There have been many layoffs this year, but with a looming recession and economic uncertainty, it’s natural to start feeling employment anxiety. How can you find a Career Coach/ Resume Writer who is knowledgeable enough to connect you to your dream career? In times of scarcity, “experts” will pop out of the woodwork, claiming they can help, and you want to ensure that your hard-earned dollars are going to good use.
Photo Description: Nicole Picton, Career Coach & Resume Writer
"I want to look back on my career and be proud of the work, and be proud that I tried everything." —Jon Stewart
Here are a few things for you to consider before choosing a Career Coach/Resume Writer.
1. What are people saying about them?
Does the Career Coach/Resume Writer have reviews on their website or LinkedIn? Have you been referred to them by a previous client? Feel free to ask them what type of resumes they have worked on before and what they know about your industry. If they don’t know about your industry, how do they plan to find out the information? If the Career Coach or Resume Writer becomes defensive, this could be a red flag.
2. What Human Resources experience does the Career Coach have?
Do they have recruiting experience? Are they Human Resources professionals? Do they have any experience reviewing resumes or interviewing candidates? It’s not a requirement to be a human resource professional to write a resume because often people will niche down and only write Cybersecurity resumes, for example. As a potential client, it’s your job to gauge their level of experience and familiarity with the hiring process.
3. "I guarantee I will get you a job at XYZ company."
Let’s be serious. The only two things that are sure in this life are death and taxes. No one can guarantee you a job at Google, TD Canada Trust, KPMG or any other big-name company. Have their past clients' secured employment at those companies? Maybe. Will you secure employment at the same company on your first try? It’s possible but not a guarantee. The guarantee of a job usually goes hand-in-hand with the statement "ATS- approved"- this is 100% a scam. Most have the recruiters review the resumes one by one.
4. Your home address and a photo are not required on your resume.
Assuming you are seeking a job within North America, having your full address and a photo on your resume is a no, no. This is for two reasons.
Discrimination: If companies see what you look like beforehand, they may choose not to interview you. You obviously wouldn’t want to work for this type of company anyways but still good to know.
Safety: There is no reason why a company needs to know your full address until you have signed your employment contract. People can look you up and show up at your home-yes, this has happened before.
5. Research. Research. Research.
Friends, Google is free and your best friend. Check them out on LinkedIn too.