My unpopular opinion: most people choose a resume writer the way they choose a takeout restaurant, by price, speed, and star rating. Then they’re surprised when what arrives looks a lot like what they already had. If you’re going to hire a resume writer, you deserve to know what you’re buying before you pay.
The short answer: ask about process, proof, and deliverables before price. A good writer will interview you, show real samples and reviews, explain their ATS approach, and give you editable files you can tailor. Below are the 12 questions to ask (with my own answers), plus the mistakes people make when hiring.
Key takeaways
- Process is the best predictor of quality: does the writer ask you questions?
- Look for samples, real reviews, and transparent pricing.
- Avoid anyone guaranteeing interviews or jobs.
- Make sure you’ll get editable files and help tailoring them.
The Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Resume Writer
Mistake 1: Choosing on price alone
A cheap resume that doesn’t get interviews costs you time. Compare what’s included, not just the number. Here’s my take on marketplace writers vs. dedicated professionals.
Mistake 2: Skipping the conversation
If a writer never talks to you, they can’t uncover the results you’ve forgotten to mention.
Mistake 3: Ignoring red flags
Guarantees, no samples, and pressure tactics are all warning signs. See how to avoid resume-writing scams.
Mistake 4: Not knowing your target
Even the best writer needs to know what you’re aiming for. Bring two or three postings.
12 Questions to Ask Before You Pay (and How I’d Answer)
| Question | What a good answer sounds like | My answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. What’s your process? | A consultation and deep-dive questions | A conversation about your goals and results, then writing |
| 2. Who do you usually work with? | Experience at your level | Entry-level through executives; 4,000+ professionals helped |
| 3. Can I see samples? | Yes, at your level | Yes, sample resumes by career stage |
| 4. Where can I read reviews? | Real, verifiable reviews | 4.9 stars on Google; Top 1% on Upwork |
| 5. How do you handle ATS? | Clean structure, honest keywords | ATS-friendly formatting and targeted keywords |
| 6. How do you tailor to my target? | Uses your postings | We build around the roles you want |
| 7. How long does it take? | A clear timeline | First drafts in as little as 3 days |
| 8. What about revisions? | Collaboration until it sounds like you | We refine together |
| 9. What will I receive? | Editable files | Editable files plus tailoring guidance |
| 10. What does it cost? | Transparent pricing | $199–$599 by career level |
| 11. Do you guarantee interviews? | No (honestly) | No; nobody honestly can |
| 12. Can you do my LinkedIn and cover letter? | Yes, consistently | LinkedIn from $179 with a resume; cover letter $149 |
All of my pricing is on the rates page, and you can see what each stage includes for mid-level and senior-level professionals.
If you’d like to hear my answers in person and ask your own questions, you’re welcome to book a free consultation. No obligation, and if you only need a few tweaks, I’ll tell you.
What to Prepare Before You Hire
- Your current resume (however rough).
- Two or three target postings (a general resume gets you generally nothing).
- A list of wins, even approximate ones. If you’re unsure whether to rewrite or start over, read resume rewrite vs. a new resume.
- A quick self-check using my resume review checklist.
Want to understand the full journey? Here’s what happens when you hire a professional resume writer, and my criteria for choosing the best resume writing service. For the employer side of hiring, SHRM’s recruiting resources and the LinkedIn Talent Blog are helpful, and the Occupational Outlook Handbook helps you learn your target role’s language.
“Kyla was amazing. She is clearly an expert at resume writing. She not only asked great questions, but she also listened and empathized – rare in my experience.”
— Kevin Orsi, Google review
Learn more about my resume and cover letter writing service.
Questions I Get Asked a Lot
What should I ask before I hire a resume writer?
Ask about their process, experience with your field and level, samples, reviews, ATS approach, turnaround, revisions, deliverables, and price. The answers tell you whether you’re buying a strategy or a template.
How do I know if a resume writer is legitimate?
Look for transparent pricing, real reviews, samples, a clear process, and no guarantees of interviews or jobs.
How much does it cost to hire a resume writer?
Prices vary widely across the industry. Mine are $199 to $599 by career level, with a cover letter for $149.
How long does a resume writer take?
It varies. With me, first drafts typically arrive in as little as three days after our conversation.
Do resume writers guarantee interviews?
Reputable writers don’t, because hiring depends on factors no writer controls. Be cautious of anyone who does.
Should my resume writer specialize in my industry?
Industry familiarity helps, but a strong process matters more. Ask how they’ll learn about your field and your results.
What should I prepare before hiring a resume writer?
Your current resume, a few target job postings, and a list of accomplishments you’re proud of.
Can a resume writer also do my LinkedIn?
Many can. I offer LinkedIn profile writing from $179 with a resume order, so your resume and profile tell the same story.
Ask Me Anything Before You Decide
The right resume writer should welcome your questions. Book a free consultation, bring this list, and decide for yourself whether we’re a good fit.
