When Should You Pay For a Professional CV?

By Selipha Kihagi

Stella writes in an email that she would like to consult our CV writing services, but first, she would like to better understand why she needs the service. While she would like a professional to take a look at her CV, she is not fully convinced why she should pay someone to write it for her.

Stella is not alone; another candidate does not believe that a professional CV is the answer to his job hunting woes. He believes that a professional CV is usually generic and would not be that much helpful. I am compelled to ask if he has seen such a CV before, the answer is No.

To avoid believing these professional CV myths, how about knowing more about it instead?

Why would you need a professional CV?

To begin with, CV writing experts will always point out the mistakes that lead your CV to the No pile. You could be qualified in Accounting but because your CV just reads Business Commerce then an employer is confused on your specialization.

“Job seekers make all kinds of mistakes in their CV. Some are not sure what to start with so they end up having a CV that is either mixed up or that is not consistent. Others leave out important information all together,” says Melody Mwendwa, a professional CV Writer and Career Advisor at Corporate Staffing Services.

Another problem that seems to be common among job seekers is where work experience is included but only the company names are listed. There is no information of the position held or the duties and responsibilities or even achievements. Contacts also are left out, leaving no form of interaction.

To avoid these simple mistakes, Melody says consulting with a professional on writing your CV would come in handy. This way you are able to identify where you are going wrong and can correct the mistakes by yourself or if need be, you can pay to have it done for you.

Before Paying for a Professional CV, remember this;

1. Look out for a professional who will offer consultation first

Do not just go making payment for a service because you came across it and you feel you need it; always ensure that the professional you approach consults with you first. It will be in your best interest if the professional CV writer knows all about you, from your big achievements to the small ones, your responsibilities in various roles as well as the area you are specializing in.

This consultation can be one on one, by phone or even through an email questionnaire.

2. Invest in someone who knows what they are talking about

Professions are different and in each, there are various aspects that matter most to employers than others. For example in Accounting, professional qualifications are necessary and so is the case for IT, Procurement, HR and others. If the professional CV writer points these out to you and have a clear knowledge of what the job market wants, then good for you.

3. Look out for Additional Services

The firm where you are looking to have your CV done could have other added services, such as a Cover Letter, interview preparation or general career advice. Make sure that you ask about it, and if you’re lucky enough, the advice may come be given to you as a free service.

The Kenyan job market will only get tougher, be wise and have an upper hand to get the job.

Would you like a professional CV, send an email to cvwriting@corporatestaffing.co.ke