TopResume

On May 19th I responded to an email sent by Emily Gardner in which I stated the following:
Hello Emily,

Thank you for updating me with the resume report. I understand the results from the software scans. However, to be honest, my skill sets do not fit into one resume well. My long work history in education overrides most of my other capabilities, yet that work history also links to those skills that often get overlooked.

I use both a curriculum vitae for education positions and a resume for everything else. True, I am the only person looking at my resume. Although I did have two University representatives look over my CV, and one of those reps made suggestions for the resume I presented at the time. While I'm no expert in resume writing I've written many for others with success, but I really don't care to write my own, as I don't believe that a single document demonstrates or illustrates what an individual can do. There are words set up to appease the likes of someone you've never met that gets to judge your worthiness at a glance, and deem it acceptable or not.

This fact as I've gone through my PhD program has allowed me to witness many peers having very clean and neat resume presentations of the expected formatting and structuring that job recruiters and hiring hr managers seek, but the actual application of those documented skills were less than satisfactory. While I on the other hand have grammatical errors, passive language, and formatting issues. However, the difference between the two is that I demonstrated my skills not on paper or crafted documents to meet the standard, but rather in the action of actually doing my duties. Perhaps that's a clear reflection in my resume -- that I (do) the work, with much success but typically not with enough pay or recognition.

Emily, I get it. The point here is to sell resume writing, but I have a resume and a CV that's two documents, and if I'm currently looking for a position that means I don't have $200-$400 to try and get professional written upgrades. Don't get me wrong when I've had funds to do so I've made this purchase, but I also didn't get what was guaranteed (e.g. 60 days or less a job interview), which was definitely disappointing.

Overall, I saw the resume improvement examples/stories on the website, but I don't feel any of those individuals were reflective of me, my situation, or the problems that I face in the job industry. Recent research suggested that "not only do structural and organizational barriers limit the ability of marginalized women to achieve parity in the workplace but there also is a hidden social element that requires further investigation" (Kohout & Singh, 2018). The current work I do is not easily described, nor is it comparable to what I have been applying for, yet it encompasses leadership, management/supervisory skills, change management, coaching and consulting, education and training, finance and budgeting, innovation, critical thinking, and much more. It is both interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary, as well as intersectional in its foundation. That is, "‘intersectionality applies to everyone - no one exists outside the matrix of power' [and its] real strength lies in its ability to reveal the experiences of the...marginalized and the ‘sometimes' privileged, providing...knowledge about work and employment relations in specific sectors" (Mooney, 2016, p. 716).

Again, I do appreciate the results, but what I would actually need is several different resumes for each type of position that I'd apply to that I have skills in. I also don't know if the software can pinpoint or highlight all my experience based on the document submitted. This poses a bit of a concern for me, when considering the options available and/or offered.

I just wanted to respond back as thoroughly as the presented material offered to me. That way there is a clearer representation and not simply a single document being the bases of known knowledge. If there is something that you still think you can help me with, please feel free to respond with the details. -- end of email.

On the 23rd I received the following response from Emily Gardner:
Hi Desiree,

Did you know that employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to sort through the many resumes they receive? These automated tools search for keywords in your resume and reject 75% of applicants! The good news is you can avoid being filtered out by this software - if your resume is optimized.

At TopResume, we know exactly what an ATS is looking for. We have a proven track record of catching an employer's eye, and our resumes generate 2 to 3 times more interviews.

Begin the end of your job search today with a professional rewrite from TopResume. -- end of email.

In response I stated the following:
Hi Emily,

I like your persistence (smiling). Reviewing the attached link has definitely piqued my interest, particularly with a monthly payment option. However, I must inquire first -- based on the two documents I have one attached and then submitted into the system (i.e., curriculum vitae and standard resume), which is more critical for a rewrite based on your expertise, and would you as an expert suggest having both of them rewritten? This will be helpful in me making my decision. Thank you for your time. -- end of email

Emily responded May 24th with the following:

Hi Desiree,

I wanted to see if you'd considered a LinkedIn profile rewrite in addition to your new resume?

LinkedIn is an increasingly critical component of your job search: 97% of employers use LinkedIn.

I can slash the price of the LinkedIn rewrite — down to just $75 — for the next 24 hours while we're working on your other documents.

Click here to purchase a LinkedIn rewrite now.

Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

All the best,

Emily Gardner
TopResume Resume Expert
[protected]@topresume.com
[protected] -- end of email

My same day response was Hey Emily,

If slashing the price is the same price - no thank you, but for $30 I might consider. I need to see about this 60 day guarantee first with my resume. I like to highlight and acknowledge outstanding work.

However, it does seem as though that asking questions doesn't mean they will get responded to, although suggested to ask. Why is that? -- end email

Once I didn't receive any helpful response. I sent two follow up emails on the 26th stating:
Still waiting to see those results from my 60 day guarantee. For that undated offer, $30 works even better. -- end of email

And on the 27th:

Emily,

I have yet to receive my resume. The delivery date was scheduled for today. Since I have not received it, was is the process for a refund since I haven't utilized any actual services? -- end email

From here, on the 27th I reached out to support and got in contact with Amanda.

Support Agents,

This inquiry is regarding a purchase made on May 23rd. The resume rewrite supposed to be accessible and/or delivered today, but I have not received it. Emily Gardner, has been in contact with me during this process, however, she does not answer questions. This there someone that can assist in this matter? -- end of email

On the 28th I received a response stating:
Hi Desiree,

Thank you for reaching out as well as for allowing us the opportunity to collaborate with you on this project.

We are currently in the process of matching you with the best writer for your project. Once matched, you'll receive an email notification. You will then be able to send any additional information directly to your writer. Your writer will have access to all details provided within your initial questionnaire, as well as the feedback received in
your resume critique.

Your first draft is currently scheduled to be emailed to you on or before June 3rd. After the first draft, there will be 2 additional revisions during a 7 day revision period. You will be able to provide feedback on each draft which your writer will incorporate on the next revision.

Please do not hesitate to let us know if you have any additional questions throughout the process we're happy to help.

Best,

Amanda
TopResume Customer Care -- end of email

I responded the same day with the following:

Amanda,

Thank you for responding. This update is appreciated.

I definitely understand the process in which you've explained. However, I wanted to highlight during the purchasing of service the first response date was set for the 27th of May. I'm sure the automated system didn't calculate the holiday. Even with the holiday or maybe higher volumes of services being accrued with COVID-19 and the surge of online employment changes; there still must be prompt and effective communication to ensure customer satisfaction, as well as intended customer service.

Amanda, in no way is this directed at you or toward you, but is an offering as a paying customer and a organizational business consultant. Notification even after a missed deadline is often more appreciated than no communication at all. I've had a few recently. So let me say again, thank you for responding as I do appreciate being updated in a process that will impact me personally and professionally.

With that said, I don't want to push and end up rushing my match. I need the absolute best match, due to my very broad skill set, recent completed education, and salary expectations. Additionally, I have since stopped applying for positions, so that I may present my best updated resume to potential employers. Although this may lead to missing opportunities, I'm willing to take that chance. So I will eagerly await my writer match response.

Please know my email is not intended to be upsetting. I wanted to be transparent in what I need. I appreciate having the space to share and your willingness to help. Thanks again for your time and patience. -- end of email

Amanda responded on the 29th with this correspondence:
Hi Desiree,

Thank you for your response.

We greatly appreciate your feedback. I will add this to your file to ensure it is taken into account moving forward.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Best,

Amanda -- end of email

I guess some communications occurred and I finally got a response from a "resume writing expert" -- Adrian S.

On the 29th Adrian S. stated the following:

TopResume Review Your Order
Hi DESIREE,

I would like to introduce myself as your personal writer. I consider it a privilege that you have placed your confidence in us to develop your resume. Drawing upon TopResume's many years of experience in crafting personal marketing documents, I will utilize proven strategies to help ensure you reach your career goals!

I have reviewed the information you provided; based on what you have listed as your primary career goal, I will create a resume to target Research Associate positions.

Once I get the first draft to you, we will work together to ensure your complete satisfaction. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!

Best,
Adrian S.
TopResume -- end of email

In response I stated on the 29th:
Hello Adrian,

Thank you for reaching out to me today. I was eagerly awaiting your correspondence. Yes, indeed I am placing a lot of confidence in the organization to craft an exceptional resume to get me moving in the next advanced direction. I hope the utilization of the organization's as well as your own personal strategies will ensure me reaching my intended career goals. And I like that you said career, because I'm not looking for another job -- I've had enough of those 😇.

So I know you're overloaded with all of my information, especially if you had time to go line-by-line. I get overwhelmed everytime I look at it. I would like to know how you pulled Research Associate out of all of my work experience and skill sets. What made that jump out specifically?
... ... (here are screenshots)
I don't want my salary range under $55k (and honestly that's still very low). I'm really looking for more like 75k, so I can buy my house. I gotta pay my student loans (PhD), rent, and car note, as of now. And the loans ain't no joke - a total of 13 years worth. So I need to be compensated well, not only because of those loans, but because I'ma helluva working Leader. So keep that in mind as you craft my resume. Knowing the salary is critical. I look forward also to you helping me achieve my goals!

I'm going to look into some similar positions, with higher salaries. Thank you for connecting and updating me in the process.

Gratitude,

Desiree -- end of email

May 30th
Hi DESIREE,

Thank you for your message. Our experience tells us that a resume is most effective when it is tailored toward a particular field. Your current education and experience with teaching background will be very helpful to be a candidate for research associate.

Let me know what do you think of it?

Best,
Adrian S. -- end of email

My response on May 30th
Hey Adrian,

You're welcome, and thank you for responding. I definitely agree that tailoring a resume to a specific field/occupation is most beneficial. Believe me, I'm not saying a research associate position is beneath me in any way. I really just want to make sure I'm happy and will excel at what I do next.

When you mentioned the position I immediately went to research the salary and general job description. There was a lot of variation out there, and from my non-expert experience in writing resumes (no sarcasm) -- I just got to wondering will my resume catch the attention I need in an employer, and a position that will be most satisfying wholistically. I won't lie, I'm a bit nervous about moving into new unknown professional workspaces at this current time, after having done things on my own. Additionally, concerns arise about how I can actually be of help to you during this process.

(I literally paused this email to research some positions) I just found this position, Pepper Foster Consulting hiring Management Consultant on LinkedIn which would be ideal, based upon the job description, requirements, and salary.
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/management-consultant-at-pepper-foster-consulting-1883901078?refId=067aa59b-8297-4f6e-aaee-11a1c5cbd3c5&position=5&pageNum=0&trk=public_jobs_job-search-card_search-card_full-click
and this one
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/business-development-manager-at-blueair-1862439894?refId=4533c088-2010-44eb-8f7b-b455464977bb&position=6&pageNum=0&trk=public_jobs_job-search-card_search-card_full-click

This one is a Market Research Analyst
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/market-research-analyst-at-iqvia-1858296588?refId=6ae82d11-d0e2-423c-b942-df2ac82377b3&position=3&pageNum=0&trk=public_jobs_job-search-card_search-card_full-click

Here, is a Diversity and Inclusion Manager position that I think matches my work experience.
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/diversity-inclusion-manager-at-morgan-lewis-bockius-llp-1883901430?refId=044da9a0-7d7f-4612-8be5-0a6a7466a326&position=1&pageNum=0&trk=public_jobs_job-search-card_search-card_full-click

I started looking into these areas based on this article. https://cheekyscientist.com/top-10-list-of-alternative-careers-for-phd-science-graduates/
Please let me know if there is anything else that I can provide or assist with. Thank you for your patience and time with this.

Desiree -- end of email

At this point I want to know more about the expert process and service that I have paid for and should be receiving, so I reached back out to Amanda on May 29th.

Hi Amanda,

I just wanted to update you on my resume writer connection. Adrian S. has been assigned to me, and we've communicated on somethings regarding my resume. However, I do have a few more questions.

For instance, what are the criteria for resume writer fit? Is it simply based on the information offered in the uploaded resume, or is it something else? What happens if a customer doesn't agree with the selected fit, are there steps to take in addressing that concern? Lastly, how best can the client assist the assigned resume writer to ensure that the position sought and captured resume information matches the preferred salary?

I need a position that matches both my education and work history. How do I convey this with the best end result? In the survey there were three positions selected in education: Assistant/Associate Professor, Research Assistant, and Associate Academic Dean.

Research is definitely my most recent area of hands on experience and work. However, my ability to lead/teach/facilitate and educate are always ever-present in anything that I do. Tenure is most certainly one of my end goals, but if I'm positioning myself as a Research Assistant presently does that actually guide me into tenureship? This question is more rhetorical and directly posed. I want to make sure that Adrian and I don't put in unnecessary effort that may not benefit the both of us. If that makes sense.

I told Adrian I would look for positions that are more closely related to the salary range I'm looking for, what else can I suggested, based on what you've read? Thanks for your time.

Regards,

Desiree -- end of email

I then received an email response from Adrian S. on the 30th stating the following:

Hi DESIREE,

Thank you for your message. In this case, I'll craft a broad resume for you to customize. It will show the maximum of your skills to capture the recruiter's attention.

Best,
Adrian S.
TopResume -- end of email

Then I responded the same day with the following:
Ok, we can go from there. -- end of email

On June 1st I corresponded back with Amanda with the following:

Amanda,

This morning a competitor of yours sent me this email informing me of their tactics and "High Score" resume practices. I'm wondering how beneficial some of these statements and practices will be for shaping my resume with TopResume. Just a thought.

Based on our exchanges you've been updating my pro/file and the TopResume organization "collaborators" with the information I've presented. Last week I asked the following: (screenshot)
I was wondering if you had a moment to consider these questions and to correspond. -- end of email

Followed by another email on June 1st:

Hello Amanda,

I just finished sending you a forwarded email. I didn't realize that it's a general support email, so I wanted to update you here, on this thread that it was sent. -- end of email

Both Amanda and Adrian S. responded on the 4th of June.
Hi Desiree,

Thank you for your email.

While we absolutely welcome any and all feedback you have to offer, our writers are highly-skilled and well-trained in crafting resumes that are aligned with 3 main points:
1) Your career trajectory and expectations based on your initial intake information.
2) Current industry standards regarding content, verbiage, and formatting.
3) ATS (Applicant Tracking System) guidelines to ensure visibility from recruiters and hiring managers for interview purposes.

We use the questionnaire you completed as a guideline when we select you a expert writer. I see you and Adrian has been collaborating.

We do offer a 30 min phone consultation with your writer for an additional $50 this would normally take place after the first draft has been delivered. Please let us know if you would be interested?

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Best,

Amanda
TopResume Customer Care -- end of email

In response I said to Amanda:
Amanda,

Your response is appreciated. Thank you for stating the three key points used in aligning client and writer.

1) Your career trajectory and expectations based on your initial intake information. (The request was for three similar positions. My selections were all academically based geared toward teaching. Initially, I had three extremely different positions selected, but reread the content and made the required change) Is there a way in which the intake form can be updated to three sections in the career trajectories and expectations? That way clients have the option to be viewed in a more expansive way for their many skill sets and experiences. Three experts can overview the information and rank the positions suggested by the client make correspondence, allowing the client to choose, so that the best alignment/fit is made, and that time management occurs.

2) Current industry standards regarding content, verbiage, and formatting.

3) ATS (Applicant Tracking System) guidelines to ensure visibility from recruiters and hiring managers for interview purposes.

I have more options and suggestions for point 2 and 3, but perhaps the company wants to set up a 30 min consultation with me for $150 to discuss them.

Indeed, Adrian and I have been collaborating, but again, my resume has not reached me at my scheduled timeline - yesterday - with no feedback. Instead of the $50 phone consultation with Adrian, perhaps a refund of $50 towards the (time sensitive) document completion, or a 100% refund and a time management plan that I can be build from my expert knowledge in organizational leadership and management. Please let me know if the would be interested?

My only question is when can I expect my first draft, particularly if it was to be delivered yesterday? I'm certain there will be a problem with missed payment for services rendered.

Desiree -- end of email

Finally, I sent Adrain S. this ending email on June 4th:

Adrian's email stated:
Adrian,

I communicated with Amanda, one of your associates earlier today who suggested $50 phone consultation. Instead, of such a consultation I'd rather have some kind of communication and resume draft completion. To read verbatim, below I've pasted the some of the email content.

As you will read, I don't want to be continously asked to buy something, when I haven't received my initial order/product/item. I haven't received a response, but perhaps you might be able to make correspondence to the inquires I've made. -- end of email

So my issue is lack of timely service