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Meet Carolyn Whitfield

Australia’s ONLY Certified Career Storyteller

Certified Executive Résumé Master | Job Search & Interviews Coach | Ex-Recruiter

5X Winner in the International Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) Awards, 2021

4X Winner in the International Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) Awards, 2020

2X Winner in the International Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) Awards, 2019

15X Nominee in the International TORI Awards, 2020, 2019, 2018 & 2017

Categories: Executive, International, Healthcare, Sales, Marketing, Finance, New Graduate and Hospitality

Need to talk? I may not be able to answer your call because I work with clients by appointment throughout the work day.
If you’d like to chat, check when I’m free and book your time here

The fact you’re here means that you’ve probably realised (the hard way) that landing your dream job in today’s competitive market isn’t that easy.

You may be confused, exhausted, anxious, and uncertain about HOW to leverage your career …

As a former recruiter turned career storyteller and executive resume writer, I take your career seriously. My clients land top jobs – quickly – with a combination of powerful personal branding, job search strategies and interview coaching.

☛ Warning: All résumé writers are not equal ☚

Would you entrust the safety of your loved ones with an unqualified mechanic? No WAY! Similarly don’t put your career, potential earnings and future in the hands of an uncertified writer.

I write and design story-based, achievement-driven and interview-winning resumes and career marketing documents for executives, aspiring leaders and professionals…

 

  • Triple-Certified, Published Resume Writer
  • Certified Career Storyteller
  • LinkedIn Optimisation Expert
  • Certified Job Interview Coach
  • Certified Online Job Search & Reputation Management Professional
  • Outplacement & Career Transition Consultant & Partner
  • Qualified Workplace Trainer & Assessor
  • I GET RESULTS!

 

Don’t take my word for it. Here are some REAL client success stories:

A Customer Service Manager received a call for an interview for her ultimate job just 15 mins after emailing her NEW resume—WOW!

A Graphic Designer landed his absolute dream job as a Photographer / Graphic Designer with Australia ’s leading online fashion retailer—LIFE-CHANGING OUTCOME!

INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS, MEMBERSHIPS & AWARDS

Australia’s first and only certified career storyteller.

1 of Australia’s leading executive resume writing strategists.

1 of only 3 Certified Executive Résumé Masters in Australia.
(1 of 20 CERMs worldwide)

The only resume professional Australia wide to hold all 5 certifications.

98.8% interview-winning success rate for executives, managers and professionals.

Career Money Life Supplier

Client Testimonial

“Hi Carolyn, I just wanted to let you know that the revamped resumé worked wonders. I applied for 3 roles since it was updated, and was offered interviews for all of them. I decided to accept a Training and Development Manager role at XXX (name withheld) within the Department of XXX (withheld). I will be in charge of a team that works with stakeholders in other government departments and with the public, delivering bespoke training around dispute resolution, negotiation skills, and court-ordered mediation. Thanks for the resume revamp.”

(Posted / Emailed 3 Resumes; Invited to 3 Interviews; Received 1 Job Offer)

D Telford, Training & Development Manager, Melbourne, VIC

My Story

“I’ve been successful in getting a new role as Head of Technology and Innovation with a Mental Health and Disability Support NFP.

I truly believe that your work on these resumes made this happen. To be honest, I have been very successful in getting interviews with this resume and ended up turning down two other roles for this one!”

–David 

I’m Carolyn Whitfield, Australia’s first and only Certified Career Storyteller.

Client feedback like this always reminds me why I love what my team and I do for executives every day.

12 years ago, I made a career transition that unlocked a wealth of opportunity- after a successful career in business management, I began a new career in professional recruiting and training.

I quickly discovered how challenging it is for professionals looking for executive roles to land leadership positions with ideal-fit companies.

The vast majority of Australian executives are competing for the same handful of published job listings – and wondering why they’re still searching months or years later.

In fact, less than 4% of résumés submitted nationally result in an interview at all.

This is an enormous amount of wasted effort that ultimately harms professionals who deserve financial, career, and personal success… as well as companies who actively need and want their expertise.

This is why I founded Total Résumés.

You might be looking for a new challenge, an income upgrade, or both. Or perhaps you’re not actively looking, but something’s telling you to be prepared for future opportunities.

Whatever the case, your résumé is either opening doors… or locking them.

Crafting a resume that satisfies automated résumé scoring software AND appeals to human decision-makers is no simple task.

It’s not something you’ll get from a typical résumé writer.

Unfortunately, because these people do not have industry certification training, the résumés they produce often contain elements that are “flagged” by automated scoring software.

Because they work on volume, they also lack the time and expertise to weave a detailed story that resonates with any humans who happen to read it.

Expertise and focus makes the difference.

My team and I deliver résumés that achieve results, because I know what automated and human resume reviewers are looking for.

That doesn’t mean fitting you into a “formula,” though. Your résumé should be an accurate, relevant representation of your unique experience and value.

That’s why we only work with 4 clients at a time. This allows my elite team of TORI-award-winning and CMRW/CERW-certified career experts and storytellers and I to focus on presenting you and your compelling story, instead of filling your résumé with the same surface-level info recruiters and hiring managers see every single day.

The result? A 98.8% success rate.

It feels amazing to know that so many of our clients are getting unstuck thanks to Total Résumés. They’ve gained the power to land dream jobs and increase income by up to 40% – even when other professional résumé writers have failed them.

If you’re ready to become unstuck too, click here to compare our done-for-you Total Résumé Packages.

WITH A 98.8% SUCCESS RATE, WE HELP EXECUTIVES & ASPIRING LEADERS WORLDWIDE, TO LAND THEIR DREAM JOBS & INCREASE THEIR SALARIES UP TO 40%

LET'S GET TO WORK

Total Resumes Testimonials

Feedback From Our Valuable Clients

Carolyn completely transformed my resume and gave it a total 'Wow' factor. I received great feedback from people about it and I start my new role in less than two weeks, so I'm certainly a happy customer. Carolyn gathered all the pertinent data and positioned it brilliantly to tell my story. She was fast, efficient and professional and I have already recommended her to others.

Karen, Change Leader & Operations ManagerSydney NSW

Carolyn is just amazing. I am truly impressed with her professionalism, skills and service. Highly recommended and definitely the very best!

Yana, Executive AssistantSydney NSW

Thanks Carolyn for showcasing my talents and putting them together in a professional and well-presented resume.

Adam, Operations ManagerMelbourne VIC

I just briefly looked through the documents and must say I'm impressed with how you've crafted the story. It's what I've always had in my head, but was never able to articulate it in such a clear and crisp way. Thank you so much for your excellent work on this project. I couldn't be happier with the final result. I really appreciate the quick and professional follow-ups you've provided. Also, many thanks for the additional resources.

Gerhard, Healthcare ExecutiveHong Kong

I had the fantastic opportunity to avail Carolyn's executive resume writing services. She just put your thoughts and achievements fabulously in your resume. She is very dedicated with her clients be it resume writing or even helping you out with small details to make a long lasting impact with your resume. She is very committed and has always kept to her timelines and is very approachable. She is always available for a conversation with her clients. I would definitely recommend Carolyn for her resume writing skills and would love to work with her again in the near future.

Anuradha Wadhar, Business Process Improvement ManagerSydney NSW

Dear Carolyn, I am quite overwhelmed by the quality of your work, an how much better my information presents. I am truly excited now. Thank you so much!

Katrina, Regional ManagerCanberra ACT

I join [name withheld] in a weeks' time 😊. In the past six weeks, I have been pinged through LinkedIn at least once a week by recruiters in the industry. It is an awesome feeling to finally be in a position to turn down jobs! A number of people in [name withheld] have approached me for my secret sauce for getting a job. Of course you have come up in my many conversations. [name withheld] just mentioned that she is about to commence working with you on her resume and LinkedIn.

Richard, Product ManagerSydney NSW

After you created my resume, I have landed my dream job today as HACCP Coordinator. It all happened because you put so much effort into my resume. I seriously want to thank you.

Parambir, HACCP CoordinatorSydney NSW

Carolyn has an empathy and deep understanding of the new age job market, its competitive nature and the need to define individuals by achievement and the value they offer. Her unique ability to weave the story of a candidate's achievements and clear communication skills set her apart from most resume writers. But the most prevalent attribute that Carolyn brings is her commitment to her clients, working to meet difficult deadlines, following up with improvements, and ensuring that she remains the trusted advisor to her clients.

Michael, General ManagerBrisbane QLD

I am very happy to recommend Carolyn to anyone requiring assistance with a resume, cover letter or employment application. Not only is Carolyn extremely adept in this area with wonderful communication and presentation skills she demonstrated great insight regarding the current requirements of recruiters and potential employers. She is a very lovely person who takes a very genuine interest in her clients and is an example to us all of how customer service should be. Working with Carolyn made the task of showcasing my skills and experience very easy thanks to her professionalism, commitment and dedication to the task. The finished result was perfectly tailored for my purposes and I would not hesitate to engage Carolyn again or to recommend her services to others.

Ed, Operations ManagerSydney NSW

Having been in the same job for the last 8+ years the thought of producing my resume was extremely daunting for me - until I found Carolyn. Carolyn was simply outstanding. Dealing with Carolyn was seamless, prompt and to put it simply - just so easy! When I received my completed resume, I was totally overwhelmed with how Carolyn had captured not only my strengths and competencies, but amazingly she captured the essence of me, who I am as a person - what I represent as my 'own brand'. I couldn't recommend Carolyn highly enough to anyone needing their resume created from scratch, or to have their resume revamped, you will not be disappointed.

Janet, Customer Experience ManagerPort Lincoln SA

I must express the professionalism and attention to detail when working with Carolyn. I could see in the end result, the time and effort that was put into the content for my resume. I would certainly recommend dealing with Carolyn. The end result was certainly worth it for me.

Sally, Executive Personal AssistantHobart TAS

WOW! When I read the resume you created for me it brought a tear to my eye. Seeing myself on paper was quite overwhelming. Thank you so much. I am very happy.

Rachael, Administration Officer, NOW Employment Services ConsultantHobart TAS

I engaged Total Resumes to write a professional resume on my behalf and to say I was impressed is an understatement. My employment history was dull and I didn't believe that I had achieved anything outside of my job description. When I read my resume for the first time I was amazed. I would have hired myself on the spot!! I highly recommend Carolyn to anyone looking for further their career. Her resumes are 5 star and get results.

Jane, HR ManagerWagga Wagga NSW

I just wanted to say thank you once again for the wonderful resume and letter you created for me. I applied for a management position with ***** **** and I'm over the moon to let you know that not only was I selected for interview, but I got the job. YAY go me!! The store owner said that my resume was the best she has ever seen and that she knew she wanted to meet me as soon as she read my application. That's saying something for someone that has only ever had 2 jobs. I can't thank you enough. I will be recommending you to everyone I speak to.

Anna-Belle, Retail ManagerPerth WA

I highly recommend Total Resumes to anyone in need of a quality resume. I had been a chef with the one company for 12 years and was looking for a career change. Working with Carolyn made the process simple. She produced an outstanding resume for me that highlighted things that I hadn't even thought of. When faced with the challenge of applying for jobs that were using my current skills but very much outside my expertise I had no idea where to start. When I attempted to write my own resume I got as far as my name and address but had no idea what to write next. I am pleased to say that I now have confidence in my skills and experience and my new resume has enhanced my career.

Rodney, ChefGold Coast QLD

I engaged with Carolyn to create my resume. I was moving interstate and had not had the need for a resume for the past twenty eight years. Carolyn compiled all of my information to create a resume that was perfectly suited to my needs. I was able to gain employment soon after my relocation and was fortunate enough to secure the position I was after. I would recommend Carolyn for anyone who needs their resume to be updated or completed.

Karen, Sales ManagerAdelaide SA

Thank-you so much for your stellar effort. I am absolutely thrilled with the documents. I am blown away by the service I have received. I cannot believe the overwhelming support and professionalism you have demonstrated. Carolyn, I honestly thought customer service and individuals that care about their work as much as I do were a thing of the past. Thank you so much for proving me wrong. You have not only restored my confidence in customer service and pride in one's work, but you have also more importantly restored the confidence in myself with your beautifully constructed documents. I cannot thank you enough.

Peter, Health, Safety & Environmental ConsultantSydney NSW

I appreciate your services because you're honest, professional, up to date with the marketplace and know what hiring managers look for. I have received compliments on my resume / career documents such as: "It is the best resume I have ever seen," "We were impressed when we saw your CV but unfortunately we are restructuring our business and cannot hire now," and "Our Director and GM are greatly interested in your CV. I have accepted a position as Project Manager." (Posted / Emailed 6 Resumes; Invited to 3 Interviews; Received 2 Job Offers)

N Georges, Project ManagerSydney, NSW

I appreciate your services because of the professionally developed CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile, prompt in replying to my queries, providing extra material which were great and I look forward to avail more services in future. I have received compliments on my resume/career documents such as: detailed, comprehensive, eye-catching, and as per the requirement / industry standards. I'm very satisfied with your services. Initially, I was little reluctant to avail your services and now feel it was a good investment. I would definitely recommend you to friends and colleagues. (Posted / Emailed 50 Resumes; Received 15 Responses; Invited to 10 Interviews; Received 2 Job Offers in 4 Weeks)

S Pradhan, Executive ManagerSydney, NSW

I appreciate your services because of the differentiation I was able to demonstrate in the market. I have accepted a position as Executive Manager of XXX (name withheld), a role of higher standing and higher compensation and benefits. (Posted / Emailed 20 Resumes; Received 18 Responses; Invited to 24 Interviews; Received 3 Job Offers)

JR, Executive ManagerSydney, NSW

There are Many Resume Writers in the Market...
Why Me?

I’m glad you asked because I can assume that you are actively researching resume writers and rank quality service highly.

As a career storyteller, I take an ineffective resume and turn it into a power-packed personal campaign–using your unique career stories to define your brand and showcase you as the obvious choice.

I’m focussed solely on client success (quality over quantity) and only work with 4 clients at a time. In addition to working exclusively with clients, I lead and mentor a small, elite team of TORI-award-winning and CMRW/CERW certified career experts and storytellers. When selecting a service, professional-level clients have the choice of working with me, or a member of my world-class, multi-certified team.

As the Founder of Total Resumes, I guarantee professional quality work, effective and customised career marketing documents, and personal customer service. Documents produced by Total Resumes are achievement-based and results-driven, positioning our clients as highly qualified interview candidates for positions they want to target while instilling the confidence and mindset of knowing they ARE one step ahead of their competition.

As you are vetting resume writing professionals, I encourage you to read my article “What you NEED to Know BEFORE Investing in a Resume Writer.”

Are You Ready for a High-Level Branded Executive Portfolio?

You’re a good fit if…

… you are a high-level executive, professional, entrepreneur, or rising star who is truly passionate about what you do and ready to dedicate time and resources to advancing your career.

… you would benefit from an efficient, proven process that has worked for thousands of elite careerists.

… you recognise the power of story and have the sense that there is a better way to express your value than in a collection of disjointed (if impressive) accomplishment bullets.

… you appreciate that the people reading your resume and LinkedIn profile will be in the best position to help you if every aspect of your career marketing is imbued with your brand, and each word is carefully chosen to concisely convey what you bring to the table.

Let me put powerful job search tools in your hands quickly and at a tremendous value! Check some samples of my award-winning resumes.

My Unique Value Offering

Resume Writing and Document Development Certifications:
  • Certified Master Resume Writer – 1 of only 6 in Australia and 41 worldwide
  • Certified Executive Resume Master – 1 of only 3 in Australia and 36 worldwide
  • Certified Career Storyteller – The 1st and only 1 in Australia and 1 of 5 worldwide
  • Certified Graphic Resume Architect – The 1st and only 1 in Australia and 1 of 8 worldwide
Career Services and Coaching Certifications:
  • Certified Employment Interview Consultant – 1 of only 4 in Australia and 37 worldwide
  • Certified Professional – Online Job Search & Reputation Mgmt. – 1 of only 2 in Australia and 12 worldwide
International Industry Recognition: Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) Award Wins
  • 1st Place: Best New Graduate Resume, 2021
  • 2nd Place: Best Healthcare Resume, 2021
  • 3rd Place: Best Executive Resume, 2021
  • 3rd Place: Best High Tech Resume, 2021
  • 3rd Place: Best Sales Resume, 2021
  • 1st Place: Best Executive Resume, 2020
  • 1st Place: Best Healthcare/Medical Resume, 2020
  • 1st Place: Best Marketing Resume, 2020
  • 2nd Place: Best Sales Resume, 2020
  • 2nd Place: Best Hospitality Resume, 2019
  • 3rd Place: Best Sales Resume, 2019

Each year, the Career Directors International (CDI) hosts the resume writing industry’s most prestigious Toast of the Resume Industry™ (TORI) resume writing competition.

This is an international competition in which contestants submit their best work in a category. Winners are selected by a blind panel of global industry experts. Nominees are selected, followed by first, second, and third place winners in each category.

CDI members are eligible and encouraged to strive for writing and creative awards, which benefit the general membership, members’ clients, CDI, and the industry as a whole.

CDI introduced the TORI™ Awards to the industry in 2000 to celebrate a new standard in excellence through rigorous criteria requirements. While award standards have always been demanding, never before has the resume writing industry embraced the concept of standardised criteria for resume judging.

Learn more about these prestigious awards here: https://careerdirectors.com/learn-grow/awards/toast-of-the-resume-industry-awards-tori/resume-award-winners/

Why Should You Choose my Resume Practice Over Others?

Not only do I create outstanding, story-based resumes recognised by my peers, executive recruiters, clients, and hiring managers for a remarkably analytical and powerful style, I also understand the job market and the intensity of a job search – having worked in employment services and recruitment for many years.

In addition, I’ve elicited information from even the most restrained of clients… resulting in resumes that provide clients just like you with a competitive edge by capturing your particular vision, work style, brand, energy, and accomplishments.

I offer you outstanding credentials and a global reputation, with these advantages.
  • Award winner and nominee in the international Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) Awards.
  • Thousands of successfully employed clients at start-up, fortune-ranked and mid-sized firms.
  • High success rate (98%) landing interviews for CIO, CEO, CTO, COO, CFO, GM and other job hunters.
  • Multiple certifications and master-level training through Career Directors International (CDI).
    As I am sure you are aware, the resume writing industry is unregulated in Australia and the marketplace is FULL of self–appointed resume writers. My skills have been assessed by the Career Directors International and found to be of a high standard.
  • Published in career bestsellers.
  • Qualified Workplace Trainer and Assessor with experience in one-to-one and group facilitation.
As an executive resume expert who has carved a strong reputation in the resume industry, I’ve helped thousands of rising stars and executives worldwide ascend to the next step on the career ladder.
Connect With Me on LinkedIn

View Carolyn Whitfield profile on LinkedIn

Career Investment

I encourage you to invest in your career – the one area of your life that makes all other wants and needs possible–so you can take control, get what you want, and avoid wasting time. You will be presented with an eye-catching, cutting- edge and modern resume to assist with your career endeavours. Your professional resume and letter is your stepping stone to gaining an interview to get the job you seek.

The return on investment for our services can be profound. If you can shorten your job search by just 1 week, our packages have paid for themselves! Explore the Total Resumes website to learn more about our services, client testimonials, unique industry credentials and view samples of my work. Additionally, I am available via direct email for any queries.

 

I look forward to hearing from you!

Executive Resume Writing Services – Anchored in Hobart, Tasmania Servicing Australia: Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Canberra | Adelaide | Perth | Darwin | Hobart
Not in Australia? We have assisted clients worldwide including: United Kingdom | United States of America | United Arab Emirates | India | East Africa | Saudi Arabia | Hong Kong | New Zealand | Egypt | China