career-advice

How to Choose a Top Executive CV Writer in 2024

Matt Glodz
How to Choose a Top Executive CV Writer in 2024

Should You Hire an Executive CV Writer in 2024? Are CV Writing Services Still Worth It?

If you have never worked with an executive CV writer before, you may be hesitant to trust a third party to prepare such a personal, important document on your behalf.

You may also be wondering whether investing in a CV writing service is still worth it – especially with emerging AI technologies that claim to be able to prepare an effective document for you at a fraction of the cost.

In this article, we address the top 10 questions we receive from potential clients to help you understand the benefits of working with an executive CV writer, how the process works and how to choose a trustworthy, qualified writer who has your best interests in mind.

Even if you decide to pursue another option, this article will give you a comprehensive understanding of whether working with an executive CV writing service is right for you.

  1. How can an executive CV writer help me?
  2. Do executive CV writers use AI?
  3. Why should I use a professional CV writer?
  4. How much do executive CV writers cost?
  5. How do I know if a CV writer is qualified?
  6. How do I find the best CV writer for my industry?
  7. What can I expect during the CV writing process?
  8. Are executive CV writing services worth it?
  9. Should CV writing services offer a 60-day interview guarantee?
  10. What are common bad practices in the industry I should watch out for?
  11. Should I use an executive CV writer near me?

    1. How can an executive CV writer help me?

    Executive CV writers offer a highly-personalised service, helping clients clearly and concisely articulate their comprehensive work history and achievements to best position them for their target roles.

    Clients choose to work with us for a variety of reasons that range from receiving an unexpected call from a recruiter who needs a copy of their CV as soon as possible to experiencing writer’s block.

    Top executive CV writers are also expert interviewers who invest time in listening to your story asking relevant questions. This approach enables them to position your experience in a nuanced, impact-driven manner.

    The process not only eases the burden of applying for new roles and improves your chances of securing interview but also provides great interview practice, as it allows you to reflect on and verbally articulate your achievements.

    Many executive CV writers partner with recruiters, giving them a deep understanding of exactly what helps to differentiate a candidate and an up-to-date pulse on the recruitment market.

    In addition to preparing your document, professional CV writers will help you:

    • Understand your value-add to differentiate you from similar applicants

    One of the main advantages of working with a CV writer is that they will pinpoint exactly how you add value to an organisation from a third-party perspective.

    Executive CV writers are laser-focused on delivering achievement-driven documents that demonstrate the impact you made in each role through qualitative and quantitative examples.

    By asking detailed questions and gathering examples of your contributions, they can prepare documents that go beyond simply outlining your day-to-day responsibilities (and end up reading like a generic job description).

    • Tailor your CV to align with the requirements of your target roles

    Executive CV writers keep your end goal in mind throughout the writing process.

    They analyse your target roles and leverage their understanding of sector-specific requirements to ensure your CV highlights key skills and industry expertise that recruiters (and Applicant Tracking Systems) look for during initial screenings.

    If you are looking to make a significant career change, an executive CV writer will compellingly highlight transferable skills, helping recruiters understand your ability to succeed in your target role or sector.

    • Prepare for interviews

    The CV writing process doubles as excellent interview preparation, as a thorough consultation will require you to reflect on your experiences, explain your day-to-day responsibilities and identify specific examples of how you made an impact on the job.

    During your consultation, your CV writer will ask questions similar to those you might encounter during a job interview (without any of the pressure).

    By going through this process, you will be more prepared to deliver specific interview responses. We’re also happy to provide helpful interview tips along the way!

    How Does CV Writing Work

     

    2. Do executive CV writers use AI?

    The heart of executive CV writing lies in the human touch, and while current AI tools might be able to deliver a generic CV for an entry-level candidate or assist with keyword optimisation, executive CVs are far too nuanced to rely solely on technology.

    The key benefit of working with an executive CV writer is that they take the time to deeply understand your unique history and strengths.

    The personalised approach CV writers use truly sets them apart: their comprehensive one-on-one consultations uncover achievements and insights that help distinguish you in the field.

    On the other hand, AI-generated CVs often lack the depth of understanding and strategic framing needed for executive roles. For executives with careers that may span decades and industries, the level of attention to detail that CV writers provide is essential.

    AI cannot yet replace the insight and human touch that a professional writer provides, and a CV writer’s ability to ask the right questions and offer strategic guidance means your CV is not only well-written but also positioned to reflect your full value to potential employers.

    3. Why should I use a professional CV writer?

    Our clients – who range from executives to recent graduates – understand that their CV serves as a personal marketing document and are willing to invest in a service that ensures they present themselves in the best possible light.

    The top 4 reasons that clients choose to work with a CV writer include:

    • “I’m good at what I do, but I have a difficult time explaining it on paper”

    Many of our clients don’t write much on a day-to-day basis or struggle to concisely summarise the breadth of their accomplishments on paper (it also can feel awkward to write about yourself and your achievements in the third person).

    CV writers provide clarity and direction, leveraging their expert interviewing skills and writing ability to craft stronger documents than clients could prepare on their own.

    • “I have been with the same company/ran my own business for 10 years and never needed a CV”

    Clients who built their careers at a single company or ran their own businesses often don’t have a CV, as they were promoted internally or didn’t need one.

    CV writers are comfortable crafting a strong document even when starting from the ground up.

    • “I don’t have time to write a CV”

    When recruiters approach busy executives regarding a specific opportunity that requires them to quickly submit a CV, they often can’t carve out time to write it themselves at the last minute.

    Executive CV writers prepare well-written documents while drastically cutting down the amount of time the client would need to put into doing so on their own.

    • “I’m not familiar with what recruiters expect to see”

    Even clients who consider themselves to be strong writers sometimes recognise that CV writing isn’t a writing style they have significant exposure to.

    Professional writers are experts on CV writing conventions, have a strong understanding of the recruiting environment and remain up to date with industry trends and recruiter expectations.c

    4. How much does it cost to hire a CV writer?

    The fees for hiring a CV writing service can range from under £50 to over £1,500. While you can find online CV writing services that fit into nearly every budget, a writer’s fee is usually a reflection of their professionalism and skill level.

    Hiring an executive CV writing service can be a sizable investment, and while you can find much more inexpensive options on websites such as Fiverr or by using generative AI tools, consider whether the quality of service you receive will realistically align with your expectations.

    The highest-rated CV writers devote a considerable amount of time to:

    • Understanding your employment history and career goals via a questionnaire and consultation
    • Crafting an accomplishment-driven, well-written document
    • Working with you to make any changes and edits, if necessary

    How Much Time Does It Take to Prepare a CV

    5. How do I know if a CV writer is qualified?

    Legitimate and credible CV writing services are a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) or National Résumé Writers' Association (NRWA). Before hiring a CV writer, confirm that the writer or company you are considering is qualified.

    Members of these organisations are well-versed in CV writing theory and practice, have significant industry experience and remain up to date on recruitment trends. However, you will find that quality can still vary significantly from writer to writer.

    CV Pilots is a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches.

    Most importantly, always conduct your due diligence and choose a writer you can trust by:

    Based on your research, you will be able to gauge whether you would feel comfortable trusting a given CV writing company with such an important piece of your job search.

    Remember that choosing a CV writer is just as important as choosing any other professional to represent you, such as a lawyer or accountant.

    A writer’s work may very well propel you ahead in your career and open doors for you – or hold you back.

     Schedule Information Phone Consultation

    5. How can I find a good CV writer for my industry?

    Core CV writing principles and best practices are consistent across industries, and professional CV writers are familiar with sector-specific nuances. The best CV writers also conduct outside research and ask you questions about your role to fill in any gaps in industry knowledge.

    The most important characteristics you should look for when hiring a CV writer are their writing skills and interviewing ability. Remember that no CV writer has worked with clients in every position imaginable - and that’s okay.

    At CV Pilots, we have worked successfully with C-suite executives across most sectors including:

    6. What can I expect during the CV writing process?

    The CV writing process is simple yet thorough.

    Once you select a service and place your order, the CV writing process typically consists of the following steps: information gathering, writing and revisions.

    Step 1) Your writer gathers background information

    Your writer will gather information from you and learn more about your background via a questionnaire, phone call or in-person meeting.

    A phone consultation is the most valuable component of the process, as it allows us to get a comprehensive understanding of each client’s career and aspirations.

    Skilled CV writers have strong interviewing skills and ask specific, thought-provoking questions, enabling them to convey your accomplishments as effectively as possible.

    However, many CV writing services do not offer a consultation option, with the majority of communication taking place over email: this approach often results in clients missing out on the opportunity to highlight valuable information that you didn’t think to provide in writing, resulting in sub-par documents.

    Step 2) Your writer prepares the draft of your CV

    Your writer will craft your document based on your consultation and information you provided, ensuring that it is ATS-friendly and tailored to the roles you are targeting in your search.

    Because this is the most critical element of the process, you should choose to work with a reputable writer you can trust.

    Step 3) You provide feedback, and your writer completes any revisions

    Once you receive your document, you will have the opportunity to review it and provide constructive feedback.

    While your first draft should already be strong enough for you to use for applications, you should allow time for two to three rounds of minor revisions before arriving at your perfect document.

    Do your best to find a writer that has your best interests in mind and will let you know if some of your proposals aren’t best practices. During the revision process, an experienced CV writer will play devil’s advocate and push back on your suggestions if they will not truly add value or may be detrimental to your job search.

    Once your revisions are complete, you’re ready to start applying for new roles!

    7. Are CV writing services worth the money?

    The vast majority of our clients agree that hiring an executive CV writer was a worthwhile investment – and they often credit the process to helping them secure interviews and coveted promotions.

    Many previous clients continue to work with their CV writers to update their documents as they progress throughout their careers, attesting to the value they received from the service.

    However, if a CV writing service is too cost-prohibitive, you may consider preparing your CV on your own and having your final document professionally edited instead.

    Before deciding to pay someone to write your CV, consider whether the investment is worth it for you:

    • C-Suite Leaders and Executives

    If you are earning anywhere over £70,000 per year, you will likely invest 1% or less of your annual salary on your CV.

    In this case, spending money on a professionally written CV can be well worth it.

    • Early- to Mid-Career Professionals

    We also work with early- to mid-career professionals, who found that working with a CV writer helped them secure interviews for more senior-level roles to enable faster career progression.

    • Students and Recent Graduates

    Executive CV writers often offer reduced fees for current students or recent graduates, so you may want to inquire whether that could be an option.

    If you are applying for a master’s program or MBA, working with a CV writer will also ensure you put your best foot forward.

    As a student, you may be able to find the help you need at your school’s career services center.

    8. Should CV writers offer a 60-day interview guarantee?

    Because your CV is just one component of the job search process, trustworthy CV writers should not guarantee that you will receive interviews or job offers as a result of using their services.

    When you apply for a job, several variables determine whether you will be offered an interview and ultimately be hired that are entirely out of the writer’s control, such as:

    • Your fit for the role and experience
    • Your educational background and licenses/qualifications
    • The quality of other applicants
    • Your networking strategy and effort put into the job search
    • Your preparation for and performance during the interview

    We firmly believe in presenting a fact-based and accurate narrative of your work experience and promise to help you identify and articulate your credentials to recruiters in the strongest way possible. However, we do not manipulate the facts to help you land an interview.

    If you decide to work with a CV writing company that offers interview guarantees, we encourage you to read their terms closely, as many only offer a free rewrite (not a money-back guarantee).

        9. What are common industry practices I should watch out for?

        When selecting a CV writing service, watch out for bad practices that result in a frustrating experience and poor results for clients: outsourcing, AI and ghostwriting.

        The saying “you get what you pay for” very much tends to hold true in the CV writing industry.

        • Outsourcing Internationally

        Many online CV writing services outsource work internationally (often to non-native English speakers) to keep costs down.

        When you break down the fee you are paying for your CV on an hourly basis, does it align with what you would expect to pay a reputable professional services firm?

        It takes time to prepare a well-written CV (the end-to-end process takes us around a full working day). If a company’s hourly rate seems too good to be true, there is probably a reason behind it.

        • Using AI

        The emergence of AI technology has unfortunately resulted in some writers cutting corners – especially when it comes to services priced at the lower end of the market.

        At CV Pilots, we do not use AI in our writing process to maintain the nuance required for executive CVs and to ensure the best results for our clients.

        • Ghostwriting

        We have found that many CV writers also utilise ghostwriters.

        Because of the time-consuming nature of CV writing, it is often unfeasible for one person to handle all of the writing and day-to-day business administration while running a profitable operation – unless they charge accordingly.

        At CV Pilots, we invest significant time in hiring and training exceptional writers who work with our clients one-on-one throughout the writing process.

        By being transparent about our writing process and building a top-quality team, we are able to ensure a consistent client experience and pair clients with writers who have experience writing for their industries.

        10. Should I use a professional CV writer near me?

        When selecting a CV writer, we recommend prioritising fit and expertise over a company’s physical location.

        Because most CV writing services work remotely and offer virtual consultations instead of in-person appointments, you do not necessarily need to find a service that is based near you.

        Once you have your application materials ready to go, you can consider partnering with a local or industry-specific recruitment firm to support your job search.

        In Summary

        We hope this article helped you better understand the nuances of the CV writing industry and gave you the tools you need to select the best writer to work with you.

        If you are interested in learning more about our services, please schedule a complimentary initial call with our founder to discuss your experience and requirements in more detail.

        You can also email team@cvpilots.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)207 043 2684.

        We look forward to hearing from you!


        About CV Pilots

        CV Pilots is an award-winning executive CV writing firm and a proud member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Our previous clients include CEOs and senior executives at the world's leading companies.

        As a professional services firm, we take your reputation seriously. We are committed to delivering writing excellence and superior service while operating with integrity and discretion. Recruitment firms we partner with also trust us to consistently deliver quality documents for their clients.

        Our writers have studied at top-tier universities and have strong writing backgrounds coupled with industry experience.

        Here's how we can help you:

        CV, Cover Letter and LinkedIn Writing Services: If you are looking for end-to-end support, hire one of our professional CV writers to rewrite your documents from the ground up. 

        Executive CV Template Downloads: If you plan to prepare your own CV, consider using one of our classic, ATS-friendly CV templates for Microsoft Word.

        To learn more about our services, book an introductory call with our founder here or email team@cvpilots.co.uk.


        About the AuthorMatt Glodz


        Matt Glodz is the Founder and Managing Partner of CV Pilots and a Certified Professional Resume Writer.

        After studying business communication at Cornell University, Matt worked for global companies, where he noted that qualified candidates were frequently denied interview opportunities due to poorly written documents.

        At CV Pilots, Matt combines his solid business and writing background to craft CVs that give his clients the best chance of landing interviews. He has lived in the UK, US and Italy.

        Based in London, he currently works with applicants ranging from CEOs to recent graduates and has been writing CVs for over 10 years.

        He has been quoted on numerous business and career-related topics in outlets including Business Insider, CNBC, Fortune, Glassdoor, The Ladders, The Times and Thrive Global.



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