7 Best Professional Resume Writing Services in the US (2023)
Updated March 18, 2023
You may think it’s a luxury to hire a professional to write your resume for you. However, a carefully crafted resume can elevate your application and ensure you to stand out for a recruiter.
Resume-writing is a distinct skill. You need to:
- Sell yourself as a viable candidate by sounding confident and capable, yet avoid straying into arrogance
- Demonstrate your expertise and career history while showcasing the relevant skills clearly and concisely
- Quantify your previous experience by explaining the context behind your work and what you achieved
Oh, and did we mention that you only have one or two pages to cover all this?
Many young professionals and graduates are turning to professional resume writing services because they understand that resume-writing is a dedicated skill.
They want to hit the ground running with their job hunt, so they know how important it is to have an attention-grabbing resume.
Hiring a professional resume service is an effective way of showcasing your skills and capabilities to the best of your ability.
When you are new to the working world, you may struggle to know what to include on your resume. After all, you don’t have years of experience to draw from.
A professional resume writer will know how to overcome this. They will identify the required skills and capabilities from the job description and write a resume that will pass through automated filters.
In short, a professional resume writer can transform your resume from mundane to memorable.
7 of the Best Professional Resume Writing Services in the US for May 2023
1. Top Resume
Example cost: $149 to $349
Estimated turnaround time: One to two weeks (including revisions)
Similar to ZipJob, Top Resume offers three package levels:
- Professional growth – $149
- Career evolution – $219
- Executive priority – $349
The starter package would probably be enough if you are new to the job market.
People with years of experience may prefer the executive priority package, which promises that your resume is written by one of their top 10% of writers.
Since the company launched, they have helped over 600,000 people worldwide land new interviews due to their resume writing services. They are also the preferred partner for many jobs boards.
Their expert writers are certified in over 65 different industries, and if you don’t double your number of job interviews within 60 days, they will rewrite it for you free of charge.
2. My Perfect Resume
My Perfect Resume is a template-based resume writing service that was launched in 2013. Since then, more than 15 million people have found new roles using its resumes and cover letters, and more than 43 million resumes have been created on the site.
The process of making a resume using My Perfect Resume starts with choosing the right template based on your level of experience – there are templates designed for high school leavers and for professionals, and even for those looking for federal roles.
Using a template like this will ensure that not only is all the information you are sharing easy to read for the recruitment team, but it is also compatible with Applicant Tracking Software (ATS).
ATS systems scan resumes for specific information, phrases or words that match to the job description and desired skills, and these templates are designed to be readable by this software.
Using the chosen template, you can edit each section as directed, including all the important qualifications, experience and other skills as directed by the personalised writing help service.
The completed resume can be downloaded, printed and emailed as often as needed.
The resume you create can be downloaded in plain text format for free, but there are paid plan options that offer more tools like being able to download in different formats.
My Perfect Resume also has a facility to create cover letters that match the resume design and structure.
For those who are looking for extra help and tips, there is a career-focused blog on the My Perfect Resume website, where everything from upskilling to networking is covered.
3. CareersBooster
CareersBooster provides what it calls a ‘job acquisition service’. It has a dedicated team of expert writers on hand to create resumes that avoid common mistakes and create a document that is penetrating and attention-grabbing.
The writers are industry experts and with 24/7 customer service and a help desk that means you can contact them whenever you need to, you can get access to their knowledge and keep up with what is happening.
Alongside resume writing and editing, the company also offers the following services:
- LinkedIn profile creation
- Cover letter writing
- IT resume writing
- Thank you and follow up letters
CareersBooster can also distribute resumes to employment agencies and help you identify the key selection criteria for the role, as well as highlighting your key knowledge, skills and abilities.
CareersBooster guarantees that you will get an interview within 30 days or it offers a free revision.
4. ZipJob
Example cost: $139 to $299
Estimated turnaround time: Four to seven days. Faster turnarounds are available with the premium package.
ZipJob is a hugely popular resume writing service with a range of plans for different budgets.
The basic launch package promises a professional resume optimized for applicant tracking systems along with direct contact with your writer.
As you progress through the packages, you can also include a cover letter, a 60-day interview guarantee, and even an updated LinkedIn profile to ensure consistency.
The site features many reviews and examples of 'before and after' resumes.
In addition, if you are nervous about hiring a professional resume service, you can submit your current resume for free and receive a resume review to see if your existing resume would pass through ATS software.
ZipJob works across many sectors but singles out the following industries that they regularly work in:
- HR
- Federal
- Sales
- Finance
5. Let’s Eat, Grandma
Example cost: $399 to $649
Estimated turnaround time: Three to four weeks
This is more expensive than some other resume writing services, but the product is more comprehensive.
There are three packages:
- Starter – $399
- Accelerated (including LinkedIn support and networking advice) – $509
- Premium (including a full LinkedIn overhaul) – $649
Cover letters are included in the starter package. Considering both documents work hand in hand to create a first impression, this is a nice touch.
The middle and top ranges include a digital guide to cold emails and thank-you emails. These added extras differentiate the firm from some of its competitors.
As part of the process, you will also have a 30-minute phone consultation with your writer to ensure they get to know who you are as a candidate.
If the prices are out of your budget, you can purchase resume and cover-letter templates for as little as $25.
6. ResumeWriters.com
Example cost: $169.95 to $249.95
Estimated turnaround time: 72 hours (24-hour service is available)
This resume writing service stands out because a specific option is available for students, ideal for those new to the workforce.
Many options enhance your overall employability with an extremely fast turnaround time and optional extras, including cover letters and LinkedIn profile help.
Additionally, ResumeWriters.com stands out because of the niche industries available – such as the Military to Civilian service, ideal for those transitioning to a post-military career.
However, there are no options to have direct contact with the writers. All communication occurs via email, so those looking for a personal touch may prefer to look elsewhere.
7. Monster
Example cost: $129 to $349
Estimated turnaround time: Five days
If you are searching for a job, you’ll be well acquainted with the Monster brand.
As one of the world’s leading jobs boards, there is a sense of continuity for those considering hiring Monster for their professional resume writing service.
The packages are quite basic, but their knowledge of jobs boards means that you can be confident your resume will pass through automated filters.
The basic $129 package will only cover writing your resume, but if you upgrade to the deluxe package for an extra $40, you can also have a cover letter written for you.
The top package, worth $349, includes a comprehensive LinkedIn makeover, which among other things looks at adding keywords into your profile to make you easily searchable.
This is a good option for those who want a guarantee that their resumes will pass through applicant tracking systems.
Monster’s knowledge of these filters is unrivaled, and you can feel confident that your resume will be packed full of relevant industry terminology.
What to Look For in a Professional Resume Writing Service in 2023
Choosing to hire a professional resume writing service may be a smart move. It will give you a ‘master’ resume that you can adapt for future job applications, and it will help you understand what skills you should be highlighting in your cover letter.
Although you have to pay for professional resume services, you may find it helps you get your first job much quicker, thereby providing value for money.
But how do you find a professional resume service?
It’s important to look beyond the first company in your Google search results.
You are pinning all your career hopes on the penmanship of a certified resume writer, so they must understand:
- Who you are
- What your skills are
- What you can bring to the table that no one else can
Your chosen resume writer also needs to understand the sector and the job role you are applying for to ensure a seamless match.
As you start researching professional resume writing services, consider the following aspects.
Credentials
You want to know that the person writing your resume is affiliated with a professional organization. This is a guarantee of their work quality.
If the person says that they are a certified resume writer, they must have passed various exams to gain their accreditation. Don’t be afraid to ask to see a copy of their certification.
Customer Reviews
Ask to see some testimonials or search for public customer reviews about the resume writing service you are considering.
Think about where the reviews are published. Are they independently verified? What is social media saying about the resume writing service?
Industry Knowledge
Your resume writer needs to understand the sector you are applying for. Do they understand sector-specific jargon and terminology?
Ask them what industry or industries they have worked in, and question them their success rate. Have they got a proven track record of resumes that have passed to the next stage of the recruitment process?
It’s Not Just About Upfront Pricing
When hiring a resume service, don’t make your selection based on cost alone.
Of course, you want something affordable, but it’s also important to consider the process and the price.
They may be expensive, but what extras are included in that price? For example, are you given an editable document? Will they include a series of edits as part of the initial price? What is the refund process if you have an issue?
Visual Impact
What will the final resume look like? Will it be eye-catching and memorable yet professional? Will it meet a range of technical requirements, for example, can it be submitted as a Word document or a PDF?
Will automated tracking system configurations be met, allowing technology to scan it for keywords? Your resume is your first chance to make a good impression, so it needs to show you in a good light.
Timescales
How long will it take for your resume to be created? What is the process followed by professional resume writers to understand who you are and your skills?
When it comes to job hunting, time is of the essence, so you may need a fast turnaround that doesn’t skimp on quality.
Different resume services offer different options for their standard or enhanced packages, so make sure you compare and contrast carefully to find the right package for you.
Typically, you will be asked to submit your existing resume and complete a questionnaire to let the potential writer know more about you. You will then be matched with a suitable writer who will be in touch to get to know you in more detail.
Some resume services offer personal consultations via phone or video chat; others rely solely on emails. Once the resume has been written on your behalf, it will be sent back to you for approval.
The number of edits included in your upfront price will be included in the terms and conditions, but you may be able to pay for further edits if required.
Resumes are your chance to make a good first impression. You may be excellent at what you do, but if you struggle with words or are too modest to shout about your achievements, you may struggle to write an effective resume.
Professional resume writing services manage this on your behalf. They can find exciting ways to talk you up while adhering to the parameters set by many applicant tracking systems. A professional resume writing service knows what makes a great resume stand out. Many of them are so confident of their success that they offer a 60-day interview guarantee.
Resume writing services are only worth the money if they get you the results you want, whether that’s a well-written resume or some good job interviews.
It’s important that you are happy with the final product. Many faster turnaround services may offer poor-quality resumes, so you need to feel confident that your resume is selling you effectively.
This is your showcase and if it doesn’t feel like you, it may not be worth the money.
This depends on the service you require. Typically, you can expect to pay between $129 and $180 for a basic package, although premium options can cost as much as $650.
Packages differ according to price, so there is an element of ‘getting what you pay for.’ The more expensive options include LinkedIn profile overhauls and dedicated cover letters that work in perfect partnership with your resume.
When choosing a resume writing service, look beyond the initial upfront price to see what additional options are available. Different resume writing companies can offer vastly different experiences.
Recruiters do not have time to sift through thousands of resumes, so many are choosing to use applicant tracking systems to automatically filter through resumes.
By tailoring your resume to a specific job advert, you can subtly reference terminology used within that advert on your resume. This will improve your chances of moving through the pre-set automated parameters.
When a human recruiter reviews your resume, they want to be impressed. This is your chance to make a good first impression, so you need to tailor your resume to each application to show that you are the exact candidate they are looking for.
Final Thoughts
It can be nerve-wracking to step into the job market for the first time. No matter how good you think your resume is, you will be judged against other people. This remains true whether it’s your first ever job application or you have years of experience.
If you are not a natural writer, creating a resume can be time-consuming, difficult and stressful. Hiring a professional resume service can mitigate some of those stresses and give you confidence that you have a well-written document that highlights your skills and meets keyword demands.
As a result, you could find that hiring a professional resume writer could pay off if it helps you to stand out from the crowd and get invited to interviews more often.
Different resume services offer varying levels of quality. It helps to carefully research options to see what others are saying about the resume services so that you can make an informed purchasing decision.