An Argument in Favor of Client Interviews (over Questionnaires)

Industry giant Wendy Enelow wrote a fabulous article in the Summer 2009 issue of Resume Writers' Digest in response to the 2008 Resume Writers' Digest Industry Survey. She was particularly disappointed that the survey found that questionnaires are increasing in popularity as a way to collect information from resume clients.

This was her response to this subject:

For those of you who know me or have read some of my other articles, you know that I am a staunch supporter of doing client interviews to collect the information you need. Although questionnaires can give you some basic factual data, they can never replace the one-on-one interview (done in person, on the phone, or via e-mail).

The interactivity of the interview is what makes it so special and so valuable. A client's answer to question #1 impacts what I ask as question #2, his answer to question #2 impacts how I formulate question #3, and so the process goes on. I learn so much more about my clients through interviews -- things that I remember that are reflected in the tone, style, and presentation of the client's resume.

Clients always ask me, "How did you know that?" My answer is straightforward...I listen hard and I listen well (and I write it all down)!

In turn, I believe that the quality and richness of each resume I write is stronger and more powerful than if I had worked from a questionnaire only. Note that a combination of questionnaire plus interview is great, if that works best for you.

Wendy goes on to say that prospective clients find the interview method to be easier than filling out a lengthy questionnaire, and the easier it is for them to work with you, the more likely they will become clients.