How to Start a Resume Writing Business

Part 1 - How to start a Resume Writing business - Background

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.

Our guide is in 3 parts:

• Part 1 - How to start a Resume Writing business - Background
• Part 2 - Our planner tool to see if this idea is the right fit for you
• Part 3 - Action plan to get started

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.

How much can you charge customers?

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.

Day-to-Day and Growth

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.

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.

Part 2 - Is a Resume Writing business the right fit for you?

Part 3 - Action plan to launch your Resume Writing business in 90 days