roles, which require higher-level skills training and academic credentials.

The top 15 occupations that employ veterans today are generally expected to experience strong positive labor demand change and low change-of-work activities in the coming years as digitization and other technological changes take hold  (Exhibit 4). These occupations include nursing (expected to experience a 41 percent increase in labor demand); laborers and freight, stock, and material movers (a 26 percent increase); construction laborers (a 22 percent increase); and truck drivers (a 12 percent increase). Veterans can continue to pursue these occupations at even higher rates.

On the other hand, certain occupations that employ veterans are at risk of displacement due to declining job demand and adoption of automation, as well as the acceleration of generative AI in these occupations. This includes retail salespeople (expected to experience a 23 percent decrease in labor demand), supervisors of office and administrative-support workers (a 20 percent decrease), and customer service representatives (a 14 percent decrease).

Transitioning veterans can consider avoiding these roles, and veterans already in these occupations can continue to focus on upskilling, while taking advantage of reskilling opportunities to move into more secure occupations. Veterans looking to move into more senior positions can also use generative AI tools to their own advantage to help boost their capabilities and output.

Veterans looking to move into more senior positions can use generative AI tools to their own advantage to help boost their capabilities and output.

Several gateway occupations offer high potential to improve veterans’ livelihoods, including heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) mechanics and installers, human resources specialists, and industrial-machinery mechanics. However, these occupations are being accessed by less than 2 percent of employed veterans today (Exhibit 5).

Closing the opportunity gap: Actions stakeholders can take

We’ve looked at the skills that many veterans offer and the potential roles that a majority of veterans pursue, including gateway jobs for those without four-year degrees. To carve out better pathways and help make transitions more successful for those who need more support, the military services and employers can consider the following interventions.

The military: Recruit, retain, retrain

The military can address three recruiting and retention challenges by communicating the value of service and how skills developed in the military can translate to future careers.

Reverse declining interest in military service. The US military itself is facing a recruiting crisis that is likely to worsen if the value proposition of employment beyond military service doesn’t improve. 9 Ben Kesling, “The military recruiting crisis: Even veterans don’t want their families to join,” Wall Street Journal , June 30, 2023. The general population is largely unaware of the benefits of service, with 50 percent of young people saying they know little to nothing about military service and its unique professional-development offerings. 10 “Facts and figures,” US Army Recruiting Command, accessed August 29, 2023.

To shift perceptions and to help support candidates on their holistic career journey, the military can train recruiters to promote how service-developed skills can lead to well-compensated civilian careers and improved livelihoods, including how different military specialties map to various civilian occupations. As discussed earlier, there are several high-potential career pathways that are open to veterans that will continue be viable even as AI adoption increases. Recruiters who can communicate the value of military service in the context of these pathways could improve interest levels over the longer term.

The US Department of Defense (DOD) and service branches can launch a public relations campaign that highlights how the military develops desirable skills during service and provides support, education, and training opportunities during and beyond the transition. These programs include the GI Bill, tuition and credentials assistance, leadership academies, military occupation-related training, and SkillBridge, which allows transitioning service members to intern with civilian employers during the last 90 to 180 days of their service. 11 For more, see Army Credentialing Opportunities Online (Army COOL), US Army; “Education and training,” US Department of Veterans Affairs; “Tuition assistance,” US Army; and “What is SkillBridge?,” US Department of Defense, all sources accessed October 23, 2023.

Reduce disparities in commercial-sector employment opportunities . As noted earlier, the military has effective transition programs aimed at increasing the presence of veterans in the tech space and elsewhere. In one example of a successful transition, a naval flight officer looking for a civilian job emphasized her experiences in combat, as a NATO instructor, and in leading teams. Through the DOD SkillBridge program, she found a role focusing on public sector sales at a tech start-up. Starting as a customer success manager, she was promoted three times to a director-level role at the company, which is now a unicorn.

However, in many cases the digital career tools available to those transitioning to civilian work are inconsistent and often focus on literal job translations, neglecting inputs beyond military occupational specialties, such as rank, education, and formal training. For instance, recruiters from the Army and the Marine Corps receive different career recommendations from a widely used digital tool, the DOD’s Occupational Information Network, or O*NET, which transitioning service members are encouraged to use to evaluate potential careers.

Service members with critical skills, such as cyber-operations specialists and unpiloted-aerial-systems operators, are more likely to leave for commercial opportunities after their first enlistment, while other specialties are less in demand because of a lack of clear occupational analogs. The services could adopt reenlistment incentives that amplify the value of more military experience for skill development, rather than providing potentially ineffective financial incentives for service members so they stay for an additional enlistment.

For instance, promoting the long-term NCO tool kit, with a focus on leadership of personnel and resources, could improve both retention and recruiting outcomes. The services could enhance NCO leadership academies to offer upskilling and additional training, which improve the likelihood of employment in civilian occupations that offer increased earning power.

The military could also promote occupations such as nursing, which has a significant labor shortage, with more than 200,000 openings annually . Veterans with experience as medics are well suited for nursing roles. In addition, the military could offer nursing prerequisites on base as a part of its Installation Education Centers and highlight veterans in diverse nursing careers (in intensive care units, emergency rooms, and flight or transport roles).

In another individual example, an air force aerospace medical technician earned his associate’s degree in nursing while in the service, then used the GI Bill to complete his bachelor’s degree in nursing after leaving the air force. He then went on to earn his MBA and is now a healthcare consultant.

Increase job satisfaction rates. Twenty-two percent of active service members report dissatisfaction with their military experience, 12 See “Military-to-civilian occupational matching,” 2023; and “Navy readiness: Actions needed to evaluate and improve surface warfare officer career path,” US Government Accountability Office, June 17, 2021. a percentage that spikes further in certain demographics, such as the 88 percent of female Naval Surface Warfare Officers who leave within their first ten years.

To encourage younger generations to seek out military service as a career, the military can partner with more universities, trade associations, and employers to diversify the service member experience and to allow service members to pursue opportunities outside their specialty while still contributing to the capabilities of their service.

The private sector: Build a talent model around skills

As the United States invests in infrastructure- and climate-related projects, the labor shortage the country is currently experiencing may only grow . And as generative AI and other technologies take off, productivity changes will likely affect the occupations that veterans pursue and the skills that transitioning service members will need to be competitive for employment.

To help expand talent pools , corporate leaders should take note that 60 percent of American workers over the age of 25 don’t hold a four-year degree. 13 “Hire for the skills it takes to do the job,” Opportunity@Work, accessed October 24, 2023. That roughly matches the percentage of those transitioning out of the military who don’t have a bachelor’s degree.

By moving to a skills-based approach, companies can boost the number and quality of applicants  who apply to open positions. Internally, they can build skills and retrain their existing workforces to prepare people for new roles. Retention improves when workers find more opportunities to advance internally, McKinsey research shows . 14 Sandra Durth, Asmus Komm, Florian Pollner, and Angelika Reich, “ Reimagining people development to overcome talent challenges ,” McKinsey, March 3, 2023. Skills-based practices have a greater impact when they’re implemented across the whole talent journey, including in sourcing, hiring, and career development.

Companies can also set targets for veteran recruitment and hiring. One company that has pledged to hire veterans is Micron, which is building a $100 billion semiconductor plant in upstate New York. 15 Steve Lohr, “Micron pledges up to $100 billion for semiconductor factory in New York,” New York Times , October 4, 2022. Of the 9,000 people it expects to hire for the plant, Micron is aiming to hire 1,500 veterans, or 17 percent of its workforce. The company has found that veterans are a good fit for the semiconductor industry because of their experience with heavy machinery and technology, along with their disciplined mindset and team-building skills.

In the public sector, US states and local governments that are receiving BIL funding  can reserve a portion of jobs for veterans, just as they have for stakeholders such as local construction companies, engineering firms, trade schools, and others.

A hiring strategy that focuses on expanding the pool of potential talent can help communities by creating more and better job opportunities for a broader, diverse pool of workers. It can also provide upward mobility for millions of workers—including veterans—at a crucial time for the US economy.

The military can take more steps to support veterans, particularly enlisted service members, as they navigate the transition to civilian work. Companies can open their hiring practices to consider veterans for a variety of roles, not just those that match perfectly with their military skills. Together, these actions can add billions in value to the US economy as veterans moving into civilian jobs maintain or increase their earning power to support their families and build their communities.

Scott Blackburn is a senior partner in McKinsey’s Washington, DC, office, where Kallman Parry is a senior analyst; Michael Kim and Hannah Oh are consultants in the Southern California office; and Charlie Lewis is a partner in the Stamford, Connecticut, office. All are veterans of the US armed forces.

This article was edited by Barbara Tierney, a senior editor in the New York office.

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Here are the job candidates that employers are searching for most

By Anne Marie Lee

May 3, 2024 / 8:17 AM EDT / MoneyWatch

What do Australia, Canada, the U.K. and the U.S. have in common beyond a common tongue? Try a dearth of nurses, mechanics and electricians.

That's according to a recent  analysis  by career site Indeed.com that ranks the 10 job sectors with the most sought-after job candidates by employers and recruiters based on what resumes they searched for in 2023 across the four countries. 

"Resume search is a proactive step that suggests that other (more passive) strategies, such as simply posting a job advertisement online, haven't been so successful," according to the report, which found that for each country, resume search trends were in sync with talent shortages. 

Despite the different labor market challenges faced by each country, Indeed found they share "common pain points," or industries where talent shortages are most acute: health care, hospitality, and skilled trades such as electricians and plumbers. Among the latter, mechanics accounted for the highest number of resume searches in all four countries.

In the U.S., registered nurses topped the list of most-searched resumes, accounting for 4.1% of searches, while sales ranked second. Several of the sectors listed as most in demand involve jobs that don't necessarily require a college degree — noteworthy given the soaring cost of college.  

Here are the top 10 most searched for job resumes in the U.S., according to Indeed.com . 

• Registered nurse
• Sales 
• Nurses (in general) 
• Mechanic 
• Accountant 
• Electrician 
• Customer service 
• Chef or cook 
• Physical therapist 
• Retail 

Anne Marie D. Lee is an editor for CBS MoneyWatch. She writes about general topics including personal finance, the workplace, travel and social media.

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