The following is part of a colleague spotlight series. A new colleague spotlight will be published each Monday. To read all colleague spotlights that have been published thus far, simply visit the colleague spotlight category.
1. What led you to writing resumes? Do you have a background that made you an ideal fit for the industry?
I went to work for a resume writing company after the owner met me as a potential client, and he told me he liked the resume he critiqued and wanted to hire me, as he could “train” me in resume writing. Yes, my corporate work background was ideal as I had done writing in every job, and had worked in sales, advertising, sales promotion, and marketing functions within insurance, printing, hotel supply, and banking industries.
2. Now that you’ve been in the industry for a while, would you recommend it to others? Why?
Yes, as it is a great way to help people and have your work make a positive impact on people’s lives. It’s as good as being a doctor: we can diagnose the problem, fix it, and not have to worry about giving life-ending news to clients.
3. What is the single best tool you recommend for building client relations? Building your business? Improve efficiency?
My personality and showing potential clients I care about them and their future; that this isn’t just a ‘job’ for me. Building business comes from advertising, marketing, and client referrals. Improve efficiency? Well, I don’t have an answer for that one.
4. If you could share one learning experience/great lesson, what would it be?
Follow the Golden Rule and show the client that you care about them and their future.
5. Looking back, what would you have done differently? Done the same?
I would have started this business 20+ years ago when I got out of college instead of in my mid 50’s.
6. What advice would you give someone just entering the resume-writing industry?
Advertise, advertise, advertise.
7. How do you see our industry transforming over the next 12 months? 5 years? What do think resume writers need to know in order to survive?
They need to know how to advertise and market their business. Next 1 year and beyond will be more competitive than ever, with external offices closing and writers doing this from home offices and needing to expand presence on the Web.
