If you have a knack for writing and a keen eye for detail, then starting a side hustle in resume writing can be a great way to make extra money.
How much money can you make?
Writing a standard resume might pay between $50 and $80 per resume. A resume to land an executive job at a Fortune 500 company might pay between $200 and $350 per resume.
In a year, it’s possible to earn around $60,000 just for writing resumes and covering letters.
In the UK some companies charge £799 just for one resume and a covering letter.
The United Kingdom and most European countries refer to a resume as a CV which is abbreviation of a latin phrase “curriculum vitae” which means “the course of a persons life.”
US, Australia, Germany, and Asian countries, including China, Singapore, and Japan all use the more familiar resume.
It is a global market and according to some estimates, it is believed that millions of resumes are written worldwide each day. This includes both job seekers who are actively looking for new opportunities as well as those who are updating their resumes for future job applications.
How to get started
Here are some steps to get started in building a side hustle writing resumes for hire:
- Develop your skills
- Build your portfolio
- Market your services
- Deliver quality work
Develop your skills
Take courses or workshops on resume writing
There are many courses available on resume writing, both online and in-person. These courses can range from short, introductory workshops to more comprehensive, in-depth programs.
Some examples of online courses on resume writing include:
LinkedIn Learning’s “Writing a Resume”
Udemy’s courses under the topic Resume
Coursera’s “How to Write a Resume (Project-Centered Course)”
In-person courses may be offered through local community centers, adult education programs, or career centers. You can also consider attending conferences or seminars on career development, where resume writing may be a topic of discussion.
When choosing a course, it’s important to consider the course content, the instructor’s qualifications, and the cost. Look for courses that provide practical tips and strategies for crafting effective resumes, and that are taught by experienced professionals in the field.
The job site indeed.com has a short YouTube video with 4 tips on how to write a standout resume
Read all about it
Here is a list of some popular books on resume writing:
“Modernize Your Resume” by Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark
“The Resume Writing Guide: A Step-by-Step Workbook for Writing a Winning Resume” by Lisa McGrimmon
“The Elements of Resume Style: Essential Rules and Eye-Opening Advice for Writing Resumes and Cover Letters that Work” by Scott Bennett
“Resume Magic: Trade Secrets of a Professional Resume Writer” by Susan Britton Whitcomb
“Knock ’em Dead Resumes: A Killer Resume Gets More Job Interviews!” by Martin Yate
“Expert Resumes for Career Changers” by Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark
“The Damn Good Resume Guide: A Crash Course in Resume Writing” by Yana Parker
“Winning Resumes: 700+ Great Examples to Get You a Job” by Robin Ryan
“The Resume Handbook: How to Write Outstanding Resumes and Cover Letters for Every Situation” by Arthur D. Rosenberg
“Resumes that Stand Out!: Tips for College Students and Recent Grads for Writing a Superior Resume and Securing an Interview” by L. Xavier Cano
Certification
You may also want to invest in a certification program to boost your credibility.
There are several organizations that offer certification programs in resume writing, such as the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC), the National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA), and the Career Directors International (CDI).
To become certified, you will need to complete a training program and pass a certification exam. These programs typically cover topics such as resume formatting, writing style, and industry-specific language. Some programs also provide training on cover letter writing and interview preparation.
Obtaining certification can demonstrate your expertise and professionalism in the field of resume writing, and it may increase your credibility and marketability as a professional writer. However, it’s important to note that certification is not required to become a successful resume writer. Many successful writers have built their careers through experience and self-education.
Build your portfolio
Create a some sample resumes to showcase your writing and formatting skills. You can use these as examples to show potential clients.
As your venture grows, it may be necessary to set up a website to promote your services.
Market your services
Use social media, online job boards, and networking to promote your services. Offer special deals or referral bonuses to incentivize clients to work with you.
Fiverr has a resume writing category Here in this sample, it shows starting prices for services ranging from $65 up to $295.
Upwork too has a resume writing category. Here, is a sample of its higher end providers. It does begin with reputable resume writers giving their services for $30, but for high-end resumes, where every last detail counts, you obviously need qualified specialists who charge a price to match.
Deliver quality work
Once you have clients, make sure to deliver high-quality resumes that meet their needs and showcase their strengths. Word of mouth can be a powerful tool for growing your business.
Research the market
Look into what other resume writers in your area or niche charge for their services, what types of clients they serve, and what sets them apart. This information can help you identify your target market and pricing strategy.
Online resources
There are many websites and blogs dedicated to resume writing that offer advice and tips on how to create an effective resume.
Some examples include;
TopResume which offers a free resume review
The Muse with lots of advice and articles
Resume Genius with templates
Remember, starting a side hustle in resume writing takes time and effort. But with patience and persistence, it can be a lucrative way to make extra money while helping others achieve their career goals.