Are TopCV (or other CV writing companies) worth it?

[honeybeetheoneandonly]

I did my CV myself. Was happy with it, although felt it could have been better (just couldn't really put my finger on what was lacking).
Among other things, I uploaded it to a job site that offered a free CV check. They sent some feedback back (needing better layout; including some quantifiable results etc). They said, they put it though some kind of software that most recruiters use and it could be better.

I never heard of this software, so obviously I want my CV to hit the right notes when going through any automated process.
Is it worth paying for them to improve your CV?

I had the same recently, and I thought they made some valid comments. I have postponed my job hunt while I do some training, but might go back to them after.

CV writer here. I used to work for Top CV and a competitor, I now work freelance via another platform.

I think CV writing has its place (well, I would say that) - particularly if you’re applying for things that you’re demonstrably suitable for but not getting interviews. My reservations about the larger companies boil down to the fact that they hire a lot of not very qualified people to write for them (along with some very good people, but there is a lot of churn because the pay is low), and often their formats/templates can be a bit prescriptive. Both of these affect the quality of the finished product. See Glassdoor reviews for Talent Inc, which owns a lot of these companies, to get a sense of what the writers experience working for them.

I’d generally recommend somewhere like PeoplePerHour where you can read reviews for specific writers and get a feel for their work. Or have a google for a CV writer near you. And make sure anything you pay for includes unlimited revisions until you’re happy with it.

(Sorry for rushed reply - bathtime for the toddler!)

Yes, thought they had valid points too. I only just started looking for jobs, so not had much time to test my CV. Happy to pay if it's worth it, just don't want to waste money if it isn't.

Thank you. I think that's it. I really would like to ensure I have the best CV possible, but unless you know someone really knows their stuff and I don't know a good CV writer or how to identify the good from the not so good.