The resume writer certification exam covers areas such as grammar, punctuation, and proofreading.
Of course, you can write your own resume or enlist the help of a friend or colleague, but sometimes you need the advice of a professional. A certified resume writer is a professional who has taken the necessary steps to become certified in her field by one of two professional organizations. The process to become a certified resume writer involves training and assessment of skills such as grammar, strategic thinking, professional knowledge, and resume and cover letter writing.
Certified resume writers have been tested on their skills, including grammar, professional knowledge, and cover letter writing.
Many who seek certified resume writer status are freelance or freelance resume writers. However, of the many other professionals seeking credentialing as certified resume writers, some work at employment agencies, college placement offices, or relocation companies. The certification process itself is relatively new; the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Professional Counselors began its certification program in 1991, and the National Association of Resume Writers began a similar certification in 1997.
Both associations offer similar credentials: Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) or Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW). Any of the certifications guarantees the client that the professional has met a minimum qualification standard. However, the fact that a professional is not certified does not mean that they are not capable of producing an effective resume for their clients. Some resume writers choose not to seek certification, and instead rely on client testimonials, awards, and posting credits to prove their aptitude.
The NCRW Certification Program includes a study guide of important concepts and strategies for successful resume and cover letter preparation. Candidates for NCRW certification must also earn continuing education units prior to testing. The certified resume writer candidate is also required to submit a sample resume and cover letter, which is criticized by members of the certification committee.
The NCRW exam itself contains two components; The first component includes questions related to a sample resume. The second component of this specific exam for Certified Resume Writers is a writing exercise. Once an individual earns NCRW certification, they may maintain the designation through 1) additional continuing education units or 2) passing another NCRW exam. The CPRW test consists of four components: industry knowledge; grammar, punctuation and revision; strategic thinking; and a resume and cover letter writing test using hypothetical client information.
By using a certified resume writer instead of preparing your resume yourself, you benefit from the experience and knowledge that goes into the certification process. Certified resume writers say that when a person writes his own resume, he tends to underestimate himself when it comes to accomplishments and doesn’t include enough detail about measurable accomplishments.
Certified resume writers set their own fees for writing your resume and cover letter. Some charge by the hour; others charge for the curriculum. Rates are generally based on the difficulty of the job; For example, a resume for a new employee is not as complex to create as it is for an executive with many years of experience or someone trying to change careers.