COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT: Robyn Feldberg, President of Abundant Success Career Services/President of the National Resume Writers Association (NRWA)
Those in the resume-writing industry are so giving, and Robyn Feldberg is no exception. She immediately responded with a yes when I asked her to interview for this blog … and with luck, she’ll offer her continued expertise as an active contributor.
The following represents questions I asked Robyn, probing into her business to shed light on the inner-workings of a fully operational business.
Although I’ve been running my operation since 1999, I’m still curious on what others do … how they make their livings; how they close clients; how they handle resume-writing challenges. So actually, this and the upcoming Colleague Spotlights will satisfy my curiosity as well.
Do you have a specific business question you’d like answered from our upcoming line-up of resume experts? Send it to me at admin (at) resumetoreferral.com.
Here we go…
What led you to resume writing? When did you start?
I had just graduated from college with a degree in journalism, with an emphasis in advertising, and a minor in writing. I knew I didn’t want to work in an ad agency or for a newspaper, but I wasn’t sure what exactly I wanted to do. When I found out a local resume writing company was hiring, I decided to apply, got the job, and have been writing resumes ever since. That was in 1991.
How has your business grown?
At this point in my career, I work almost exclusively with an executive-level clientele. When my kids were younger, I used to write resumes part time, but now my business is a full-time operation. Also, when I first started in the business all my services were provided face to face. Today, 99% of the services I provide are virtual.
Give an overview of your company’s services. Did you morph/expand services as time passed? Why?
I provide a full range of career services, including cover letter writing, resume distribution, profile and bio writing, and a slew of coaching services, including career, job search, interview, salary negotiation, and post-hire performance optimization. I expanded my services over the years because people wanted additional services and because the easiest customer to get is the one you already have.
If you could share one learning experience, bit of business wisdom, what would it be?
Invest in yourself and your business. Join The NRWA, and come to our conventions – even if you think you can’t afford it. The truth is that you can’t afford not to.
How has your marketing and advertising strategies changed?
When I first started my own business, I was afraid to spend money on advertising. Now, I spend money, but I spend money wisely, and I make sure my advertising is effective by tailoring it toward my niche and what they want, as opposed to what I think they need.
What advice would you give new resume writers and career professionals?
1. Find a mentor.
2. Invest in your professional development–both business and resume writing skills.
3. Set realistic and quantifiable goals; create a plan to meet those goals; and then work that plan.
