One of the coolest things about helping people target new jobs, is dealing with the sheer variety of occupations. As a resume writer, I need to know most of them.

In the last two weeks alone, I have worked with a process engineer from Nyrstar in Port Pirie, a yoga instructor from the eastern suburbs of Sydney, a Vietnamese student wanting to work in the SA public service, an IT- wizz from Sri Lanka, an unemployed man from Port Kembla (who is currently short-listed for a job) and many more. The diversity is compelling. I’ve had clients just out of jail to airline pilots and Senators.

Do resume and cover letter writers REALLY know what people do? First of all, it helps if you’re a bit older and have been around a bit.

Secondly, it helps if you’ve worked in TAFE and know the training packages. For graduates, writers need to know the Australian Qualification Framework (which I do in both cases).

Thirdly, I write in partnership with people. It’s not just me. It’s US.

I’ve found that clients are all too willing to tell you what they do. It’s an important part of their life. As a resume writer, I go back and forth with the client to make sure I have all the information. Even small things help.

One older Australian woman who lost her sales job, could also speak Japanese. She got picked up quick smart to work with Japanese tour groups on shopping expeditions.

The key is the ability to turn a lifeless resume in to a vivid and compelling personal marketing document.

Of course not every client gets short-listed but I figure if you’re in their fighting for them, using every ounce of brain muscle and experience, then you can do no more.