So what is the difference

So what is the difference and who does what?

Most CV companies can improve things like spelling and presentation. Some can also help improve the structure and wording to a reasonable extent. However, not many companies go much beyond that, and from what I have seen, only the very best of them can go one step further to deliver the complete package and give your CV a complete and thorough makeover, tailored and optimised specifically for your target job.

There a few main reasons for this. Firstly, it takes undoubted skill, experience and talent, which not every company possesses; secondly, even if more companies did possess the know-how and ability, the whole process takes a very long time to do properly. The old saying ‘time is money’ seems quite appropriate in this sector. It is clear from some of the CVs I have seen, that that they are the result of a rush job, with not enough thought, time and effort spent on them. Indeed, some companies actually guarantee you delivery in less than 2-4 hours from the time you order. Obviously, if you try to rush anything (not just writing) then something has to give; and in most cases quality is one of the first things to give way.

The best firms specifically tell clients upfront that quality CVs do take time to complete (even at the risk of losing a sale). Unfortunately, not every company is so honest and forthright, which is one reason why some companies tout (and charge more for) “express” rush job services. Obviously, it is entirely up to the client if he/she prefers a CV written over the course of two hours or five days. Nevertheless, personally speaking, for the life of me, I can’t see the wisdom in paying more money for someone to spend less time, doing a worse job, on something so important as your CV.

More to follow…

Paul (182 Posts)

Paul , top UK CV specialist, head of leading firm CV Succeed, and author of the most pioneering CV book in decades, The One Page CV (published by top career sector publishers Pearson Education).


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