Mary Carden

Resume writer · Durham, NC · in person and virtual

Credentials they list: PARWCC CPRW

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"Career coaching isn’t about quick fixes or generic advice." (in their words, on their website)

Services

ServiceWhat is includedPrice
College App Pack
college or grad school applicants		 resume · LinkedIn profile · college essay or personal statement audit $450
Early Career Pack
recent graduates, interns, first or second career job workers		 resume · LinkedIn profile · cover letter $399
Professional Pack
mid-level professionals seeking promotion, raise, or new employer		 resume · LinkedIn profile · cover letter $599
Essential Resume
hands-on roles and skilled trades (welders, plumbers, electricians, carpenters)		 clear, straightforward resume $299
Advanced / Executive Pack
senior, director, and executive level professionals		 resume · LinkedIn profile · cover letter · communicate strategic thinking, leadership impact, business ROI on request
Resume Update For Previous Clients Only
previous clients needing a resume refresh		 update old resume to reflect new responsibilities or roles $149
Career Coaching
people trying to land first job, mid- or late-career transitions		 strengths and interest assessments · career change guidance · networking strategies · on-ramping after career break · interview roleplaying on request
LinkedIn Makeover
working professionals		 polished and professional LinkedIn profile · unique story telling · custom headline · keyword optimization · profile content tailored for recruiters on request

As published on their website, read Sep 30, 2026.

How they compare

Computed by Callings from the prices and experience coaches publish. Not a rating.

Where they fit

StudentsEarlyMidManagerDirectorVP / C-suite
Resume and LinkedInyesyesyesnonono
Interviews and offersyesyesyesnonono
Job search strategyyesyesyesnonono
Career direction and changeyesyesyesnonono
Leadershipnononononono
Personal brandyesyesyesnonono

How they work

Process
client uploads current resume and job ads of interest · client fills out questionnaire · resume writer drafts resume · client provides feedback using Microsoft Word Track Changes · resume writer revises resume (typically three rounds) · final resume delivered in Word and PDF formats
Assessments
strengths and interest assessments

Do it yourself, or hire a coach?

Doing it yourselfUsually enough whenA coach earns the fee when
Resume4 to 8 hours for a strong base, then about 30 minutes per posting. Callings can tailor it to each job.You are staying in the same field and level and have recent results to cite.You are changing field or level, coming back after a long break, or many applications brought no interviews.
Interviews3 to 6 hours of practice out loud per interview process. Callings can prepare you for each job you track.Early rounds in a format you know.Final rounds, panels, a new kind of role, or you tend to freeze.
Job searchA target list, a weekly plan and steady outreach. Callings builds the weekly plan and tracks every application, free.Interviews are coming in.Three months without traction, or a senior search that runs on your network.

Times are our estimates. Try Callings.

Questions to ask before hiring

  1. Do you write it yourself, how many revision rounds are included, and do I keep editable files? (done-for-you writing)
  2. What are your cancellation and refund terms? (no refund terms on their site)
  3. Which body issued your credential, and can I check it there? (credential listed)
  4. Who do you usually work with, and how long does a typical engagement last? (always worth asking)

What they publish

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