Professional C.V. writing services

Uncle_moe

Hi,
just wondering if anyone has used any of the English C.V. writing services online? I've been looking at a few such as the Fuller C.V., The C.V. experts, and C.V. Masterclass but they are all pricey so I'm just wondering if its worth it. Any info would be handy, thanks.

omen80

I think these services are only useful to people who haven't got a clue how to write a CV or are not bothered to research it themselves.

I personally would not pay the sort of money they are looking for. No doubt someone from a CV writing company will be on soon to sell it.........

KarlDrake

omen80 wrote: »

I think these services are only useful to people who haven't got a clue how to write a CV or are not bothered to research it themselves.

I personally would not pay the sort of money they are looking for. No doubt someone from a CV writing company will be on soon to sell it.........

Hello! Full disclosure; I'm involved with a CV Service but not here to sell per se but exercising right of reply.

The fact is most people through no fault of their own are not good at writing CVs. Another fact is that hiring managers and recruiters currently approach CV selection with deselection in mind. Any errors or lack of clarity will automatically rule an applicant out of most roles.

A third fact is that working with a third party who knows what they are doing will ensure that the owner of the CV will be forced to think critically not only about the roles and responsibilities that they have had but also about the positive impact that their actions have had for the employer and or clients.

People have outsourced specialist skills for the longest time. I can't wire my house so I get an electrician in.

If you have an issue with third party CV writers so be it, but an awful lot of people have benefitted from them/us.

Uncle_moe

ok, fair enough. Anyone actually use one of these services and have any feedback? Reviews online are mixed and the Irish companies I got in touch with were quite shabby, either weren't too bothered about doing it, took ages to respond, or just didn't offer any info i didn't already know.
Also I'd like to think I can write a reasonable C.V. just not a great one so I need some help to get a job I really want.

vikingdub

Stay away from them, employers are familiar with the "template" type cvs that they produce and are not impressed by applicants who cannot or will not prepare their own cv. Many of these online services proport to operate from the UK but are in fact churned out in India, watch out for the word "reputed" being used instead of reputable - a real give away.

Having said that there are some really good consultants out there who will help you prepare your cv and will provide tips on format, style and content. Working with a good consultant will help you focus on what should and what should not be included.

He/she will advise you how to highlight your achievements in previous jobs and not simply submit a task list, a very common mistake made by job seekers.


A few tips, never include your date of birth, gender or marital status, no photos and never give the names and contact details of your referees, simply state that "references are available on request".

Irish_Elect_Eng

vikingdub wrote: »

Stay away from them, employers are familiar with the "template" type cvs that they produce and are not impressed by applicants who cannot or will not prepare their own cv.

+1 Agree totally.

If you are using a job agency make them work for their money. Have them provide you with a critical review of your CV, after all if you get the job then they will make their $$$.

If you see a job that you want , CUSTOMISE your CV to apply for that job. Look for the key requirements of the job and reflect them where they match your skills or experience.

Write a detailed cover letter, make them feel that this is the job that you have been looking for since college :-) A little mild flattery of the company does not hurt also.

There are a lot of good web sites offering good advice on CVs application letters etc. If you want a more formal approach there are many good books also.

jessicah

I understand why people are wary, but if you find a professional one with a good reputation, I see no harm in it. I used, <snip> and I found them good.

Eoin

jessicah wrote: »

I understand why people are wary, but if you find a professional one with a good reputation, I see no harm in it. I used, <snip> and I found them good.

So good that you signed up with two accounts here to promote them. Banned.

Eoin

Back on-topic, I wouldn't discount this type of service immediately. Yes, they might look template driven at times, but having reviewed a good few CVs over the last few years, that's still a lot better than the some of the CVs I've seen that are very poorly structured.

And often these are from people who are otherwise very good at communicating.

Incidentally, templates aren't necessarily a bad thing - I've been using a standard MS Word Resume template for the last 8 years or so, and have always received positive feedback on it.

eire2009

Its sad and evil but if you have to, you can always post a job on gumtree or that for free, and just copy the best CV you receive :rolleyes: .

mjpd

Eoin wrote: »

So good that you signed up with two accounts here to promote them. Banned.

LOL Jessica (prob not real name): "Banned"

amtc

I'm pretty good at this, so if you want to pm me - happy to help, foc

sillymoo2007

Hi, I saw this post on Google when I was looking for help writing CV. I'm a full time mature student and will shortly be looking for work placement. I have previously had a very successful career in a different industry and am at a quandary as how to incorporate that into a new CV. Has anybody used one of the Professional services for this or any help greatly appreciate

Klopp

Dragging up an old thread - Can anyone recommened somewhere online within Dublin that offers this service that isn't a rip off?

B.A._Baracus

Klopp wrote: »

Dragging up an old thread - Can anyone recommened somewhere online within Dublin that offers this service that isn't a rip off?

To chime the same with earlier posts don't use them. They are all a rip off. There is so much free information online. But if you want somewhere to help with your cv? I saw today that Blanchardstown Library does.