Frequently Asked Questions

“Why should I choose to work with you over a large résumé company?”

It’s true—there are hundreds of résumé companies and writers you could choose from. But here’s the difference: when you work with me, you work directly with me—one-on-one. Not with a bot. Not with an assistant. Not with a résumé writer I’ve outsourced.

I also won’t ask you to “Add to Cart” like so many résumé websites do. Turning your career story into a quick online transaction strips away the connection between you—the client—and me—the writer. This is a personal, collaborative process, and that connection matters. When you choose to work with me, you can call, text, or email and know that the person responding will always be me—a real human who is genuinely invested in your success.

With over ten years of experience writing winning résumés, I understand how to create a genuine connection between the candidate and the employer—one that resonates on both an emotional and psychological level.

I don’t create copy-and-paste, cookie-cutter résumés that make you look like “just another applicant.” Instead, I make you stand out—positioning you as a smart, unique professional who is up-to-date with industry trends, aware of employer expectations, and ready for the exact role you’re pursuing.

“I really want to work with you. How do I start?”

Great! You can send me a message on WhatsApp (646) 924—8574 or email me at resumesbyzahra@gmail.com.

“How long does it take to write a professional résumé and cover letter?”

Between the research, back and forth communication between myself and the client, and revising and editing, writing a professional résumé and cover letter takes anywhere between five to fifteen hours. Between getting to know you, doing the research, and the drafting process, it takes about 7-10 business days for me to send you your final product.

“I need a rushed résumé! Can you help me?” 

Yes! If you need a rushed service, Zahra can help you for an additional $200 dollars on top of the service rate, as it would require readjusting the time prioritized towards other clients and personal events.

“What am I exactly paying for?”

Quality, effective résumé drafting is a skill that requires hours of research, writing related strategy, and time. Most people have the misconception that writing a résumé is an easy, quick, one hour job, when it is quite the opposite. A well written résumé and cover letter package requires anywhere from five to fifteen hours, depending on the amount of experience, the amount of revisions and edits, the back and forth communication between the writer and the client, and the research required in relation to your prior job(s) and your future career goals.

“Is hiring résumé writer a smart financial choice when I am looking for a job? I can probably write my own résumé or have a friend do it!”

Think about the amount you’re willing to spend on long-term investments—whether it’s a tech device, a cosmetic treatment, a home appliance, or even a car tune-up. You pay the price because you know the value it will bring and the lasting impact it will have. The same is true for a professionally written résumé. Your résumé isn’t just a document—it’s a strategic tool that can open doors, create opportunities, and accelerate your career growth.

Yes, you can write it yourself or ask a friend for help—but unless they’re an experienced résumé writer, the results likely won’t compare. Many clients come to me after trying the DIY or “friend who’s good at writing” route, only to realize their résumé wasn’t passing applicant tracking systems (ATS) or catching the attention of hiring managers. Effective résumé writing requires more than listing duties—it demands up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, field-specific keywords, employer psychology, and the art of positioning you as the strongest candidate.

A résumé done right is more than paper and ink—it’s your key to new networks, career advancement, and greater financial freedom. The way you value and present your accomplishments determines how far you’ll go in your career.

Your future is worth the investment. Make it happen.

“I can’t afford to pay the price all at once, or even the broken down payments. Are there other options?”

Sure! You have options. If you cannot make the payments listed on the service pages, we can work out a contractual agreement where we work out an individualized payment plan that works best for you. However, the requirement is that you must provide a deposit before I begin the service.

“How do you take payments?”

All transactions are completed through PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, or Zelle.