With résumés as with life, the process matters

Hello. My name is Wendy Wicks. I am the owner of The Résumé Works of Pittsford (www.theresumeworksofpittsford.com). It is often this time of year when I begin to hear from concerned parents of seniors (college and high school) and grad students that although their offspring has a résumé, it doesn’t tell the whole story. It sells them short. Therefore, what I’d like to broach today are the benefits of a professionally designed, collaboratively prepared résumé package. It really has little to do with your smart/tech-savvy child’s ability to create an attractive online template, populate a charming LinkedIn profile, or pen an engaging cover letter. After all, most have been keyboarding and writing since pre-school!

What it DOES have to do with is the process (or the magic) that takes place during the in-depth interview sessions where together, your child and I will discuss their passions; acknowledge and help redirect their concerns/fears of actually going out into the world after 13/17/20/24+ years of schooling; empower them to identify opportunities and interview well; address the accompanying nitty gritty, i.e., “Can I wear the same outfit to the second interview?” (YES, if you are auditioning for a Broadway show and NO, for everything else); and, of course, craft a highly compelling résumé, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. Colleges and universities offer a myriad of free résumé and job coaching services with opportunities for up to 25 back-and-forth fix and edit visits. Never mind that my own college’s career office inspired me to launch a résumé writing company. I’ve heard, however, that things have improved mightily on the Hill and that the mimeograph machines have been sent to the Smithsonian for maintenance/further study.

Please allow me to share a testimonial or three:

I want to also say THANK YOU! The work you did with Brian I absolutely credit with getting him the attention from recruiters and interviews which obviously led to the 2 job offers 6 months prior to graduation! A parent’s dream come true! You did a fantastic job. We gave you an unrealistic timeframe and you not only came through but were absolutely awesome through the entire process. I truly am grateful for your attention to detail and interest you took in Brian and getting him noticed in a very crowded and competitive environment. I talk about you and your work all the time with parents and I hope at some point it sends work your way.
Thanks again. P. M., Purdue University Dad

Wendy, Thanks so much for utilizing your outstanding skills to write Jaclyn’s résumé. Appreciate it!
Take care, Linda + Tom

More than anything, thank you for your help with my career and getting Rachele started on the right path. Might sound crazy but I really do credit you with being a major factor in my success.
F.W., CEO

While most of my client base is made up of accomplished working professionals spanning every field from computer science to education to investment banking to ballet, my true passion is helping young people pursue their dreams in careers that will be meaningful and sustainable. If I can be of service or answer any questions, please call me at 585-615-7530 or email me at wwicks323@gmail.com. I am always available for a free consultation.

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