Professional versus self written CV/Resume

Patty asks: I am a mid level marketing/printing professional looking to update my resume. Do you think hiring a professional resume writer is a worthwhile expense?

In Answer:
There is no right or wrong answer - it all depends.

Firstly, on your ability to communicate; secondly on when you last changed employers; and thirdly on the position you are aiming for/the unemployed state you find yourself in.

If you can't communicate in words, changed employers last over 10years ago, and are currently unemployed - Yes, its worth it. If you are a journalist, changed employers less than 18mons ago (because you were head hunted, not sacked), and are going for your dream job - then No.

If like the majority you are in the middle, then consider the skills a professional CV/Resume writer could bring to your career choice and speed of employability. A good third party could point out skills you didn't realise you had, and which the market needs. Good CV/Resume writers can by default be career advisors, but look for those who undertake it as part of their brief if you decide to employ a professional CV/Resume writer.

At the end of the day, its your career and hence your CV/Resume - who ever writes it for you.

Good Luck!