Chelsey Opare-Addo is a Technical Recruiter and Professional Resume Writer who helps jobseekers say goodbye to snooze-news resumes from the past and hello to modern and achievement-oriented resumes. She ditches outdated “rules” from the Fresh Prince era to deliver a proven approach to resume writing – ditching cliches for memorable resumes with fierce branding statements, strong language, and accomplishment-packed bullet points. Her resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn services can be booked at www.notyourmothersresume.com

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I started my Recruitment career in 2014. On my first day on the job, my manager asked me to create a resume for a candidate who didn’t have one. Thus, my obsession with resumes and career stories began.  

What inspired you to start your business?

Because I worked in recruitment, I became the natural source of resume and job-search advice for friends and family. I had written several resumes for free prior to starting my business, and my friends and family achieved impressive results. I realized that I’m abnormally passionate, opinionated, and knowledgeable about resumes.

Where is your business based?

Aurora, IL.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

I had the idea to start Not Your Mother’s Resume on a Friday, and I launched the following Monday. I created my Instagram page, @notyourmothersresume, and dedicated my page to sharing job search and resume tips. Within ten days, I landed my first client. I didn’t have an LLC, website, or logo until 6 months later. 

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

Social Media – All of my clients come from Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or word-of-mouth

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge has been battling feelings of imposter syndrome. I experience waves of doubt as I question my skill level, ability, and prices. I use my social media platform to spread imposter syndrome awareness and encourage others to own their accomplishments approach interviews and negotiations from a place of confidence.

How do you stay focused?

I find a quiet place to work and allow myself to get lost in the details of someone’s career story.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

I have a strong brand and I use my authentic voice for social media, website content, and client communications. My business name and brand are unique. People understand that when they work with me, they are gaining a unique experience. I’m an experience, myself. 

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

I show up authentically on social media, and my ideal clients are drawn to me.

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Find your tribe. People who work in your industry are not your competition, they are your colleagues. Join associations, form partnerships, and collaborate whenever possible. You will gain so much inspiration and wisdom from industry leaders if you approach relationships from this lens. 

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favorite app is Canva, I use it to design all of my social media posts

My favorite blog is Human Workplace. Liz Ryan empowers jobseekers to stand up for themselves.

My favorite book is Handmaid’s Tale. It offers a gripping look into what the world could be like if women lose all of their rights. 

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

My favorite business resource is Canva, which I use to design my social media graphics. 

Who is your business role model? Why?

My business role model is Melanie Denny. She has accomplished so much in the Resume Writing industry, and she gives back to new resume writers through the creation and management of the Society of Elite Resume Writers. Her mentorship and advice have been invaluable to my business. 

How do you balance work and life?

I embrace rest. I’m currently on a much-needed 16-day vacation from work.

What’s your favorite way to decompress?

I love a bad reality show. Binge-watching a terrible dating show and ordering dinner is my ideal way to decompress.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

I’ll continue to grow, expand, and find ways to help my ideal clients.

How can our readers connect with you?

Find me on instagram @notyourmothersresume, LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseyoa/, Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nymresume/,

And of course, if you’re looking at book my services, you can visit www.notyourmothersresume.com