Start a Resume Writing Business

The job market is perpetually slow and professionals of all degrees and skills are looking for a way to put themselves ahead of the rest. Resume writing isn't just something that needs to be done; it is also an art. Studies have shown that a well-written resume can mean all the difference between a job and the unemployment line.

If you have a knack for writing resumes, you might want to consider starting a resume writing business. Not only can you provide resumes to clients, but you can make even more money by writing cover letters, CV's, letters of interest and recommendation letters. If your prices aren't too high, professionals from all over the world will be sending you their current resumes for your special touch.

Starting a resume writing business isn't as difficult as you might think. All you need are the necessary skills, a website and a telephone. When clients contact you to write their resume, you simply take down their information and plug it into a well-designed resume template. You might have to write some resumes from scratch while others simply need a little tweaking.

The best part about starting a resume writing business is you don't have to have published clips or have written a book. All you have to do is post examples of resumes you've written on your website. Demonstrate a wide variety of skills by posting resumes for different career paths and professional fields, and don't be afraid to show innovative talent by creating resumes that aren't necessarily "the norm".

A simple search of the Internet has shown that resume writing businesses charge between $250 and $1,000 for writing resumes for clients. Some have packages that include sample cover letters and other materials while others simply provide resumes. The most important thing in starting a resume writing business is your turn-around time. Many such businesses advertise that they can write your resume in under twenty-four hours, which is a deadline with which you'll have to successfully compete.

My advice is to start by charging near the lower end of the spectrum and working your way up the ladder. If you are able to provide quality resumes for a lower price than some of the established businesses, you'll gain more clients. As you develop a reputation and start making income from referrals, you can gradually raise your prices to compete with the industry standard. You'll find the clients will send colleagues, friends and relatives your way if they approve of your work.

If you have the money and the desire, you can try advertising on job websites like Monster.com and HotJobs.com and in your local newspaper. Go where job seekers are going to find work and you'll find your target audience. You can also go to job fairs and career centers in your city or town to pass out business cards or brochures.

Finally, make sure that you present yourself as a professional at all times. Meet the needs of clients who are pursuing corporate positions to make the most of your efforts and target people who are looking for new jobs rather than those who have been out of work for months. Remember that you should always be paid for your services, so never offer them for free just because a potential client feeds you a "sob story". That is one of the dangers of starting a resume writing business; there are many people who are desperate for jobs and simply can't afford to pay you for your work.

Once you've built up a client base, you can provide discounts for clients who give you referrals or for repeat clients. The best thing about starting a resume writing business is that your services will always be in demand.