If, like many of my friends, you are searching for a new job — unemployed, underemployed, looking for new horizons — you may be tempted to try the “free resume review” service from The Ladders. What’s the harm in getting a little free advice, right?
If so, I recommend you read this informative and courageous post by Jason Alba. Turns out The Ladders’ resume critiques are cut-and-paste form letters assembled by sales personnel, worded to give the most alarming picture possible and scare job seekers into paying $700-$1,000 for a resume.
I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t pay these prices, even if it was not a scam. All a pseudo-review like that would have done would have been to demoralize me. Just go to one of the many reputable resume services linked in the article and comments, they will also be much, much cheaper — and provide you with personalized help, not a form letter.
I knew they were not for me when i received the exact same resume critique as my husband! And we are in different fields! This leads me to believe the ladders is nothing but a scam!
I got a second opinion and ended up hiring debbie at fishbowlresume. She was very personable and her rates much more affordable. And most importantly, I LOVE my resume! My husband was so impressed he also ordered one from her.
Always remember to get a second opinion- more $ does not mean better quality. While I believe you do have to pay for a wonderful resume, I do not believe it has to cost the same as my monthly mortgage!