Can a busy working mom outsource her job hunt, getting someone to find the job, do the research and even write a cover letter and resume? Find out.

Dear Aunt Jobby,

I desperately want to find another job.  Because I fear losing my current job, I am working so hard that I don’t have time to look for another position. A friend, who used to be in HR, said she’ll identify suitable jobs, adapt my resume and write suitable covers letters for me. She’ll charge me an hourly rate, and I have offered to pay her a finder’s fee.  I will review the letters and do the final edits. She knows me (and my experience … we worked together in the dark ages!) well enough to do a passing impression of me and how I write.

Someone told me they thought this was unethical because it was deceiving employers. Seriously, between three kids and a busy job, shopping, cooking and housework, I don’t have time to blow my nose, let alone tinker with many job applications.

Do you think I should outsource my job applications? Is it unethical?

Yours in desperation,

Marika, Tenley Town, DC.

Great question Marika, which many busy working women would like answered. So I got two responses (and different takes) from two great experts, both with very interesting backgrounds. See their bios.

Our first response is from Jeff Jefferson of TheCareerGiant. Tomorrow’s response is from Kris Anderson of Asirk. Read what Kris has to say here.
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Jeff says…

Dear Marika,

“Outsourcing” portions of the job search is an extremely common practice, especially in today’s tough job market. Millions of job seekers hire Professional Resume Writers, Job Search Strategy Consultants, Career Coaches, etc., to help them put their best foot forward in their pursuit of new employment.

Another way to think about it is this; many employers may view your willingness to consult with and procure the services of an expert as a reflection of your ability to stay focused on core tasks while delegating work that leverages the skills of others, skill which you may not possess. And in the end, the job search is merely an effort to get an interview. That is where the magic happens, and if you have the wherewithal to hire a professional who can help you get more interviews, go for it!

Jeff

Bio: Jeff has spent his career building and leading highly successful teams for both large and small organizations within the recruiting/staffing industry. Jeff started The Career Giant in 2009 and is focused on solving his customers’ needs by providing unmatched service and results for Resume Writing and Job Search / Career Coaching services. His leadership has helped his teams achieve tremendous bottom-line growth, as witnessed by inclusion in the Inc 5000 list during his time with multiple firms.

Jeff’s experience as a US Army Paratrooper was a defining time in his life and career, and he has used those basic leadership principles to create organizations with strong camaraderie and team oriented mentalities which are focused on helping customers recognize immediate return on their investment. Jeff graduated from the University of Richmond where he was a member of the Varsity Men’s Basketball team, after which he spent time playing professional basketball in Ireland. Jeff lives in Richmond, VA with his wife 2 children and chocolate lab Maggie.

For another perspective on outsourcing your job search, read part 2 of our series.

Related Posts:

• 4 Ways To Create a Standout Cover Letter
• Part 2: Can I Outsource My Job Search?
• Help Wanted: Need Memorable Email for Job Search
• Cover Letter Maths: Headhunters Want! I Have!
• 131 Action Verbs That’ll Get You Hired – Part 2