How to Maximize Your Time with a Professional Resume Writer

Most people have never worked with a professional resume writer before.

The purpose of this guide is to help anyone considering a resume service get the most value from the process.

At the end of the day, the resume writing process should be collaborative in nature. And while a professional resume writer can be a game-changer in your job search, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure the best outcome.

If you’re considering working with a professional resume writer, read on. Here are four things you should do to maximize your time with a professional resume writer:

1. See It as a Partnership.
2. Do Your Prep Work Before the Resume Consultation.
3. Keep an Open Mind About The Process.
4. Be Honest With Your Writer.

1. See It as a Partnership.

A professional resume writer is an expert in crafting resumes that stand out in the job market. However, the best results come from a collaborative approach. No one knows your career history, achievements, and unique strengths better than you. With both experts in the room working together on a single document, magic is created.

Haley Velasco, a senior writer at LEG, emphasizes the importance of collaboration:

“Our process works best when you communicate your strengths and weaknesses, your career history, and, most importantly, you give us feedback on what we’re creating. I always say that all great journalists have amazing editors, and that’s the same here. By sharing your thoughts and preferences, you help us create something you’re excited to use and will shine when you use it.”

Your resume writer brings expertise in writing and strategy, but your input is crucial. Your resume writer brings expertise in writing and strategy, but your input is crucial. The combination of your knowledge and their writing skills creates a compelling resume that highlights your qualifications effectively.

Throughout the process, be prepared to answer questions, provide details about your past roles, and clarify your career goals. The more you engage in the process, the better your resume writer can tailor your resume to fit your ideal job opportunities.

2. Do Your Prep Work Before the Resume Consultation.

To make the most of your time with a professional resume writer, prepare in advance. Co-founder of LEG, Matthew Villanueva, advises:

“Take a quiet moment to reflect on your career—what you’ve accomplished and where you want to go. This will help you have a more open and honest conversation with your writer.”

This includes gathering key information such as:

• Career goals – Where do you see yourself in the next 3–5 years?
• Metrics and achievements – What measurable results have you achieved in previous roles?
• Job postings – Find a few job descriptions that align with your interests so your writer can tailor your resume accordingly.

Having this information ready will help your resume writer create a targeted and impactful resume. The more concrete details you provide, the stronger your final document will be.

Haley Velasco suggests asking yourself the following questions to prepare:

• What’s your elevator pitch? If someone were to ask you to sell yourself, what would you say?
• In your previous roles, where have you been most impactful?
• What are the three things that you’re most proud of?
• How can you quantify your positions?

Reflecting on these questions will not only help you articulate your value but will also give your writer a clearer picture of your unique contributions and career trajectory.

If you don’t have answers to all of these questions, do not worry. However, we recommend getting a head start on at least a few.

3. Keep an Open Mind About The Process.

Many people struggle with talking about themselves, especially when it comes to their accomplishments. The job search process can feel vulnerable, but working with a professional resume writer gives you an opportunity to see yourself from a new perspective.

Be open to suggestions and feedback. A professional resume writer has worked with countless clients and knows what hiring managers and recruiters look for. Trust the process, stay positive, and embrace the insights your writer provides. Your confidence will come through on paper when you allow yourself to highlight your strengths.

4. Be Honest With Your Writer.

Transparency is key when working with a professional resume writer. If you’re unsure about a particular section of your resume, be upfront about it. A skilled writer is there to help, not judge. The more accurate and honest you are about your experience, the better your final resume will represent you.

Additionally, be open to constructive criticism. A resume writer will refine your resume with your best interests in mind. If they suggest changes, it’s because they know what works in today’s competitive job market. By trusting their expertise and being honest about your career history, you’ll end up with a resume that truly represents your strengths.

Ready to Elevate Your Resume?

If you want to see what it’s like to work with a professional resume writer, sign up for a free critique today. Or, schedule a quick phone call to learn how we can help you take your job search to the next level!