start a resume writing business

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Resume Writing Business

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How to Start a Resume Writing Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on February 26, 2022 Updated on May 22, 2024

Investment range

$1,950 - $6,700

Revenue potential

$40,000 - $100,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$36,000 - $90,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Excellent resumes are in great demand as countless Americans look for new jobs in the wake of 2021’s “great resignation.” So if you have some writing and formatting skills, you could start your own resume writing business and help people get back on their feet while making good money. Resume writing services like Resume Genius are growing in popularity, and you can charge up to $300 per resume, so why not jump on the resume writing train? 

First, though, you’ll need to add some business know-how to your resume to be successful. Fortunately, this step-by-step guide provides all the knowledge, wisdom and insight you’ll need to become an entrepreneur and add “resume writing business owner” to your work experience.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a resume writing business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Flexibility – Work from home on your own time
• Good Money – $200 per page is serious income
• Valuable Service – Help people get jobs!
• Low Startup Costs – Computer and software needed only
• Competitive Market – Market is saturated with resume writing services
• Repetitive Work – Writing resumes can get old fast

Resume writing industry trends

Industry size and growth.

Little information is available on the resume writing industry; however, many resume writers are freelancers, so we will look at the number of US freelancers.

• Industry size and past growth – The US is home to 70.4 million freelancers in 2022, following an 18% increase in the last five years.(( https://www.statista.com/statistics/921593/gig-economy-number-of-freelancers-us/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The number of US freelancers is projected to increase 28% to 90.1 million by 2028. 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the resume writing industry include:

• Companies are embracing automated hiring applications, which means resume writers need to be more aware of adding keywords when adding details to resumes. 
• Results-driven resumes as opposed to skills-driven resumes are becoming more important to employers. Employers want to see actual achievements, so “spearheaded a marketing campaign that had 30% return on investment” is much better than a bullet mentioning “marketing skills”.

Challenges in the resume writing industry include:

• More and more people are looking to entrepreneurship and freelancing for careers, decreasing the need for traditional resumes. Instead, job seekers are polishing their resumes on sites like LinkedIn and Upwork, which offers another opportunity for resume writers. 
• The increasing number of online resume writing services that offer templates for resumes is making the field more competitive. 

What kind of people work in resume writing?

• Gender – 48% of freelancers are female, while 45.5% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/freelancer-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average freelancer has a bachelor’s degree.
• Average age – The average US freelancer is 38 years old.

How much does it cost to start a resume writing business?

Startup costs for a resume writing business range from $2,000 to nearly $7,000. The low end assumes you already have a computer and includes the cost of a website and resume writing certification. The high end includes the purchase of a computer.

You can become a certified resume writer through the National Resume Writers Association for about $500. It requires 10 hours of courses with any of the suggested online institutions. 

How much can you earn from a resume writing business?

The cost of a professional resume runs from $100 to as high as $400, with the average around $200. Your profit margin should be about 90% after expenses. 

In your first year or two, you could work from home and write four $200 resumes per week, bringing in more than $40,000 in annual revenue. This would mean about $36,000 in profit, assuming that 90% margin. As you begin to get referrals, you could do 10 resumes per week. With annual revenue of more than $100,000, you’d make a tidy profit of around $90,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a resume writing business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Certification and writing strong, appealing resumes
• Competition from resume writing services

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a resume writing business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research resume writing services in your area and online to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the market is missing a resume writing service that also offers career coaching.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as resumes for business managers.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your services

Your resume services are fairly straightforward, but you could offer additional services such as:

• Cover letter writing
• Assistance with job applications
• Job interview coaching
• Executive headhunting 

How much should you charge for resume writing?

Professional resume writers charge from $100 to $400 per resume. For high-level executive resumes, prices can be even higher. Your expenses will be minimal, limited to marketing costs, so you should aim for a profit margin of about 90%. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be job seekers who need a great resume professionally written. This is fairly broad, but your best bet for marketing will be LinkedIn. Job seekers network on LinkedIn to look for opportunities. 

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you may want to rent out an office to meet clients. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Resume Writing Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “resumes” or “resume writing”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “CareerWorks” over “Healthcare Career Solutions”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Resume Writing Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your resume writing business’s objectives, the services it will offer, and how it will meet the career advancement needs of clients.
• Business Overview: Outline the professional writing services you provide, specializing in crafting resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.
• Product and Services: Detail the range of services, from entry-level to executive resume writing, including career coaching and interview preparation.
• Market Analysis: Evaluate the job market and the demand for professional resume writing services among job seekers in various industries.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify competing resume writing services and explain your competitive advantages, such as personalized service or niche expertise.
• Sales and Marketing: Describe how you will market your services to job seekers, through online advertising, workshops, or partnerships with career services.
• Management Team: Highlight your qualifications and those of any team members in professional writing, human resources, or career counseling.
• Operations Plan: Outline your process for client consultations, document creation, revisions, and delivery.
• Financial Plan: Provide a breakdown of pricing, costs, and revenue projections for your resume writing services.
• Appendix: Include additional resources such as client testimonials, sample resumes, or detailed market research to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to resume writing businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your resume writing business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a resume writing business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept for something like a resume help app.

Step 8: Apply for Licenses and Permits

Starting a resume writing business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your resume writing business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use project management software, such as ClickUp , asengana , or Notion , to manage your projects, tasks, and workflows.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Offer Free Workshops: Conduct workshops on resume writing at local community centers or online platforms to showcase your expertise, build credibility, and attract potential clients.
• Collaborate with Career Services: Partner with colleges, universities, or career counseling centers to provide your services as an extension of their resources, establishing a trusted presence in educational institutions.
• Social Media Expertise Showcase: Regularly share resume tips, success stories, and industry insights on social media platforms to position yourself as an expert and engage with a broader audience.
• Leverage Testimonials and Case Studies: Showcase client success stories and before-and-after resume transformations on your website and marketing materials to build trust and demonstrate the tangible value of your services.
• Specialize in Niche Markets: Consider specializing in specific industries or job levels to tailor your services, making it easier to target and attract clients looking for expertise in their particular field.
• Create a Referral Program: Encourage satisfied clients to refer friends or colleagues by implementing a referral program, offering discounts or additional services as a token of appreciation for their recommendations.
• Attend Industry-specific Events: Attend conferences, trade shows, or networking events related to the industries you specialize in to connect with potential clients directly and stay updated on industry trends.
• Optimize LinkedIn Presence: Optimize your LinkedIn profile with relevant keywords, recommendations, and regular updates to attract potential clients and showcase your commitment to personal and professional development.
• Collaborate with Job Search Platforms: Partner with job search platforms or career-focused websites to become their recommended resume writing service, increasing your visibility among job seekers.
• Continuous Learning and Certification: Stay updated on industry trends and certifications related to resume writing to ensure your services align with the latest job market demands and enhance your professional credibility.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your resume writing business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your resume writing business could be:

• Brilliant resumes for first-time job seekers
• Professional resumes for executives
• Find a job now! Professional resumes written fast 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a resume writing business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been in resume writing for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in resume writing. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a resume writing business include:

• Certified Resume Writers – assist with resume preparation
• Receptionist – greet customers, customer service
• General Manager – staff management, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Resume Writing Business – Start Making Money!

Countless people are looking for work these days, so if you have some writing skills you could become a certified resume writer and help people land their dream jobs. Getting certified is inexpensive and quick, and with your own resume writing business, you could take advantage of a growing market. 

Now that you’ve added business know-how to your own resume, start writing your way to a successful career as a resume entrepreneur!

• Resume Writing Business FAQs

You can make $100 to $400 per resume, and your expenses will be very low, so it can be very profitable once you get going and start to get a lot of customers.

You can get certification through the National Resume Writers Association for about $500. It requires 10 hours of continuing education which can be from a variety of sources.

To attract clients and market your resume writing services, create a professional website or online portfolio showcasing your expertise and success stories. Utilize social media platforms and professional networking sites to share valuable content, such as resume tips or industry insights. 

Tailoring resumes for specific industries or job positions involves conducting thorough research on the target industry or position. Analyze job descriptions, industry trends, and desired skills to understand employers’ expectations. Customize the resume’s content, format, and keywords to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Showcase how the candidate’s qualifications align with the specific requirements of the industry or position. 

Establish a clear process for client feedback and revisions. Actively inquire about their preferences, objectives, and any specific requirements. Maintain open lines of communication and promptly address any concerns or requests. Provide clear explanations for suggested changes and work collaboratively to find the best solution.

Yes, starting a resume writing business on the side is possible. It allows you to gradually build your client base and refine your skills while maintaining other commitments. However, ensure that you can manage your time effectively and deliver high-quality work to clients. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Resume Writing Business Name
• Create a Resume Writing Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Resume Writing Business - Start Making Money!

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How to Start a Resume Writing Business

A resume writing service will assist job seekers by creating a resume that clearly communicates a candidate’s skills.  Those who perform this service will have to interview candidates, and construct resumes that positively catch the attention of those reviewing the candidate’s resume. This service can include cover letters or thank-you letters to potential employers.

You may also be interested in additional online business ideas .

Learn how to start your own Resume Writing Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a resume writing business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Resume Writing Business
• Form your Resume Writing Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Resume Writing Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Resume Writing Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Resume Writing Business
• Get Resume Writing Business Insurance
• Define your Resume Writing Business Brand
• Create your Resume Writing Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your resume writing business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Resume Writing Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your resume writing business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a resume writing business.

Most professional resume writers counsel would-be writers to start small by working from home. All you’ll need is a computer and a phone to start offering services, but you also need a way to get the word out that you're open for business. Buying a domain name, setting up a website, and establishing social media pages can be as low as $20. You can meet clients at a coffee shop if you want face-to-face time without renting office space.  You may need a small business license, depending on your state, how much you make, and how many hours you work. If you choose to have office space, you'll need to factor in rent or leasing costs. All in all, startup costs can be under $50.

What are the ongoing expenses for a resume writing business?

Ongoing expenses for a resume writing list will be fairly low:

• Computer maintenance
• Marketing expenses
• Office rental costs
• Refreshments for clients
• Ongoing education in resume building

Who is the target market?

Entrepreneurs who want to enter this field are looking for clients who understand that a resume writing service could be the difference between a high-paying job and months of unemployment. Your clients will be pragmatic, long-term thinkers who understand the value of a strong investment today for the future of tomorrow.

How does a resume writing business make money?

Resume writers charge a fee for their efforts, which typically includes all services. In other words, there isn’t a separate fee for the interview, the editing process, etc. Fees should account for both the time and the level of skill of the writer.

Professional resume writing services vary widely depending on who is offering the service. Those with extremely low overhead and little experience may charge as low as $20 or less. Those with a wealth of knowledge though in a highly paid field can charge $700 or more for resume writing and up to $1,000 if it includes customized cover letters and thank-you notes.

How much profit can a resume writing business make?

Fortunately, most of the money you make will be pure profit. If you have 100 clients in a year, then you can make $100,000 at the top price echelon. These services are definitely worth it for many people, and the average yearly salary of a resume writer is just under $60,000 a year.

How can you make your business more profitable?

You can make your business more profitable by understanding and assisting with the entire job-seeking process. Offer practice interviews or coach job candidates on how to sell themselves both on paper and in-person. You can also do public speaking in schools about what it takes to make a resume that counts.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your resume writing business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a resume writing business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A resume writing service can be run out of an office. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a resume writing service.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your resume writing service will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Services Contract

Resume writing businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example of one such services agreement.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Resume Writing Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Resume Writing Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a resume writing business

Promoting a resume service will be all about showing candidates how you can make them money. Make your website easy to navigate, and update it regularly to promote your services. Consider investing in pay-per-click marketing on Facebook groups for job seekers. If a short-term investment now could net candidates tens of thousands of dollars or more a year, then this is an easy way to get the word out to candidates. Talk about how you get the attention of even the pickiest of decision makers. Cold calling and print media may also help get the word out if you're looking to stay local.

How to keep customers coming back

The best way to attract customers is to get everyone you work with a job! Hopefully you won’t need to retain customers because they’ll be with a company that promotes them based on their performance and not their resume. Be as involved as possible with your clients and the businesses at which they are apply to work.

Talk statistics to your customers and sell yourself— you want them to know how many people get a job because of you. Offer discounts and specials to new clients, or market exclusively to certain colleges or trade schools. You can consider offering a guarantee too, but guarantees can be tricky because the resume is certainly not the only component of getting a job.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

People with English or journalism degrees will be attracted to the writing aspect of this business, but there's more to it than that. A resume is like a sales letter, and it needs to be easy to read. When most hiring managers spend only a few seconds on each one, the format and word choices have to count.

Those who have experience in HR and a thorough understanding of Applicant Tracking Systems  (ATS) will do well. You will need a certain amount of people skills to attract clients, but the results will matter far more than how friendly and personable you are. If 90% of your clients find a job in their field after paying you a visit, these numbers will speak for themselves.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a resume writing business?

A resume writer may have to perform the following tasks on any given day:

• Conduct interviews with job candidates over the phone or in person
• Write and edit resumes or interview correspondence
• Research new hiring trends
• Market services to new clients via physical and virtual media
• Maintain social media listings and a website
• Adapt a resume to a particular market

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful resume writing business?

Writing skills will certainly be at the top of the list for this business, but so will understanding how a hiring manager or ATS will scan a resume for certain keywords and time frames. Resume writers will need to know how to adapt a professional’s experience to fit new goals or interests if the person is trying to change fields. It helps to have an array of experience in an in-demand field, such as computer programming. These skills make it easier to pinpoint what candidates need to do to get the edge.

What is the growth potential for a resume writing business?

A resume is still the first thing that employers look at when deciding whether or not to hire a candidate, so the market for a resume writing service is very stable. While resumes are easy to skim and dismiss by both humans and computers alike, that doesn’t mean they’re not an incredibly valuable tool for landing the job someone wants. Without a vast network of professionals (which few people have), a resume is the best way to stand out from the rest of the job-seeking pack.

Not sure if a resume writing business is right for you? Try our free Business Idea Generator and find your perfect idea.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a resume writing business?

Many people start this business as a side project before transitioning to full-time. Instead of trying to market your services to everyone in every industry, you may want to stick with the field you have the most amount of experience with. For example, if you know what hiring managers are looking for in the medical or legal sectors.

Unfortunately, the neighborhoods with the highest unemployment rates may not have the funds to hire your services. Instead, focus on the larger cities where there will be more people with sufficient savings and foresight to recognize what a resume service can do for them. Owners can also offer services online if the demand in their area isn't high enough.

How and when to build a team

Resume writing does have franchise opportunities, such as Red Star Resume or Action Resume. If you’re planning a full-scale launch, then you can consider hiring a team of professionals with valuable experience in HR.

However, it will likely be better to start off alone to build up your skills and client base. Once you feel comfortable that you know what it takes to make it in this business, then you can consider opening a franchise or hiring help.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Action Resume Franchise opportunity

Real World Examples

• Michigan business
• NYC business

Further Reading

• Tips for Professional Resume Writing
• Learn about more Online Business Ideas
• Testimonial from a Successful Business Owner

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

• Business Ideas
• Registered Agents

How to Start a Resume Writing Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   March 29, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The resume writing industry is estimated to bring in $304.6 million in 2024. With over 150 million resumes created each year, it’s clear there is no shortage of demand. As remote work explodes and economic uncertainty looms, job seekers need resume writers more than ever to stand out.

The resume writing market remains largely fragmented, with independent writers and small agencies competing for clients. This presents a major opportunity for entrepreneurs to build scalable resume-writing businesses. The barriers to entry are relatively low yet the income potential is high.

This guide will help you understand how to start a resume writing business. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, registering an EIN, obtaining business insurance, marketing, customer focus, and more. Here’s everything to know about starting your own resume and career coaching business.

1. Conduct Resume Writing Market Research

Market research is important to starting a successful resume writing business. It offers insight into your target market, trends in the resume writing service market, and local market saturation. Research provides valuable information for a resume service business plan.

The current resume writer market remains fragmented, with over 12,000 small, independent writers and boutique agencies competing for business. The top 10 resume-writing companies account for just 16% total market share, though consolidation is expected as the industry matures. Larger players are focused primarily on scale through online platforms vs white-glove services.

This fragmentation coupled with the vast market opportunity has produced strong economics. The average resume writer charges $150-$400 per document, with senior executive writers commanding fees over $1,000. Writers can service between 10-40 clients per month working full time.

The rise of remote work and economic uncertainty has accelerated demand, as has growth in hiring for middle-skill jobs requiring nuanced resume positioning. Investing in professional resume writers offers compelling ROI – those working with writers are 3x as likely to land interviews and can achieve as high as a 700% ROI if they land the job.

The resume-writing industry is experiencing rapid growth driven by favorable macroeconomic trends and an underpenetrated addressable market. The lack of sophisticated competition makes it an attractive space for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch high-margin businesses.

2. Analyze the Competition

When launching a resume writing business, analyzing the competition is crucial to positioning yourself advantageously to gain market share. Some ways to get to know local professional resume writing services include:

• Start by identifying competitors online within your geographic target area.
• Search Google Maps for terms like “resume services near me” and compile a list of businesses appearing in the results and map pack top listings.
• Visit the website and social media pages of each competitor to evaluate the brand positioning and messaging, service offerings, and pricing models.
• Make notes on strengths and weaknesses compared to the envisioned positioning for your own business.
• Pay attention to the aesthetics of the online presence and reviews as you qualitatively assess the competitor set.
• You can quantitatively size up online competitors by looking at metrics of social media followers, website traffic rankings on Alexa , and domain/page authority scores on Semrush .
• While resume writing is often entirely virtual, some boutique agencies operate brick-and-mortar storefronts.
• Drive around your target geography and take inventory of any physical offices dedicated specifically to resumes, CVs, or career services.
• Walk into each location as a mystery shopper and evaluate factors like customer service, ambiance, branding, and materials available.

Analyzing competitors provides objective benchmarks to understand the competitive landscape and identify unmet market needs your new resume-writing business can serve. It also gives context to strategically position your brand messaging.

3. Costs to Start a Resume Writing Business

When starting a resume writing business, the upfront costs to get off the ground are typically under $5,000 for an independent solo practitioner model.

Start-up Costs

• Website Development and Hosting – Budget $500-1,500 for an attractive, functional website built on WordPress. Good web design is crucial for conveying legitimacy and professionalism. Ongoing hosting and domain registration run $300/year.
• Office Equipment & Software – With resume writing primarily done virtually, $1,000 can cover a solid computer, necessary software like Microsoft Office, an ergonomic desk setup, a printer/scanner, and other core equipment.
• Incorporation Fees – Expect $100-$800 to formally create your business entity as either an LLC or S-Corp based on state filing and registration fees. Proper legal setup brings liability protections.
• Branding & Identity Work – Logos, branding colors/fonts, business cards, and templates to present a polished, consistent brand image will run $300-$1,000 using freelance graphic designers.

In total, an entrepreneur can make the required upfront investments to commence resume writing operations for less than $5,000. Many successful writers have spent even less by handling their branding work and buying only minimal equipment.

Ongoing Costs

On the flip side, monthly operating costs tend to range from $500-$2,500 covering:

• Virtual Office Membership – $100-$300 per month for turnkey access to business amenities.
• Software Subscriptions – $50-$200 on resume/CV templates, marketing automation, bookkeeping, CRM and other SaaS tools.
• Website Hosting/Domains – Budget $20-$100 to host and power your web presence.
• Professional Associations – Industry groups offer benefits and credibility for $100-$500 per year in annual membership dues.
• Insurance – Optional but recommended with rates of $500+ annually. Protect yourself with general liability, D&O, and more niche business policies.
• Contract Employees – Many resume writers eventually hire 1-2 talented freelancers to help handle client demand and grow more profitably. Paying $25-$75 per completed resume as an employer is common.

While operating costs largely scale directly with higher client volumes, keeping fixed overhead low by leveraging modern solutions, outsourcing where advantageous and avoiding unnecessary expenses keeps resume writing a lean business model.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When launching a resume writing operation, structuring your business as a limited liability company (LLC) offers the best blend of personal asset protection, tax flexibility, credibility, and ease of administration if you expect to grow.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship provides no separation between your business and personal finances. You’re subject to unlimited personal liability for company debts and legal issues. Income earned flows through directly to your SSN for tax purposes. Administrative filings are minimal but your assets get tied directly to the business, making an LLC a far better choice.

Partnership

Forming a general or limited partnership can facilitate co-ownership and pool money across partners to fund growth. However, it still exposes personal assets to substantial risk as partners have “joint and several liabilities”. Disagreements between partners can also breed complex litigation if things sour. Overall excessive liability exposure relative to other options makes a partnership ill-suited.

Corporation

Establishing a standard C-Corporation or S-Corporation creates the most formal separation between a business and owner. It can support raising venture capital and eventually selling equity. However, the legal and tax filings for a corporation are far more complex – especially around issues like employee classifications.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Registering as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) carves out the best middle ground. It separates your personal and company assets to limit personal liability risk. Only company assets are pursued in any lawsuits or bankruptcy. An LLC offers flexibility similar to a sole proprietorship or partnership on profit distributions rather than mandatory shareholder payments.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) serves as a business’s equivalent to a social security number establishing a unique IRS identifier. All businesses except sole proprietors using only their SSN need an EIN for federal tax purposes and to open business bank accounts properly.

Obtaining an EIN is free and easy through the IRS website . The entire application takes just minutes to complete. You’ll need only basic information like your name, address, business entity type, and details about ownership structure. An EIN gets issued immediately upon submitting the form and passes IRS verification.

• Navigate to the IRS EIN Assistant site.
• Answer a short eligibility questionnaire and select the option to apply online.
• Provide basic personal and business information covering ownership, contact data, and what the EIN will be used for.
• Print/record the EIN assignment confirmation provided as proof of your number.

In addition to a federal EIN, resume-writing businesses need sales & use tax permits and business licenses in their state to legally collect, report, and remit taxes on services provided. Requirements vary by location but often involve nominal registration fees under $100.

Taking just an hour to get an EIN and register for necessary state tax compliance keeps your resume writing endeavor operating legally as you scale from solopreneur to growing agency.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Proper financial accounting is crucial for resume-writing businesses to track income and expenses, maximize tax savings, access capital, and ensure IRS compliance. Yet many solopreneurs underestimate key accounting needs in the early days.

Accounting Software

Using small business accounting software like QuickBooks links bank accounts to automatically track income deposits and costs. This eliminates manual entry and creates reports showing real-time profitability. Connecting QuickBooks to contract worker accounts like Upwork also imports 1099 employee payments for easy year-end tax form creation.

Hire an Accountant

Hiring an accountant optimizes taxes and ensures accurate books. A good accountant may charge $150-$250 monthly for services like bank/CC reconciliation, payroll, quarterly sales tax filings, and advisor calls. Using one primarily for fiscal year-end tax preparation and an audit defense fund still runs $700-$1,500 but saves immensely on self-employment taxes.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances distinctly separate is essential. All resume writing income should flow into dedicated business accounts never intermingling with personal checking or credit cards. This avoids problematic commingling that can negate liability protections. Open a free small business checking account from banks like Chase to pay all company expenses directly.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for small business credit cards also establishes financial separation while allowing large resume package purchases, software charges, travel, and more to accrue points/cashback rewards. Issuers evaluate business card applications based mainly on your personal credit score and income docs.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Resume writing is not a regulated industry requiring occupational licenses like those for doctors, lawyers, contractors, and many other professional services. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Resume writers generally operate out of home offices or small shared workspaces rather than dedicated commercial locations. Thus common small business permits like conditional use permits for zoning or public health operating permits do not apply.

The lack of major license barriers makes resume writing an accessible industry for aspiring solopreneurs to launch. Without major upfront investments to clear vocational program coursework or hundreds of hours of supervised training, anyone with strong writing skills can open shop after just a few hours spent on required business registration paperwork.

Voluntary professional certifications for resume writing do exist through organizations like Career Directors International and the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Obtaining these professional designations can signal credibility and commitment to excellence.

8. Get Business Insurance

Securing proper business insurance is a crucial safeguard for resume-writing companies against financial ruin from an unforeseen catastrophic event. Without adequate coverage, a single lawsuit, accident, or data breach could permanently shutter operations given the smaller profit margins and cash reserves of most independent writers or boutique agencies.

Many entrepreneurs incorrectly assume business insurance is either unattainable or not worth the costs unless legally mandatory. They fail to account for black swan risks that could wholly undermine their company absent proper precautions.

Three illustrative examples bring the value of coverage into focus:

An injured client trips over a loose Ethernet cable lying across the floor of your home office during an in-person resume strategy consultation. She sustains a severe concussion and broken wrist from the resulting fall. Without any business liability insurance, you must cover all her medical bills out of pocket. A resulting lawsuit also names you personally as negligent.

A bad actor manages to hack your web server hosting client resume files purchased from a budget offshore hosting company with lax security protocols. The full identities and resume specifics of over 5,000 clients get leaked publicly. Lacking data breach and cyber liability coverage, regulatory fines under GDPR for the breach could cost 4% of global revenues.

A tropical storm produces a lightning strike-induced power surge that destroys $15,000 of cutting-edge computer editing equipment in your downtown executive suite office despite using a surge protector. The insured executive center has no liability.

While individually low probability events, being one catastrophe away from total failure points to the value of transferring risk through business insurance policies. Expert insurance marketplaces like CoverWallet simplify securing tiered protection well-tailored to resume writing operations. Expect costs of $500 to $1,500 annually based on total limits.

9. Create an Office Space

While resume writers can operate almost entirely virtually, having a professional office space facilitates conducting client meetings conveniently and projecting legitimacy critical for premium pricing. The right workspace for your budget depends on client volume and use case scenarios.

Home Office

A basic home office running $100 monthly for a dedicated room, ergonomic equipment, and software keeps overheard minimal for solopreneurs. Meetings can occur at coffee shops although background noise hinders confidential client discussions. Home offices also preclude walk-in clients and may be less impressive for executive customers.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces like WeWork offer sleek, modern environments with business amenities (conference rooms, printing, receptionists) for $200-$500 monthly. They foster networking with other entrepreneurs while supporting client meetings or small team expansion. However, sound may still carry between spaces limiting confidentiality.

Commercial Office

For the highest-end positioning, a traditional multi-room office lease averages $3,000-$6,000 monthly enabling dedicated conference capabilities plus potentially room for several in-house writers/editors. Generally overkill for early-stage resume writers but useful for multi-employee agencies seeking rapid expansion room. Also maximizes branding control for diversifying services (e.g. interview prep) targeted at enterprise budgets.

10. Source Your Equipment

Resume writers need only basic equipment to deliver professional services – primarily just a reliable computer and printer. While shiny gadgets are enticing, tried and true fundamentals suffice when launching on a bootstrap budget.

Buying new allows fully customizing configurations to your workload from retailers like BestBuy . Apple iMacs and PC laptop/desktop combos with Core i5 or i7 processors, 16GB RAM, 1TB storage, and 27″ displays provide future-proof performance for $1,000-$2,000. All-in-one color laser printers like HP handle printing needs under $500.

Scouring secondhand local inventory on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can capture major savings on computer gear from businesses and power users upgrading frequently. Resume writing software demands are easily met with even 5-7-year-old PCs at 20%+ off retail prices.

Needing only 1-2 primary devices for a solo operation lends well to renting. Rent-A-Center allows flexibly upgrading equipment over 6-24 month terms. However, lengthy commitments paying 200%+ of retail cost make pure renting fairly expensive long-term.

Minimizing initial cash outlays, leasing transfers equipment ownership obligations to financing companies in exchange for monthly payments during 1-5-year terms. Credit and income requirements are higher than renting but cash flow preservation aids ramping writers.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Crafting a distinctive brand identity conveys professionalism and trust to stand out from freelance competitors. Logos, websites, custom emails, and more allow conveying your unique value and specialization.

Get a Business Phone Number

Getting a unique business phone line instead of relying solely on a personal cell phone legitimizes operations. Services like RingCentral provide toll-free 800 numbers, vanity extensions, and business SMS capabilities to manage inquiries professionally starting at just $30 monthly. Custom on-hold messages and analytics also polish communications.

Design a Logo

An eye-catching logo synthesizes what your brand represents. Consider your positioning – classic serif fonts project establishment while sleek sans serifs align with modernity. Simple geometric forms convey trust and minimalism. Looka’s AI generators quickly craft custom logos based on your preferences.

Print Business Cards

Business cards display branding proudly when networking or meeting clients. Vistaprint offers affordable, high-quality cards with volume discounts. Packing cards when attending local Chamber of Commerce networking events or relevant trade association conferences makes exchanging contact information natural while reinforcing your brand.

Get a Domain Name

Secure matching domain names via registrars like Namecheap for establishing credibility and an official online presence. Domains should closely match brands and use.COM over alternatives when possible. Buy domains proactively even if the website launches later to control naming and avoid cybersquatting.

Design a Website

Constructing a custom website over templated builders like Wix conveys the most polish if web design skills exist internally. Those less technically inclined can hire expert Fiverr freelancers affordably. Balance visual appeal and conversion rate optimization. Integrate lead capture forms, client portals for file exchanges, and easy contact channels.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Beyond individual hard skills, networking with industry peers often determines success in launching new ventures by sharing insights and referrals. Various local and national associations cater to resume writers.

Local Associations

Area Chambers of Commerce like the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce offer small business programs including training, mentor matching, and networking mixers to meet fellow entrepreneurs. These organizations advocate politically on behalf of regional business interests as well. Expect $300 in annual dues for access.

Local Meetups

Event listing sites like Meetup enable discovering relevant regional groups to join covering small business advice, marketing tactics, solo entrepreneurs, and more. Cultivating community connections leads to trades of knowledge and customer referrals to aid in getting established locally. Expect free or nominal dues.

Facebook Groups

Virtual networking via social media platforms offers additional exposure and learning conduits. Facebook is particularly valuable for niche interest groups given existing userbases. For resume writers, groups like Professional Resume / CV Writers and Resume Writing share tips for perfecting documents across various professions.

13. How to Market a Resume Writing Business

Implementing ongoing marketing is non-negotiable for growth-oriented resume writers. Relying solely on fortuitous referrals caps income potential. Deliberate outreach and promotions must occur to raise awareness continually.

Personal Networking

Tap into your existing network first. Satisfied clients referring additional contacts they know need services to deliver built-in social proof at minimal acquisition costs. Entice referrals by offering $50 cash or gift cards to contacts generating a set number of new client conversions monthly.

Digital Marketing

Digital channels then allow efficiently extending the reach and targeting relevant demographic segments through:

• Google Ads campaigns geo-targeting local unemployed professionals or national campaigns focused on verticals like finance, technology, healthcare, etc. Expect 3-5x ROI optimizing to convert comprehensive package purchasers.
• Leverage social media platforms for more customers. Facebook and Instagram ads focused both on cold resume needs and career change considerations. Retarget past website visitors with special offers.
• Publishing 2x monthly blog posts on resume/career advice optimized for organic search traffic. Answer common FAQs and share industry insider tips. Simple SEO best practices boost discoverability and authority.
• Start a YouTube channel creating short tutorials on formatting strong resumes, addressing employment gaps, ATS optimization tricks, etc. Distribute videos across other social media driving visitors back to lead capture.
• Run an email nurture sequence with tips to stay on top of the latest trends in your professional domain. Use segmentation to target audiences by individual sectors.

Traditional Marketing

More traditional options still deliver results when executed deliberately for select businesses:

• Well designed Well-designed direct mail postcards to high-income zip codes nearby flag your services to upper-class demographics. Expect 1-3% conversion rates done right.
• Local radio spot early morning drive times raise awareness during peak commute job search mental bandwidth. Attempt radio first before committing to pricier television spots with lower attentiveness.
• Print flyers distributed in areas with office parks, universities, and coworking spaces seed local networks. However, extremely low accountability for conversions compared to digital efforts.
• Strategically placed billboards along congested highways bait impulse inquiries from bored commuters. Limit to major metro regions able to justify $1,500 monthly rental costs per board.

The ideal mix of traditional and digital marketing complements word of mouth, crafting a fully y integrated client acquisition engine.

14. Focus on the Customer

Delivering white-glove service must remain an utmost priority when clients entrust you to showcase their careers in the best possible light. One subpar document or tardy response risks permanently losing a customer when battling against online resume mills on price.

However, extreme personalization and hand-holding that exceeds expectations earn incredible word-of-mouth and retention. How can you wow each client?

• Schedule 30-60 minute needs analysis calls even for basic resume packages. Take extensive notes learning their background. This degree of one on one interest builds loyalty even at mid-market mid-market pricing.
• Review resume draft revisions and job search strategy calls within 24 hours every time. Being readily available builds trusted advisor status.
• Send handwritten notes after big interviews congratulating them. Checking in on the outcome shows you care beyond the sale.
• Help connect clients to your network for introductions relevant to their target roles. Access becomes advocacy.
• Follow up persistently as their job search progresses. Celebrate wins when they secure offers!

The resume writing space has low barriers to viable minimum services. But overinvesting in customer service builds genuine relationships converting one-time buyers into evangelists. This fuels massive word-of-mouth channel expansion that no marketing budget can match.

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April 9, 2024

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Start a Business by Helping Others: Resume Writing

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Resume Writing Business Points to Consider Resources Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This guide provides a comprehensive view of owning a resume writing business, including a step-by-step outline.

It also offers valuable resources to support you during startup and throughout your resume writing journey. Don’t forget to bookmark and share this helpful post!

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting a Resume Writing Business

Below are the steps to starting a resume writing business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Resume Writing Business Overview
• Researching Your Resume Writing Business
• Looking at Financials
• Choosing A Business Location
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Resume Writing Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees

1.  An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Is Starting a Resume Writing Business the Right Step for You?

The Key Factor: Passion for Success

There is a key factor to succeeding in business, and that factor is you! Understanding how you feel about owning and running a resume writing business is important.

Passion is a crucial element for success in your own business. Passion is the driving force you need.

The Power of Passion

When you’re passionate about your business and problems arise, you look for solutions. On the other hand, without it, you’ll look for a way out.

How passionate are you about owning your own resume writing business?

An Interesting Perspective

Imagine you were granted 5 wishes for anything you want. No restrictions! Now an important question: Would you start a resume writing business with one of your wishes in this situation?

If your answer is yes, it shows that you are passionate about owning and operating a resume writing business and are heading in the right direction.

Explore Your Desires

However, if your answer is no, it prompts another question: What would you prefer to do instead? Perhaps, you should pursue that path instead.

Passion is Paramount

In summary, you need to be passionate about the business you are starting to increase your chances of success. Without passion, you may be fitting an uphill battle.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see, Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Resume Writing Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Resume Writing Business

What is a Resume Writing Business?

A resume writing business focuses on helping individuals create professional and effective resumes.

These documents are essential when job application, highlighting a person’s skills, experiences, and qualifications.

Such a business aims to craft a resume that stands out to potential employers, enhancing applicants’ chances of securing an interview.

Day-to-Day Tasks in Running a Resume Writing Business

Client Consultation: Meeting with clients is essential. This can be face-to-face, over the phone, or via video conferencing. During these consultations, the writer gathers information about the client’s work history, skills, and goals.

Research: Stay updated on industry trends and hiring manager preferences. This might include knowing which keywords are vital for specific sectors or understanding the latest resume formats that attract attention.

Writing and Editing: Draft the resume, highlighting the client’s strengths and relevant experience. After the initial draft, editing ensures clarity, precision, and professionalism.

Feedback and Revisions: Once a draft is prepared, it’s shared with the client. They might have feedback or require changes. It’s crucial to incorporate these edits to meet client satisfaction.

Marketing and Networking: For sustained business growth, connecting with professionals, attending industry events, and advertising services is essential.

Continuous Learning: The job market and industry standards change. Stay updated with courses, workshops, or reading materials related to resume writing and career development.

Administrative Duties: Manage appointments, handle billing, and keep track of client records. Efficiency in these tasks ensures smooth business operations.

A resume writing business requires a balance of writing expertise, interpersonal skills, and administrative efficiency.

b.) A Key Points To Succeeding in a Resume Writing Business

Building a Strong Customer Base: In the initial phase, attracting clients can be challenging. Taping into various networks, offering promotional rates, and showcasing testimonials are essential to build trust and credibility.

Fostering Relationships: Strengthen ties with customers, suppliers, and employees. Mutual respect and collaboration pave the way for long-term business relationships.

Aligning Services with Customer Needs: Ensure that the resumes you craft cater to your clientele’s specific needs and aspirations.

Acting on Customer Feedback: Listening is half the job. When clients provide feedback, evaluate and implement suggestions that fit within your business model and enhance service quality.

Prioritizing Customer Service: Remember, satisfied clients become brand ambassadors. Service excellence ensures repeat business and referrals.

Delivering Value: Every resume should give clients a competitive edge in the job market. This tangible value is what will set you apart.

Team Building: Hire individuals who complement your business vision. Their skills and dedication can be game-changers in propelling your business forward.

Staff Management and Well-being: Foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and growth. A motivated team increases productivity and reduces turnover.

Financial Prudence: Monitor cash flow meticulously. Ensure revenue streams are steady and manage expenses judiciously.

Cost Efficiency: While keeping costs in check is vital, never compromise on the quality of your service.

Adapting to Change: The corporate world, technology, and even resume trends evolve. Stay ahead of the curve by being flexible and open to change.

Managing Revenue Fluctuations: There might be peak hiring seasons and slower months. Prepare for these fluctuations by diversifying services or introducing packages.

Navigating Competition: Both new and old competitors will challenge your market position. Stand out by refining your unique selling proposition and staying informed about industry trends.

Strategic Marketing: Raise awareness about your business through targeted advertising. Whether you opt for DIY methods or hire experts, ensure your message resonates with potential clients.

In conclusion, the success of a resume writing business lies in a combination of strategy, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.

A clear focus on value and relationships will ensure long-term growth and sustainability.

c.) Making Your Resume Writing Business stand out

Brand Identity: Develop a unique brand image, logo, and voice. This consistency helps in easy recognition and establishing trust among potential clients.

Specialization: Consider focusing on specific industries or career stages. Specialized services for tech professionals or executive-level candidates can set you apart.

Workshops and Seminars: Organize free or paid sessions on job search strategies, interview techniques, or personal branding. This not only showcases expertise but also attracts a wider audience.

Personal Touch: Offer personalized consultations or follow-up sessions. It makes clients feel valued and enhances their overall experience.

Digital Presence: A user-friendly website with client testimonials, success stories, and a regularly updated blog can enhance credibility.

Stay Updated: Continually update skills by getting certifications or attending industry-related conferences. This commitment to growth makes a difference.

Partnerships: Collaborate with job search platforms, recruitment agencies, or career counselors. Such partnerships can widen your reach and give you a competitive edge.

d.) Add on Ideas for a Resume Writing Business

LinkedIn Profile Writing: Offer services to optimize LinkedIn profiles. Given the platform’s prominence in professional networking, many job seekers seek help to make their profiles stand out.

Cover Letter Crafting: Many job applications require a compelling cover letter. Offer this as an additional service.

Interview Coaching: Provide mock interview sessions, helping clients prepare for potential questions and boost their confidence.

Career Counseling: Some clients might be uncertain about their career path. Offering sessions to guide them based on their skills and aspirations can be beneficial.

Portfolio Creation: For professionals in creative fields like design or writing, offer services to craft compelling portfolios.

Job Search Strategy: Guide clients on how to look for jobs effectively, the platforms to explore, and how to network.

Custom Templates: Design and sell unique resume templates tailored to specific industries or job roles.

Digital Resumes: With the rise of digital portfolios and personal websites, we offer services to create digital versions of resumes or interactive CVs.

Incorporating these ideas can provide a holistic approach to career support, making your resume writing business a one-stop shop for job seekers.

e.) Resume Writing Business Models

Types of Resume Writing Business Setups and Their Business Models

Freelance Setup This is a one-person operation, often run from home or a small office. The business model revolves around individual projects, with revenue generated per resume or package.

Agency Model An agency typically has multiple writers and might even have specialists for different industries or roles. Revenue is generated through a combination of individual client contracts and corporate tie-ups.

Subscription Model Under this setup, clients pay a recurring fee, either monthly or annually, for ongoing resume updates, consultations, or related services.

Platform-Based Model Businesses operate through an online platform where clients can choose from various templates, input information, and get automated or semi-automated resumes.

The revenue is generated through software subscriptions, one-time fees, or premium offerings.

Franchise Model An established resume writing brand offers its business model, tools, and support to franchisees. In return, the parent company takes a percentage of earnings or a set franchising fee.

Partnership with Recruitment Firms Resume writers partner with recruitment or staffing firms, providing services to job seekers referred by these agencies.

Revenue comes from a commission-based structure or a set fee per resume.

Workshop and Training Model Aside from writing resumes, the business offers workshops, webinars, courses on resume writing, job search strategies, and more.

Revenue is generated through ticket sales, course fees, and supplementary materials.

Choosing the Right Model Choosing the right business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging.

Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche for your resume writing business is essential.

f.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Resume Writing Business

Preparation for Starting a Resume Writing Business

Business Model Decision: What type of resume writing business model are you leaning towards?

Handling of Operations: Will you personally manage all tasks, or is hiring a team on the horizon?

Management Choices: Do you have the vision to steer your business single-handedly, or is there a potential role for a dedicated manager?

Partnerships and Investments: Are partnerships or seeking investors part of your business strategy?

Location of Operations: Are you inclined towards a home-based operation, or do you foresee a dedicated commercial space for your business?

Physical vs. Digital: If considering a tangible location, are you thinking of a brick-and-mortar setup, or will the primary mode of operation be online?

Growth and Vision: What are your aspirations for your resume writing business in the long run?

Service Diversification: Beyond resumes, do you plan to offer related services, like cover letter writing or LinkedIn optimization?

Target Audience: Have you identified a specific demographic or industry you want to cater to?

Pricing Strategy: How do you plan to structure your fees – fixed rates, packages, or customized pricing?

Promotional Tactics: What marketing and advertising strategies do you envision for your business?

Competitive Analysis: Have you surveyed the market to understand how competitors operate and where you can stand out?

Delving into these questions will ensure you’re better equipped to navigate the complexities and nuances of starting a resume writing business.

g.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Resume Writing Business

Pros of Running a Resume Writing Business

Autonomy in Leadership: You can be your own boss, giving you a sense of leadership and direction.

Business Direction: You can call the shots and run the business as you see fit, allowing for a personal touch and unique strategies.

Creative Liberty: You’re free to be creative, especially in crafting resumes, marketing strategies, and business expansion.

Potential Revenue: A successful business can lead to high revenue, making the effort worth the reward.

Flexible Hours: With a robust team, you can set your hours, granting a work-life balance when the business stabilizes.

Control Over Workspace: You have control over your working environment, ensuring a conducive atmosphere for productivity.

Recession-Resilient: People always need jobs, and during economic downturns, the demand for polished resumes might even increase.

Direct Client Interaction: Build strong client relationships, leading to referrals and a robust network.

Skill Enhancement: Constant exposure to various industries and roles can expand your knowledge base and skill set.

Cons of Running a Resume Writing Business

Sole Responsibility: Problems are your responsibility, and finding solutions falls squarely on your shoulders.

Irregular Income: You may not get paid regularly, especially during the initial stages.

Initial Hurdles: Start-up phases can be challenging, from setting up to attracting the first set of clients.

Client Retention: Getting customers and retaining them demands consistent quality and adaptability.

Extended Work Hours: Especially during inception, you may have to put in a lot of extra hours.

Success Pressure: Owning a business comes with the inherent pressure to succeed and meet expectations.

Adapting to Change: Change in resume trends, technology, or market dynamics requires constant adaptability.

Inherent Risks: There are risks in running any business, from financial to reputational.

Specialization Challenges: As industries evolve, staying updated and specialized can demand continuous learning and adaptation.

Balancing Quality and Quantity: Handling multiple clients while ensuring quality can become a juggling act.

In conclusion, while the allure of autonomy and potential revenue from a resume writing business is compelling, weighing the challenges and preparing adequately is essential.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

3. Research

Resume writing business research.

Thorough Research: Key to Success

You must conduct thorough research for the resume writing business you intend to open before taking any other action.

With quality information, you will know what you’re getting into. Otherwise, you might find yourself in a situation you don’t expect.

Seek Advice from Experienced Professionals

One way to get the best information is from people experienced in running a resume writing business. They are qualified to give you information you can depend on.

The time you spend with them can be priceless and an opportunity to gain insights from their knowledge and years of experience.

Valuable Resource: Article on Finding the Right Contacts

I have written an article with ideas to help find the right people to contact and approach them in an acceptable and non-threatening way.

The steps go beyond this post, but I strongly suggest you read the article from the link below to understand what you’re getting into.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

Overview: Understanding Your Target Audience for a Resume Writing Business

Understanding your target audience is crucial for a resume writing business. When you know your target market, you can tailor your offers to appeal to potential customers.

This knowledge enables you to provide products and services that genuinely interest them, increasing your chances of success.

Target Market Ideas:

• Job Seekers
• Recent Graduates
• Career Changers
• Professionals Seeking Advancement
• Individuals Looking to Polish Their Resumes
• Individuals Returning to the Workforce
• Military Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Careers
• Freelancers and Gig Workers Seeking Structured Resumes
• Executives and Senior-Level Professionals Updating Their CVs
• People Seeking Personal Branding and LinkedIn Profile Optimization

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Startup Costs and Financial Overview for a Resume Writing Business

Startup Cost: To ensure a successful launch, accurately estimating the startup costs is essential for a smooth planning phase until the business opens.

Underestimating may lead to financial challenges, delaying the opening, while overestimating might make the venture appear risky. Costs vary based on operation size, location, hiring employees, equipment, and rental or leasing decisions.

Create a comprehensive list of requirements and research prices for an informed estimate.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit: Sales are influenced by product popularity, service demand, and effective marketing to reach the right audience. Profitability goes beyond per-sale earnings, considering rent, payroll, and other overhead expenses.

Success requires generating sufficient sales to cover monthly costs and salary.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue

Sample Financial Lists As a Starting Point

Below are three overly simplified sample financial lists to give you a broad overview of the areas to focus on:

SAMPLE Estimated Start-Up Costs for a Resume Writing Business in the USA

• Business Licensing and Permits: $50 – $300
• Website Design and Hosting: $500 – $5,000
• Marketing and Advertising (Initial Campaign): $1,000 – $10,000
• Resume Writing Software and Tools: $100 – $1,000
• Home Office Setup (if not already set up): $500 – $3,000
• Professional Certifications: $200 – $1,500
• Initial Office Supplies: $50 – $500

Total Estimated Start-Up Costs: $2,400 – $21,300

SAMPLE Estimated Monthly Expenses for a Resume Writing Business in the USA

• Website Maintenance: $20 – $200
• Marketing and Advertising: $300 – $3,000
• Internet and Phone: $50 – $200
• Loan Payments: $100 – $1,000 (assuming a small business loan)
• Software Subscription Fees: $10 – $100
• Miscellaneous Office Supplies: $20 – $200

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $500 – $4,700

SAMPLE Sales and Profit Outline for a Moderately Profitable Resume Writing Business

• Average Revenue per Resume: $150
• Monthly Sales Volume (Resumes written): 50
• Total Monthly Sales Revenue: $7,500
• Minus Monthly Expenses (using an average of the above): -$3,100
• Monthly Profit: $4,400

Figuring Out Revenue: The revenue was calculated based on an assumed average charge of $150 per resume and an estimated sales volume of 50 resumes per month.

Conclusion:

These are fictitious examples, so you can understand the issues to consider when planning to start your resume writing business.

Adjusting costs makes a significant difference in whether the business will be successful.

A slight shift in profit per sale on high-volume sales will make a difference in your overall profits.

Also, note many new businesses take time to become profitable because it takes building a customer base, building a reputation, and fine-tuning operations.

Your figures will be different. Every situation is different, and many factors come into play.

Research and consider getting professional advice when calculating your business’s startup costs, expenses, and potential revenues and profits.

5. Choosing The Right Business Location

Choosing the Right Location: Key to Success

Location Impact on Success

It can make the difference in whether or not your resume writing business succeeds or fails according to your choice of location.

Avoiding Pitfalls

Operating in a location with no demand for resume writing services will lead to failure even before you launch your business. If you open in an area with too much competition, you will struggle to get a share of the market.

Balancing Demand and Competition

Ultimately, you want a location with demand and an acceptable amount of competition. Another important point is you need something you can afford.

Operating in a highly populated area offers more exposure, but you must ensure your business will be profitable with the extra expense.

On the other hand, an inexpensive area might not generate enough sales.

Considering Home-Based Operations

Another option for some resume writing businesses is operating from home. This works well for online businesses or those with limited customer interaction.

Operating from home can be a starting point; if the business expands, you can move to a commercial location.

Research Carefully

Choosing a location is an important factor in being successful. Research it carefully!

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

6. Create Your Mission Statement

Overview: The Significance of a Mission Statement for Your Resume Writing Business

Crafting a clear mission statement is vital for your resume writing business as it defines your purpose, keeps you focused, and reminds you of the value you bring to customers and the community.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Resume Writing Business:

• “Empowering job seekers with personalized, impactful resumes, unlocking their full potential for greater career opportunities.”
• “Committed to delivering professional resumes that highlight individual strengths, propelling clients towards successful career transitions.”
• “Enabling career advancement through expertly-crafted resumes, leaving a lasting impression on employers.”

These mission statements express the core objectives of resume writing businesses and their dedication to supporting job seekers in achieving their career goals.

For more, see, How To Create a Mission Statement

7. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Overview: The Importance of Unique Selling Proposition for Your Resume Writing Business

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) assists in identifying and creating distinctive offerings that set your resume writing business apart from competitors.

Examples of USPs for a Resume Writing Business:

• “Guaranteed Interview Success: Our resumes are expertly tailored to showcase your skills and achievements, ensuring a higher chance of landing interviews.”
• “Personalized Career Branding: We create unique and compelling personal brands that leave a lasting impression on employers, boosting your career prospects.”
• “Industry-Specific Expertise: Our team of professional writers specializes in various industries, providing targeted resumes that resonate with hiring managers.”

8. Choose a Business Name

Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Resume Writing Business

When selecting a name for your resume writing business, aim for something catchy and appropriate.

Opt for a name that is easy to pronounce and memorable since it will likely remain unchanged throughout your company’s ownership.

Ensure the availability of a matching domain name for your online presence and check for any existing business registrations with your desired name.

30 Resume Writing Business Name Ideas:

• ProWrite Resumes
• CareerCrafters
• PrecisionCV
• TalentTailors
• TopNotch Resumes
• AceResume Solutions
• SkillfulWords
• EliteCareer Pens
• ResumeBuilders Inc.
• ImpactfulCV
• SuccessPath Resumes
• CareerGurus
• CraftedToWin
• ProfessionalEdge Resumes
• ExpertWrite Careers
• VisionaryVita
• TheResumeWhiz
• CareerBoost Creators
• SupremeCareerDocs
• PrimeWrite Resumes
• JobReady Wordsmiths
• MasterfulCVs
• OptimalJobPro
• CareerJunction Writers
• StellarSteps Resumes
• SkillBridge CVs
• JobProspectors
• SuccessLink Resumes
• ApexCareer Wordsmiths

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

9. Register Your Company

Ensuring Your Resume Writing Business is Legal

Starting a resume writing business requires ensuring its legality and proper setup. Consulting with a professional can help you navigate legal complexities, optimize tax benefits, and manage liabilities effectively.

Professional Guidance for Legal Compliance

Consult with a legal or financial professional to ensure your resume writing business is set up correctly and meets all legal requirements. Expert advice can also help you determine the most suitable business structure that aligns with your goals.

Common Types of Business Registrations:

• Sole Proprietorship: A simple and individual business structure where you are the sole owner and personally liable for the business.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Provides liability protection for personal assets and offers flexibility in taxation.
• Corporation: A separate legal entity with limited liability for owners but requires adherence to complex regulations.
• Partnership: A formal partnership agreement may be necessary to start the business with others.

Permits and Licenses for a Resume Writing Business:

• Business License: Required for operating legally within your locality.
• Professional License: Check if your state requires specific licenses for resume writers.
• Home Occupation Permit: If operating from home, verify if a permit is necessary.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): Needed for tax reporting and hiring employees.
• Zoning Permits: Ensure compliance with zoning laws, especially for home-based businesses.
• Domain Name Registration: Secure the domain name for your online presence.
• Sales Tax Permit: This permit may be necessary if you sell products or additional services.

Understanding and adhering to legal requirements, permits, and licenses will ensure your resume writing business operates legally and with peace of mind.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

10. Create Your Corporate Identity

In the context of a resume writing business, “Corporate ID” or “Corporate Identity” may not be directly applicable. However, we can adapt the content to focus on the importance of a cohesive and professional brand image.

Creating a Professional Brand Identity for Your Resume Writing Business

A strong brand identity is crucial for your resume writing business to stand out.

Components of Your Brand Identity:

Your brand identity encompasses elements such as your logo, business cards, website, stationery, and promotional materials.

Impressing Your Customers:

A consistent and professional design across all these components can leave a lasting impression on new and existing customers. It builds trust and credibility, showcasing your expertise in crafting compelling resumes.

You can see our page for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

11. Writing a Business Plan

The Importance of a Business Plan for Your Resume Writing Business

Key Document for Funding and Guidance

A business plan is a vital document for your resume writing business, as it aids in acquiring funding and attracting investors.

Moreover, it serves as a guide to keep you on track during startup and when the business is fully operational.

Crafting a Vision for Your Business

Writing a business plan requires time and effort, as it involves creating a vision of your resume writing business when it’s up and running.

Careful planning and detailing are essential for a comprehensive and effective plan.

Clarity and Direction

Once completed, your business plan clearly explains what you need to start and how to operate the business successfully.

Flexible Options for Creation

You have various options when creating your business plan, such as writing it from scratch, hiring a professional, using a template, or employing business plan software.

Regardless of your choice, active participation is crucial, ensuring the plan’s distinctiveness and effective communication of your business’s nature and management.

Adapting and Optimizing

As your resume writing business gains experience, your business plan may evolve. Periodically reviewing and making necessary changes to optimize your plan and operations is advisable for continued success.

A Fictitious Business Plan Example for a Resume Writing

Sample Business Plan: EliteResumePros

I. Executive Summary

• Business Name: EliteResumePros
• Industry: Professional Resume Writing
• Mission: To craft impactful resumes that empower individuals to secure their dream jobs.
• Vision: Becoming the go-to digital platform for resume solutions across the United States.

II. Business Objectives

• Reach 500 clients by the end of year one.
• Achieve a 95% client satisfaction rate in the first 12 months.
• Expand service offerings to include cover letter writing and LinkedIn profile optimization by the second quarter.

III. Products & Services

• Resume Writing: Tailored for various industries and experience levels.
• Resume Review: Detailed feedback for DIY individuals.
• Consultation Services: Direct discussions with clients to align resume with career objectives.

IV. Market Analysis

• Target Market: Professionals between ages 25 and 50, transitioning between jobs or industries.
• Market Trends: Increase in digital job applications and the importance of ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compliant resumes.
• Competitive Analysis: Several key competitors with established online platforms, but a gap identified in personalized, niche-specific services.

V. Marketing & Sales Strategy

• Digital Marketing: Google Ads, Social Media Advertising, and SEO techniques.
• Referral Program: Discounts for clients referring others.
• Networking: Webinars, workshops, and collaborations with local employment agencies.

VI. Management & Organization

• Founder & CEO: Jane Doe, with 10 years of HR experience.
• Lead Resume Writer: John Smith, with 7 years in career coaching.
• Marketing Specialist: Emily Brown, with 5 years in digital marketing.

VII. Financial Plan

• Startup Costs: Estimated at $8,000 (including website setup, initial marketing, and tools).
• Monthly Operational Costs: Estimated at $3,500.
• Pricing: Basic package at $100; Premium at $200; Elite at $300.
• Projected Revenue: Approx. $15,000/month (assuming 100 packages sold monthly across different price points).

VIII. Future Projections

• Introduction of new services (like LinkedIn optimization) by Q2.
• Expansion into broader career consultation services by year two.
• Potential for franchising or licensing to aspiring resume writers in other regions.

EliteResumePros is poised to deliver superior resume solutions tailored to modern-day job application requirements.

With a focused approach to quality, client satisfaction, and continued adaptability to market needs, the business anticipates robust growth and a significant market share in the upcoming years.

As with any business endeavor, continuous assessment and iteration of strategies will be integral to sustained success.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

12. Banking Considerations

Managing Finances for Your Resume Writing Business

Choosing a Business-Friendly Bank

Consider selecting a nearby bank that caters to business owners.

Having a dedicated business account helps segregate your resume writing business expenses from personal spending. This separation streamlines expense tracking, bookkeeping, and offers proof during tax audits.

Building a Professional Relationship

Developing a strong rapport with your banker is beneficial. They can offer valuable advice, financial services, and streamline application processes, aiding in the smooth operation of your resume writing business.

Accepting Credit and Debit Cards

To enhance payment options for your clients, consider applying for a merchant account or a similar setup to accept credit and debit cards. This provides convenience and flexibility, making it easier for customers to engage your services.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

13. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Securing Funding for Your Resume Writing Business

If you need financial assistance to start your resume writing business, consider these tips to acquire the necessary funds.

Exploring Funding Options

There are various funding options available to support your resume writing business. These include traditional lenders, private loans, seeking investors, selling assets, or using collateral.

Meeting with a Loan Officer: Considerations

When meeting with a loan officer, prepare yourself with essential considerations:

• Clearly outline your business plan, showcasing its potential for success.
• Be ready to discuss how you plan to use the funds and demonstrate financial responsibility.
• Have a repayment strategy in place to reassure the lender about your commitment.

Sample List of Documents for a Business Loan Application:

• Business plan detailing your resume writing services and target market.
• Financial projections for the first few years of operation.
• Personal and business tax returns.
• Bank statements and financial statements.
• Proof of collateral (if applicable).
• Resume and background information to highlight your qualifications.

By following these guidelines and being prepared, you can increase your chances of securing funding to launch and operate your resume writing business.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

14. Software Setup

Software Considerations for Your Resume Writing Business

When choosing software for your resume writing business, thorough research is essential to ensure a smooth implementation. Switching to a new system after your data is already in another program can be cumbersome.

Tips for Evaluating Software:

• Research and Compare: Explore different software options and compare their features. Look for solutions that align with your business needs and objectives.
• Check for Demos and Reviews: See if a software demo is available. Additionally, read reviews and browse forums to gain insights into others’ experiences with the software.
• Financial Management Software: Consider software that helps track expenses and prepare financial documents for tax filing. Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant can aid in making the right software choice for your accounting needs.

List of Software to Consider:

• Microsoft Word – For professional resume creation and editing.
• Resume Builder Platforms – Online tools tailored for crafting resumes efficiently.
• Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) – Software that helps manage and organize job applications.
• Financial Management Software – Options like QuickBooks or Xero for expense tracking and financial reporting.

Remember to choose software that aligns with your business’s requirements, facilitates seamless operations, and improves overall efficiency.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a resume writing business.

15. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance Considerations for Your Resume Writing Business

Comprehensive Coverage:

Incidents can happen unexpectedly, so having the right insurance coverage is crucial before any business activity occurs.

Protection for Customers, Employees, and Property:

Consider insurance options that safeguard your customers, employees, anyone on the premises, and your business property.

Professional Liability Coverage:

To protect against potential lawsuits, consider investing in professional liability insurance, which can provide financial protection in case of claims related to your resume writing services.

Home-Based Business Considerations:

If you plan to operate or manage your resume writing business from your home, inform your home insurance agent.

Operating a business from home could affect your existing home insurance policy, so it’s essential to understand the implications.

Seek Guidance from an Insurance Broker:

To navigate the complexities of insurance policies and ensure sufficient coverage, partner with a competent insurance broker.

They can guide you in selecting the right insurance solutions tailored to your resume writing business’s needs.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for resume writing business insurance .

17. Physical Setup

Layout: A resume writing business’s physical setup should be carefully planned to ensure a professional and efficient environment.

Organize workstations for writers and staff, along with a welcoming reception area for clients.

Adequate space for meetings and consultations is essential. A well-thought-out layout ensures smooth operations and a positive impression on clients.

Signage: Setting up signage is crucial for a resume writing business. Besides installing your main business sign, add signs to relevant locations, like parking lots, exits, and special areas.

Well-designed signs direct people and demonstrate professionalism in your resume writing operation. Clear signage helps clients find their way and reinforces your brand identity.

Office Setup: An organized office is vital for effectively managing your resume writing business.

As most of your time will be spent in the office, ensure it is fully equipped with everything you need.

A well-arranged workspace boosts productivity and efficiency. Invest in essential office furniture, equipment, and storage solutions to maintain a professional and productive atmosphere.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

The Benefits of Having a Website for Your Resume Writing Business

A website for your resume writing business offers numerous advantages in today’s digital age. It provides a platform to showcase your services, reach a broader audience, and establish credibility.

A website lets potential clients easily find you and learn about your expertise and offerings.

Marketing Potential:

Your website serves as a powerful marketing tool. You can position yourself as an expert by blogging about the resume writing industry and offering valuable tips tailored to your customers.

This builds trust and rapport with your audience, increasing sales and long-term client relationships.

Accessibility and Convenience:

A website ensures your services are accessible 24/7, allowing clients to explore your offerings conveniently. It enhances communication, enabling potential clients to reach out and inquire about your services easily.

Showcasing Your Portfolio:

Your website provides a platform to display your previous work and success stories, demonstrating the quality of your resume writing services and impressing potential clients.

Global Reach:

With an online presence, you can extend your reach beyond local boundaries. Your website attracts clients from various regions, expanding your business opportunities.

Building Brand Identity:

A professionally designed website reinforces your brand identity and portrays your resume writing business as credible and trustworthy.

In conclusion, having a website for your resume writing business increases your visibility and establishes you as an industry expert, leading to enhanced customer trust and potential business growth.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building an External Support Team for Your Resume Writing Business

An external support team of professionals consists of experts who provide valuable advice and services to your resume writing business.

These individuals are not on your payroll but can be engaged on a per-project, contract, or hourly basis.

While you might already collaborate with some of them, recognizing them as part of your team emphasizes their significance and opens doors for more members.

Creating a strong support team takes time, as it involves building professional relationships and finding reliable individuals you can count on.

Some key team members may include an accountant, a lawyer, a financial advisor, a marketing specialist, technical advisors, and consultants.

While having all team members in place from the start is not necessary, continuously working on expanding and strengthening your external support team will prove beneficial in the long run.

With a reliable team, you can seek their assistance whenever needed, ensuring smooth operations and growth for your resume writing business.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Staffing Considerations for Your Resume Writing Business

Handling all tasks yourself during the initial stages of your resume writing business can be cost-effective, considering payroll is a significant expense.

However, managing everything alone may become overwhelming as your business grows, leading to decreased efficiency.

Hiring employees or outsourcing services can greatly enhance productivity when you find the right people or partners.

Jobs Needed to Run a Resume Writing Business:

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your resume writing business grows and becomes successful:

• Professional Resume Writers: Expert writers to craft compelling resumes tailored to clients’ needs.
• Client Relations Specialist: A dedicated professional to handle client inquiries and provide exceptional customer service.
• Marketing and Social Media Manager: To promote your business, increase online presence, and attract potential clients.
• Administrative Assistant: To manage scheduling, appointments, and administrative tasks, freeing up your time for core activities.
• Website Designer/Developer: To maintain and enhance your website, ensuring a user-friendly and engaging online platform.
• Content Writer/Blogger: To create relevant and valuable content for your website and social media channels.
• Graphic Designer: To design eye-catching visuals and branding materials for your marketing efforts.

As your resume writing business flourishes, considering these roles will contribute to its success and continued growth.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Hours of operation:.

The hours of operation for a resume writing business can vary depending on the specific business model and target market.

However, here are some typical hours of operation to consider:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Many resume writing businesses operate during regular business hours on weekdays, as this aligns with clients’ work schedules and professional activities.
• Some resume writing businesses offer extended hours, such as staying open until 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM on select weekdays, to accommodate clients who work late or have busy schedules.
• Providing services on weekends can be beneficial for clients who are unable to schedule appointments during the workweek.
• Operating on an appointment-only basis allows flexibility in scheduling and ensures that the resume writing service can cater to clients’ specific needs.
• A resume writing business that operates virtually or online may have more flexible hours, as services can be provided remotely to clients in different time zones.

It’s essential to assess the needs of your target market and consider your business’s capacity and resources when determining the hours of operation for your resume writing business.

Being available when your clients are most likely to seek your services will enhance customer satisfaction and business success.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Resume Writing Business:

Equipment List for a Resume Writing Business

General Office Setup:

• Desk and Ergonomic Chair: Comfortable furniture to support prolonged work.
• Computer: Preferably a fast-processing laptop or desktop with adequate storage.
• Dual Monitors: For multitasking, such as viewing a resume on one screen and reference material or a template on the other.
• Keyboard and Mouse: Ergonomic models can prevent wrist strain during long hours.
• Printer and Scanner: For clients requiring hard copies or scanning handwritten notes.
• Shredder: To ensure confidential information is disposed of securely.
• Backup External Hard Drive or SSD: To ensure no data is lost.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): To prevent data loss during power outages.

Software and Digital Tools:

• Word Processing Software: Such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
• Resume Design Software: Tools like Canva for designing visually appealing resumes.
• Grammar and Spell Checker: Grammarly or similar tools to ensure error-free writing.
• Project Management Tools: Tools like Trello or Asana to manage client workflows.
• Time Management Apps: RescueTime or Toggl for tracking time spent on projects.
• Cloud Storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, or similar for storing and sharing documents.
• Video Conferencing Software: Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams for virtual client meetings.

Communication Tools:

• Business Phone Line or VoIP System: For clear client communication.
• Professional Headset: With noise-canceling features for virtual meetings or calls.

Miscellaneous Tools:

• Stationery: Including pens, paper, folders, highlighters, and notepads.
• Whiteboard or Corkboard: For brainstorming, outlining, or task tracking.
• File Cabinets: For organizing physical client data, if needed.
• Lockbox or Safe: For storing confidential information securely.

Branding and Marketing:

• Camera: For professional photos or creating promotional videos.
• Microphone: For podcasts, webinars, or high-quality voice recordings.

Remember, while this list provides a comprehensive view of potential equipment needs for a resume writing business, not every item may be necessary for all. Assessing what’s crucial for your specific operations and business scale is essential.

Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers for Your Resume Writing Business

A resume writing business thrives on its customer base, making attracting clients a crucial aspect of success. Initially, gaining visibility may be challenging as your business is new and relatively unknown.

However, building a solid reputation over time will make attracting customers easier, coupled with increased marketing experience.

Marketing your resume writing business is an ongoing effort. The more you invest in effective marketing techniques, the greater your potential for generating revenue.

While hiring a marketing agency or expert is an option, you can also take on the marketing responsibilities yourself.

Simplify your marketing approach by focusing on raising awareness about your business. Seize opportunities as they arise to promote your services and reach potential clients.

Consistent and strategic marketing efforts will help establish your brand and attract the right customers to your resume writing business.

See our article How To Get Customers Through the Door

Businesses for Referral Partnerships:

• Recruitment Agencies: They’re in direct contact with job seekers who might need a polished resume.
• Career Coaching Centers: While they guide on career paths, they can refer to the actual resume writing.
• Professional Training Institutes: Individuals upgrading their skills may also want to refresh their resumes.
• Local Colleges and Universities: New graduates are potential clients needing their first professional resume.
• Co-working Spaces : A hub for freelancers and professionals in between jobs or looking for new opportunities.
• Networking Groups: Organizations like BNI or local chambers of commerce.

Rewards for Partnerships:

• Offer a Referral Fee for each client referred.
• Provide Free Workshops at their premises about resume tips.
• Offer Discounts to their staff or members for resume writing services.

Marketing Offers

For New Customers:

• First-time Discount: Offer a percentage off for first-time clients.
• Bundle Deals: Combine resume writing with a cover letter service for a reduced price.
• Free Initial Consultation: Offer a 15-minute consultation to discuss their resume needs.

For Existing Customers:

• Loyalty Discounts: After the third order, offer a set percentage off.
• Referral Rewards: Give a discount if they refer a new client.
• Upgrade Offers: Reduced price for additional services like LinkedIn profile optimization.
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• “Outshine the Competition!” Get a Professionally Crafted Resume. Secure Your Interview Slot.
• “Unlock New Career Opportunities!” Elite Resume Services Tailored Just for You.
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Simple Marketing Ideas

• Local Workshops: Organize workshops in community centers on ‘Resume Building 101’.
• Social Media Presence: Regular posts, tips, and client testimonials on platforms like LinkedIn.
• Join and Engage in Online Groups: Like local job-seeking groups or professional forums.
• Collaborate with Bloggers: Write guest posts on career-focused blogs offering resume tips.
• Email Newsletters: Send out monthly newsletters with industry updates, tips, and special offers.

Explore More Marketing Strategies

Head to our marketing section for a comprehensive dive into marketing strategies tailored to your business.

From digital advertising techniques to grassroots community outreach, we cover a range of ideas that can help elevate awareness of your resume writing business.

Remember, the right marketing mix can significantly influence your business’s reach and success.

See our marketing section for articles that will provide ideas to bring awareness to your business.

Importance of Focusing on Your Skill Set for a Resume Writing Business

It’s crucial to assess if you possess the right skills to run a successful resume writing business. Evaluating your skill set allows you to understand your strengths and areas for improvement.

Adaptability and Learning:

If you lack a specific essential skill, you can learn it or hire someone with expertise in that area.

List of Essential Skills for a Resume Writing Business Owner:

• Writing Proficiency: Excellent writing skills to craft compelling and professional resumes.
• Communication Skills: Clear communication with clients to understand their needs and expectations.
• Industry Knowledge: Stay updated with current resume writing trends and best practices.
• Client Relationship Management: Building trust and rapport with clients for long-term partnerships.
• Time Management: Efficiently manage multiple resume projects and deadlines.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy and quality in resume content.
• Marketing and Promotion: Ability to promote your services and attract new clients.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with resume writing software and online platforms.

Developing and refining these essential skills will position you for success in your resume writing business.

Expert Tips

Expert Tips for Skill Improvement

For Seasoned Professionals: As an expert in the field, exploring expert tips can still prove valuable.

It may reveal more efficient approaches or shed light on alternative techniques. Continuous learning keeps you ahead and enhances your expertise.

For Novices: For novices, expert tips are a treasure trove of knowledge. Hundreds of tips are available to help you develop your skills and expand your knowledge.

Embrace the opportunity to learn and improve continuously.

See the latest search results for expert resume writing tips to gain tips and insights.

Valuable Resources for Your Resume Writing Business

This section will find essential resources that provide the latest and most popular information in the resume writing industry. These resources are beneficial during the startup phase and when your business is fully operational.

By utilizing these resources, you can better understand the industry and access valuable tips to enhance your resume writing business.

Trends and Statistics

Staying informed about industry trends and statistics offers significant advantages for a resume writing business.

It enables you to make informed decisions, adapt to changing demands, and identify potential opportunities for growth and improvement.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the resume writing industry.

Resume Writing Associations

Trade associations provide several benefits to a resume writing business, such as staying updated on industry news and accessing valuable networking opportunities.

These advantages become more evident during events organized by the associations.

See the search results related to resume writing associations.

Top Resume Writing Business

Analyzing established resume writing businesses provides valuable insights to identify gaps in the industry or areas of improvement for your business. It offers inspiration to implement new ideas and address overlooked aspects for enhanced success.

See the latest search results for the top resume writing businesses.

The Future of the Resume Writing Industry

Researching the industry’s future holds significant advantages for aspiring entrepreneurs starting a resume writing business.

It enables them to anticipate upcoming trends, understand evolving customer needs, and make informed decisions to create a successful and sustainable venture.

See the search results for the future of the resume writing industry.

Researching industry prices is vital for aspiring entrepreneurs starting a resume writing business.

It helps to determine competitive pricing strategies, understand market trends, and set prices that align with the value offered, ensuring profitability and attracting potential clients

See the latest resume writing prices.

Resume Writing Businesses for Sale

In the resume writing business, considering the pros and cons of buying an existing operation is essential.

Benefits of Buying an Established Resume Writing Business:

• Immediate Revenue Generation: You start earning from day one.
• Skip Startup Phase: Bypass the challenges of starting from scratch.
• Proven Success: The business model is already functioning effectively.
• Financial Clarity: You know the revenue, profit, and expenses.
• Existing Customer Base: A built-in clientele already exists.
• Established Reputation: The business has earned a positive reputation.

Disadvantages:

• Higher Cost: Acquiring goodwill can lead to higher upfront costs.
• Risk of Losing Customers: Implementing changes might lead to customer loss.
• Inherited Reputation: You acquire both good and bad aspects of the existing reputation.

While an exact match may not always be available, exploring existing businesses in the same industry can provide valuable insights.

Businesses for sale: See the latest results for a resume writing business and others related to this business model.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Resume Writing

Before starting your business, considering the pros and cons of purchasing a resume writing franchise is crucial. Exploring these opportunities may lead to valuable insights you hadn’t previously considered.

Pros of Buying a Resume Writing Franchise:

• Proven Business Model: Follow the corporate plan for a successful venture.
• Leveraging Brand Reputation: Benefit from existing franchise reputation and marketing efforts.
• Comprehensive Understanding: Access in-depth knowledge about the business before commitment.
• Corporate Support: Receive ongoing support from the franchise’s corporate office.
• High Costs: Initial investment in the franchise can be expensive.
• Limited Autonomy: Major changes require approval from the corporate office.
• Restricted Offerings: Limited to approved products and services.
• Adherence to Agreement: Business operations must align with the franchise agreement.
• Ongoing Fees: Paying ongoing franchise fees is mandatory.

Even if an exact resume writing franchise match is unavailable, exploring related franchises in the same industry can be beneficial.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

In the resume writing, knowledge is a powerful tool when applied effectively.

Numerous valuable industry resources can be found online.

Explore the provided links to access essential information for your research, startup phases, and full business operations. Utilizing this knowledge will enhance your business endeavors.

Customer Expectations

Analyzing search results for customer expectations in your resume writing business offers valuable insights from the customer’s perspective.

It allows you to meet their needs, exceed expectations, and identify potential areas of improvement for comprehensive customer satisfaction.

See the search results related to customer expectations for a resume writing business.

Resume Writing Business Insights

Examining tips and insights in the resume writing industry can spark great ideas and help avoid potential issues when operating your business.

It’s an excellent way to enhance your industry knowledge and stay informed about best practices and trends.

See the latest search results leading to resources about  Resume Writing Business Insights.

Resume Writing Publications

Publications are an effective method to stay informed about the latest information in the resume writing business.

They provide valuable insights, industry trends, and updates to keep you up-to-date and well-informed.

See the search results for Resume Writing publications.

Resume Writing Forums

Engaging in resume writing forums offers an opportunity to participate in relevant discussions and build industry relationships.

It lets you gain insights into customer perspectives, providing valuable information for business growth and improvement.

See the latest search results related to Resume Writing forums.

Courses offer an excellent opportunity to learn, enhance your skillset, and stay up-to-date with industry advancements in the most effective manner.

See the latest courses related to Resume Writing  and our management articles to provide insights and tips on managing Your business.

Resume Writing Blogs

Subscribing to resume writing blogs inspires and keeps you abreast of industry developments.

By subscribing to multiple blogs, you can filter and retain those providing value, curating a valuable collection of resources for a steady flow of useful information.

Look at the latest search results for resume writing blogs to follow.

Resume Writing News

Staying updated with the Resume Writing industry is easily accomplished through news sources.

Set up alerts for timely notifications on new media coverage and industry developments.

Watching videos about the resume writing industry provides valuable tips and insights.

Additionally, exploring related videos on YouTube expands perspectives and uncovers new topics that may not have been previously considered.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

• Videos related to starting a resume writing business can be found here.

Privacy Overview

How to Start a Profitable Resume Writing Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a resume writing business plan., 3. develop a resume writing brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for resume writing., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for resume writing services., 8. acquire resume writing equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for resume writing, if required., 10. begin marketing your resume writing services., 11. expand your resume writing business..

When embarking on a resume writing business, conducting a thorough market analysis is crucial. This process involves understanding the industry landscape, identifying potential clients, and analyzing competitors to tailor your services effectively. Here are key points to consider:

• Examine the current demand for resume writing services, focusing on specific sectors like tech, healthcare, or finance that may have a higher need for specialized services.
• Identify the target demographic, such as recent graduates, mid-career professionals, or executives, and understand their unique needs and preferences.
• Analyze competitors in the resume writing space by reviewing their service offerings, pricing structures, and customer reviews to identify gaps and opportunities for differentiation.
• Investigate market trends, such as the increasing importance of LinkedIn profiles or the use of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), to ensure that your services are up-to-date and relevant.
• Consider the potential for local versus global services, and decide if your business will operate online, offline, or through a combination of both.

Are resume writing businesses profitable?

Yes, resume writing businesses can be profitable. With the increased competition for jobs, many professionals are turning to professional resume writing services to create resumes that help them stand out from the competition. Revenue for these businesses comes from consultations, resume writing fees and commissions for additional services such as cover letters and job search assistance.

A resume writing business plan should outline your approach to assisting clients in achieving their career goals through professional and effective resumes. Highlighting your expertise in various industries can be a key differentiator. Consider these points:

• Service Offerings: Detail the range of services, from resume writing to LinkedIn profile optimization and career coaching.
• Target Market: Identify your ideal clients, such as recent graduates, career changers, or executives.
• Marketing Strategies: Develop a plan for reaching your target market through online marketing, networking, and partnerships.
• Pricing and Packages: Outline your pricing structure and any packages or bundled services you offer.
• Operational Details: Include information on your business structure, processes, and tools you'll use for service delivery.

How does a resume writing business make money?

A resume writing business makes money by charging clients a fee for their services. Clients typically include job seekers, recent graduates and those looking to make a career transition. The business may also offer additional services such as cover letter or LinkedIn profile building. An example of a target audience for an air duct cleaning business could be homeowners or commercial businesses in need of regular maintenance or emergency service. Homeowners may require this service more often due to the dust, pet hair and other allergens that can build up in the vents over time.

Building a recognizable and trusted brand is crucial in setting yourself apart in the competitive field of resume writing. Your brand should reflect your professionalism, expertise, and the unique value you offer to clients. Here are key points to consider when developing your resume writing brand:

• Identify Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Determine what makes your services distinct from competitors. It could be your industry expertise, proprietary writing methodology, or exceptional customer service.
• Choose a Memorable Name and Logo: Select a business name and design a logo that conveys your brand's essence and is easily recognizable, fostering brand recall.
• Define Your Brand Voice and Personality: Decide on a consistent tone and personality for all your communications, whether it's professional, approachable, or innovative, to resonate with your target audience.
• Develop a Professional Website: Create a website that showcases your services, testimonials, and samples of your work. Ensure it's user-friendly and reflects your brand's visual identity.
• Establish a Social Media Presence: Be active on platforms where your potential clients might spend their time. Use these channels to share valuable content and interact with your audience.

How to come up with a name for your resume writing business?

Coming up with a name for your resume writing business can be challenging. Consider the services you offer and pick a name that accurately reflects that. Additionally, ensure it is memorable and easy to say. Finally, research to make sure the domain name and social media accounts are available. An ideal name for a resume writing business could be something like “Career Crafting Solutions” or “Writing Your Way Ahead”.

Once you have a clear plan and strategy for your resume writing business, the next crucial step is to formalize your business registration. This legal step is essential to ensure your business operates within the law, allowing you to reap the benefits of a legitimate enterprise. Consider the following points to guide you through the registration process:

• Choose a business structure that suits your needs, such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or corporation, and understand the implications of each for taxes and liability.
• Register your business name with the appropriate state authorities, ensuring it's unique and not already in use.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan on hiring employees.
• Check local and state business licenses and permits that may be required to legally operate a resume writing service in your area.
• Consider the need for professional liability insurance to protect your business from potential legal action related to the services you provide.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore key resources designed for resume writing entrepreneurs, featuring comprehensive insights on market trends, operational best practices, and strategic advice for enhancing business growth:

• The National Resume Writers' Association (NRWA) : Offers ongoing education, certification, and networking opportunities for resume professionals. https://thenrwa.com
• Career Directors International (CDI) : Provides resume writing professionals with certifications, training programs, and industry research to stay ahead in the market. https://careerdirectors.com
• Resume Writing Academy (RWA) : Features advanced training and certification for resume writers aiming to enhance their craft and business success. https://resumewritingacademy.com
• Forbes Coaches Council Articles : Offers strategic business advice and valuable insights into the resume writing industry from leading coaches and consultants. https://www.forbes.com/coaches-council/
• ProBlogger : Provides content creation and marketing strategies that can be applied to developing engaging content for resume writing businesses. https://problogger.com

Starting a resume writing business involves not just skill and marketing, but also ensuring that you comply with all legal requirements. Acquiring the necessary licenses and permits is crucial to operate legitimately and avoid any legal complications. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this step:

• Research local business licensing requirements by contacting your city or county clerk's office or visiting their website. You may need a general business license to operate in your area.
• Verify if you need any specific permits related to home-based businesses if you plan to work from home. Zoning laws may apply.
• If your state requires it, register your business name and structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) with the state's business agency.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
• Check for any industry-specific certifications or licenses. While not typically required for resume writing, certifications from recognized organizations can enhance credibility.
• Keep in mind that requirements can vary widely depending on your location and the scope of your services, so it's important to conduct thorough research specific to your business.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a resume writing business?

The exact licenses and permits needed to run a resume writing business will vary depending on where your business is located. Generally, you'll need a business license from your local government, as well as any specific occupational licenses that may apply. Depending on the size and scope of your business, you may also be required to obtain certain state-level permits or certifications.

Starting a resume writing business requires effective financial management from the beginning. A dedicated business bank account helps keep your finances organized, and securing appropriate funding ensures you have the capital needed for initial expenses. Follow these steps to set up your banking and secure funds:

• Choose a Bank: Research banks to find one that offers favorable terms for small businesses, such as low fees, online banking, and good customer service.
• Open an Account: Prepare necessary documents, such as your business license, EIN, and incorporation papers, to open a business checking account.
• Understand Your Needs: Estimate your startup costs and ongoing expenses to determine how much funding you'll need to operate your business.
• Explore Funding Options: Consider various funding sources such as personal savings, small business loans, credit lines, or investments from family and friends.
• Prepare a Pitch: If seeking investors or loans, develop a strong business plan and pitch that outlines the potential of your resume writing business.
• Manage Cash Flow: Use your business account to track revenues and expenses, ensuring you maintain a positive cash flow for sustainable growth.

Establishing competitive and fair pricing for your resume writing services is crucial to your business success. It ensures you are adequately compensated for your expertise and effort while providing value to your clients. Here are some steps to set your pricing:

• Research Market Rates: Investigate what other resume writers are charging to get an idea of the going rates. Consider factors such as experience, location, and specialization.
• Cost-Based Pricing: Calculate your time, effort, and business costs to determine the minimum price you need to charge to make a profit.
• Value-Based Pricing: Evaluate the value you bring to your clients, such as your unique skills or success rate in helping clients secure interviews, and price accordingly.
• Package Deals: Offer different service packages (e.g., entry-level, professional, executive) at varied price points to cater to a broader range of clients.
• Optional Add-Ons: Consider additional services like cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, or interview coaching, which can be priced separately.
• Adjust as Needed: Regularly review and adjust your prices based on feedback, demand, and any changes in your service offerings or costs.

What does it cost to start a resume writing business?

Initiating a resume writing business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $4500 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your resume writing business.

Setting up a resume writing business requires not just skill and experience, but also the right equipment and supplies to deliver professional services. Ensuring you have the necessary tools at your disposal will help you create high-quality resumes that stand out in the job market. Here's what you need to get started:

• Computer: Invest in a reliable computer with enough processing power to run word processing software smoothly.
• Word Processing Software: Choose professional software like Microsoft Word or Adobe InDesign for writing and formatting resumes.
• Printer: A high-quality laser printer for printing hard copies of resumes on premium paper.
• Premium Paper: Stock up on high-grade, watermarked resume paper to make a good impression.
• Cloud Storage: Subscribe to cloud services for secure storage and easy access to your files from anywhere.
• Backup Solutions: External hard drives or a dedicated backup service to safeguard your work against data loss.
• Grammar and Spell Check Tools: Use tools like Grammarly to ensure error-free writing.
• Design Software: For creative resumes, software like Canva or Photoshop can be useful for graphic elements.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a resume writing business:

• Computer - $800
• Printer - $100
• Internet connection - $50/month
• Word processing software - $80
• Grammar and punctuation checker software - $40
• Resume template software - $80
• Basic accounting software - $50
• Photocopier or scanner/printer – $300
• Business cards – starting at $35 for 250 cards
• Website (optional) – approximately $500 for setup and hosting for one year.

Starting a resume writing business comes with the responsibility of protecting your enterprise against potential risks. Business insurance can provide the necessary coverage for unforeseen circumstances. Consider the following steps to ensure you're adequately covered:

• Research local and state regulations to determine if business insurance is mandatory for resume writing services in your area.
• Contact an insurance agent or broker who specializes in small businesses to discuss the types of insurance that would be most beneficial for a resume writing business. Common options include General Liability Insurance, Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions), and a Business Owner's Policy.
• Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rates and coverage options that fit your business needs and budget.
• Read policy terms carefully and make an informed decision on the coverage limits and deductibles that will best protect your resume writing business.
• Once you've selected a policy, ensure that you keep your insurance documents safely filed and easily accessible for future reference or in the event of a claim.
• Review and update your insurance coverage annually or when your business circumstances change, such as experiencing significant growth or offering new services.

Launching a successful resume writing business involves more than crafting impressive resumes; it requires effective marketing to attract clients. By utilizing a variety of strategies, you can increase your visibility and establish your brand as a go-to resource for professional resume assistance. Here are some essential marketing steps to get you started:

• Build an Online Presence: Create a professional website showcasing your services, testimonials, and portfolio. Utilize search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your site's visibility.
• Utilize Social Media: Engage with potential clients on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Share valuable content, resume tips, and success stories to grow your audience.
• Network: Join local business groups, attend career fairs, and participate in community events to network with potential clients and other professionals.
• Referral Program: Encourage satisfied customers to refer others by offering a discount or a complimentary service for each successful referral.
• Collaborate with Career Services: Partner with colleges, universities, and career centers to offer workshops or services to students and alumni.
• Content Marketing: Write blogs, create videos, or offer webinars that provide valuable resume advice, establishing your expertise in the field.
• Online Advertising: Consider using paid advertising on Google or social media platforms to target individuals seeking resume help.

Once you've established the foundation of your resume writing business, it's time to consider expansion. Growth can come through diversifying services, increasing market reach, and enhancing your brand's visibility. Take your business to the next level with these strategic steps:

• Build a Referral Network: Partner with career coaches, human resource professionals, and educational institutions to gain referrals. Offer incentives for clients who refer new customers.
• Diversify Your Services: Include cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, interview coaching, and career consulting to provide a full suite of career services.
• Invest in Marketing: Increase your online presence with targeted ads on social media and professional platforms. Consider content marketing by blogging on career-related topics to establish authority.
• Enhance Your Online Platform: Develop a user-friendly website with e-commerce capabilities for clients to purchase services directly. Implement SEO strategies to improve search engine rankings.
• Train Additional Writers: As demand grows, hire and train additional writers to maintain quality and turn-around time. Consider creating a certification program to standardize service quality.
• Offer Workshops and Webinars: Host educational events to share resume writing tips and career advice, positioning your brand as a thought leader in the industry.

Create Your Corporation

How to Start and Grow Your Own Resume Writing Business: The Ultimate Guide

Learn how to launch a profitable resume writing business. This ultimate guide provides a step-by-step plan to get started, find clients, set rates and grow your resume writing service.

So you want to start a resume writing business? It can be a rewarding career helping others land their dream jobs. However, it does take work to build up a successful resume writing service. You'll need to develop expertise in crafting compelling and results-driven resumes, build a portfolio of your work, market your services, and provide great customer service to keep clients coming back and referring others. If you have a knack for writing, an eye for detail, and a passion for helping people reach their career goals, starting a resume writing business could be the perfect path for you. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to launching your own resume writing service from the ground up.

The Resume Writing Market

The resume writing industry targets job seekers across all experience levels, from recent college graduates all the way up to senior executives. The market includes both local/independent resume writers as well as large national brands. Services range from basic resume writing for a few hundred dollars up to executive resume packages for $2,000 or more. While the advent of free resume templates and DIY resume tools has made it easier for some job seekers to write their own resumes, professional resume writers continue to thrive. Many people still prefer to hire an expert to craft a customized, compelling resume that will help them land interviews. Resume writing services are also popular with career changers who want help translating their experience for a new field. As a resume writer, you can focus on a particular niche like IT professionals, healthcare workers, or executives. You can also offer general resume writing services to job seekers across various roles and experience levels. The key is to establish your expertise and build a portfolio of success stories from happy clients who landed job offers with your help.

Your Resume Writing Service

As a resume writing business, your core product will be professionally written resumes customized for each client. However, you'll want to develop a unique angle to help your service stand out. For example, you could focus on a particular industry like tech or healthcare, or a specific job level such as executives. You might also establish yourself as a career coach and offer additional services like cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile makeovers, and interview prep. In terms of delivery, you'll interact with clients primarily through phone calls, video chats, and email. After an initial consultation to discuss the client's goals and experience, you'll draft a resume and cover letter for their review and feedback. You'll make any requested revisions until the client is 100% satisfied. You can then provide the final documents as digital files for the client to use and print as needed. To develop your resume writing skills, stay up-to-date with trends in resume formats and common sections. Study examples of effective resumes for various industries and job types. You'll also need to practice your craft by writing lots of sample resumes from different backgrounds. Get feedback from others in your network or join a professional organization like the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC) to help strengthen your expertise. With experience, you'll get better at eliciting the right information from clients and translating their work history into a compelling story.

Economics and Finances

The costs to operate a resume writing business are relatively low. Your primary expenses will be: •Marketing - This includes your website, business cards, advertising, and networking. You'll want to budget at least $500-$1,000 per month for marketing. •Education and Training - Invest in resources to strengthen your resume writing and career coaching skills. This may include books, online courses, conference fees, and membership dues. Plan on $500-$2,000 per year. •Business Licensing and Insurance - Requirements vary by state but may include a business license, liability insurance, and occupational licenses. Budget $500-$1,500 to get properly set up. •Office Supplies - This includes things like a computer, software, printer, paper, pens, and a phone. If working from home, costs will be minimal. If renting office space, budget at least $500-$1,000. In terms of pricing, charge at least $150-$500 for an entry-level resume and $500-$2,000 or more for an executive resume. Offer package deals that include a cover letter and LinkedIn profile. You can also charge by the hour for career coaching and consulting services at a rate of $100-$250 per hour. Many resume writers earn $50,000 per year or more. The key is building up your client base through effective marketing and word-of-mouth referrals. While it may take time to become profitable, a resume writing business can be a rewarding career where you get to help people achieve their career goals.

Marketing Your Resume Writing Business

To build a successful resume writing business, you need to actively market your services. Here are some of the top strategies to employ: •Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - Optimize your website to rank highly in search engines like Google for terms related to your location and services, such as "Atlanta resume writer" or "executive resume services." Focus on your page titles, content, and meta descriptions. •Social Media - Build a presence on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to raise awareness of your business. Post updates about your services, share tips for job seekers, and engage with your followers. Also network with local career coaches and recruiters. •Direct Outreach - Contact local career centers, colleges, recruiters, and HR managers to introduce your services. Offer to give presentations on resume best practices or provide brochures for them to share with clients and candidates. •Advertising - Run ads on Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn to increase visibility and drive traffic to your website. You can also advertise in local publications like newspapers, radio, career websites, and alumni magazines. •Networking - Join your local chamber of commerce and attend networking events. Introduce yourself to other business owners and hand out your business cards. Look for opportunities to build partnerships or cross-promote with related businesses like career coaches, staffing agencies, and outplacement firms. •Referral Programs - Offer discounts or free services for clients who refer new customers. This incentivizes people to spread the word about your business to their friends, family, and colleagues. •Direct Mail - Send brochures, postcards, and letters to promote your services to local job seekers. Target neighborhoods with a high concentration of your desired clients. Offer a first-time discount to encourage people to try your services.

Sales Strategies and Processes

To sell your resume writing services, you need to convince clients of your value and expertise. Here are some effective sales strategies: •Free initial consultation - Offer a free 30-minute phone call to discuss the client's needs and goals. This allows you to build rapport, assess if you can help them, and provide an overview of your services and fees. About 50-70% of prospects who do an initial call will end up hiring you. •Share your success stories - On your website, in your marketing materials, and during the initial call, provide examples of clients you have helped land new jobs. Discuss the challenges they faced and how you were able to craft a resume that led to interviews and job offers. •Discuss your experience and credentials - Highlight your experience as a resume writer and career coach. Mention any certifications or credentials you have earned. Clients want to know they are working with an expert. •Offer a money-back guarantee - To ease any concerns about the investment, offer a guarantee that if a client is not 100% satisfied with your services or does not land more interviews within a certain timeframe, you will refund their money or provide additional services at no cost. The guarantee shows your confidence in your abilities. •Provide options at different price points - Have clearly outlined packages at various price levels so clients can choose what is most appropriate for their needs and budget. Offer add-on services to provide more value. •Close the sale - Once you have provided the information about your services, ask the client if they would like to move forward with your help in revising their resume. Mention any current discounts or promotions you are offering. Be prepared to discuss packages and pricing in more detail so you can finalize the sale. •Collect testimonials - Ask happy clients to provide a written testimonial about their experience working with you. Feature these testimonials prominently on your website and in other marketing materials. New clients will see the positive experiences others have had with your services.

Operations and Execution

To execute a successful resume writing business, you need efficient processes and systems in place. Here are some key areas of operations to focus on: •Client Onboarding - Have a standard process for onboarding new clients including a checklist of information to gather about their work history, education, skills, and career goals. Use an intake form to collect all details upfront before the initial consultation call. •Project Management - Set clear timelines for each step of the resume writing process and communicate these timeframes to your clients. Have a system to keep track of all ongoing projects so you meet every deadline. Let clients know if there are any delays as soon as possible. •Quality Control - Develop a checklist or rubric to evaluate each resume draft before sending to a client. Check for any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Ensure all sections are in the proper order and format. Get feedback from a colleague or mentor if possible. •Revisions - Have a policy in place for how many rounds of revisions are included for each service package. Be very clear in communicating the revision policy to clients before they purchase. Handle all requested revisions promptly and efficiently within the allowed timeframe. •Payments and Billing - Accept payments through a variety of options including credit cards, bank transfers, and checks. Send invoices for any services in advance with clear payment terms. Follow up on any late or past due invoices to avoid issues with client accounts. •Reviews and Referrals - Ask happy clients to leave reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, and Yelp to build social proof and trust. Make it easy for clients to refer friends and colleagues by providing referral cards or setting up an automated referral program. •Continuous Improvement - Regularly solicit feedback from clients about your services to determine areas of improvement. Stay up-to-date with trends in resume writing and career coaching. Pursue ongoing education and training to strengthen your skills. Refine your processes and offerings over time based on client feedback and lessons learned.

Legal Considerations

Before launching your resume writing business, research the legal requirements to operate in your city and state. You will likely need a business license or permit to run a business from home or a commercial office space. Check with your local government office for details on obtaining proper licensing and zoning requirements. You should also consider professional liability insurance to protect yourself in the event of any errors or omissions. While less likely in a resume writing business, liability insurance provides coverage for legal defense and settlement costs. Some states require resume writers and career coaches to obtain an occupational license or certification. The Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC) offers a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) credential. Requirements vary but usually involve passing an exam, having a certain amount of experience, and agreeing to abide by a code of ethics. Stay up-to-date with laws around data privacy, consumer protection, and employment. For example, be very careful not to collect or share private client details without proper consent. You must also avoid making any false claims or misleading statements about your services in your marketing materials. When in doubt, check with legal counsel regarding any regulations that apply to your resume writing business. It is best to be fully informed of your legal responsibilities to avoid potential issues down the road. With the proper licenses, insurance, and certifications in place, you will have peace of mind in knowing your business meets important compliance standards.

Launch Your Own Resume Writing Business

Starting a resume writing business can be an incredibly rewarding career choice if you have a passion for helping people achieve their career goals. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can establish yourself as an expert resume writer, build a portfolio of happy clients, and grow a successful business. Market your services, focus on quality and customer service, streamline your operations, and keep up with all legal requirements. With hard work and dedication, you can turn your skills and experience into a thriving resume writing practice.

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When You Write

Starting A Resume Writing Business: Tips And Tricks

Are you tired of your current job and looking for a way to break into the world of entrepreneurship? Starting a resume writing business may be just the opportunity you need to showcase your writing skills and help job seekers land their dream careers.

With the job market becoming more competitive, there is a growing need for professional resume writers who can create compelling resumes that stand out from the crowd. Starting a resume writing business can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and tools, you can turn your passion for writing into a successful business venture.

This article will provide you with tips and tricks to help you start your own resume-writing business, including conducting market research, building your brand, developing your services, establishing your business operations, and marketing your services.

By following these steps, you can create a thriving business that helps job seekers achieve their career goals while fulfilling your own entrepreneurial dreams.

Key Takeaways

• Conduct thorough market research to identify your ideal clients, their needs, and your competition to differentiate your business.
• Develop a professional website and strong social media presence to showcase your skills and expertise, and reach potential clients.
• Establish a unique selling proposition that sets you apart from competitors and diversify your services to meet the needs of different job seekers.
• Ensure legal requirements are met, contracts and agreements are in place, and necessary resources are established to deliver high-quality services.

Conduct Market Research

You’ll want to conduct some market research to figure out who your ideal clients are and what they’re looking for in a resume-writing service.

Start by identifying your competition and analyzing what services they offer. This will help you differentiate your business and offer unique services that your target audience is looking for.

Next, conduct a target audience analysis. Determine who your ideal clients are based on factors such as industry, job level, and location. This will help you tailor your services to meet their specific needs and create a marketing strategy that resonates with them.

By conducting thorough market research, you’ll be able to position your resume-writing business for success and stand out in a crowded market.

Build Your Brand

To build your brand in the resume writing business, you need to focus on three key points.

First, you must develop a professional website that showcases your services and expertise.

Second, you need to create a strong social media presence to reach potential clients and establish credibility.

Finally, you should establish a unique selling proposition that sets you apart from competitors and highlights the value you can offer to clients.

By following these steps, you can establish a strong brand that attracts clients and helps you grow your business.

Develop a Professional Website

Developing a professional website is crucial for your resume-writing business in today’s digital age. It serves as your online presence and a platform for potential clients to learn about your services and expertise.

Your website should be well-designed and easy to navigate, with clear information about your services, pricing, and contact details. It’s also important to optimize it for search engines by using relevant keywords and meta tags.

In addition to providing information about your services, your website should also showcase your skills and expertise as a resume writer. This can be done through blog posts, case studies, and testimonials from satisfied clients.

By creating a website that is informative and engaging, you can attract more clients and establish yourself as a trusted expert in the field of resume writing. Remember, your website is often the first impression potential clients will have of your business, so it’s important to make it a good one.

Create a Strong Social Media Presence

If you’re not leveraging social media, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity to grow your resume writing brand and connect with potential clients. With billions of active users across various platforms, social media is an effective tool to reach a wider audience and establish your online presence.

However, it’s not enough to simply create accounts on all platforms and post sporadically. To make the most out of social media, you need to create engaging content that resonates with your target market and builds trust with your brand.

One way to create engaging content is to share valuable tips and insights related to resume writing, job hunting, and career development. You can also showcase your expertise by sharing the success stories of your clients and providing testimonials.

Additionally, consider partnering with influencers in your industry to reach a wider audience and build credibility. By creating valuable content and building relationships with your audience, you can establish a strong social media presence that drives traffic to your website and generates leads for your resume-writing business.

Establish a Unique Selling Proposition

You wanna stand out from the competition and make a lasting impression on potential clients. That’s why establishing a unique selling proposition is crucial for your resume writing brand.

Your target audience wants to know what makes you different from other resume writers and why they should choose your services. A unique selling proposition is a statement that sets you apart from others in the industry and highlights your competitive advantage.

To create a unique selling proposition, you must first identify your target audience and what they’re looking for in a resume writer. Then, you can focus on your competitive advantage, whether it’s your experience, expertise, or a unique approach to resume writing.

Make sure your unique selling proposition is clear and concise, and use it consistently in your marketing efforts to build brand recognition and attract potential clients.

By establishing a unique selling proposition, you can differentiate yourself from the competition and position yourself as a top choice for those seeking resume writing services.

Develop Your Services

To expand your resume writing business, you need to diversify your services to meet the needs of different job seekers. This can help you attract more customers and increase your revenue. Here are some ways to develop your services:

• Offer customized packages based on the target audience. For example, you can create packages for new graduates, mid-level professionals, or executives. Each package can include a different set of services that cater to the specific needs of the target audience.
• Provide additional services such as cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, or interview coaching. These services can complement your resume writing service and provide a complete job search solution for your customers.
• Offer different pricing options to suit different budgets. You can create basic, standard, and premium packages with different price points and services included.
• Provide rush services for customers who need their resumes done quickly. You can charge an extra fee for this service and prioritize these orders to ensure they are completed on time.
• Partner with recruitment agencies, career coaches, or job search websites to offer your services as part of their job search packages. This can help you reach a wider audience and increase your brand visibility.

By diversifying your services, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and offer a complete job search solution for your customers. This can help you attract more customers and increase your revenue.

Establish Your Business Operations

Establishing your business operations requires careful planning and execution, ensuring that you have the necessary resources, processes, and systems in place to deliver high-quality services and achieve your business goals. One important aspect to consider is outsourcing tasks that are not within your expertise or require too much time and effort. This can include administrative tasks, marketing, or even parts of the resume writing process.

Outsourcing can help you save time and focus on your core competencies while also ensuring that you deliver exceptional services to your clients.

Another crucial consideration when establishing your business operations is understanding the legal requirements for a resume-writing business. This can include obtaining necessary licenses and permits, registering your business, and complying with tax regulations.

It’s also essential to have contracts and agreements in place to protect both you and your clients. This can include confidentiality agreements, service agreements, and payment terms.

By taking the time to establish your business operations properly, you can set yourself up for success and provide outstanding services to your clients.

Market Your Services

Now that you’ve established your resume-writing business, it’s time to get the word out and start attracting clients.

Developing a marketing strategy is crucial for reaching your target audience and standing out from competitors.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking opportunities, such as attending industry events or joining professional organizations.

Offering promotions and discounts can also be an effective way to attract new clients and incentivize repeat business.

With these key points in mind, you can create a successful marketing campaign for your resume writing services.

Develop a Marketing Strategy

Creating a killer marketing plan is the key to getting your resume writing business noticed and skyrocketing to success. With so many businesses vying for the attention of potential customers, it’s essential to develop a strategy that will set you apart from the competition.

Digital advertising is a great way to reach a large audience quickly, and email marketing can help you build a more personal connection with your clients. To create a successful marketing plan, start by identifying your target audience and their needs.

What are their pain points when it comes to job searching, and how can you position your services as the solution? Once you’ve identified your target audience, you can start to develop a messaging strategy that will resonate with them. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with potential clients and share valuable job search advice.

Consider partnering with local businesses or professional organizations to offer workshops or webinars on resume writing and job searching. With a little creativity and effort, you can develop a marketing strategy that will help you grow your business and stand out in a crowded market.

Leverage Networking Opportunities

Networking is crucial for growing a successful resume-writing venture, so don’t underestimate the power of attending industry events and connecting with other professionals in your field. By attending events, you can meet potential clients and collaborators, learn about industry trends and best practices, and gain valuable advice from experienced professionals.

Make sure to bring business cards and a confident attitude, and don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with people you don’t know. You never know who you might meet and how they could help your business grow.

Collaborating with peers is another fantastic way to expand your business and enhance your skills. By working with other professionals in your field, you can learn new techniques and strategies, share resources and knowledge, and gain exposure to new clients and markets.

Consider joining professional organizations or online groups where you can connect with like-minded individuals and build long-term relationships. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other resume writers and offer to collaborate on projects or refer clients to each other.

By working together, you can create a stronger, more innovative industry and take your resume-writing business to new heights.

Offer Promotions and Discounts

If you want to boost your sales and attract more customers, consider offering promotions and discounts. This strategy is commonly used by some of the biggest companies in the world, and it can work wonders for your resume-writing business.

Collaborating with competitors can also be a great way to offer more value to your customers. You can team up with other resume writers or career coaches to offer joint promotions, bundle packages, or referral discounts. This can help you reach a wider audience and create a sense of community around your business.

Another effective way to use promotions and discounts is by rewarding loyal customers. You can offer special discounts or free services to clients who have worked with you before or referred new customers to your business. This can help you build a strong relationship with your customers and encourage them to keep coming back.

When you offer promotions and discounts, make sure you communicate them clearly on your website, social media, and other marketing channels. This will help you attract new customers and increase your sales while retaining your existing ones.

Remember, starting a business isn’t easy. It requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to take risks. However, by following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success.

So go ahead and take the first step towards your dream by putting these strategies into action.

Also, keep in mind that success is not just about making money, but also about helping others achieve their career aspirations. By providing exceptional services, you can make a positive impact on people’s lives and build a loyal customer base.

So go ahead and take the leap into the world of entrepreneurship, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey!

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How To Start A Resume Writing Business

• Last Updated: December 7, 2023
• By: Greg Bouhl

Advertising Disclosure

Less than a minute. That is the average time a recruiter spends looking at a resume! According to a report by Zippia, an average of 250 applicants will apply for a corporate job opening, 4 – 6 candidates will get through to the interview based on their resume, and one person will get the job. 1

It’s no surprise then that many job seekers employ the services of a resume writer to make that first great impression and catch a potential employer’s attention.

If you enjoy writing, careers, and working one-on-one with clients, starting a resume writing business may be a great business opportunity. With the job market more competitive than ever, there is growing demand for professional resume writers to help job seekers stand out. This guide will provide an introduction to the resume writing industry and actionable steps to get your own resume business up and running.

Business Overview

A resume writing business primarily involves creating, editing, and polishing clients’ resumes and cover letters to increase their marketability. They might also develop or extend online profiles on LinkedIn or other relevant networks for their clients.

A resume writer ensures the applicant’s information is presented in a clear and appealing format, with concise wording that is appropriate for the industry and highlights the competence and achievements of the applicant.

You don’t necessarily need a degree to be a resume writer, but having a background in human resources (HR) and/or understanding the requirements and practices of a specific industry will definitely be a plus. You can also add to your credentials by attaining a resume writing certification.

Owning a resume service gives you the freedom and flexibility to work for yourself and develop your brand and services. Plus, being a resume writer can be a hugely rewarding job, especially when that winning resume you prepared was successful and led to a job offer for your client.

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Industry Summary

The resume writing industry is part of the larger career counseling and employment services industry. The demand for these services has been bolstered by a consistently competitive job market, frequent career transitions, and the increasing complexity of job applications. Moreover, with the rise of remote work and digital platforms, the potential market for resume writing services is no longer limited to your local area but extends globally.

This industry is inexpensive to start and has low barriers to entry, but that makes it a highly competitive environment. To stay competitive, being on top of the rapidly evolving trends is important. For instance, the rise of AI and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) in recruitment has made keyword optimization a critical aspect of resume writing. Also, the growing popularity of LinkedIn has led to an increased demand for professional LinkedIn profile writing and optimization services. As a business owner, staying updated with these trends will be crucial to maintaining a competitive edge.

Steps To Start A Resume Writing Business

Step 1:  write your business plan.

When setting up a resume writing business, many entrepreneurs might think of a business plan as just a document for securing funding. However, a business plan is much more than that. It’s a roadmap guiding you through each stage of starting and managing your business so you are starting with a solid foundation. Let’s explore a few reasons why writing a business plan should be the first step.

One of the tasks in a business plan is to research your market. The resume writing market is vast and varied, and the business plan helps you identify your specific target customer base. Are you catering to fresh graduates, mid-career professionals, or executives? Each group has distinct needs and expectations from a resume writing service.

In the business plan, you will also define the services you’ll provide and the pricing for each. This may include resume writing, editing, career coaching, and credential assessment packages. By defining these services and their cost, you establish consistent service offerings that clients can depend on. Also, outlining your services gives you the opportunity to think strategically about the value you provide, making it easier to pitch your offerings to potential clients.

Another reason the business plan is important is that it helps you break down the expected startup costs, including licensing, software, website development, and marketing expenses. Then, you will take a look at the financial projections to calculate the expected operating expenses and potential revenue. This will give insights like how many clients you need to break even and whether your resume writing service is worth your time and investment.

Related:   How to write a business plan

Step 2:  Register the Business

The next step in starting your resume writing service is to sort out a few of the legal formalities. Each state has its own rules, but here are some things to take care of.

Choose your business structure: There are four main types of business structures, each with its own pros and cons.

• Sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure. It’s quick and cheap to set up. It also means you, the business owner, are 100% responsible for all business liabilities.
• General partnership is similar to a sole proprietorship, except there are two or more owners. These owners share in the profits and are responsible for the business’s debts.
• Corporation is a more complex structure. It’s an independent entity owned by shareholder(s), which means the business itself, not the shareholders, is responsible for the business’s liabilities.
• Limited Liability Company , or LLC, combines elements of a corporation and sole proprietorship. It offers liability protection to the owners, as a corporation does, but is easier to set up and provides potential tax savings.

For independent resume writers, sole proprietorship might make the most sense because it’s easy to start and cost-effective.

Related: Comparison of business structures

Forming an LLC sounds complicated and expensive, but using an entity formation service guides you through the process so you know it was done right.

Some popular LLC formation services include:

IncFile  - $0 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

ZenBusiness  - Best for beginners. $0 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

Northwest  - Best privacy protection. $39 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

Business name registration: After registering the business structure, you may need to register your business name. This process will vary depending on what business structure you pick. Sole proprietors and partnerships will often be required to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA), while corporations and LLCs register with the state during the formation process.

During this time, it’s also a good idea to check if the name you want is available as a web domain, even if you’re not ready to set up a website yet.

Related: Finding a domain name for your business

Obtain business licenses and permits: Make sure you have all the licenses and permits you need. Every state has its own requirements, so you’ll need to do your own research. While there is no license specifically for a resume writing business, there may be general business registrations, such as a local business license and seller’s permit.

In addition to business licensing, there is certification to help build the credibility of a new resume writing service. One is the Certified Professional Resume Writer certification through the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. 2

Last, if you plan to work from a home office, check the local zoning regulations, homeowner’s association, or landlord requirements. Some places have rules about running a business from a residential property, and you might need to get permission or a permit, especially if clients will be coming to your home.

Related:  What licenses do resume writing businesses need ?

Step 3:  Set Up Operations

In this next step, we start setting up the operations of the business. A few of the basics to consider:

Decide on a workspace: You can choose to work from home or rent an office space or coworking space. Working from home is a more cost-effective option, while renting an office or coworking space can provide a dedicated, professional environment for client meetings. Most resume writing businesses operate online, eliminating the need for a physical office, especially when starting out.

Set up your office: Whether you’re working from home or in a rented office, ensure your workspace is conducive to productivity. You’ll need a computer, reliable internet, and a quiet space to work.

Invest in equipment and software: Your resume writing business will need a reliable computer and high-speed internet. Consider also a good printer, scanner, and software for resume design and word processing.

Create a structured workflow : Develop a system for managing clients, tracking progress, and delivering final products. This may include using project management tools, invoicing software, and document storage solutions to keep everything organized.

Step 4:  Create a Marketing Strategy

When starting a new resume writing business, the real work begins when it’s time to market the business and let people know about your services. The first task in this process is getting set up online. A professional-looking website serves as the digital storefront for your business, showcasing your services, portfolio, and customer testimonials. There are plenty of free DIY website builders like WordPress and Wix that look nice, you may want to invest in a website designer to make your online presence look more polished and credible.

In addition to your website, an online presence extends to social media platforms and professional networks like LinkedIn. Regularly posting relevant content and engaging with your audience on these platforms can increase your visibility, helping you reach potential clients who might not have found you otherwise.

While a strong online presence is essential, it’s equally important not to overlook the power of face-to-face networking. Career counselors, recruiters, and HR professionals often encounter individuals needing resume writing services and can direct them to your business. Furthermore, active networking within local professional associations, chamber events, and job fairs can raise awareness of your business in your local community. Participating in these events gives you the opportunity to meet potential clients, learn about their needs, and position your business as a solution.

Step 5:  Prepare to Launch!

After navigating through the core initial steps of planning, registering, and marketing your resume writing service, there are some other elements to address before launching. These will vary on your needs, but here are a few common ones to look at:

Business insurance: Insurance may be important depending on the nature of your work and location. Some of the insurance policy options to consider are professional liability insurance, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. Professional liability insurance can cover you if a client claims that your services caused them financial harm, while general liability insurance can protect your business from lawsuits related to property damage, bodily injury, or advertising injury. Workers’ compensation insurance can provide benefits to your employees if they get injured or sick while on the job.

Setting up bookkeeping: Proper accounting is needed for managing daily transactions, taxes, and financial statements. You might consider hiring a bookkeeper or using accounting software like Wave Accounting (FREE) or Quickbooks to stay on top of things.

Contracts: Some contracts might be client service agreements (outlining the terms of your services), confidentiality agreements (to protect sensitive client information), and independent contractor agreements (if you plan to hire other writers). These contracts help set clear expectations and safeguard your business interests.   RocketLawyer and Law Depot have free and inexpensive templates that may be helpful.

Opening a business bank account: A separate business bank account helps keep your personal and business finances distinct, making it easier to manage your cash flow and taxes.

Common Questions When Starting A Resume Writing Business

How much does it cost to start a resume writing business.

Starting a resume writing business can be a cost-effective business opportunity, with total initial costs estimated to range from $1,000 to $4,000. Here, we’ll break down some of the main costs.

Office setup: If your plan is to work from home, your main cost might be some reliable office equipment. A decent computer might set you back about $1,000 if you don’t already have one. And let’s add another $200 for a printer, phone, and other minor office supplies. If you choose to rent office space, your cost will vary substantially based on location and size. Let’s say, a deposit and outfitting the space might range from $2,000 or more.

Software: You may need certain software programs to get started. Word processing software and resume templates could cost up to $200, but you can get started with Google Docs for free.

Business registration : The costs associated with legal and licensing fees when starting a resume writing service can range from $50 to $500. This includes registering your business name and obtaining necessary licenses and permits.

Insurance : Business insurance costs can vary based on the coverage you need, but a basic policy can start around $500 per year.

Marketing : Initial marketing costs can include website setup, social media advertising, and attending networking events. These costs can range from $200 to $1,000

Certifications: Optional, but joining a professional body and earning certifications can boost credibility. You might spend between $350 – $500 in this area.

How profitable is a resume writing business?

The profitability of a resume writing business can vary significantly based on factors such as the pricing of services, the volume of clients, and operational costs. To estimate potential profits, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario.

Assuming the business charges an average of $200 per resume and manages to secure 10 clients per month, the monthly revenue would be $2,000 (10 clients x $200 each). If the business expands its services to include cover letters, LinkedIn profile optimization, and career coaching, the average revenue per client could increase. Let’s assume an additional $100 per client for these services, bringing the total average revenue per client to $300. With the same volume of 10 clients per month, this would result in a monthly revenue of $3,000 (10 clients x $300 each).

In terms of expenses, a resume writing business typically incurs costs such as marketing, software subscriptions, insurance, and miscellaneous office expenses. If we assume monthly expenses are around $500 for marketing (including website maintenance, social media advertising, and other promotional activities), $100 for software subscriptions (like resume design tools and office software), $100 for insurance, and $100 for miscellaneous expenses (stationery, utilities, etc.), the total monthly expenses would be $800.

Therefore, the estimated monthly profit would be the revenue minus the expenses. With a monthly revenue of $3,000 and expenses of $800, the profit would be $2,200 per month ($3,000 – $800). Annually, this translates to a profit of $26,400 ($2,200 x 12 months).

It’s important to note that these numbers are based on assumptions and can vary widely in real-world scenarios.

What is the NAICS code for a resume writing business?

The NAICS code for a resume writing business is 561410, which is classified as Document Preparation Services. Related businesses in this NAICS code include; desktop publishing, proofreading services, transcription services, and others.

The NAICS code (North American Industry Classification System) is a federal system to classify different types of businesses for the collection and reporting of statistical data.

Related: What is a NAICS code and how to find yours

• Zippia ↩︎
• Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches ↩︎

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RESUME WRITING BUSINESS

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How to Start a Resume Writing Business (Services)

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In case you are wondering how to start a resume writing business if you are a complete beginner, this article is for you.

Most professionals are good at what they do. The challenge emerges when it comes to selling themselves on paper.

The good thing is that you actually don’t need to be a pro writer to run this kind of business.You, however, need to be good at analyzing people, jobs, employers, and situations, or be able to hire someone who can.

Benefits of Starting a Resume Writing Business

• No significant start-up costs. To start a resume writing business, you just need a professional website.
• Writing Professional resumes is a skill that can be easily acquired. By taking the time to read successful resumes online, you will get to know what works and what doesn’t.
• It’s an online business that you can run from home. You are therefore not limited to whom and how you work with. Simply integrate a payment processing surface such as Send Owl to your website and start collecting payments for your services. Through email, messaging and VoIP or video-calls, you can run your business anywhere in the world.
• You can run your business part-time or full-time
• No formal training is necessary, although a background in human relations or recruiting is quite a plus.

What happens during a typical day at a resume writing business?

As a resume business owner, your day to day activities will revolve around:

• Writing resumes from scratch Conduct interviews with job candidates over the phone or in-person
• Editing resumes and interview correspondence
• Researching new recruiting trends
• Updating your website and social media presence
• Outsourcing some aspects of your resume writing business such as web designing and digital marketing
• Adapting resumes to particular market trends
• Content marketing to acquire new clients
• Analyzing competition and improving accordingly
• Overseeing general production aspects with aid of your team
• Guest posting on other websites as a way to market your brand and land new clients
• Writing case studies and success stories
• Collecting and beautifully displaying relevant testimonials

What is the average salary for a certified resume writer?

Rates in this niche vary widely based on the complexity of the resume, expertise of the client, and the industry. A standard resume to land a specialty job at an established company is around $150 to $300 while a resume for an executive professional role at Fortune 5000 company can be somewhere above $500.

In a year, it’s therefore possible to earn around $38,000 just for writing resumes if you are a certified freelance resume writer. You can however earn way more if you are running a complete full time resume writing service company .

Who usually hires in this field? (Your Customer Profile)

• Business executives wanting to improve their resumes
• Human resource groups
• Fresh graduates
• Individuals who are looking for new jobs/ jobs seekers
• Laid-off individuals looking for work

How to Grow Your Resume Writing Business

If you’ve been in business for a while, chances are majority of your clients will be as a result of referral. However, since you are just starting, you will need to do a bit of work in marketing your business. Below are some of the things you need to grow your resume business and land new resume clients:

Run workshops Teaching People How to Write Winning Resumes.

You run a resume writing firm. You’ve got some great insights that can position you as an expert in your field. By speaking in relevant workshops and empowering job seekers, you get seen, you get heard and you get noticed. Find relevant events happening around you and contact organizers to volunteer as a speaker or workshop facilitator.

Partner with learning institutions

Most universities and colleges are incorporating professional skills in addition to the normal academic skills to their programs. Resume writing is a very instrumental professional skill that students would be interested in learning. Most local universities don’t mind outsourcing career advice for their students and alumni.

Leverage the power of your referrals.

When people are satisfied with a service, they will spread a word to their acquaintances, family, and friends. This is a powerful way to gain more clients. To leverage this method, you need to leave your clients with that ‘wow’ impression. That does the magic, every time.

To encourage referrals and maintain steady contact with former clients, send personalized thank you notes to them when we are finished with their projects and consistently send a monthly e-newsletter that is segmented accordingly. This is a way to also upsell some of your other services such as group coaching and staff training

Have a Well-designed Website and Professional Web Presence

Your website is your powerful lead generation tool. Don’t go lazy on it. Most of the time when people are recommending you, they will direct their referrals to your website. If your website doesn’t stand up to the standards of your services, your prospects will safely assume that your services are not that good.

The first step is to grab a unique domain and hosting from our favorite web hosting company and then let our team design a professionally branded website to suit your needs at affordable fees.

Write a Book on Resume Writing/ Career Development

This is a good fit if you’re coming from Human Resource and recruiting background as you already have vast amounts of knowledge that you can compile into a great read.

By authoring a niche book, you will be positioning yourself as a writer and it will help build your brand quickly and a lot easier. Landing guest posting and speaking engagements will also be a lot easier when you have a relevant book under your name.

Blog about Resume Writing, Job Interviews and Career Advice on Resume Writing Business Website

Love it or hate it, content marketing is the future of advertising. Most successful SaaS companies invest heavily in writing stellar and most comprehensive articles that get noticed, both by search engines and readers. Your blog posts draw people into your website, have them subscribe to your email list so that you can follow up with your resume services.

Here are 27 Strategies to grow your email list fast

Join Professional Resume Associations

Joining a professional association is a great way to broaden your network and enhance your knowledge and expertise. Most of these associations have access to vast amounts of resources such as case studies, whitepapers, books and other collections.

Some of the renowned professional resume associations to help you build a thriving resume writing business include:

• Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches
• The National Resume Writers Association
• National Association of Executive Recruiters

These associations also offer resume writing certifications that make you a recognized resume writer

Invest Money Back in Online Advertising (Facebook ads and Google Ads)

To grow your business, you’ll need to spend money, and one way to do that right is by doing Facebook ads and Google AdWords. These types of ads are now costly than they used to, so finding an Ads expert can be a good bold move. If not, take time to learn Facebook advertising before investing large sums of money without conversions. Try several variations and find the ones that convert highly with low cost per click rates.

Create Viral Pins and Infographics to Circulate on Pinterest.

We can’t seem to have enough of this visual babe. Some of the best pins that can go viral and grow your resume writing business include the following titles:

• 177 Power Words to Jazz Up Your Resume
• 57 Sample Cover Letters to Inspire You
• 77 Places to Look for a job
• 53 Common Interview questions and how to respond to them

In Summary: 7 Proven Steps to Get Paid Writing Resumes and Running a Resume Writing Business

• Start a beautiful website and brand your business accordingly
• Do deep keywords research to find long-tail keywords about resumes that you can easily rank for
• Start a blog on Resume writing and publish exceptionally awesome posts
• Find local clients to start with and aim at collecting raving reviews
• Guest post on popular publications giving detailed tips on career development, CV and Resume writing as well as life at work /after college experiences
• Book your first clients, deliver pure gold and ask for testimonials
• Showcase your testimonials on your website and slowly expand your business

What are the ongoing expenses for a resume writing business?

Resume writing business doesn’t have much ongoing expenses.

Some of the most notable include computer maintenance, expansion incurrences, marketing expenses, salary if you have a team, personal salary (you should form a habit of paying yourself a fixed salary every month) refreshments for staff and clients, transport expenses, ongoing education in online building, outsourcing fees, etc.

How much profit can a resume writing business make?

Since your resume writing services business has low recurring expenses, most of your earnings will be pure profit. Most resume writing services have annual incomes that range from 50,000 to 200,000 Fortunately, most of the money you make will be pure profit.

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• March 28, 2024

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6 Things You Need To Start A Resume Writing Business

Post Highlight

For those with experience in human resources, recruiting, writing, and related professions, starting a resume writing business can be a wise career move.

Professional resume writers have the flexibility to determine their specific tasks, working hours, and location of work. Understanding how to start a resume writing business can assist position your new company for success in the future. In this post,

This article will explain what a resume writing business is, how to market and advertise it, and other pertinent issues that may be helpful to you. So if you are looking to open a small business on the side, resume writing is a great business idea.

Embarking on a journey to establish your own resume writing business requires careful planning and a keen understanding of the key elements that contribute to success. In this guide, we outline the six essential components you need to kickstart your resume writing venture.

From honing your skills to building a strong online presence, each step plays a crucial role in positioning your business for growth in the competitive job market landscape.

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Resumes are the first impression a job seeker makes on an interviewer. That one sheet of paper can make or break your career (it's an exaggeration but you get my point). A well-written resume can make you stand out from the crowd.

That's why designing a good resume is of utmost importance when you are going for a job interview or are applying for a job.

But now many have opened their eyes to the power of a well-written resume and therefore it's a wonderful business opportunity for anyone with good writing skills.

A resume writing business is a great idea for a small business that you can easily operate on the side. It doesn't require much; both in terms of resources and investment. This makes it an ideal venture for those who are skilled in writing and editing, especially if you have experience in drafting college paper essay , as these skills are directly transferable and highly valuable in the resume writing industry.

What exactly is a resume writing business?

A resume writing business is a service that helps job seekers in creating resumes that are formatted professionally, document their prior experiences, and highlight their relevant skills.

It is simpler for clients of a resume writing service to capture the hiring manager's attention and demonstrate on paper their vast qualifications for the position.

Businesses that write resumes frequently conduct in-person or online interviews with jobseekers  to learn more about their education, professional experience , skills, and credentials.

The candidate's pertinent experience will subsequently be included in a resume that is written by a professional resume writer. Businesses that specialize in resume writing may also offer other career services, such as cover letter writing or career counselling.

How much does it cost to start a resume writing business?

The majority of experienced resume writers advise aspiring authors to start out small by working from home. To begin providing services, all you need is a computer and a phone, but you also need a way to advertise that you are available for business. It can cost as little as $20 to purchase a domain name, put up a website, and create social media pages.

If you want to meet clients face-to-face without renting office space, you can do it at a coffee shop. Depending on your state, how much you earn, and how many hours you work, you might require a small business license.

If you decide to establish an office, you will need to budget for rent or lease expenses. Startup expenses could total as little as $50.

What are the ongoing expenses for a resume writing business?

Running a resume writing business involves various ongoing expenses to ensure smooth operations and deliver quality services. Here are some common ongoing expenses for a resume writing business:

Software and Tools:

• Word Processing Software: Subscription to professional word processing software for creating and formatting resumes.
• Grammar and Editing Tools: Investment in grammar-checking and editing tools to ensure the quality of written content.
• Design Software: If offering design services, investing in graphic design software for creating visually appealing resumes.

Website Maintenance:

• Domain Hosting: Regular expenses for hosting the business website domain.
• Website Design Updates: Costs associated with updating and maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly website.

Marketing and Advertising:

• Online Advertising: Budget for online advertising on platforms like Google Ads or social media to reach a wider audience.
• Printed Materials: Expenses for creating and printing brochures, business cards, and promotional materials.

Professional Memberships and Certifications:

• Industry Memberships: Membership fees for joining professional resume writing associations or groups.
• Certifications: Costs associated with obtaining certifications or attending workshops to stay updated on industry trends.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Coverage to protect against potential legal issues or claims related to the provided services.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software:

• CRM Subscription: Investing in CRM software to manage client relationships, communications, and project timelines.

Training and Development:

• Continuous Learning: Budget for attending training sessions, workshops, or online courses to enhance writing and industry-specific skills.

Networking Events:

• Event Fees: Expenses related to attending industry-specific conferences, seminars, or networking events.

Payment Processing Fees:

• Transaction Fees: Costs associated with payment processing when receiving payments from clients through credit cards or online payment platforms.

Office Supplies:

• Stationery: Regular purchase of office supplies, such as paper, ink, envelopes, and other materials.

Internet and Communication:

• Internet Charges: Monthly fees for internet services.
• Communication Tools: Costs related to phone and video conferencing tools for client consultations.
• Income Taxes: Setting aside funds for income taxes based on business earnings.

Contingency Fund:

• Emergency Fund: Setting aside a portion of revenue for unexpected expenses or emergencies.

It's essential for business owners to budget for these ongoing expenses to maintain the quality of services, stay competitive, and ensure the long-term success of the resume writing business.

Who is the target demographic?

Entrepreneurs in this industry are searching for clientele who are aware that employing a resume writer could mean the difference between months of unemployment and high-paying employment. Your clients will be sensible, long-term thinkers who see the need of making sound investments today for the future.

How does a resume writing service generate revenue?

A resume writing service generates revenue through various channels, offering a range of services to individuals seeking professional assistance in crafting effective resumes. Here are some key ways in which a resume writing service can generate revenu

Resume Writing Services:

• Entry-Level Resumes: Creating resumes for individuals entering the job market or switching careers at the entry level.
• Professional Resumes: Crafting resumes for mid-career professionals with several years of experience.
• Executive Resumes: Providing services for senior-level executives and top management positions.

Cover Letter Writing:

• Offering specialized services for writing cover letters tailored to specific job applications.

LinkedIn Profile Optimization:

• Optimizing LinkedIn profiles to enhance professional visibility and attract potential employers or business connections.

CV Writing:

• Providing curriculum vitae (CV) writing services for academic or international job applications.

Resume Editing and Proofreading:

• Offering editing and proofreading services for resumes to ensure grammatical accuracy and clarity.

Design Services:

• Providing visually appealing resume designs and layouts for clients who seek a creative presentation.

Career Coaching and Counseling :

• Offering career coaching sessions to guide clients in their job search, interview preparation, and overall career development.

Package Deals :

• Creating package deals that include a combination of services, such as resume writing, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile optimization.

Corporate Services:

• Extending services to corporate clients for bulk resume writing, especially during downsizing, restructuring, or recruitment phases.

Training and Workshops:

• Conducting resume writing workshops or training sessions for individuals or groups, either in-person or online.

Subscription Services:

• Offering subscription-based models for ongoing career support, including regular resume updates and consultations.

Affiliate Marketing:

• Partnering with job search platforms or career-related websites and earning a commission for referrals.

Job Search Assistance:

• Providing additional services such as job search strategy development, interview coaching, and networking guidance.

Resume Templates and Resources:

• Selling downloadable resume templates, guides, or e-books for individuals who prefer a do-it-yourself approach.

Add-On Services:

• Offering add-on services like rush delivery, priority services, or additional revisions for an extra fee.

Training Programs:

• Developing and selling online courses or training programs related to resume writing and career development.

How much can you charge customers?

Depending on who is providing the service, professional resume writing services might differ greatly. Those with very little experience and very cheap overhead may only charge $20 or less. Individuals with extensive understanding in a well-paying sector, however, can charge up to $1,000 for drafting a resume that includes personalised cover letters and thank-you cards.

How to promote and advertise a resume writing business

The key to promoting a resume service is demonstrating to candidates how you can profit from their employment. Create a user-friendly website that is routinely updated to advertise your services.

Pay-per-click advertising on Facebook groups for job searchers is something you might want to consider. Candidates should be informed quickly if a short-term investment now could earn them tens of thousands of dollars or more annually.

Describe how you attract the interest of even the most discerning decision makers. If you want to stay local, cold calling and print media may also be useful for spreading the news.

Expertise in Resume Writing:

The cornerstone of a successful resume writing business is a deep understanding of the intricacies of crafting compelling resumes. Develop expertise in tailoring resumes to different industries, highlighting key skills, and creating resumes that stand out in a crowd. Continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends will set you apart as a professional in the field.

Professional Certification:

Consider obtaining professional certifications in resume writing to enhance your credibility. Certifications from recognized organizations add a layer of trust for potential clients, assuring them that you adhere to industry standards and best practices.

Examples include certifications from the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC ) or the National Resume Writers' Association (NRWA).

So if you are looking to set up a small resume writing business for yourself, here are 6 important things you'll need to take care of first.

1. Writing Skills

This one's a pretty obvious tip. You are stepping into a writing business and you'll need to have a good command of the English language. You must know how to express a lot in just a few sentences.

At the heart of a successful resume writing business lies the ability to craft compelling narratives. A nuanced command of the English language, coupled with the skill to articulate information succinctly, is essential.

Apart from this, you'll have to learn how to write attractive sentences without any grammatical errors. Nothing can be worse in a resume than a grammatically incorrect sentence.

2. Good Interviewing Skills

You cannot fill a resume with false information. So to get all the right information from a client, you'll have to learn how to be a good interviewer.

Extracting pertinent information about a client's education, background, skills, experience, and other crucial details necessitates the ability to conduct effective interviews. Honing this skill ensures the authenticity of the content you present.

You'll have to extract out all the required information such as education, background, skills, experience, abilities, hobbies, etc.

3. Designing

A well-designed resume can significantly enhance its effectiveness. Consider acquiring basic design skills to create visually appealing and professional resumes.

Alternatively, collaborating with a designer can elevate the visual aesthetics of your resumes, adding a unique selling point to your services.

A good resume has to have a beautiful and simple design. And here you'll have to decide whether you want to take some time off and learn a bit of designing or team up with a designer and share the profit.

Designs are an extremely intricate part of a resume and this tip can potentially help your business expand.

4. Develop a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is the foundation of any successful venture. Outline your business ideas, vision, target market, and marketing strategies. A comprehensive business plan serves as a roadmap, guiding your efforts and decisions. Regularly revisit and update your plan to align with evolving business needs.

5. Website/ Social Media

Establishing an online presence is non-negotiable in the digital age. Develop a professional website showcasing your resume designs or leverage social media platforms like Instagram. An online catalog allows potential clients to review your work, fostering transparency and accessibility. Consider creating a LinkedIn profile to connect with professionals seeking your services.

6. Marketing Tool

Marketing is essential to reach your target audience. Utilize various tools, such as social media platforms, LinkedIn profiles, email marketing, brochures, and online advertising.

Craft a compelling brand narrative, highlighting the unique value your resume writing business brings. Consistent and strategic marketing efforts are key to expanding your clientele.

Best Resume Writing Service providers

1. harmon resume .

Website:  Harmon Resume

Harmont Resume is a resume writing service that specializes in helping people of all levels of experience land their dream jobs. They offer a variety of services, including resume writing, cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, and interview coaching.

Harmont Resume stands out as a premier resume writing service provider, offering personalized and effective solutions to professionals across industries. Their team of seasoned writers collaborates closely with clients to highlight their unique skills and experiences.

Harmon Resume is known for delivering tailored resumes that capture attention and significantly boost job prospects.

2. CraftResumes

Website:  CraftResumes

CraftResumes is a globally recognized resume writing service known for its commitment to excellence. With a team of certified writers, they create resumes that resonate with hiring managers. CraftResumes offers a range of services, including CV writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, and cover letter creation, ensuring a comprehensive approach to career advancement.

3. ResumesPlanet

Website:  ResumesPlanet

ResumesPlanet is a trusted name in the resume writing industry, catering to professionals at various career stages. Their team of writers, with expertise in diverse fields, ensures that each resume is tailored to industry standards. ResumesPlanet also provides additional services such as CV editing and LinkedIn profile writing to enhance online visibility.

4. TopResume

Website:  TopResume

TopResume is a leading resume writing service with a reputation for delivering impactful resumes that stand out in competitive job markets. The platform offers personalized resume reviews, professional writing services, and LinkedIn makeover packages. TopResume's commitment to quality has earned them accolades as a top choice for career advancement.

5. ResumesUniverse

Website:  ResumesUniverse

ResumesUniverse is a comprehensive career services platform providing expert resume writing, CV editing, and LinkedIn profile optimization. Their team comprises skilled writers who understand the nuances of different industries,

ensuring that clients receive resumes tailored to their specific career goals. ResumesUniverse emphasizes a collaborative approach to resume creation.

Harmon Resume, ResumesUniverse,ResumesPlanet, CraftResumes, Professional Certification for  resume writing business

Conclusion: Launching a resume writing business involves a multifaceted approach encompassing writing skills, design proficiency, strategic planning, and effective marketing. By mastering these essential elements, you can position your business for success and offer valuable services in the competitive job market landscape.

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How to Start Home-Based Resume Writing Business

• June 8, 2023
• by Editorial Team

Do you want to start a resume-writing service business? This home-based business can be started by anyone having writing skills. Here in this article, we list down the steps to start your own resume-writing business from home and whether it is the right fit for you.

What is Resume Writing Service?

A resume writing service is all about helping job seekers in creating a resume that correctly manifests a candidate’s skills to the interviewer. A resume writer will be interviewing candidates in-depth so that the resume demonstrates and make a positive impression on the person’s mind.

14 Steps to Start Resume Writing Business

1. check whether the business is fit for you or not.

Though anyone can start this business, individuals with strong language skills will have a certain advantage. But only language skills will not be enough to be successful in this business. You need to be well acquainted with the present job marketplace and applicant tracking system.

People having previous HR experience will have better chances to succeed. In addition to this, one must have good communication skills because you will require good interviewing skills to understand the positives of the candidate.

However do remember, that the resume writing industry is very much competitive. Sometimes, it becomes extremely difficult to get steady resume-writing jobs. One must diversify into other similar writing activities like freelance writing, e-book writing, and coaching.

2. Create a Business Plan

Before you start a resume writing service business, it is essential to plan it properly. We have listed down some of the basic factors while planning. For a home-based resume writing business, you don’t need to write a long business plan document. Some of the basic topics that must be addressed are as follows:

• Initial and recurring costs
• Target customers
• Pricing plan
• How do you plan to find customers for resume writing services?

3. What do you Need to Start to Resume Writing Business?

The cost of starting a home-based resume writing business is very low. The tools you need are a phone/cell phone, good internet connection fax, and an updated laptop/computer.

4. Understand the Cost of Starting Resume Writing Business

If you have all these already, you can start this business by just taking a domain name and creating a website. It won’t cost you more than $200 to start a resume-writing service business. Since starting this business from home, you are not required to pay rent for office space.

5. Decide on the Target Market

Initially, it is advised to select a single or a few niche industry job categories. You can also target either freshers or high-valued job seekers at the start. After your candidates get positive results, the business will automatically scale up through word-of-mouth advertisements.

Read:   How to do Market Research

6. Set Proper Pricing

You are supposed to be paid fees for your service. You need to set a pricing structure for your effort. The price will largely depend on the candidate’s profile. For freshers, the price can be as low as $50 per resume, and for higher profiles, it can go up to 1000 dollars each resume.

7. Decide How Many Hours Would Work Per Week?

Since it is a home-based freelance business, you have the freedom to work as many hours as you want. But it is important to have a schedule and be self-disciplined. If you have a proper routine and have a clear understanding of how many hours to dedicate, your delivery of tasks will be better. It will also help in calculating earnings per job hour.

8. Name Your Resume Writing Business

Selecting the correct name is extremely critical for the long-term success of any business. Check our detailed guide on how to name your business . Do not forget to book a relevant domain before finalizing your business name. It is found mostly, that it becomes difficult to get a relevant domain name for your website.

9. Register Your Business

It is essential to register your resume writing service business for the hassle-free running of business operations. Every Country and state provides different company formations for registering a company.

For example, if you are looking to start a business in the United States, LLC is a popular choice as it protects entrepreneurs from being personally liable in case of legal issues.

10. Register for Taxes

Talk to the local competent authority or a competent professional and learn the tax requirements need to start and run a resume-writing business.

In the United States,  you will need to apply for an EIN to register for taxes.

11. Open A Business Bank Account and Apply for a Credit Card

For financial transactions, it is mandatory to open a business bank account. After opening the account, apply for a credit card. This will not help you in filing taxes at the year-end but also get business loans if required in the future.

12. Set up Bookkeeping

For smooth running and proper maintenance of financial transactions, setting up proper accounting processes is much important. Choose proper accounting software as per your needs.

13. Procure Licenses and Permits

No such licenses and permits are required to start a home-based resume writing service business in most countries. However, it is advised to check with a local attorney or a competent professional. For residents in the states of the United States, visit the official site of SBA and learn whether any specific licenses are required or not.

If you are into hiring employees to run your resume writing business, buying business insurance is worth considering.

14. Promote Your Resume Writing Business and Get Customers

Having a proper marketing plan is the most important key to success in the resume writing service business. Networking is most important to reach potential customers in the initial phase. Distribute flyers, and greeting cards in front of colleges, and offices.

Having a website is a must in this business. Create a blog and post some articles and promote those on social media platforms. Candidates always look for resume writers with testimonials. The website is the cheapest and easiest way to create an assuring impression in candidates’ minds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need any certifications or qualifications to start a resume writing business.

You do not need to have certifications and qualifications to start a resume writing business. However, it is advisable to acquire professional training to establish trust and demonstrate your knowledge among customers. To boost your profile, consider obtaining qualifications such as Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) or Resume Writing Academy (RWA) credentials.

How do I ensure client confidentiality and data security?

You must maintain strict confidentiality with clients. It can be done by having clients sign confidentiality agreements or non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Furthermore, take measures to store client information securely and implement data protection measures, such as encryption and secure file-sharing platforms.

How do I handle revisions and client feedback?

You must set clear revision policies and clearly communicate them to clients. Set expectations on the number of revisions included in your services. Also, encourage clients to provide specific feedback to ensure you can make the necessary adjustments to meet their expectations.

How can I attract clients to my resume writing business?

You need to leverage the power of online marketing by optimizing your website for search engines. Also, try to utilize social media platforms, and create valuable content related to resume writing and career development. Networking, referrals, and offering special promotions can also help attract clients.

Can I offer my services remotely or internationally?

Yes, resume writing services can be offered remotely. It allows you to work with clients from different locations. Take help of video calls, email, and online collaboration tools to communicate and deliver your services effectively.

Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.

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

Easily Start and Grow a Resume Writing Business Welcome to the Resume Business Roadmap™

Your roadmap to building a lucrative and rewarding resume writing business..

This course represents the pathway for anyone who has ever dreamed about starting a resume writing business OR anyone who already has one and is struggling to get it off the ground and surpass the $100,000 revenue mark.

Maybe you can relate to my entrepreneurial origins:

Way back in 1975 my seven year old self was eating cereal from the box at 6:00 AM and grumbling because I KNEW without a doubt that I was never going to be a teacher because this was WAY too early to get up. I didn’t know yet how most professional and profitable careers were going to require similar start times!

Fast forward to 1997 when my 29 year old self had pioneered a successful business and was able to give up my expensive office front and move my 6-figure resume and career services business into my home. Within the next two years I would go 100% virtual to work solely by phone and email!

There are so many rewards to be had when you successfully start a resume writing business:

Yes, you really can work from home when you start a resume writing business!

The Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has opened our eyes to how many jobs can actually be done from home, but few let you set your own income and hours. Many are temporary accommodations for social distancing or quarantining.

But I’ve been working from home in my PJs (when I want to) since 1999.

In fact, I can barely count how many times a resume writer who has used my system to build their business has sent me a picture of them in their fuzzy slippers, feet up, closing a 4-figure sale on the phone!

But don’t just do it for all that FREEDOM!

Resume writing is a great career choice if you:

• Help friends and family with their resumes and have been told you have a talent for it.
• Want to be your own boss with no one telling you what to do.
• Dream of a flexible schedule where you can work from home or wherever you want.
• Appreciate low start-up costs.
• Feel comfortable on a computer and use MS Word software.
• Enjoy the rewards of helping others be successful.
• Work comfortably use a computer with MS Word software.
• Get excited by the opportunity to set your salary and easily make six figures.

Is it really possible for a resume writer to earn over $100,000 annually?

The answer is, “Yes! Absolutely!”

Going as far back as 1996, I was bringing in $100,000+ in revenue as a resume writer thanks to the processes I created in packaging services and making selling into an educational process. (Because who likes to sell?). At the time I had a 94-97% close rate on prospects of all ages, incomes, and experience levels.

Since shortly after that time I began sharing my strategies and expertise with resume writers and career coaches, which led to many happy successes and the start-up of Career Directors International in 2005. I’ve helped hundreds of career professionals from around the world to successfully start and grow new businesses and others to revamp existing businesses.

For instance:

Your script was like some kind of magic. He tried to give me his credit card while driving! In the past they used to tell me they were driving as a way to get off the phone. But, by using your tried-and-true method, driving was not an object, it’s like I was giving away gold.

Through use of your methodology I’m now closing sales at slightly more than double my former prices. Your wisdom and guidance also allowed me to take a 2-week vacation while still having the largest revenue month of the year.

I have 100s of stories like this for my business consulting, courses and CDI, but some of my favorites are told to me in elated confidence:

“I keep raising my prices and they keep buying. I closed $11,000 last week, which is my highest ever.”

“I wanted to let you know we are on target to break one million in sales this year as we’ve already closed over $800,000.”

“Thanks for liking the photos of my new riverfront home. I wouldn’t have been able to purchase that without your coaching.”

I love this industry for many reasons, particularly: You potentially have an unlimited market base.

At some point in time EVERYONE needs a resume or knows someone who needs a resume!

It’s basically recession proof.

Even during the COVID pandemic, we saw resume writers with a system having more business then they could handle!

This is the perfect industry for an aspiring or talented writer because you get to make an amazing living while making a difference! You get to set your own prices and schedule! You get to pick and choose to work only with clients and industries you love! You are your own boss!

But why do you need a system to start a resume writing business?

Starting a business on your own can be hard. Just because you have a skill doesn’t mean you know how to set it up profitably and succeed. For every person who succeeds at self-employment at least four others fail.

But it doesn’t have to be that way!

It doesn’t have to be hard and you don’t have to reinvent the wheel to start a resume writing business!

A proven system removes the unknown and gives you steps for success. You won’t be flying by the seat of your pants and wondering why this isn’t working.

When you have a system that walks you through what works for each step, you get a MASSIVE edge in attaining rapid success.

You get everything you need to start a resume writing business in Resume Business Roadmap™.

I’ve spent years putting together a system I know will provide you with everything you need to start and grow a resume business that has every chance of becoming a six-figure-plus success story! Whether you are just starting out or needing a system to build the resume writing business you have, it’s all here!

Video Module Introductions

Deep-Dive Print Lessons

Best Practice Tip Sheets

Worksheets & Checklists

Done-For-You Scripts & Templates

Step-by-Step Personal Branding

Private facebook support group, program modules and lessons include:, business essentials for start-up.

• Planning, tools and expectations for starting and running a practice.
• Business naming for growth, scale and future sale.
• Taxation model and business structure.
• Taking payments.
• Effective business mindset to cultivate for success.
• Maintaining work-life balance and time management.
• Winning customer service, client satisfaction and communication.
• Client contracts and agreements.

Branding, Marketing and Growing for Success

• Target marketing – generalist or niche.
• Personal branding.
• Websites and SEO.
• Building a local business and beyond.
• Marketing with LinkedIn.
• Growing and using a list.
• Collecting testimonials that close sales.
• Getting referrals.

Services, Packaging and Selling for 6-Figure Profit

• Services to offer.
• Pricing for comfort and profit.
• Packaging for success.
• Winning no-fear sales consultation and closing process.
• Importance of resume writer certifications and awards.

Next Steps on Your Journey for Growth

• Being a resume subcontractor / hiring subs.
• Evaluation for increased free time and profits.
• Corporate transition assistance workshops.
• Making money while you sleep.
• When it is time to work with a VA or project manager.
• How to take a vacation without losing business.

A must for your success, this group will allow you to ask questions and get support from fellow entrepreneurs and me. It will also give you first access to challenges, live events, announcements, and more.

Want to See What’s Inside Each Module?

Download a PDF with a detailed outline of every lesson, worksheet, best practices and done-for-you tool in the course.

It’s important for me to point out that while CDI has members from around the world and I personally coach clients worldwide as well, that these materials are based on U.S. systems of business. Everything IS adaptable to different countries and will create a winning system for resume writers. However, some elements may not be applicable such as taxation and licensure.

When you register for Resume Business Roadmap™ you also receive these registration bonuses:

Q&a coaching event recording.

Q&A coaching event with Laura DeCarlo, course creator and 6-figure success coach. Recording is in your course portal. Get indispensable hot seat coaching, support, and strategy when you join me for this live group coaching event.

Bonus Resume Writing Lessons

Amp up your resume writing with core lessons and tools .

• Elevate Your Resume Formatting from Blah to Brilliant  (Video)
• Create Resumes That Emotionally Resonate With Employers (Video)
• Super-Secret Red Carpet Resume Writing Strategy (Lesson)
• Resume Data Mining: Client Information Gathering & Control (Audio)
• 5 Steps to Resume Information Gathering (Infographic)
• Creating Resumes That Visually Pop (Best Practices)
• Strategies for Client Resume Writing Interviews (Best Practices)
• Employment Gaps in the Resume (Best Practices)
• Writing Resumes for Career Changers (Best Practices)
• Beginner Guide to Adding Graphics to Resumes in MS Word (Lesson)
• Sample Resume Questionnaires
• Best Resume Writing Fonts List
• Action Verb List

Resumes for Dummies

Learn Resume Writing with Resumes for Dummies, 8th edition . This bonus Kindle edition is guarantee for those residing in the United States. So far we have been able to send it through Kindle to other countries, but we cannot guarantee it will work.

Now is your time to work from home and have the freedom you always dreamed of.

I’ve worked hard to take the guesswork out of the process needed to start a resume business so you can focus on getting to serve all the clients you love while building a successful practice. CDI and I do nothing half way. When you embark on Resume Business Roadmap™ you are on your path to a profitable new career and a life that’s all your own.

It’s Time to Start Your Resume Writing Business or Grow the One You Have!

Whether you are just starting out or want to exponentially grow the resume writing business you have, Resume Business Roadmap™ is your perfect guide.

Your course includes:

• Strategic video and print lessons.
• Done-for-you scripts, client agreements, and follow up email templates.
• Step-by-step personal branding process.
• Support with a private Facebook group.

Your bonuses are:

• Savings of 75% on the course.
• Recording of previous live Q&A coaching call.
• 15 resume writing lessons.
• Digital copy of Resumes for Dummies, 8th edition (US orders guaranteed only; others can be attempted but it will depend on Amazon/Kindle/country of residence).

Save big when you order today:

When you purchase this special package, you receive bonuses and savings totaling $2615.97!

IMPORTANT: You must be logged in to receive member pricing in the cart.

Non-Member Pricing

CDI Membership is not included or required.

$1997 $997!

of $683 $349!

Pricing FOR MEMBERS

Members save $200 on one-time payment

$1997 $797!

of $683 $283!

This course is designed to teach you the business side of becoming a profitable resume writer. It does not teach resume writing beyond the bonus lessons and copy of Resumes for Dummies, 8th edition (US orders guaranteed only) . Purchasing Resume Business Roadmap™ assumes you already know how to write a resume. Additional resume writing training can be attained through self-study or when becoming a member of the parent organization, Career Directors International. 

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide

For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.

If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.

So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:

• The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
• 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
• 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
• Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
• Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
• Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
• Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
• Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
• Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
• Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .

To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.

New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good. 

After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
• Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
• Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.

So, which one should you go for?

In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume. 

Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

• Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
• Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
• Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
• Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
• Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.

Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :

If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.

But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .

Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template

Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.

Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.

What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?

Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.

They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!

See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:

#2. Add Your Contact Information

Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .

The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .

This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.

Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.

So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.

Must-Have Information

• Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
• Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
• Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.

Optional Information

• Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional. 
• LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate. 
• Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
• Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
• Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
• Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.

All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:

#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .

When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.

So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.

This is where the resume headline comes in.

Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.

Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.

So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:

Resume Summary

A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Your job title and years of experience.
• A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
• Your most relevant skills for the job.

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.

Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.

Resume Objective

A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.

It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.

So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:

Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.

Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:

IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

The most important part of your resume is your work experience.

This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.

If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.

There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.

The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:

• Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
• Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
• Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.

Here’s a real-life example:

Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.

Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with: 

Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.

Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.

For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:

• Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
• Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
• Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.

Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.

To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.

Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:

• Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
• Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
• Generated leads through cold-calling
• Managed existing company clients

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

• Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
• Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
• Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.

In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:

• Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
• Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
• Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.

In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.

Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.

They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.

By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.

Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:

As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.

To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.

You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:

• In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
• Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
• In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .

If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.

So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:

• No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
• Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
• Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?

Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.

For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .

Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:

• Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
• Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
• Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
• Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”

Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go! 

#5. List Your Education

The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!

Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :

• Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
• University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
• Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
• Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
• GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
• Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
• Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
• Minor. “Minor in Psychology”

Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:

This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.

Resume Education Tips

Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.

Just follow these expert tips:

• If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
• You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
• If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
• Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
• Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
• Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!

#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section

After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .

So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:

• Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
• Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.

Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:

Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.

So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.

Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.

Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :

Methodologies & Tools

• Agile Methodology
• SCRUM Framework
• Waterfall Project Management
• Microsoft Project
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Risk Management

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.

Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
• Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
• A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
• Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.

While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.

• Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
• Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
• Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
• Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.

Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.

Include Transferable Skills

These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.

Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)

Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.

Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.

But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!

Are you bi-lingual? Or even better  – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!

Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.

To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:

• Intermediate

You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!

Hobbies and Interests

If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.

While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.

For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.

And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!

Volunteering Experience

If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money. 

Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.

Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.

Certifications

Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .

If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.

Awards and Recognitions

There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.

So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.

For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.

Publications

Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.

If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!

Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!

Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.

For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.

This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.

But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .

Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.

Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!

Extracurricular Activities

Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.

Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.

For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.

For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.

11+ Expert Resume Tips

You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!

Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:

• Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
• Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
• Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
• Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
• Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
• Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
• Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
• Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
• Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
• Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
• Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
• Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
• Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.

FREE Resume Checklist

Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!

Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!

If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.

And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.

Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.

#1. Traditional Resume Template

Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.

#2. Modern Resume Template

Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.

#3. Creative Resume Template

Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture. 

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking. 

#5. IT Resume Template

Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.

#9. Executive Resume Template

Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.

Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse resume here.

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing resume here.

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer resume here.

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.

#8. High School Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a high school resume here.

#9. Student Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a student resume here.

#10. Server Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a server resume here.

#11. Actor Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an actor resume here.

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.

#13. Engineering Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineering resume here.

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.

#15. Architect Resume Example 

Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist resume here.

Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Bartender Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Supervisor Resume

Next Steps After Your Resume

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.

After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !

In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.

Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.

Just follow this structure:

• Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
• Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
• Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
• Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.

Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:

Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.

It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.

But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?

That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!

Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?

For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.

Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible. 

If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template . 

Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.

#2. How do you make a resume in Word?

The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should: 

• Open MS Word
• Click “file” from the menu bar 
• Select “new”
• Type “resume templates” in the search bar 

That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.

Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!

#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?

If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.

However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.

For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.

So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.

#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?

You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.

All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go! 

That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.

If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format. 

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.

Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.

#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume? 

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.

#7. Should I put my address on my resume? 

You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.

Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address. 

So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”

#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.

If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume. 

In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.

Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.

#9. Is a resume a CV?

Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.

In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.

In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.

You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.

Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.

And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.

In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.

Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.

A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.

To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...

• Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
• Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
• Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
• Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
• Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!

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Startup Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Creating a standout startup resume is like crafting a business pitch — presenting your skills and experience in a way that captures the interest of fast-paced startup recruiters. 

With practical tips and real-world examples , we're here to help you navigate this task with ease. So, let's turn your startup resume into your career launchpad!

Read on and learn all about:

• Resume summary and objective for your startup resume
• Including top skills in your startup resume
• Writing a compelling work experience section
• Listing your education in an impactful way
• Highlighting relevant projects in a dedicated “Projects” section
• Boosting your prospects with an 'Awards and achievements' section
• Formatting your resume properly
• Startup resources for job seekers
• Understanding the differences between a resume and cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for business & financial professions

Looking for more samples? Find inspiration among  1,700+ resume samples  belonging to real people who got hired with the help of Kickresume.

1. Choose between a resume summary or objective for your startup resume

In the world of startups, the top lines of your resume play an even more critical role than in traditional corporate settings. 

While corporate recruitment mainly focuses on necessary skills, startups usually hunt for the full package — skill set, experience, personality, drive, and boldness to embrace the startup roller-coaster ride. 

This short text is your first and best chance at convincing them you bring all this and more. 

Now, you can choose to craft either a resume summary or resume objective — but which is right for you?

A resume summary is ideal when you have significant experience in the industry or role you're applying for. Imagine it as your 'elevator pitch' to potential employers, a quick snapshot of your relevant skills, achievements, and career background. 

A resume objective works best for those with limited professional experience or making career changes. It focuses less on past work and more on your current career goals and dedication to applying your set of transferable skills to the intended role.

Let's have a look at some examples...

Example of resume summary for a startup

Driven technology specialist with a 5-year track record in startup environments. Successfully launched two software products, boosting annual revenue by 70%. Led three major projects from idea to market. Expert at managing cross-functional teams and delivering ahead of schedule. Equipped with a blend of tech savviness and business acumen, ready to drive further startup success.

Example of resume objective for a startup

Proactive and adaptable professional, eager to apply my strong academic foundation in marketing and technology to the exciting startup environment. Despite limited industry experience, I have a proven record of managing social media campaigns and increasing online traction by 40% for a university project. Enthusiastic to bring my creative skills, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to a progressive startup aiming for robust growth.

If writing is not your strong suit, you can try our AI resume writer tool, which utilizes GPT-4 to help you write sections for your resume.

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. include the best hard and soft skills for your startup resume.

When it comes to your startup resume, selecting the perfect combination of hard and soft skills is crucial for standing out in the competitive startup landscape.

Hard skills showcase your technical expertise, industry knowledge, and proficiency in specific tools or technologies.

Soft skills demonstrate your interpersonal abilities, adaptability, and leadership qualities.

Striking the right balance between the two can paint a holistic picture of your capabilities and potential. So, whether it's coding wizardry, data analysis, exceptional communication, or a knack for problem-solving, carefully curate your skill set to align with the demands of the startup world.

Best hard skills for your startup resume

• Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript)
• Web and app development
• Data analysis and visualization
• Digital marketing and SEO
• Project management
• Financial modeling and analysis
• UI/UX design
• Product management
• Content creation and copywriting
• Social media management

Best soft skills to put on your startup resume

• Adaptability and flexibility
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Communication and presentation
• Leadership and initiative
• Creativity and innovation
• Time management and multitasking
• Resilience and perseverance
• Emotional intelligence
• Networking and relationship building

3. Write a compelling work experience section

The work experience section of your startup resume is your chance to showcase your accomplishments, demonstrate your impact, and highlight the value you can bring to a startup environment.

It's not just about listing job titles and responsibilities; it's about telling a compelling story of how you've made a difference in previous roles.

In the work experience section, remember to include:

• Results you've achieved
• Challenges you've overcome
• Quantifiable achievements (e.g., revenue growth, cost savings, or user engagement metrics) 
• Action verbs (these are verbs like developed , implemented , or executed , which bring a level of confidence to your resume)
• Powerful adjectives 

By painting a holistic picture of your experience and emphasizing your entrepreneurial mindset, you'll make your startup resume shine and prove that you're the ideal candidate to help a startup achieve its ambitious goals.

Example of how to list your work experience in a startup resume

Sales Manager, XYZ Startup April 2019 - April 2021

• Led a high-performing sales team in driving revenue growth of 150% within the first year of operation.
• Developed and executed strategic sales plans, identifying key target markets and forging partnerships with influential clients, resulting in a 50% increase in customer base.
• Implemented a streamlined sales process, leveraging CRM tools and automation, resulting in a 30% reduction in lead-to-close time 

4. Showcase your education in an impactful way

When it comes to listing education on your startup resume , it's important to highlight relevant academic achievements that showcase your knowledge and skills.

While startups often prioritize practical experience and a proactive mindset, education still holds value and can be an asset in demonstrating your foundation in a particular field.

Include your highest level of education , such as your degree, university name, and graduation year. If you have any academic honors, such as Dean's List or scholarships, be sure to mention them.

Additionally, highlight any coursework or projects that are directly relevant to the startup industry or the position you're applying for. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

While education may not be the sole determining factor for success in a startup, it can still contribute to your overall profile and showcase your dedication to personal and professional growth.

Example of how to list education on your startup resume

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science XYZ University May 2018

Relevant Courses

• Software Development: Built several web and mobile applications using programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript.
• Database Management: Designed and implemented a database system for a startup, optimizing data storage and retrieval processes.

Find out your resume score!

5. Highlight relevant projects in a dedicated “Projects” section 

A 'Projects' section not only provides concrete examples of your technical skills, it also showcases your ability to initiate, execute, and successfully complete tasks — a must-have attribute in the world of startups. 

In short, it allows you to tell your story in a way that a list of job roles may not. 

Relevancy is key — pick projects closely related to the role you're applying for. 

If you're applying for a technical role , examples of coding projects, product designs, or data analysis would be relevant. You can even include your GitHub on a resume .

If it's a creative/marketing role , you might want to include designs, marketing campaigns, content creation, etc. 

The secret is to tie these projects back to the key responsibilities and required skills of the job you're applying for. 

Each project should provide the following information: 

• The goal/task of the project
• The tools or technologies you used
• The outcome of the project. If you can, quantifying the impact of your role (e.g., "increased web traffic by 30%") will make your resume more compelling. 
• Respective links

Projects section example for a startup resume

Social Media Campaign for Local Charity (2022) 

• Successfully designed and launched a 4-month-long social media campaign to increase the charity's brand reach and fundraising. 
• Tools: Canva, Buffer, Google Analytics
• Outcome: Increased the charity's social media followers by 35%, resulting in a 20% increase in donations.
• [insert campaign URL]

E-commerce Website Development (2021)

• Constructed a user-friendly and responsive website interface for a local retail store transitioning to online sales.
• Tools: JavaScript, CSS, HTML, Shopify
• Outcome: The new platform improved user experience, leading to a 40% increase in online sales within the first three months.
• [insert website URL]

Use artificial intelligence to create your resume — FAST!

6. boost your prospects with an 'awards and achievements' section.

Adding an awards and achievements section is a great way to easily showcase your excellence. 

Here's why: It's one thing to say you're good at what you do and entirely another to show that recognized organizations have recognized your ability. 

See, some people like to say whatever they want on a resume, without it actually being the truth. However, if you have tangible proof of your excellence, you're providing tangible proof of your skills , resilience, and high performance — qualities every startup craves.

For a tech job, coding competition or tech innovation awards will allow you to flaunt your skills. For a marketing job, successful campaigns or writing competition wins echo your creativity and impact. 

What to list in your "Awards and achievements" section?

• The award or achievement name
• Who awarded it (eg., name of institution)
• The year you earned it
• Description of the purpose of the award / what you did to earn it

Example awards and achievements entries

First Place in Data Science Competition

• Awarded by: TechFest 2021 Organizing Committee 
• Date: June 2021
• Led a team to design an algorithm using machine learning to streamline supply chain processes.

Top prize at Meta Content Creation Contest

• Awarded by: Meta
• Date: November 2020
• Crafted a digital marketing campaign for a local business that increased their online visibility by 50%.

7. Nail the presentation with a stellar format and design

You've got the content, now it's time to make it shine. 

Here's the thing — your resume's format isn’t just about creating a visual treat. It's about ensuring that the right information gets noticed and remembered. 

It aids readability, helps emphasize your strongest points, and ultimately makes your application more effective.

For a startup resume, go with:

• Combination resume format. As the name suggests, it combines both chronological and functional resume formats . By highlighting your skills at the beginning, you draw attention to your abilities right off the bat. Follow this up with a chronological listing of your work experience to cement your credentials and gives weight to your listed skills. 
• Color scheme. Choose a professional color scheme that matches the tone of the startup (it adds a nice touch). Vibrant startups might appreciate a splash of color, while more conservative ones may prefer a traditional black & white resume.
• Template. If you choose one of our Kickresume templates, we suggest Ladder or Red . These templates have a great visual separation of chapters and offer many color combinations. Red is particularly suited for making your skills section pop.

If you can't be bothered with formatting, our resume builder takes care of it for you, plus it gives your letter a stunning design. 

8. Understand the differences between a resume and a cover letter

While both resumes and cover letters play a crucial role in your job application, they each serve different functions and should be approached accordingly. 

A resume provides a concise summary of your educational background, work history, and skills. It is typically more factual and direct, focusing on your qualifications and experiences.Resumes require specific formatting, typically with bullet points under each section.

A cover letter , on the other hand, is your opportunity to tell your professional story. It provides context for your resume, enabling you to delve into specific experiences and explain how they’ve prepared you for the potential role.

Cover letters can (and should) be tailored to each specific job application, showing how you are a fit for this particular role and the company.

While they have distinct purposes, both your resume and cover letter should weave together to present a comprehensive picture of your professional persona. Creating synergy between the two is your ticket to catching the hiring manager's attention.

9. Average salary and job outlook for business & financial professions

For those considering a career path in business and financial professions, the forecast is encouraging. Based on the most recent data, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS ) projects overall employment in this sector to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032.

This robust growth means that job opportunities in this industry abound. An estimated 911,400 openings are projected annually on average in these fields.

Financial rewards in this profession are also relatively high. As of May 2022, the median annual wage in business and financial occupations reached $76,850 . This salary is considerably higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, which stood at $46,310. 

With a healthy job outlook and attractive salary, business and startup professionals certainly hold a lot of promise for aspirants in the coming years.

10. Startup resources for job seekers

Startups present unique opportunities and challenges. Therefore, equipping yourself with the right tools and resources can give your startup job hunt a competitive edge. Here's a list of useful resources to aid your startup job search:

• AngelList: This is a top platform for startups, where they post job listings frequently. It offers in-depth information about potential employers. 
• Startupers: An exclusive job board for startup opportunities. It's an easy-to-use platform with diverse job listings.
• CrunchBoard: This is the official job board of TechCrunch , a leading technology media platform. It's rich with tech-oriented startup job listings.
• LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to network with startup founders and employees, and to discover new job opportunities.
• VentureLoop: VentureLoop works with venture capital firms to list portfolio job postings. It's an insider resource for job seekers interested in startup careers.
• Learn: It's important to continuously upgrade your skills and knowledge. Websites such as Coursera can help with obtaining relevant skills sought by startups.
• Startup networking events and meetups: Attending industry-specific startup events, seminars, or meetups can provide fantastic networking opportunities. These get-togethers, often listed on platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup , allow you to connect face-to-face with startup founders and like-minded professionals, gain insights about the industry, and possibly even meet your future employer!

Remember, the startup world can offer a dynamic and challenging work environment, fostering accelerated learning and growth. These resources will put you in the driver's seat when hunting for startup jobs.

Key takeaways: Startup resume

To sum everything up, here's how you turn youn average resume into one that scores you a job in an exciting start-up in 7 steps:

• Write either a compelling resume summary or objective, depending on your experience level for the specific role
• Include the best hard and soft skills for your startup resume.
• Make your startup resume shine with a compelling work experience section containing powerful action verbs. 
• Showcase your education in an impactful way by highlighting relevant coursework and projects.
• Highlight relevant projects in a dedicated "Projects" section and include the URLs.
• Boost your prospects with an "Awards and achievements" section to provide tangible proof of your skills.
• Nail the presentation with a combination resume format and a design that matches the start-up energy.
• It’s always beneficial to take advantage of various resources. These may include job listing websites specifically catered to startup positions, networking events focused on the startup community, and educational materials to improve skills relevant to startup culture.

Startup Resume FAQ

Should a startup resume be innovative and unconventional.

While creativity can be appreciated in many startup environments, it's crucial that your resume remains professional and easy to understand. Keep it simple, clear, and focused on your most relevant skills and experiences.

Is it necessary to use startup-specific jargon on my resume?

It's beneficial to show that you understand the startup industry. However, avoid using buzzwords or jargon excessively, and make sure that your experiences and skills can be understood by anyone reading your resume.

How long should my startup resume be?

Typically, a resume should be one to two pages long. For those targeting a startup job, it can be beneficial to keep it on the shorter side, highlighting only the most relevant skills and experiences, as startup recruiters are often pressed for time. 

Should I include my failures or unsuccessful ventures in my startup resume?

The startup industry recognizes that failures are part of the learning curve, so it's not necessarily a drawback to include such experiences. Instead, emphasize the lessons you learned and how they made you a better professional.

How can I show that I'm adaptable and flexible, which is often required in a startup environment?

Highlight experiences where you have taken on multiple roles or adapted to changing situations quickly. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to learn new skills on the job or handle unexpected challenges.

Klára Červeňanská

Klara recently graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she got an opportunity to write full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

All business resume examples

• Account Manager
• Business Development
• Entrepreneur / Business Owner
• Procurement

All startup resume examples

Resume guides, how to write a professional resume summary [+examples], how to put your education on a resume [+examples], how to describe your work experience on a resume [+examples], let your resume do the work..

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8 expert-recommended online resume writing services to use in 2024

I n the mix of college assignments and perhaps your 9-to-5, piecing together an attractive resume for employers can be a difficult feat.

Not only is this one-pager the bread and butter of what will lead to a first-round interview (fingers crossed!), but it’s an excellent portrayal of your skillset, employment history and unique skills that help a company’s HR department gauge if you’re the right fit.

Let’s cut to the chase — more specifically, let’s answer the question, “ How can I make my application stand out? ” One of the most influential steps is, without a doubt, rendering your resume to tip-top shape. And fortunately, there are online resume services like TopResume and Resumble to help.

• Best Overall: TopResume
• Best Budget: Resume Companion
• Best Optimization for Applicant Tracking Systems: Resumeble
• Best Customizable : Brand Resumes
• Best with Career Consulting: Top Stack Resumes

Whether you’re a senior in college applying for your first full-time job or you’ve been in the biz for years and are looking to segue into a different role, we rounded up the top online resume writing services you can use to help get your application in tip-top shape. Plus, we’ve enlisted Shannon Conklin, director of career and leadership development at The College of New Jersey to help!

Hop to her picks below or check out our FAQ for more details on things to look for when picking the right resume builder for you.

• Packages with unlimited resume revisions
• Free resume review
• 60-day interview guarantee
• Several customers who wrote reviews on Trustpilot mention having poor communication with their resume writers

TopResume is a beloved favorite — and for a good reason. It has four different packages depending on your career goals, some of which include unlimited revisions, a LinkedIn makeover, a cover letter and two interview prep sessions.

“TopResume continues to be a solid option,” Conklin shares. “It has strong descriptions, where the website and interface are easy to navigate to understand its process, its three packages, as well as testimonials.”

She also loves TopResume’s FAQ section, coupled with the various packages, that makes its process clear and timeline. “There is also plenty of mention about AI and ATS technology,” she adds. “If you need a resume quickly, one that accounts for technology, and a budget of only about $150, it looks like this service would be one to strongly consider.”

With TopResume, you’ll also get a 60-day interview guarantee. If you don’t get twice as many interviews, the platform will rewrite your resume for free. It’s pretty top tier, to say the least, and is minimal investment for those hoping to find free resume writing services.

• Self-directed service
• Template-based
• Must renew subscription to edit resume in the future

“Resume Companion is a clean website with a clear message — build a resume quickly!” Conklin highlights. “It offers templates, examples and advice on how to craft a resume, as well as cover letter, as a self-directed service within about 15-minutes.”

What’s more, the service also makes it clear it offers a variety of templates based on industries and functions. “This can really help if you are trying to transition to a new field or your resume needs to be updated to reflect the latest in your industry,” she adds.

With Resume Companion, you’ll be able to build your resume step by step, from selecting a professional template to answering a few simple questions to have your experience and skills added directly to your digital file. Namely, if you’re not much of a writer, you’ll appreciate its pre-written work experience bullet points to craft your resume in minutes and then apply away.

Not to mention, it’s only $8 a month, so if you want a one-and-done service, this one’s your best bet. Keep in mind that you will have to renew your subscription to edit in the future, but it’s a great budget-friendly option to pursue if you don’t want to be completely in the dark.

• 4-day turnover on resume drafts
• Three free revisions with standard resume package
• Only the premium resume package includes a job guarantee

Resumeble not only has a fun name, but it includes a resume and cover letter in its baseline package. If you’d like to upgrade, you can receive a LinkedIn write-up, a second resume version, thank you and follow-up notes and cold emails to recruiters.

“Have you applied to dozens of jobs, only to never get through?” Conklin questions. “If this resonates because your resume is not optimized for ATS platforms, Resumeble might be the choice for you. Mention of ‘ATS,’ as well as their outcomes and ROI, are weaved throughout its site.”

Conklin told The Post that she’s seen many clients apply to dozens and dozens of companies, only to be vetted out due to ATS. “When that happens, I often advise networking to complement a revised, ATS-optimized resume.” she tips off. “This brings me to one other noteworthy element to their various packages, they support your full professional profile; resume to LinkedIn to recruiter communication support.”

For those who want to spend less than $200 for online resume writing services, this all-in-one option is fairly priced, making it one of the best affordable resume writing services. If you’re only looking to refresh your LinkedIn, you’ll just pay a one-time $99 fee. For just your resume, it’s a one-time purchase of $129 for the service.

• Has a self pace job search course
• Helpful step by step resume building guide
• Some customers who reviewed the service on Trustpilot report time delays in receiving their resume

BrandResumes made the cut as one of our top choices for online resume services for a few reasons: it’s one of the platforms best for ATS keyword optimization and formatting for interviews, LinkedIn branding and a customizable interface. If you buy the deluxe package, you’ll have your resume distributed across the 60 top job boards (including industry-specific ones), so you’ll spend less time applying.

“Learning the fundamentals of resume writing is a skill that will carry you throughout your career, and BrandResumes offers courses and resources to accomplish just that,” Conklin highlights. “Once you understand how to format a strong bullet point, or the style you find reflects your story and values, you can start crafting various resumes to appeal to different audiences and fields.”

BrandResumes also offers resources to launch your own resume writing business — a tool that can be valuable for career experts seeking professional resume writing services. “If you’re seeking to dig into how to revamp your resume, or you find yourself (like many in HR or career services) consistently asked to help a friend or family member with their materials, this service will align with your goals,” she adds.

• Pay only after you’re satisfied with resume
• According to TopStack Resume’s site, resume complete takes up to 2 weeks

TopStack Resume is a force to be reckoned with in the career development sphere. Notably, it’s one of the only services to provide career consulting. So, in addition to resume and cover letter formatting, you have the option to partake in one-on-one sessions with a career advisor.

“Five steps is all you need to follow for your resume review by TopStack,” Conklin puts it simply. “The simplicity of this service, and the range of offerings (from a resume for $139 to career consulting for its Premium Package ) can be valuable for any job seeker or career explorer.”

More, if you find yourself in need of more career support, maybe you’re changing fields or returning to work after time off, this is a strong contender. “Be mindful of your budget and timeline, so you take full advantage of a career consultant; a solid service should focus on the process, as much as a strong career outcome,” she adds.

Plus, TopStack Resume is unique in that it has a team of well-qualified writers to ensure your one-pager is the best it can be. At a fair price point, you can always upgrade to add on more benefits in the future.

• Baseline package offers a lot more than competitors, including phone consult, optimized draft and two edits
• Cover and thank-you letters are added to packages at an additional charge

ResumeSpice is ready to add that much-needed spice to your resume. It doesn’t just provide three different package options, but it specifically tells you which one would work best for you. For example, if you have no more than two years in the workforce, you should select its baseline package ($449) that includes a phone consultation, an eye-catching resume format, keyword optimization, a personalized draft, two rounds of revisions based on your feedback and finalized versions in both Microsoft Word and PDF formats.

“Solid service is evident across ResumeSpice, and its focus on Executive Resume stands out from others,” Conklin pinpoints. “If you find yourself wanting to get to that next level in your career, you really do need to consider an executive coach with an eye towards that goal for your materials.”

You might, for example, realize you have decades of experience and unsure where to start to consolidate — Conklin offers. “This is one of the most frequent concerns when making this transition, and a third-party like ResumeSpice can be an invaluable resource and sounding board,” she adds. “Finally, its site is clear in terms of turnaround, which shows they value your time and manage expectations — a positive sign on what you can expect service-wise.”

ResumeSpice offers other à la carte services, too, including cover letter help, LinkedIn profile revamping, interview preparation and career coaching.

• Unlimited revisions
• 5 day delivery
• Some reviewers mention time delays

Craft Resumes has an engaging, user-friendly interface that makes resume-building a fun, less stressful process. With ATS keyword optimization and a dedicated writer on your resume, rest assured that it will be in a healthy state to pass along to recruiters and job posters.

“Craft Resumes cleary focus on the ‘craft’ and design of writing resumes, where a distinguishing factor that caught my eye is their unlimited evaluation ‘at any reason’ for four days,” Conklin says, recommending the service. “This is valuable for job or graduate school seekers and career explorers, as you’ll likely have questions once you find an opportunity of interest.”

Similar to other services here, there is a one-on-one aspect that can be quite valuable, especially if you have the time. “There are also a variety of services and prices, not just resume writing,” she notes. “This is helpful for you budget, and evolving needs. Often times once you get a resume underway you start to realize that you’ll want other materials to be updated and aligned with your personal brand.”

For its most popular package, The Basic, you’ll have access to a single writer and unlimited revisions (which is a score compared to some other services on this list), strong and optimized words, unique formatting and a cover letter to increase your chances of landing an interview. However, Craft Resumes has other great packages worth exploring.

• Consultation included with every package
• Executive Concierge Service that includes 10 days of unlimited revisions
• Quality writers and customer service, based off reviews
• No academic CVs or federal resumes

Humorous name aside, resume service Let’s Eat, Grandma has a laser focus on punctuation (as you can tell because nobody intends to write that they’d like to eat their grandmother on a professional document) — as well as resume formatting. What’s great about this platform, specifically, is its vast packages, ranging from drafting your resume to offering cover letter and networking services to help boost your career trajectory.

“Let’s Eat, Grandma hones in immediately on its ‘custom-tailored’ approach,” Conklin says. “While every resume review should be tailored to account for your story (as mentioned above), it’s clear this is a value of this service. Client outcomes are also front and center, where a mix of employers and schools are listed; this is notable if continuing education is a goal of yours.”

With four packages available, and FAQs on the homepage highlighting its range (i.e. academic, federal government and more), Conklin appreciates how it’s clear that this service is distinguishing themselves from others, especially given the range of specialty materials they can help you create. 

What’s more, you’ll be assisted by a team of highly skilled writers who create targeted documents to help boost your chances of getting an interview. They’ll also speak to your unique strengths — and, therefore, amplify them on your resume — to tie your entire professional portfolio of experience together. They also have a package tailored for executives, making the platform a solid option for those needing executive resume writing services.

The golden question, right? This depends mostly on your career goals. A range of services are available, and many are now even offered through LinkedIn. 

“When considering a resume service, it is important to consider the extent of guidance you are seeking,” Conklin, who’s 15 years of experience in higher education — tells the New York Post.

“Are you overhauling your resume? Are you transitioning industries and need to consider a different format or approach? What are your financial resources to pay for one, or should you explore services offered from your alma mater or current institution if you are a current or graduate of higher education?”

You’ll also want to consider the resume services’ reputation, Conklin suggests: Are there reviews or endorsements of a service, especially if you are paying for one? What is the background, and is the resume service aligned with your industry of interest? 

“It depends on the service and one’s circumstances as to whether it is ‘worth’ paying for the service,” Conklin says. “There are very reputable services out there, especially for more experienced career seekers. If you’re transitioning to a new field, or you are seeking to move to a senior or executive level, it could definitely be worth the cost.”

As a preliminary step, Conklin advises to really make sure you are an informed consumer when considering a resume service, and if you should pay or if you have a network or connections you can leverage for advice first. 

“When an individual pays for a resume service, there may be a flat rate, or it is calculated on an hourly rate and requires at least two sessions,” Conklin explains. “For example, it could cost $150 for a single session.”

However, there are resume services that can significantly exceed that rate and are part of a package that might include a quick return and other support, from LinkedIn to interview coaching, that is over $600, she highlights.

“Your story is the focus of your resume, and it is critical to be honest and reflect on how you want to tell that, ultimately,” Conklin notes. “The order also depends on the stage of your career (early, mid, senior, executive) and the industry you are seeking.”

In academia, for example, you’ll see a curriculum vitae (CV) that is pages long to reflect one’s research, publications, and roles held. In financial services, you would have a one-page resume until you have significant work experience. Or, in the creative fields, you may have a one-page resume and then an online portfolio or website that exhibits your work to complement your resume, she explains.

“No matter the field you are pursuing, you always want to make sure you list your experiences in reverse chronological order, you include your education/training, think of the keywords and skills (and make sure those are prominently displayed and included), and also think of what is most relevant,” she lists. “The most relevant should be at the top.”

It is also key to consider Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), automated review systems that scan resumes as part of an organization’s vetting process. “The format could align or cause issues with an ATS system,” Conklin adds. “This is why it’s important to do your research, leverage any connections you have to gain insights into a field and their preferred format and get advice on keywords, skills and experiences to include.”

“If you do your homework, you should find clues to answer the questions above and guide your resume writing approach,” Conklin shares.

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