How can you know if you're ready to become a resume writing consultant?

1 Assess your skills

The first thing you need to do is evaluate your resume writing skills objectively. Do you have the experience, knowledge, and credentials to provide high-quality resumes for different industries, levels, and situations? Do you know how to use keywords, formatting, and design to optimize resumes for both humans and applicant tracking systems (ATS)? Do you have a portfolio of successful resumes that you can showcase to potential clients? If you answered yes to these questions, you have a solid foundation to start your resume writing business.

2 Research the market

The next step is to research the market and the demand for resume writing services in your niche. Who is your ideal client and what are their pain points, goals, and expectations? How much are they willing to pay for a resume that gets them interviews and offers? What are the current trends and best practices in resume writing for your target industry or sector? How do you plan to reach and attract your clients, and what makes you stand out from the competition? These are some of the questions you need to answer to understand the market and your value proposition.

3 Calculate your costs

Another important factor to consider is the cost of running your resume writing business. How much do you need to invest in tools, software, and equipment to create and deliver professional resumes? How much do you need to spend on marketing, advertising, and networking to generate leads and referrals? How much do you need to pay for taxes, insurance, and legal fees to protect yourself and your business? How much do you need to earn to cover your expenses and make a profit? These are some of the questions you need to answer to set your rates and budget.

4 Plan your services

Once you have a clear idea of your skills, market, and costs, you need to plan your services and how you will deliver them. What types of resumes will you offer, and how will you tailor them to different clients and situations? How will you communicate with your clients, and what is your process for gathering information, drafting, revising, and finalizing resumes? How will you handle feedback, revisions, and complaints? How will you collect payment, issue invoices, and track your income and expenses? These are some of the questions you need to answer to create your service packages and policies.

5 Develop your brand

The last step is to develop your brand and establish your online presence as a resume writing consultant. How do you want to be perceived by your clients and the industry? What is your mission, vision, and values as a resume writer? What is your unique selling proposition and your story? How will you showcase your skills, credentials, and portfolio on your website, social media, and online platforms? How will you build trust, credibility, and authority in your niche? These are some of the questions you need to answer to create your brand identity and voice.

Becoming a resume writing consultant can be a great way to use your skill and passion for resume writing to help others and earn money. However, it also requires a lot of planning, research, and preparation to succeed in this competitive and dynamic field. By asking yourself these questions, you can assess your readiness and take the necessary steps to start your resume writing business with confidence and clarity.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?