Should I Use A CV Writing Service?

“I sent my CV to a professional CV writer for a CV review, and she told me that it had a lot of problems, and I need a professional to write my CV. Should I use their CV writing service for that, or rewrite it myself?“

James (not his real name), sent this email to me a few days ago.

From interacting with other job seekers, he was not sure what approach to take. He is tempted to take up a CV writing service especially because writing can be hard, and giving it to a professional might just be the best for him. 

But is it really worth it?

If you are like James and are wondering whether you should use a professional CV writing service, here is what you should consider:

1. There’s value in the process

While writing your own CV can be difficult, the process can pay many dividends.

Figuring out what are the most important skills, abilities, accomplishments, and strengths to emphasize on a CV, and how to say them most effectively and concisely will help you articulate them better when you’re networking and interviewing.

Too often, people ramble on too much when they describe their background verbally to someone. And they often give too much detail on parts of their experience that aren’t so applicable to what they want to seek. Thinking those things through thoroughly for a CV prepares you well for your verbal interactions as well.

You can also discuss this with a professional CV writer during your CV review before you make a commitment to have them write your CV.

2. Beautiful vs. Effective

While there are many professional CV writers out there, not all of them understand what makes an effective CV.

Some can write beautifully written paragraphs that make you sound quite impressive, and the CV looks beautifully formatted. However, paragraphs in a CV are almost never read. CVs are visually scanned, looking for key pieces of information. A beautifully written paragraph that isn’t read has no value.

An effective CV uses short-phrases and substantive sound-bites to help the reader digest a great deal of information in that scan. A CV should get you better results.

Before you decide to take up a CV writing service, ensure that the CV writer can write a CV that will be effective.

A professional CV writer with a significant recruiting background is the best bet for you. They will be of great value in creating an effective CV for you.

As you weigh your options, be careful who you choose to write your CV. To help you make a better decision, send your CV and get a FREE CV review from professional CV writers.

What do you prefer? Would you use a CV writing service? Share your thoughts below.