Certified resume writers have undergone training and testing to become certified in their field. They offer professional advice and guarantee a minimum qualification standard. Certification involves a study guide, continuing education units, and a writing assignment. Certified writers set their own fees based on the complexity of the job.
Of course, you can write your own resume or enlist the help of a friend or colleague, but sometimes you need professional advice. A certified resume writer is a professional who has taken the necessary steps to become certified in their field by one of two professional organizations. The process to become a certified resume writer involves training and testing skills such as grammar, strategic thinking, job knowledge, and resume and cover letter writing.
Many who seek certified resume writer status are freelancers or self-employed. However, of the many other professionals who seek the certified resume writer credential, some work in employment agencies, college placement offices, or outplacement companies. The certification process itself is relatively new; the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches began its certification program in 1991, and the National Association of Resume Writers began a similar certification in 1997.
Both associations offer similar accreditations: Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) or Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW). Any of the certifications guarantees the client that the professional has met a minimum qualification standard. Just because a professional isn’t certified, however, doesn’t mean he or she isn’t capable of producing an effective resume for their clients. Some resume writers choose not to pursue certification and instead rely on client testimonials, awards, and publication credits to prove their aptitude.
The NCRW Certificate Program involves a study guide of concepts and strategies important to successful CV and cover letter preparation. Candidates for NCRW certification must also obtain continuing education units prior to the test. The certified resume writer candidate must also submit a sample resume and cover letter, which are critiqued by the certification committee members.
The NCRW exam itself contains two components; the first component includes questions related to a sample summary. The second component of this particular certified writing exam is a writing assignment. Once a person earns NCRW certification, he or she can maintain the designation through 1) additional continuing education units or 2) passing another NCRW exam. The CPRW test consists of four components: industry knowledge; grammar, punctuation and proofreading; strategic thought; and a resume and cover letter writing test using hypothetical client information.
By using a certified copywriter instead of preparing it yourself, you benefit from the experience and knowledge resulting from the certification process. Certified resume writers state that when an individual prepares their own resume, they tend to undersell accomplishments and not include enough detail regarding measurable accomplishments.
Certified resume writers set their own fees for resume and cover letter writing. Some charge by the hour; others charge by the curriculum. Fees are often based on the difficulty of the job; for example, a resume for an entry-level employee is not as complex to create as one for an executive with many years of experience or an individual trying to change careers.
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