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Professional Resume Writing Service Cost in 2024

8 min read · Updated on July 16, 2024

Your resume is arguably one of the most important financial documents you own

Most people don't think about their resume being a financial document. However, without it, you can't land your dream job to pay bills, plan vacations, or save for retirement. Hiring a professional resume writing service is often a great way to invest in your future.

The good news is that you don't have to shell out $1,000 for a resume writer. Of course, you can, but generally, the cost will be much lower than that. So, how much does a professional resume writing service cost in 2024?

Here are the main things you'll want to consider before you decide to hire a professional resume writing service:

The “why” behind hiring a resume writer

Scams, red flags, and poor quality services

The company or writer's reputation

Whether the process, including turnaround time, aligns with your schedule and expectations

How you will be expected to communicate with your resume writer

The professional resume writing service cost - of course!

Why should you hire a professional resume writing service?

It doesn't seem that writing a resume is rocket science. When you think about it, all you're trying to do is summarize your career for a new company to obtain a job. However, with the rampant use of Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS , and the sheer competitiveness of the job market, hiring a professional resume writer can help you to stand in the sea of sameness.

Take the resume writers at TopResume, as an example. Each one has a wealth of experience, plus insight into how you can write an ATS-optimized resume and impress a hiring manager. On top of that, you can rest easy knowing that you'll get something that's specifically tailored for your career goals, based on your individual history. 

Professional resume writers  are not only great at culling out the appropriate achievements from your career, but they have the right industry knowledge to ensure that your resume is relevant. 

Here are some tips for when you're considering which professional resume writing service to hire:

1. Do some research - discover reputation, red flags, and scams

The first step in finding a great resume writer is research. Whether you end up hiring a company or an individual, perform some due diligence. Read reviews on third party sites like Google, TrustPilot , or SiteJabber. Don't simply rely on customer feedback listed on the company's website.

This research will help you to determine whether the person or company you're hiring produces high-quality resumes. Sadly, there are a lot of bad resume writers out there who simply rewrite the content they're given. 

A bit of research can help shine a light on red flags and help you to identify scams before you fall victim. You're trying to put your best foot forward during your job search, so you want the company or person you hire to do the same. If you see the word “affordable” in pricing, you should probably avoid them.

Also try to find out whether you're going to be working with a specific writer within the company or if they outsource. Sometimes, writers will outsource their projects to freelancers via platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. If that ends up being the case, you could end up with a cookie-cutter resume that doesn't truly reflect your career accomplishments. 

Not only that, when you work with someone who outsources your resume writing project, there's a great chance for communication breakdowns as the person who is actually writing your document has no access to ask you direct questions. 

Make a list of a few companies you find that have good reputations and then make your decision based on the services they offer or guarantees they have.

2. Check out which resume writing services or packages are offered

Since your resume is only one tool in your job search toolbox, check to make sure the resume writing service you hire offers additional services. Most people who are searching for a job need a cover letter and an optimized LinkedIn profile . In fact, your LinkedIn profile is almost as important as your resume.

Does the resume writing service offer these additional services? You don't want to have to bounce from one writer to another just to get what you need. 

3. Understand the resume writing process

Once you've decided on a company or person to write your resume, there are several how-it-works type questions you need to ask. 

What is the turnaround time?

How much does the entry-level resume writing service cost?

How much does the professional resume writing service cost?

How much does the executive resume writing service cost?

Does the writer have any certifications, like accreditation from the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC)?

What is the resume writing service guarantee? Is there a guarantee at all?

How will I communicate with my writer?

Do I get any revisions on the resume produced?

You'll often find that the turnaround time is about 5 business days. That's because writers spend a lot of time on a single resume - well, the good ones do anyway. It can take approximately 10 hours to produce a new resume, when you consider the time spent analyzing your career history, having a conference with you to learn about achievements, and writing the new document. 

One thing that's critical to understand is that most resume writers perform their services virtually. This means that you'll do everything via email, telephone, or video conference. The key, though, is highly collaborative communication. If there's a breakdown in communication with your writer, that's a huge problem and needs to be addressed right away. 

You should always be allowed to make revisions and have some type of back-and-forth exchange with your writer. Even though resume writing services like TopResume employ writers who have experience writing resumes for a range of industries and professional experience levels, the writer isn't a mind reader. It's up to you to point out things that need to be corrected. 

Communication is also important when it comes to leveraging any guarantees offered by the company. You'll never find a resume writing company guaranteeing that you'll get a job with your new resume, but you should see something in the way of a guarantee. Usually, it's a certain timeframe for landing interviews. 

How much do professional resume writing services cost?

When you feel like you've found a couple of companies you could work with, it's time to dig into how much they'll charge. 

Keep the old adage that you get what you pay for in mind when comparing professional resume writing service costs . You should expect to spend somewhere between $200 and $1,000 - sometimes more, depending on the resume writing service you need. 

There are three basic ranges to consider when looking at professional resume writing service costs:

Entry level: This is for anyone new to the job market or someone who has less than 5 years of experience. You should expect to pay around $200. 

Professional level: If you're approaching 10-15 years of experience, you'll need someone with more experience who can concisely summarize your career with relevant keywords. For this range, your resume writer will likely charge somewhere in the neighborhood of $200 - $400.

Executive level: As you might expect, someone seeking a senior-level management or C-suite position will need a more experienced resume writer. Executive services range from $350 - $700. 

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How Much Does a Resume Writer Cost (And Should I Use One)?

Thinking about hiring a resume writer? Here’s everything you need to know, including how much it costs and whether it’s really worth it.

3 years ago   •   8 min read

Writing a resume is the first — and often biggest — hurdle in any job search. That’s part of what makes resume writing services so appealing — after all, if you could simply remove that hurdle, why wouldn’t you?

For starters, the cost of removing that hurdle might be steeper than you think — and we’re not just talking about money. But since we're here: Let's talk about money.

How much does a resume writer cost?

Standard resume writer rates are between $200-$300 for a basic entry-level resume and rising to upwards of $2000 for executive or senior-level resumes .

Found a much cheaper service? We'll explain why that's a bad idea later.

What determines the cost of a resume writer?

Why such a big range? Just as there's no "one size fits all" resume solution for every job, the cost of hiring a resume writer will depend on a host of different factors.

• What stage of your career you're at
• What kinds of jobs you're applying for
• How many jobs you're applying for
• Whether you're applying for more than one type of job
• How much experience your resume writer has
• How much personal input you want
• Whether you're hiring a writer directly or going through a resume writing service

That's a lot to consider! Suddenly, writing a resume from scratch isn't looking that bad.

The cost of different resume writing services

Still curious about hiring a professional resume writer? Here's some insight into different types of resume services, what they involve, and how much they're likely to cost.

How much does an entry-level resume cost?

The good news is, an entry-level resume is going to be fairly cheap compared to other options — think around $100-$200. The even better news is, if you're entry-level, you don't need to hire a resume writer.

It might feel tricky to put together a resume without any experience, but all you really need is a simple resume template , a few highlights from your education, activities, or volunteer work, and the right skills and keywords .

How much does a mid-career resume cost?

If you're looking for a professional resume writer for most non-executive roles, you're looking at between $300-$500. This could be more or less depending on the exact length and nature of your experience and the type of jobs you're currently applying for.

How much does an executive resume cost?

For an executive resume, you'll probably end up paying $1000+ (and possibly as much as $3000). While that might not seem like much compared to an executive salary, it's still more than you need to spend. Instead, try investing a little time into reading an executive resume guide that can help you put together a professional-quality resume for a fraction of the cost.

How much does it cost to hire a resume editor?

If you're just looking for someone to help edit and polish your resume, that's likely to be a little less expensive than writing a resume from scratch — but not by much. If you only need a little bit of work, consider looking for resume editors who offer an hourly rate (and agree on the number of hours upfront).

How much do resume screening services cost?

Resume screening services shouldn't be expensive.

• If all you need is a quick once over, you can upload your resume to an ATS resume scanner for free
• If you want extra support, choose an ongoing service that can help you throughout the whole duration of your job search — you can upgrade to Resume Worded Pro for as little as $19/month.

More than you bargained for? That's okay! You don't need to hire a resume writer to get a professional-looking result.

How to DIY your resume for free

Heard the saying, “if you want something done right, do it yourself?” Unfortunately, that’s often the best advice.

If writing your own resume seems daunting (or simply too time-consuming), here are some quick steps to get you started. If you're absolutely sure you need your resume written by someone else, create a first draft using the tools below in just an hour — doing so will make sure you have a starting point, and will help you learn about what to look for when hiring a resume writer.

• Start with an ATS-ready resume template . These templates are already optimized for resume screeners (both real and automated) and can save you time when it comes to structure and formatting.
• Write your accomplishments in bullet point format. Short on time or inspiration? Here are some resume bullet points you can copy and paste.
• Once you have a draft ready, upload it to a resume optimizer for a free resume review .
• Make any changes suggested and reupload. You’re aiming for a score of 90 or above.
• Tailor your resume to individual jobs by using a targeted resume tool, which will tell you exactly how to tailor your resume in less than five minutes.
• You’re done! Congratulations — you just saved $500 and ended up with a better resume than a resume writer could have provided for you.

Here’s an example of an optimized resume that doesn’t require the help of a professional:

Get it — and 250+ more free templates — here.

Get a free resume review (before you hire a writer)

Once you’ve created your first draft, upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll scan it for any glaring mistakes, quantifiable accomplishments, transferable skills and tell you if your resume satisfies the key criteria recruiters look for.

The real cost of hiring a resume writer

Decided to hire a professional to help you with your resume? Look out for these common pitfalls (aka. "Here's how to not get scammed").

The high cost of cheap resumes

Found a resume writing service advertising significantly lower prices than those listed above? Like anything in life, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Cheap services are often outsourced to beginners or to non-English speaking countries.

More money ≠ better quality

If cheap resumes are bad, more expensive services must be better, right? Not necessarily. There's a limit to how much bang you can expect from your buck, even from high-end services. Above a certain price range, paying more isn’t going to get you a better service, just a more expensive one.

You'll neeed more than one resume

If you think hiring a resume writer will somehow land you with a single, perfect resume you can use for the rest of your career, think again. Tailoring your resume to the job you’re applying for will net you better results than having a polished but generic resume, which means you’re looking at paying extra for each resume you need. Depending on how widely you’re casting your net, this can really start to add up!

The information on your resume may not be accurate

On one hand, good resume writers will always take the time to understand your background and represent it correctly. On the other hand, others may choose to take a shortcut and insert extra information just because it sounds good. If that happens, you'll most likely be caught and immediately rejected. It doesn't matter that you didn't lie deliberately — you're responsible for the information on your resume, so always check it thoroughly before you hit "submit."

Money back guarantees aren't always what they seem

Some resume writing services will offer a 'guarantee' as a way of putting your mind at ease. Despite appearances, this isn't actually a good thing. Nobody can guarantee that you'll land a job, or even an interview. In most cases, a 'guarantee'  only means that they’ll keep rewriting your resume if it doesn’t land you any interviews — but if they aren’t successful the first time, it’s unlikely they’ll magically improve the second or third.

It isn't 100% above board

Some recruiters might not care that you hired a third party to write your resume, but others may see it as cheating or plagiarism. If in doubt, it's best to make sure that all the materials you submit as part of the hiring process — including your resume — are your own original work.

The benefits of hiring a resume writer

It might sound like there's no benefit to having your resume professionally written, which isn't entirely true. It's more accurate to say that the costs of hiring a resume writer probably outweigh the benefits .

It can help you get started … but it’s not the only way

Professional resume writing services can help if you’re completely stuck, or if you’re looking for a raise or promotion and really need to optimize your resume. But even though they’re an option, they should never be your default choice. You can also:

• Follow the steps above to write your own resume — it’s easier than you think!
• Browse online resume examples for ideas
• Upload your resume to an online resume checker to get detailed suggestions for revision
• Get someone else — particularly someone who's working in the field you want to join — to look over your finished resume and provide some light editing or a final polish

Best of all? All these ideas are free!

If you’re not sure how to tailor your resume to the job you’re applying to, use the tool below to search for skills and keywords related to the job and it’ll give you a list of relevant ones.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a resume writer take.

You can expect it take at least a week or two. Want a rush job? You’ll likely be paying more for it and getting something that’s significantly lower quality in return.

What do resume writers do?

Generally, hiring a resume writer will involve:

• The initial search
• 1-2 phone calls with your resume writer
• Negotiating and signing a contract
• Follow-up questions through phone or email
• Multiple revisions
• Final acceptance and payment

If you're looking at hiring a resume writer who proposes skipping any of those steps, consider it a red flag.

How do I choose a resume writer?

If you do hire a resume writer, make sure they’re legitimate. You’re looking for people with a background in hiring or recruitment, and ideally in your exact industry. Resume writing qualifications like CPRW don’t tell you anything about a writer’s industry qualifications, so do your due diligence before you commit.

Always ask for past samples or to see a portfolio so you can judge the quality for yourself. Upload their samples to a tool like Score My Resume to get a transparent, AI-backed understanding of whether they’re any good.

Is TopResume any good?

TopResume is a resume writer marketplace with hundreds of writers, which means there are a mix of good and bad writers on the site. First, use the free tools at your disposal — like Score My Resume — to evaluate whether you need to hire a resume writer in the first place (you probably don’t!), and then set up a phone call directly with your writer to see if they’re the right fit.

Can you pay someone to write your cover letter?

Absolutely not. A cover letter needs to be personalized and give the hiring manager a real sense of who you are. If you can't be bothered writing one, you're still better off jotting down a couple of quick lines — or even skipping it entirely — than outsourcing it.

What if I get caught?

That depends. It isn't illegal to hire someone to write your resume or cover letter, but there may still be consequences. Depending on the views of the company and the hiring manager, they could:

• Give you a chance to resubmit
• Reject your application

If the information on your resume isn’t accurate , that’s always a big deal, and can result in you being removed from consideration or even fired if you already landed the job.

If a hiring manager thinks you’ve plagiarized , that’s ground for immediate rejection. Whether resume writing services constitute plagiarism is subjective, which means it’s probably better not to take that chance.

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How Much Do Resume Writing Services Cost in 2024?

If you're considering hiring a resume writing service in 2024, you're likely wondering how much it will cost. The truth is the price can vary widely depending on your level of experience, industry, and the specific services you need. While some writers charge as little as $5 for a basic resume, others may charge upwards of $1,000 for a comprehensive package.

However, the cost isn't the only factor you should consider when choosing a resume writing service. A professionally written resume can make all the difference in landing your dream job, so it's important to choose a service that meets your needs and budget.

In this article, we'll explore the cost of professional resume writing services in 2024 and break down what you can expect to get for your money. We'll also discuss the various factors that can impact pricing and provide tips on choosing the right service for your career goals. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this guide will help you make an informed decision about your resume writing needs.

Related reading: 10 Best Resume Writing Services US + CA (All Industries)

Cost of resume writing service

Your resume is the first impression you make on potential employers, and investing in a professional resume writer can make all the difference in landing your dream job. Whether you can only spend up to $100 or find yourself able to invest in the $400 and up range, there are resume packages available to fit your needs. 

As you consider your options, remember that a professionally written resume is an investment in your future. A well-crafted resume can open doors to new opportunities, increase your chances of landing an interview, and even boost your starting salary.

So whether you're just starting out in your career or looking to take the next step, finding the right resume writing service is an important step in achieving your professional goals. Let's break down what you can expect in different price ranges, so you can make an informed decision and invest wisely in your future . 

Resumes up to $100

Despite the low price point, you may be surprised by the quality of services you can receive. From basic resume editing to customizable templates, resume packages in this budget-friendly range can deliver what you need. However, you have to be careful. 

Generally speaking, any resume package under $100 is a red flag and should really be avoided. It’s really hard to find someone to write a quality resume for that price. A lot of cheap services on the web also outsource their work to inexperienced or low-quality writers focused on quantity instead of quality. 

If you really don’t have the money to spend on a resume service, you’re better off writing it on your own with help from guides and other trusted resources. There is a ton of information out there to support a DIY approach: head over to the ZipJob blog to get started!

Here are some resources you might like:

USA Resume Format

ATS Resume Test: Free ATS Checker & Formatting Examples  

200+ Resume Examples for Every Job & Industry

Ensure you follow best practices when you write your resume and avoid the common mistakes that could be costing you the interview.

All of that being said, not all services in this price range are created equal. With careful research and consideration, you may be able to find a service that delivers a quality resume without breaking the bank. 

Next, let’s explore the options available for resume packages between $100 and $400, which may offer a better balance of affordability and quality.

Resumes between $100 and $400

In the $100 to $400 price range, you can typically find a resume-writing service that delivers quality results without breaking the bank. With this budget, you can expect a professional resume writer to edit and optimize your existing resume or create a new one from scratch.

It's important to note that prices can vary depending on your level of experience and career goals. Recent graduates or those with little experience may only need a basic resume and can find a quality writer for around $100 to $150. 

However, if you're an experienced professional or looking to make a significant career change, you may need a more comprehensive package that includes additional services such as LinkedIn profile optimization, cover letter writing, or job interview coaching . In this case, you can expect to pay a bit more, ranging from $150 to $400.

When considering a resume writing service within this price range, it's important to do your research and compare services to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Look for a service that offers personalized consultations, a proven track record, and a satisfaction guarantee. 

You should also consider the credentials of the writers, such as industry experience and certifications, to ensure they have the expertise to effectively market your skills and experience to potential employers. Stay tuned for more tips on choosing a resume writing service. 

Resumes from $400 to $1000

When it comes to resume writing services in the $400 to $1000 range, you can expect a premium level of service and attention to detail. This price range is typically for executives, senior-level managers, and those with specialized experience or in highly competitive industries.

At this level, you can expect more than just a basic resume. Services in this range often include a comprehensive branding package that goes beyond simply writing a resume. This could include a cover letter, LinkedIn profile optimization, networking and interviewing tips, and more.

With a higher price point comes access to experienced, certified, and often highly specialized resume writers who have extensive experience crafting resumes for senior-level executives. These writers have a deep understanding of what hiring managers in your industry are looking for and can craft a resume that highlights your unique skills and experience.

It's important to note that $400 is the average price for a professional resume, and prices can go up from there depending on the level of service and expertise required. For executives, prices may be higher due to the additional time and effort required to brand a senior-level manager and highlight their unique value proposition.

Resumes in the $1000 plus range

While it's understandable to want to invest in your career and find the best possible service, paying over $1000 for a resume is often unnecessary and even downright insane. Prices at this level are often inflated due to factors like celebrity endorsements, aggressive marketing tactics, and overly complicated packages that may not even be relevant to your needs.

It's important to remember that the quality of a resume isn't necessarily tied to its price tag. In fact, some of the best resume writers may charge less than $1000 and still deliver exceptional results. It's always a good idea to research your options and read reviews before committing to a service at any price point.

Top 3 tips for choosing a resume writing service

Now that we've covered the different price ranges for resume writing services, it's important to know how to choose the right service for your needs. After all, you want to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck. Here are the top three tips for choosing a resume-writing service that will help you stand out in the job market.

We also wrote a more detailed post on how to choose a good resume-writing service .

1. Do your research

Do your research to ensure you go with a reputable company. This is best done using third-party review sites and seeing what other customers had to say. Also, check to see if they have a contact number or live chat available. Not having a way to contact the company or the writer is a good sign that you’re going with a low-quality or outsourced service.

2. Choose how to communicate with your resume writer

How do you want to communicate with your writer?

To collaborate on a high-quality resume, you need to communicate with your writer about your past work experience, skills, qualifications, and the type of position you’re targeting. If the process is simply submitting your resume and the type of job you want, you’ll usually end up with something that doesn’t match your goals.

Different resume-writing services offer different communication channels. Many resume writers work through email or other text-based messages, but some offer phone calls, video calls, or in-person meetings.

Make sure your preference is offered by the service you’re considering before you buy!

3. Be ready to collaborate

Your writer can only work with what you give them. Many people make the mistake of thinking they can submit their outdated resumes and sit back while the writer does all the work.

You need to keep in mind that you need to put in the effort to give the writer everything they need. A good resume writer should be asking you details about what you did and where you’re going, so be prepared to answer any questions.

Investing in a professional resume-writing service can be a game changer in your job search. With the help of a skilled resume writer, you can highlight your strengths and achievements in a way that catches the attention of hiring managers. Remember that when it comes to choosing a resume-writing service, it's important to do your research and read reviews to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, there are resume writing packages available to fit your needs and budget. Don't let a poorly written resume hold you back from landing your dream job. Take the first step towards success by investing in a high-quality resume writing service today.

Ready to take the first step toward your dream job? Let our expert team of resume writers help you land the interviews you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.

Good luck with your job search!

Recommended reading:

Hiring a Resume Writing Service | Is it Worth the Money?

Being Unemployed: How Long is Too Long?

10 Best Resume Writing Services in the USA and Canada

Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer

Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog .

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7 Best Resume Writing Services (+ Which Are Worth It)

3 key takeaways

• There's a wide range of professional resume writing services ranging from executive to budget.
• While job seekers often pay per resume with a professional writer, AI resume builders allow you to quickly create and optimize several versions to each job, presenting a more cost-efficient alternative.
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder is unlike most resume writing services in that it allows you to tailor your resume to every single job application using keyword matching and scoring. 

One of the biggest questions surrounding resume writing services is whether or not they’re worth it. 

The answer: it varies.

If you’re new to the job market and your resume is fairly simple, or you are working with a lower budget, you might not need a dedicated resume writer.

But if you’re looking to tailor you’re resume for the job, while meeting ATS (applicant tracking systems) readability standards , then you might need a professionally-written resume. 

This article compares some of the best resume writing services, where you can hire them, and how to choose the right one for you.

Having trouble writing your resume? Make a free resume with less hassle using Teal’s AI Resume Builder.

Types of resume writing services

While the goal of professional resume writing services is to create a resume that’ll land you a job, each type of resume service goes about it differently.

Resume writing services from a company

Larger companies that employ hundreds of freelance resume writers are a popular choice for many job seekers with a decent budget and a longer timeline with their applications.

The benefit of this type is the company is optionality. Some may even have in-house writers dedicated to your specific industry or role and can provide insights into previously successful resumes. 

Some resume writing services are large enough that they don’t dedicate one person or team to your account. Instead, you’ll have multiple people working on your resume, and the communication between them might not be stellar. They also might keyword stuff rather than weaving them in naturally.

One job seeker from Reddit shared their experience using a professional resume writing service: 

“I went with a resume writing service, and they clearly outsourced it to a country where English is not the most commonly spoken language. It was terrible and rife with errors. Luckily, I got my money back.”

Specialized resume writing services

These are services dedicated either to your industry or career level, such as executive resume writing services, which often offer career training as well. 

These services often have a directory of writers they vet and certify to write resumes for their specific industries, so you know you’re getting a professional. Typically, you’ll have a dedicated writer or team rather than subcontracted writers, editors, and reviewers.

Cons of specialized resume writing services

While they’re more tailored and often include specific skills to help you land more interviews, they tend to be more costly. You might also have deal with delays in your ability to apply, as you go through a series of interviews with the service to ensure they’re truly capturing your work experience.

Resume writers

You can, of course, hire a professional resume writer that is unaffiliated with any company. These writers often work for themselves as a freelancer or small business, and have niched down into one particular area of resume writing.

Cons of working with a professional resume writer

While they might have specialized industry knowledge, they're likely not familiar with the nuances of modern hiring tech or recruiting. They could just be a good writer that passed a training program to become certified in resume writing.

Teal’s Director of Talent, Mike Peditto, echoes this with his statement:

"Some resume writers rely on a bit more of an outdated style that puts a large focus on visual appeal above the user experience of the reader. They often rely heavily on graphics, charts, tables or other design tactics that not only may get lost in an ATS, but also tend to focus on the items a recruiter doesn't need to see right away. This can be be more distracting than valuable to somebody quickly doing a pass through of the resume looking for key information."

Building a resume with a resume builder

A resume builder is a tool that allows you to create and customize your resume again to match the position you’re applying for. 

This can be advantageous, since you understand your work history and industry better than anyone else. You also know which skills you want to highlight more depending on the role and how well you match it. 

Another benefit is cost per resume. You can create as many resumes as you’d like, allowing you to tailor the resume to every single application. Whereas most services will provide you with one polished resume that isn’t tailored to a specific role, unless you’ve requested such. 

Cons of using a resume builder

If your writing skills aren’t strong, you might not fully highlight your skills and experience without the help of AI features, not available in every resume builder. And while AI will assist in the writing, you will still want to personalize it. Teal gives you the best of both worlds with AI writing and ability to pull keywords from the job description, allowing you to better tailor each resume at scale.

You also might need to rely on templates to ensure you’re using the correct formatting to meet standards for an ATS.

7 top resume writing services

Calling anything “the best” is subjective to the criteria. Our criteria for determining the best writing services includes:

• Speedy delivery
• Good pricing
• Writing skills commensurate with your level of education, expertise, and career

No recruiter or hiring manager is going to spend ages pouring over the details of your resume. But they will still notice typos, glaring grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. 

Worse, your resume won’t get a second glance at all if your experience and skills don’t jump off the page and scream, “I’m the one for the job”. 

So, you need a professional resume service that understands your work history and how to highlight your experience, for the right price, so you can apply before the window of opportunity closes. 

Below are nine of the best resume services available right now:

• Best executive resume writing service
• Best resume writing services online
• Best-rated resume writing services
• Best affordable resume writing services

Best AI-powered resume builder

Best specialty resume writing services.

• Best resume writing service with additional professional packages
• Best resume service with quick turnaround time

Best executive resume writing service: Executive Resume Writers

TopResume is one of the most well-known resume writing services for executives. However, the negative experiences around their services have been widely recounted in online reviews and forums. 

If you want a true executive service, consider Executive Resume Writers.

Their clients have found work at Capital One, Dell, Google, Humana, Salesforce, Morgan Stanley, and dozens of other recognizable corporations.

They’re professional resume writers have written for a wide range of executive titles, from VP & Managing Director to President and CEO. 

Industry specializations

• Arts & Entertainment
• Financial Services
• Hospitality
• Information Services
• Manufacturing
• Other Industry
• Professional and Technical Services
• Public Administration
• Real Estate
• Retail Trade

Other services offered

Beyond their expertise in writing resumes for the executive level, they also offer: 

• LinkedIn optimization
• Interview preparation
• Career coaching

Cost: While Executive Resume Writers doesn't explicitly list their pricing, they do offer a range of $2,000 to $5,000.

Best-rated resume writing service: TopStack

Searching for professional resume writing services with the best ratings compared to the number of ratings and reviews, you find that TopStack lives up to its name by coming up top. They have a 4.8 star rating with 1,968 reviews on Trustpilot—more than any other resume writing service (excluding AI resume builders).

They have an incredibly simple process from filling out your initial intake form to assigning you to one of their experienced, US-based writers within 1-2 days. If you need to expedited the order, they’re able to accommodate if you alert them to this. 

Once assigned, they give their writers 48 hours to turn in a first draft. You may get up to two revisions of your resume after you’ve paid for your first draft. 

TopStack does not name list their staff publicly. Instead, they state they have experts in every single industry :

“Our team of 100+ professional writers have worked with clients in all industries and at all experience levels. In the (very) rare event that we don't have someone with experience writing in your field, we'll reach out to you after placing an order.” 

Other services

• LinkedIn profile development
• Cover letters
• Personal recruiting
• Career consulting

TopStack offers four different payment options. Their most basic package is $139, and their most expensive is $1149, paid on a monthly basis as it includes a personal recruiter that’ll go beyond the call to find you a job.

Best affordable resume writing service: ZipJob

ZipJob is one of the most affordable resume writing services that still offer professional writers and a decent turnaround of three to seven days. They back up their services with a guarantee that you land an interview within 60 days.

What sets them apart, aside from the low price, is that they grant you unfettered access to your professional resume writer.

ZipJob employs a roster of over 100 professional resume writers that have worked in Fortune 500 recruiting, career coaching, HR, and job placement, aside from resume writing. 

ZipJob has specialists in over 65 industries, including:

• Free resume review
• LinkedIn profile optimization

Cost: $139 to $299

Best resume writing service by offering: Let’s Eat, Grandma

While the name might bring on a laugh, Let’s Eat, Grandma is all serious when it comes to resume writing packages. 

Their most affordable service is fairly basic, offering a 30 minute one-on-one consultation, well-crafted resume, and two revisions. Their most extensive package of the four includes nine services, such as executive career coaching and unlimited revisions.

If you’re working on a shorter timeline for applying to positions, they might not be your best choice, as you’ll receive your first draft in about a week and the two revisions after an additional week.

But if you’re looking for a resume writing service that offers more than the average service, with true professionals at a decent price (and aren’t on a time restraint), Let’s Eat, Grandma is a great option. 

While they do not list their industries, it’s safe to assume they work with a wide range of clients.

• Executive resume
• Value proposition letter
• Digital guide to cold emails & thank-you notes
• Executive LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Access to a dedicated customer success representative
• 10 days of unlimited revisions
• 4x the talk time with your writer
• 60-minute executive career coaching session
• Guaranteed senior writer for executives
• Job search strategy meeting
• Career roadblock office hours
• Strategic applicant guide
• LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Resume critique

Cost: $439 to $1,899

Best resume service by speed: The Job Sauce

The Job Sauce doesn’t use their quick turnaround as a selling point but, nonetheless, they get you in front of an assigned writer within one business day. The work is fast yet skilled, and even their most basic package comes packed with bonus features.

Members get an industry-specific writer, a LinkedIn best practices guide, and lifetime webinar access. If you upgrade to the more premium package, you get services like training in salary negotiation and clarity coaching.

Industry specialization

They don’t list the industries they serve, but they do mention that they provide an industry-specific writer. 

‍ Other services

• Upgraded results-driven resume
• Applicant tracking systems optimized
• LinkedIn best practice guide
• Industry-specific professional writer
• Quick turnaround time
• Lifetime webinar access
• Premium assessments
• Two 60-minute calls
• Clarity on next steps
• Interview coaching
• Job offer coaching

Cost: $369 to 799

When it comes to specialty resume writing services, it only makes sense to highlight a few different services, considering the wide range of specializations.

Find My Profession is a great federal resume writing service that happens to specialize in C-Suite resume writing services.

ResuMeds is a top choice resume writing service for medical professionals. They’re fairly priced with a rate of $100 to 225 and have a turnaround time of three days.

iCareer Solutions offers professional resume writing services for IT, fintech, and software professionals. They won first place for Information Technology Resume Writing in the 2019 TORI Awards (Toast Of the Résumé Industry) from Career Directors International (CDI).

• Medical professionals
• C-suite executives
• Federal employees
• IT professionals
• Software engineering
• Data analytics
• Programming
• System analytics
• Cover letter writing
• LinkedIn makeover
• Professional bio
• Networking resume
• Resume distribution
• US recruiters listing

Cost: $100 to 1500

Want the advantages of a specialized resume writing service without the service cost and wait time? Teal’s match scoring makes it easy to compare your resume to a job description . 

While hiring a professional resume writing service is a great option for those with a higher budget, more technical needs, and less-confident writing skills, they aren’t the only option for creating a high-powered resume. 

An AI-powered resume builder like Teal is a great option if you're applying to multiple jobs and need to tailor every resume to the job descriptions. 

The AI identifies the keywords as well as soft and hard skills within a job description, highlighting them for you and scoring your resume based on how well it matches.

Teal’s AI Professional Summary considers both the job you’re applying for and your work experience to tailor a professional resume that highlights the ten percent of you that's 100 percent relevant to each job.

A lot of resume writers and job seekers make the mistake of simply listing their responsibilities and tasks on their resume, versus the outcomes they’ve produced. The AI achievements feature in Teal is the answer to that. This feature pulls out specific accomplishments, such as cutting spend for your company or reducing expenses by 20 percent. 

Industry specialties

Teal is an online resume building tool usable by any job seeker in any industry, for any level of experience. 

• Job Application Tracker
• Resume Checker
• Cover letter Generator
• LinkedIn Profile Review
• Autofill Job Applications
• Resume Bullet Point Generator
• Professional Bio Generator
• Career Personality Test
• Career Goal Tracker
• Networking CRM
• Job Search Chrome Extension
• Job Application Email Templates
• Resume Templates
• Resume and Cover Letter Examples

Cost: Free to $9 per week

Is it worth paying for resume writing service?

From looking at loads of reviews and services, it’s easy to tell that the answer doesn’t just depend on your situation, but on the service you choose.

The larger resume services that promise the lowest prices and the fastest turnarounds tend to make customers feel scammed. Customers have largely noted that their work was outsourced and the writers didn’t incorporate feedback or understand their work history. 

In this case, using an AI resume builder like Teal helps you not only tailor one resume, but hundreds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies provide the best-rated resume writing service.

TopStack is highly rated with a 4.8-star rating on Trustpilot. Executive Resume Writers are known for their success with high-level positions at companies like Google and Morgan Stanley. ZipJob offers affordable and professional resume writing with a 60-day interview guarantee.

What are the pros and cons of paying for resume writing?

Pros include professional writers crafting tailored, ATS-friendly resumes. Cons include the risk of poor quality from outsourced services and higher costs. Additionally, there's no job guarantee.

What is the best resume writer service?

Executive Resume Writers are ideal for high-level positions. TopStack is great for general professional resumes with positive customer feedback. ZipJob is best for budget-friendly, professional resume writing.

Paying for a resume service can increase your chances of passing ATS and impressing recruiters. The value depends on the quality of the service chosen. High-rated services are more likely to deliver worthwhile results.

How much does a resume writing service cost?

Basic services start around $139, like those from ZipJob. Mid-range services, such as TopStack, range from $139 to $1,149. High-end executive services can cost between $2,000 and $5,000. In comparison, AI resume builders like Teal start at $9/week.

Sarah Colley

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