Review of Résumé Writing from Monster.com

Monster – a familiar name in the job search world, to be sure. But can their resume writing service cut it? In a word: absolutely. They're prompt, they're professional. Most importantly, their posted resume samples are quite well written; a reflection of partnering with the online division of Career Services Group, Inc. Hint: that's the company that pioneered online career services in 1996, and has 30+ years experience in the industry.

We like that they're extremely selective when it comes to choosing talent. All writers must first hold a college degree (four-year or graduate) and expertise in a field, before undertaking an extensive resume writing training and certification process. Few prospective writers actually complete the stringent company requirements to become Staff Writers, Editors and Resume Consultants. Those who do are responsible for a quality of writing that keeps Monster in the "highly recommended" category for resume writing services.

How it works:

Navigate to the resume writing section (not so easy to find, so we've provided a direct link, Résumé Writing from Monster, that bypasses Monster's home page). Locate the category that best fits your work history: student or recent graduate, mid-career professional, executive, or military-to-civilian conversion.

Place your order online. You'll then be prompted to upload your existing resume or related materials (if you have any), and complete their exclusive questionnaire "SkillNet" to draw out additional accomplishments and strengths. You'll then be assigned a writer who most closely matches the expertise needed for your profession or discipline.

They promise you'll receive "personal attention" from your expert writer. That most often takes the form of electronic messaging via your personal, online Resume Writing Center. It can also take the form of an in-depth consultative interview over the phone. The latter, you'll need to request. BTW, we're big fans of the telephone interview, and would advise you to take full advantage of one in order to ensure your writer has the opportunity to draw out the vital areas of your background -- skills, accomplishments, strengths.

A draft of your resume will be ready within 2-3 business days. You'll have the opportunity to request any changes or corrections before the final draft. Receive your finalized resume in the distribution format of your choice (i.e. Microsoft Word), unless you've purchased their Comprehensive package that includes the resume in all three distribution formats (Presentation, Keyword ASCII, and Social Media Ready/Scannable).

Here's what we liked:

• Expert writers = very professional end result. The writers clearly know what they're doing, and they deliver the kind of solid writing and excellent layout and design that would keep any resume competitive in the marketplace. It helps that every writer is backed up by an editorial staff and resume consultants, ensuring that only the best possible resume goes out the door.
• Three distribution formats available. That is, with the purchase of their Comprehensive Services. At least then you won't then have to worry about converting your resume from one format to another as needs arises.
• Lifetime storage and easy updating. Your documents are stored in your own personalized Resume Writing Center for as long as you like, accessible 24/7. And reduced rates on updating services.
• Satisfaction Guaranteed. They guarantee you'll be 100% satisfied, or they will re-write your resume at no additional charge.
• Attentive customer service. A Resume Consultant is always available between the hours of 9:00 am and 8:00 pm Eastern Standard Time. We emailed the company with a few questions, and received a prompt response. And it was intelligent and thorough.
• 24-hour (business day) rush option available.

Here's what we didn't like:

• A small nit to pick: If a telephone interview is important to you (and it's important to us), you'll need to let the company know. They will happily schedule an interview with your writer, but it won't happen if you don't initiate it.

In summary, the resume presentation skills and quality of writing is undeniable. Pricing is reasonable given the quality of service. And we appreciate the extras like free lifetime storage, a free trial version of their interview coaching software, and 24-hour rush option. We're comfortable giving the Monster a four-star, "high" recommendation.

As a sidebar, signing up for a free Monster account not only affords access to their many additional services, but allows you to search their massive database of available jobs. This is something you're going to want to do--sooner or later. Make it sooner.

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