When you’re out of work, the last thing you need to do is waste money. But some job-hunting expenses could be worth paying, according to Martha Finney, author of “Unlock the Hidden Job Market.” Here’s what Finney finds is and isn’t worthwhile.
Resume writing: Anyone can call herself a resume writer, and one writer can’t be knowledgeable about every industry. Resume-writing costs vary widely, from $50 to more than $1,000. If the writer is just feeding your words into a resume-writing program to make it look pretty, you can do that yourself.
Image consulting: Women can go to a high-end department store for a free makeover at the cosmetics counter and get a personal shopper to help with clothes, Finney said. Or trust a candid friend.
Job websites for a fee: You can post your resume on some job boards for free, and you might as well. But paying for the privilege becomes riskier.
“Job boards are really dreary opportunities to feel like a loser sitting by an unringing telephone,” Finney said. “Only this time, you’re paying for the privilege.”
Mock interviews: A service she would pay for? Job-interview practice. Hiring a human-resources person you know could help refine your techniques.
