Just last week a freelancing friend of mine send an urgent SOS to our group chat.
Yay… here’s a question I can include for my Sunday “Ask Chris” email.
Yeah, yeah… a day late… but no dollars short on this one.
So, they asked:
Do any of you have advice on how to respond to a request for a resume?
Someone I’ve been communicating with recommended me to a potential client who asked for a resume.
Yikes, I don’t have one!
Being new to this, I don’t have a copywriting work history, and my actual resume has all my non-related jobs. Any help is appreciated!
I had a quick 🤔
Now, the opportunity for work might create quite a pull.
And work is work, right?
Especially if there’s moths flying out of your purse or wallet.
I’ve not had the experience of a prospective client asking me for this.
Although I hear it’s not too common. But it does happen.
So… seeing the invitation is open… I chime in with my never-to be ignored opinion…
Someone asking for a resume does seem to signal that they are:
- Not the decision-maker and need to share it around to others
- New to working with freelancers
- Seeing you as an employee
- A control freak and want to bend you to their will
Some are strong red flags.
There’s probably more to add. But that’s all my brain’s popping out right now.
You’re of course a business and you don’t need to give out resumes or CVs.
You don’t want to be an employee in their eyes.
You want to be considered a trusted advisor or colleague.
Problems arise if you’re not on this level.
One being money. Another respect.
So my approach would be ignoring the request and gently guiding them to the process you want to follow.
If it’s a deal breaker for them if you don’t provide a resume… you may have dodged a bullet.
And if you really need the work… and want the pain of putting a resume together… handing all power to your prospect… and being forever an employee or vendor in their eyes…
Knock yourself out! Er… not literally!
Seemed to be helpful to her. And may be helpful to others.
And you know one place resumes don’t get in the way?
Where you can get away with just a simple profile. And some short-proposal writing chops.
Keeping freelancing simple… since 2013.
So long, and thanks for all the fish,
P.S. This may be helpful…
Here’s the template I suggested my friend consider using for an email to the person who was asking for a resume.
This approach projects confidence, professionalism, and expertise… and clients want expertise.
Replace stuff in CAPS as appropriate.
Here it is:
Hi NAME,
Thanks for your interest in working together.
When I looked at your website I was impressed by XYZ. ADD IN HOW IMPORTANT THIS IS FOR THEIR BUSINESS.
SHOW EXPERTISE [e.g. with comment about something you focus on because it gives great benefits to clients. Or something similar you’ve done for previous clients]
For recommendations from previous clients, you’re welcome to check out my LinkedIn profile here: LINKEDIN-PROFILE
You’ll also find samples and more about me and the services I offer.
My process is to first meet with you for 15-20 minutes to chat about your needs and goals.
There’s no obligation and it’s a great way for us to test the water before diving in.
If you’re wanting to move ahead, please pick a time that suits you here: LINK-TO-BOOKING-CALENDAR
I look forward to meeting you and learning more about you and the customers you serve.
Warm regards,
YOUR-NAME
CONTACT-DETAILS
Ready to build your email list? Go here…
EmailForTheWin.com
Chris Milham