Starting a Side Business as a Resume Writer

Many resume writers get started in self-employment by launching a part-time resume writing business in addition to their full-time "regular job."

If you've been thinking about starting a resume writing business on the side, here are some ideas to get you started.

• Capitalize on your skill set. 

When you start a resume writing business as a part-time venture, you may not want to be a "full-service" shop. So look at the small components of the business, and figure out how you want to work. How can you get a resume writing business started using your natural abilities and as little financial capital as possible?

For example, the component pieces might include:

• Actually writing resumes (the full experience, including client interviewing/questionnaires)
• Reviewing resumes and editing/revamping them (not rewriting).
• Serving as an editor/proofreader for other resume writers
• Writing resumes as a subcontractor for other resume writers
• Get clients and subcontract out the actual resume writing
• Focusing on LinkedIn profile writing for folks with existing resumes
• Providing LinkedIn profile overhauls (new headline & summary only)
• Conducting interview training and/or salary negotiation training for jobseekers
• Connecting jobseekers with resume writers

• Assess your specific situation.

These factors might influence what services you decide to provide:

• How much time do you have to devote to your part-time business? If you only have 1-2 hours a day, providing a simple service might be best.
• What is your specialty? Do you like to write? Coordinate? Edit? Proofread? Manage clients?
• How much money do you want to make from your part-time business?

The easiest way to determine a direction is to do a little market research. Think about your prospective client and his or her needs. How can you best fulfill them? Have quick one-on-one chats with people — friends, family, co-workers. Ask them what they need and develop your services around that. Watch trends in the news or on social media to see popular topics. Try to figure out how you can get in on earning opportunities by helping to address any of those trending issues.

To find clients, advertise via social media. Use popular social media sites to advertise your services (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, even Craigslist).

Starting a part-time resume writing business is the easiest way to test the concept before you quit your "day job." But it's up to you to create a business that works for you and the clients you attract.