As human beings, we are not designed to keep our promises. I certainly am an expert at making resolutions and then forgetting about them, without ever acknowledging which promises I have – and haven’t – kept. Not this year! I’m taking a look to see how I’m doing, ten weeks after my resolutions were made. Ready?
I got an email from my friend Seth Nowak on January 13, 2011 jokingly reporting, “Obama said ‘tenent’ in his speech last night. One term president.” I was already planning to write a blog about the difference between “tenant” and “tenet.” Seth’s email sealed the deal.
If you are writing a college essay, resume or cover letter, you will benefit from this grammar tip on structuring sentences using correlative conjunctions. A correlative conjunction is a conjunction used with another conjunction that is necessary to complete the thought. “Both/and” is a popular correlative conjunction pair. (Other common examples are either/or and not…
A U.S. Seventh Circuit Court Appeals judge gave Verizon a second chance after the company made a costly typo, stating, “People make mistakes. Even administrators of ERISA plans.” Will the judges of your writing and mine be as understanding?
Many new bloggers or prospective bloggers think that embedding video into a blog post is hard. Nonsense! If you’re producing your own video, certainly the production and editing may be involved. But, if you’ve got a clip already on YouTube that you’re eager to share, it’s a piece o’ cake. Find that clip, cut and paste, and you’re done!
There’s a game embedded in this article! In the last example for each section, see if you can choose the correct word from the [two/too] options in brackets. If [your/you’re] not sure, the answer will be revealed in the next section.
Note To Readers from Sam Diener: There is no possible way that I could have written this article. I rely on two editors to make sure my grammar is correct! So I invited Ms. Brenda Bernstein, the Essay Expert, to come along and write this series of two articles for me. She is quite the grammarian, and she is much smarter than I. So you all had better listen to her – and enjoy!
Last week I wrote an article about quotation marks, and I did not cover the topic of their overuse. Quotation marks are often used to “emphasize” a word when they are grammatically unnecessary or incorrect. Thankfully, another blogger has taken on the gallant task of locating errant quotation marks so that I can take a…
Quotation marks are a beloved form of punctuation in the English language, used to indicate a verbatim report on what someone said, and used in a great deal of business writing. They are often misused. This week I will clear up some misconceptions held by many about proper usage of these marks.
Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
General Agreements
You have retained The Essay Expert LLC to work with you on your MBA Essay Set(s) and to provide guidance in the admissions process.
You will be working with your consultant via phone and/or internet, unless explicitly arranged otherwise prior to the start of the consulting package.
If you are dissatisfied with your consultant at any time during the service, The Essay Expert’s Customer Service can reassign me upon request. Customer service can be reached at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 718-390-6696.
Time and Scheduling Policy
Services are provided primarily by email, with phone calls arranged as needed.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, a $50 charge will be incurred or 30 minutes will be deducted from an hourly package. Your consultant will respond to your communications within 3 business days and will return written comments within 5 business days, unless a vacation has been communicated in advance. You will be notified in advance by your consultant if he or she plans to be unavailable for a period of time longer than 3 business days (for special circumstances including business travel, vacations, etc).
RUSH services are available if you require faster service than promised in this agreement.
The Essay Expert LLC reserves the right to extend the deadline of your project and/or to add fees to our initial estimate in order to accommodate additional, unanticipated work or client delays that result in rush situations (requiring less than 1 week’s turnaround time). Work on any project may be delayed while additional fees are processed.
Consultant’s Responsibilities
Consultant will provide admissions consulting services for the number of schools purchased (additional schools will require a fee supplement).
Consultant will provide feedback regarding how the intended audience will perceive your resume, application, essay sets, etc.
Consultant will critique the content and style of your written work, and determine how to best present your experiences and accomplishments.
Consultant will work with you to improve the quality of your essays. We do not guarantee admission to any school.
My consultant will provide general advice if requested regarding selection of recommenders but will not intervene with my recommenders or review or advise them on their recommendations.
Client’s Responsibilities
I understand that it is ideal to begin working with my consultant as far in advance of my deadline as possible. The Essay Expert will not be responsible for missed deadlines.
Upon being matched with a consultant, if I have any questions or concerns about the service, I will contact The Essay Expert at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 718-390-6696.
I will draft, refine and finalize my own essays, and incorporate my consultant’s feedback/suggestions when appropriate. I understand that my consultant will not write my essays for me.
I will provide feedback to my consultant to ensure my essays meet my goals and say what I want them to say.
I am responsible for direct correspondence with my targeted schools.
I am responsible for all communication with my selected or suggested recommenders.
I will fill out any surveys or questionnaires sent by my consultant or by The Essay Expert as completely as possible.
I will advise The Essay Expert of any changes in my contact information.
I agree to conduct all financial business through The Essay Expert. I understand that my consultant is not authorized to enter into private financial agreements with me to engage in admissions consulting, and that to do so would be a violation of his/her legal agreement.
Refund Policy & Fees
If I delay my service for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed, I understand that I will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since my initial purchase. (TEE understands that extenuating circumstances arise, but we request that you start your project within the prescribed time.)
After six (6) months have passed, if I wish to restart your project, I understand there will be a 35% restart fee and that I must pay this fee and any price increases before my project willl proceed.
I must arrange to start utilizing The Essay Expert’s service within one (1) year of the purchase date. If I have paid in full and do not begin the service within a year of the purchase date, I will forfeit my eligibility for a refund and will have to repurchase a package in order to start work.
If my credit card is declined or my check returned, my service will not begin until the transaction is approved (Please note: returned checks are subject to a $25 handling fee).
Partial refunds are available for incomplete packages for up to 30 days after date of purchase IF I do not use The Essay Expert’s services for the full number of schools that were in the package I purchased. I will call customer service to discuss details, and I understand that a $200 processing fee will be charged per unused school.
After 30 days have elapsed since my date of purchase, I will no longer be eligible for a refund. I may choose to use my package at a future date or to transfer my package to another applicant.
Essay Format
We request that all essay set submissions follow a standard format that we’ve found works best for our review purposes:
Put all the essays for one school in one MS Word document.
Write the first question and its specified word limit on the first page, then insert a page break and write your first essay on the next page(s). Insert another page break and write down the second question and its word limit, going to the next page(s) to write your second essay. Continue in this way until you’ve completed every essay, including any optional essays, in the one MS Word document.
Double space and use 12-point font throughout.
For the first draft of an essay set for a school named ABC, name the Word document abc1.
For a second draft of a school named ABC’s essay set, name the Word document abc2.
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please address them first to your consultant, or contact Brenda Bernstein at BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com or 718-390-6696.
Terms of Agreement for College Essay Consulting
Please be aware of the following expectations and terms of your agreement with The Essay Expert:
General Agreements
You have retained The Essay Expert LLC to work with you or your son or daughter (hereinafter “your student”) on your/his/her/their College Application Essay(s) and/or Resume/Activity List.
If I am dissatisfied with your (or your student’s) consultant at any time during the service, The Essay Expert’s customer support team may assign a new consultant upon request. Customer service can be reached at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
Confidentiality
Your identity and the nature of your sessions will be kept private from any third parties unless you provide written consent. There are 3 exceptions to confidentiality:
When disclosure is imminent to prevent harm to yourself or others;
When legal demands require that confidential material be released;
When a child is in need of protection.
Basic Process and Document Systems
Our services will be provided by an assigned consultant via phone and e-mail. We may use Dropbox or other cloud computing systems. All documents sent via email by either party will be in Word (i.e., .doc or .docx) format unless otherwise stipulated in the initial consultation.
We will be using the Track Changes feature of MS Word. If you need assistance in using this feature, please read How to Avoid Embarrassing Editing Marks on Your Documents! MS Word’s Track Changes Program. ***You are responsible for making sure there are no redlining marks or comments on your final documents. We will be happy to send you a clean copy of any document upon request.
Spell check and editing techniques will be used to ensure the correctness and accuracy of your documents, but it is your responsibility to proofread and give final approval of their completion.
Time and Scheduling Policy
The Essay Expert’s guideline is that you will have a response to your calls and emails within 2 business days, and comments on your documents returned within 3 to 5 business days. If you do not hear back from your consultant within the appropriate time period, please resend your message and leave a telephone message with your consultant. If you still do not get a response after another business day, please contact our customer support team directly at 608-467-0067.
In order for us to help you within our promised turnaround times, we ask that you promptly complete and return any surveys or questionnaires sent by your consultant or by The Essay Expert LLC within 3 business days. Our response times are guaranteed only in relation to when you provide completed questionnaires and responses to our inquiries.
The Essay Expert LLC reserves the right to extend the deadline of your project and/or to add fees to our initial estimate in order to accommodate additional, unanticipated work or client delays that result in rush situations (requiring less than 1 week’s turnaround time). Work on any project may be delayed while additional fees are processed.
RUSH packages are available for additional fees to ensure faster service than promised in this agreement.
If an appointment is confirmed for a specific time, please provide 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or change the appointment. For hourly packages, The Essay Expert’s policy is to charge 1/2 hour for any appointments missed without proper notice. For flat rate packages, you will forfeit your package if you (or your student) miss(es) two meetings without providing 24 hours’ notice.
Consultant’s Responsibilities
Consultant will provide consulting services for the number of essays purchased (additional schools will require a fee supplement).
Consultant will provide feedback regarding how the intended audience will perceive your (or your student’s) resume, essay(s), etc.
Consultant will critique the content and style of your (or your student’s) written work, and determine how to best present experiences and accomplishments.
Consultant will work with you (or your student) to improve the quality of all essays. Consultants will NEVER write the first draft of an essay.
Consultant will notify you in advance if he or she plans to be unavailable for a period of time longer than 3 business days (for special circumstances including business travel, vacations, etc).
Student Responsibilities
I understand that it is ideal to begin working with my consultant as far in advance of my deadline as possible. The Essay Expert will not be responsible for missed deadlines.
If I have any questions or concerns about the service, I will contact The Essay Expert immediately at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
I will complete all surveys, questionnaires and other requested documents sent to me by my consultant or The Essay Expert as promptly and completely as possible. I will not hold The Essay Expert responsible for delays if I do not return the information requested.
I will draft, refine and finalize my own essays, and incorporate my consultant’s feedback/suggestions when appropriate. I understand that my consultant will not write my essays for me.
I will provide feedback to my consultant to ensure my essays meet my goals and say what I want them to say.
I understand my consultant will proofread my essays. However, I also promise to show the essays to at least 3 people with good English skills before submitting them to colleges. I am responsible, along with my parent(s), for final proofreading and approval before the essays are submitted!
I am responsible for direct correspondence with my targeted schools.
I am responsible for all communication with my selected or suggested recommenders.
I will advise The Essay Expert of any changes in my contact information.
I understand that The Essay Expert cannot guarantee admission to any school.
Parent Responsibilities
I understand that it is ideal to begin working with my consultant as far in advance of my student’s deadline as possible. The Essay Expert will not be responsible for missed deadlines.
If I have any questions or concerns about the service, I will contact The Essay Expert immediately at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
I understand my consultant will proofread my student’s essays. However, I also promise to show the essays to at least 3 people with good English skills before submission to schools. I am responsible, along with my student, for final proofreading and approval before the essays are submitted!
I will advise The Essay Expert of any changes in my contact information.
I agree to conduct all financial business through The Essay Expert. I understand that my student’s consultant is not authorized to enter into private financial agreements with me to engage in admissions consulting, and that to do so would be a violation of his/her legal agreement.
I understand that The Essay Expert cannot guarantee admission to any school.
Refund Policy & Fees (Parents)
The Essay Expert does not provide refunds after 3 days have passed from the date of purchase; however, for a period of 30 days after your purchase, we are happy to use your payment toward another service for you or a friend if you decide not to proceed with the service you purchased. After 30 days, any price increases and “restart” fees will apply (see paragraph #3).
If you delay your service for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed, you will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since your initial purchase. We understand that extenuating circumstances arise, but we request that you start your project within the prescribed time. After six (6) months have passed without your response, if you wish to restart your project, you may do so for a 35% restart fee. Once you pay the difference in price in addition to any appropriate restart fees, we will proceed with your project as per these terms of agreement.
After (1) year has passed from the date of purchase, you will forfeit your package.
If your credit card is declined or your check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (Please note: returned checks are subject to a $25 handling fee).
Essay Format
We request that all essay submissions follow a standard format that we’ve found works best for our review purposes:
Put all the essays for one school in one MS Word document.
Write the first question and its specified word limit on the first page, followed by your first essay. Insert a page break and write down the second question and its word limit, then write your second essay. Continue in this way for additional essays.
Double space and use 12-point font throughout.
For the first draft of an essay for a school named ABC, name the Word document abc1. For a second draft of a school named ABC, name the Word document abc2. We will rename the documents abc1 – bbedits and abc2 – bbedits (the first letters will be the initials of your consultant).
Consultants & Referrals
The Essay Expert works with carefully chosen consultants who work closely with college applicants on their documents. Please be assured that Brenda will make sure you are receiving a quality product.
We welcome and encourage your referrals! Please make your referrals to The Essay Expert, and if you have worked with a consultant you particularly like, we will be happy to assign your friends and colleagues to work with that same consultant. We appreciate your business!
Please keep this document for your records and let us know that you have received it (TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com). Your consultant or Brenda will contact you to arrange a time for a first conversation.
Finally, if you have not done so already, please send your current resume and any essays you have drafted to BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com and copy TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com. Thank you for choosing The Essay Expert, and we look forward to working with you!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please address them first to your consultant, or contact our customer support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
Terms of Agreement for LinkedIn or Resume Coaching/Writing
What the Service Includes
LinkedIn Coaching/Writing and Resume Coaching/Writing packages include one-on-one coaching on any aspect of your LinkedIn profile or resume that you or The Essay Expert determines has room for improvement. The package may include writing or editing services as agreed to by the parties.
Process & Timeline
You will receive a questionnaire which we request that you complete.
You will then be assigned to a consultant who will conduct a telephone session with you at a mutually convenient time. Generally we will be able to schedule a session within a week of receipt of your completed questionnaire.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, 30 minutes will be deducted from your hourly package.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
If you delay completion of your questionnaire or the scheduling of your interview for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed with your project, you will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since your initial purchase. Once you pay the difference in price, we will proceed with your project as per these terms of agreement.
You are expected to provide feedback/edits on any documents provided to you by The Essay Expert within 10 days of receiving the document. If we do not receive comments from you within 10 days of our delivery of a document to you, we will consider your package complete and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (Please note: returned checks are subject to a $25 handling fee).
You are entitled to a refund minus a 5% processing and materials fee if you have not begun working with your consultant and no more than one year has passed since purchase.
You must arrange to start utilizing The Essay Expert’s service within 60 days of the purchase date and complete the service within three (3) months of starting, except when otherwise specified.
If you do not begin the service within 60 days, you will forfeit eligibility for a refund. If you start your service and do not complete it within three (3) months, you will forfeit any unused hours.
Privacy / Confidentiality
If you are concerned that your current employer will discover you are making changes to your LinkedIn profile, TURN OFF your activity broadcasts before making any changes. This way your connections will not be notified that you have made changes to your profile.
The Essay Expert may request to use your LinkedIn profile as a sample on our website or in a webinar. We will not reveal that we have worked with you unless we receive your permission by email.
Testimonials / Keeping in Touch
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert on LinkedIn if you are pleased with our service. Also please keep us posted about increases in activity on your profile, comments by others, or contacts from recruiters/new clients. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please address them first to your consultant, or contact our customer support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
Terms of Agreement for LinkedIn Review
Thank you for purchasing a LinkedIn Review Service from The Essay Expert. Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
What the Service Includes
A 20-minute LinkedIn profile review session (via phone or Skype)
Overview of your LinkedIn presentation, including strengths and weaknesses
Substantive and technical suggestions for improvement
Process & Timeline
Upon purchase, you will receive an email with instructions and a questionnaire to complete.
Once The Essay Expert is in receipt of your completed questionnaire, you will be contacted to schedule your 20-minute review session.
Your review session will be conducted at a mutually convenient time and will be limited to 20 minutes.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
You are required to complete your questionnaire within 30 days of purchase. Should you fail to complete the questionnaire within 30 days (or contact The Essay Expert with an alternate agreeable timeline), you will be subject to any rate increases that may occur between the time of your purchase and the time you wish to use your package.
No refunds will be provided after 3 days from the date of purchase.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, you will be charged a $25 fee to reschedule the appointment.
The Essay Expert will consider your project forfeited if you are unable to schedule your 20-minute session within 60 days of the date of purchase or if you cancel two scheduled sessions.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (please note: returned checks are subject to a $20 handling fee).
Privacy / Confidentiality
If you are concerned that your current employer will discover you are making changes to your profile, TURN OFF your activity broadcasts. This way your connections will not be notified that you have made changes to your profile.
The Essay Expert will not reveal to any third party that we have worked with you unless we receive your permission by email. We may request to use your profile as a sample on our website or in a webinar.
Testimonials / Keeping in Touch
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert on LinkedIn if you are pleased with our service. Also please share updates on your successes with your new profile and strategy. Please keep us posted about increases in activity on your profile, comments by others, or contacts from recruiters/new clients. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please contact contact our support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com / 608-467-0067.
Terms of Agreement for LinkedIn Profile Services
Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
What the Service Includes
A LinkedIn Headline & Summary Only package includes writing of the Headline and Summary section only. It does not include Specialties, Skills & Expertise, Experience, or any coaching on your overall profile or strategy.
A LinkedIn Headline & Summary package includes writing of / coaching on the Headline and Summary section, plus 1 hour of coaching and/or writing of any other section(s) of your choice.
A LinkedIn Complete package includes writing of / coaching on all LinkedIn profile sections.
Process & Timeline:
You will receive a questionnaire to complete. Once we receive the completed questionnaire, you will be assigned to a consultant who will conduct a telephone interview (unless determined unnecessary due to sufficient written material).
For Headline & Summary packages: Your consultant will provide a draft of your profile Headline & Summary within 7-10 business days of receiving all the information we need. You will then have the opportunity to request revisions or edits to the draft.
For LinkedIn complete packages: Your consultant will provide a draft of your complete LinkedIn profile within 10-14 business days of receiving all the information we need. You will then have the opportunity to request revisions or edits to the draft.
Entry-Level and Mid-Level LinkedIn Package Revisions: Up to 2 revisions by your consultant are included in the package price, for up to 10 business days after document delivery. Additional fees may be incurred for further editorial requests.
Executive LinkedIn Package Revisions: Package price includes unlimited revisions by your consultant for up to 10 business days after document delivery or until we agree we have a reached a final draft, whichever comes first. Additional fees may be incurred for further editorial requests.
For Success packages: Your consultant will provide a draft of your complete LinkedIn profile within 7-10 business days of finalizing your resume. You will then have the opportunity to request revisions or edits to the draft.
RUSH packages are available for additional fees to ensure faster service than promised in this agreement.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, a $50 charge will be incurred or 30 minutes will be deducted from an hourly package.
Inserting the Summary: Your consultant will send you the text of your LinkedIn Summary and/or Specialties, which may include some symbols used as bullets. Unless otherwise arranged, you will copy the text into your own profile. You may do this by clicking on the pencil icon next to the appropriate section on LinkedIn.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding how to properly insert your Summary and/or other sections into your profile, please address your questions to your consultant.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
The Essay Expert does not provide refunds after 3 days have passed from the date of purchase; however, for a period of 30 days after your purchase, we are happy to use your payment toward another service for you or a friend if you decide not to proceed with the service you purchased. After 30 days, any price increases and “restart” fees will apply (see paragraph #3).
If you delay completion of your questionnaire or scheduling of your interview for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed with your project, you will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since your initial purchase. We understand that extenuating circumstances arise, but we request that you start your project within the prescribed time.
After six (6) months from your date of purchase, if we have not received your questionnaire or have not scheduled your interview, and you wish to restart your project, you may do so for a 35% restart fee. Once you pay the difference in price in addition to any appropriate restart fees, we will proceed with your project as per these terms of agreement.
If after one (1) year from your date of purchase, we have not received your questionnaire and you wish to restart your project, you will forfeit your package.
The Essay Expert will consider your project complete if you do not make requests for edits or a request for an extension within 3 business days of receiving your completed initial document or final document. If you request edits after 3 business days, additional hourly charges will be incurred.
You are required to provide all subsequent editing requests within 10 business days of receiving your initial document. Requests made after 10 business days will incur additional hourly charges.
Extenuating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis.
If you purchased a LinkedIn Summary package that includes 1 hour of additional writing or coaching, you must utilize the 1 hour of additional services within 10 business days of receiving your completed LinkedIn Headline and Summary. If you do not schedule or use your 1 hour of services within 10 business days of our delivery of the LinkedIn Headline & Summary, we will consider your package forfeited and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (Please note: returned checks are subject to a $25 handling fee).
Privacy / Confidentiality
If you are concerned that your current employer will discover you are making changes to your profile, TURN OFF your activity broadcasts before making any changes. This way your connections will not be notified that you have made changes to your profile.
The Essay Expert may request to use your Summary as a sample on our website or in a webinar. We will not reveal that we have worked with you unless we receive your permission by email.
Testimonials / Keeping in Touch
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert on LinkedIn if you are pleased with our service. Also please keep us posted about increases in activity on your profile, comments by others, or contacts from recruiters/new clients. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please address them first to your consultant, or contact our support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 608-467-0067.
Terms of Agreement for Resume Strategy Session
Thank you for purchasing a Resume Strategy Session from The Essay Expert. Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
What the Service Includes
A 1-hour resume strategy session (via phone or Skype)
Overview of your resume presentation, including strengths and weaknesses
Substantive and technical suggestions for improvement
Process & Timeline
Upon purchase, you will receive an email with instructions and a questionnaire to complete.
Once The Essay Expert is in receipt of your completed questionnaire, you will be contacted to schedule your 1-hour strategy session.
Your strategy session will be conducted at a mutually convenient time and will be limited to 1 hour.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
You are required to complete your questionnaire within 30 days of purchase. Should you fail to complete the questionnaire within 30 days (or contact The Essay Expert with an alternate agreeable timeline), you will be subject to any rate increases that may occur between the time of your purchase and the time you wish to use your package.
No refunds will be provided after 3 days from the date of purchase.
We require 24 hours’ notice in advance of any cancellation or rescheduled session. ½ hour will be charged for any session where 24 hours’ notice is not provided.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, you will be charged a 1/2 hour rescheduling fee.
The Essay Expert will consider your project forfeited if you are unable to schedule your 1-hour session within 60 days of the date of purchase or if you cancel two scheduled sessions.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (please note: returned checks are subject to a $20 handling fee).
Privacy / Confidentiality
The Essay Expert will not reveal to any third party that we have worked with you unless we receive your permission by email. We may request to use your resume as a sample on our website or in a webinar.
Testimonials / Keeping in Touch
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert on LinkedIn if you are pleased with our service. Also please share updates on your successes with your new resume. Please keep us posted about job offers and comments by others. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please contact contact our support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com / 718-390-6696.
Terms of Agreement for Resume Review
Thank you for purchasing a Resume Review Service from The Essay Expert. Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
What the Service Includes
A 15-minute resume review session (via phone or Skype)
Overview of your resume presentation, including strengths and weaknesses
Substantive and technical suggestions for improvement
Process & Timeline
Upon purchase, you will receive an email with instructions and a questionnaire to complete.
Once The Essay Expert is in receipt of your completed questionnaire, you will be contacted to schedule your 15-minute review session.
Your review session will be conducted at a mutually convenient time and will be limited to 15 minutes.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
You are required to complete your questionnaire within 30 days of purchase. Should you fail to complete the questionnaire within 30 days (or contact The Essay Expert with an alternate agreeable timeline), you will be subject to any rate increases that may occur between the time of your purchase and the time you wish to use your package.
No refunds will be provided after 3 days from the date of purchase.
If you schedule an appointment at a specific time and need to cancel it for any reason, please contact your consultant 24 hours in advance of the scheduled time. If you do not provide 24-hours’ notice and miss an appointment, you will be charged a $25 fee to reschedule the appointment.
The Essay Expert will consider your project forfeited if you are unable to schedule your 15-minute session within 60 days of the date of purchase or if you cancel two scheduled sessions.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (please note: returned checks are subject to a $20 handling fee).
Privacy / Confidentiality
The Essay Expert will not reveal to any third party that we have worked with you unless we receive your permission by email. We may request to use your resume as a sample on our website or in a webinar.
Testimonials / Keeping in Touch
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert on LinkedIn if you are pleased with our service. Also please share updates on your successes with your new resume. Please keep us posted about job offers and comments by others. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please contact contact our support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com / 608-467-0067.
Terms of Agreement for Professional Bio
Please be advised of the following terms of agreement:
What the Service Includes
A Professional Bio package includes writing copy for a bio of the length purchased.
Graphic design is not included in the Professional Bio package but may be provided for an additional fee.
Process & Timeline
After completing your questionnaire, you will be assigned to a consultant who will conduct a telephone interview (unless determined unnecessary due to sufficient written material). Your consultant will provide a draft of your bio within 10-14 business days of receiving all of the information we need (shorter bios might be completed on a shorter timeline, or you may purchase a rush supplement to expedite the timeline).
Revisions: After we deliver your bio, you will have the opportunity to request edits. Up to 2 revisions by your consultant are included in the package price. Additional fees may be incurred for further editorial requests.
Appointments: We will make an appointment to interview you for your bio. Please provide 24 hours’ notice if you need to reschedule your appointment. A $50 fee will be charged for missed appointments if 24 hours’ notice is not provided.
Refund Policy & Fees / Forfeiture of Package
The Essay Expert does not provide refunds after 3 days have passed from the date of purchase; however, for a period of 30 days after your purchase, we are happy to use your payment toward another service for you or a friend if you decide not to proceed with the service you purchased. After 30 days, any price increases and “restart” fees will apply.
If you delay completion of your questionnaire or scheduling of your interview for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed with your project, you will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since your initial purchase. We understand that extenuating circumstances arise, but we request that you start your project within the prescribed time. After six (6) months, if we have not received your questionnaire or you have not scheduled your interview, and you wish to restart your project, you may do so for a 35% restart fee. Once you pay the difference in price in addition to any appropriate restart fees, we will proceed with your project as per these terms of agreement.
If after one (1) year, we have not received your questionnaire, you will forfeit your payment.
You are expected to provide feedback/edits on any documents provided to you by The Essay Expert within 10 days of receiving the document. If we do not receive comments from you within 10 days of our delivery of a document to you, we will consider your package complete and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary.
If a credit card is declined or a check returned, service will not begin until the transaction is approved (Please note: returned checks are subject to a $25 handling fee).
You are entitled to a refund minus a 5% processing and materials fee if you have not begun working with your consultant and no more than one year has passed since purchase.
You must arrange to start utilizing The Essay Expert’s service within one year of the purchase date. If you have paid in full and do not begin the service within a year of the purchase date, you will forfeit eligibility for a refund but may transfer the value of your package to someone else. Prevailing rates will apply.
Privacy / Confidentiality
We invite you to write a testimonial for The Essay Expert for our website and/or LinkedIn if you are pleased with our services. Also please share updates on your results. We want to hear your success stories!
If you have any questions or concerns during this process, please address them first to your consultant, or contact our support team at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com or 718-390-6696.
Terms of Agreement for Resume Services
Terms of Agreement for Resume and/or Cover Letter Services
Please be aware of the following expectations and terms of your agreement with The Essay Expert:
Confidentiality
Your identity and the nature of your sessions will be kept private from any third parties unless you provide written consent. There are 3 exceptions to confidentiality:
When disclosure is imminent to prevent harm to yourself or others;
When legal demands require that confidential material be released;
When a child is in need of protection.
Turnaround Time / Scheduling
For resume packages, we will have an initial version of your resume prepared for you no more than 14 business days after receiving all of the information we need, unless another agreement is communicated and agreed upon. If you need a faster turnaround, RUSH packages are available to accommodate your needs.
For Success packages: Your consultant will provide a draft of your complete LinkedIn profile within 7-10 business days of finalizing your resume or within 7-10 business days of receiving your completed LinkedIn questionnaire, whichever is later. You will then have the opportunity to request revisions or edits to the draft.
The Essay Expert’s guideline is that you will have a response to your calls and emails within 2 business days, and comments on your documents returned within 3 to 5 business days. If you do not hear back from your consultant within the appropriate time period, please resend your message and leave a telephone message with your consultant. If you still do not get a response after another business day, please contact Brenda Bernstein directly.
You are expected to provide responses to any questions from your consultant within 3 business days of receiving those questions. If we do not receive answers or a request for an extension from you within 3 business days, you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate.
Extenuating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis.
In order for us to help you within our promised turnaround times, we ask that you promptly complete and return any surveys or questionnaires sent by your consultant or by The Essay Expert LLC. Our response times are guaranteed only in relation to when you provide completed questionnaires and responses to our inquiries.
The Essay Expert LLC reserves the right to extend the deadline of the project and/or to add fees to our initial estimate in order to accommodate additional, unanticipated work. Work on the project may be delayed while additional fees are processed.
If we make an appointment for a specific time, please provide 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or change the appointment. For hourly packages, The Essay Expert’s policy is to charge ½ hour for any appointments missed without proper notice. For flat rate packages, you will forfeit your package if you miss two meetings without providing 24 hours’ notice.
The Essay Expert does not provide refunds after 3 days have passed from the date of purchase; however, for a period of 30 days after your purchase, we are happy to use your payment toward another service for you or a friend if you decide not to proceed with the service you purchased. After 30 days, any price increases and “restart” fees will apply (see paragraph #3).
If you delay completion of your questionnaire or scheduling of your interview for 30 days or more, and wish to proceed with your project, you will be charged any price increases that have been implemented since your initial purchase. We understand that extenuating circumstances arise, but we request that you start your project within the prescribed time. After six (6) months, if we have not received your questionnaire or you have not scheduled your interview, and you wish to restart your project, you may do so for a 35% restart fee. Once you pay the difference in price in addition to any appropriate restart fees, we will proceed with your project as per these terms of agreement.
If after one (1) year, we have not received your questionnaire, you will forfeit your package and will be asked to repurchase the service if you would like to work with us.
The Essay Expert will consider your project complete if you do not make requests for edits or a request for an extension within 3 business days of receiving your completed initial document or final document. If you request edits after 3 business days, additional hourly charges will be incurred.
You are required to provide all subsequent editing requests within 10 business days of receiving your initial document. Requests made after 10 business days will incur additional hourly charges.
Extenuating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis.
We do guarantee quality work and that we will work with you to maximize the effectiveness of your written documents; we do not guarantee a job, promotion or other result apart from well-crafted documents. If, however, you are unsatisfied with the product we create for you, you may request a revision for up to 60 days after receipt of a final draft.
For Success packages, in order to “provide a draft of your complete LinkedIn profile within 7-10 business days of finalizing your resume” (see Turnaround Time/Scheduling), you must submit your LinkedIn questionnaire no later than 1 day following the final approval of your resume. You have a maximum of 5 business days after finalizing your resume to submit your LinkedIn questionnaire. If you do not provide the necessary information needed to create your LinkedIn profile within this time frame, or request an agreed-upon extension of time, we will consider the LinkedIn portion of your service forfeited and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary. *** We highly recommend completing your LinkedIn questionnaire at the same time as your resume questionnaire.
If you purchased a LinkedIn Summary package that includes 1 hour of additional writing or coaching, you must utilize the 1 hour of additional LinkedIn services within 10 business days of receiving your completed LinkedIn Headline and Summary. If you do not schedule or use your 1 hour of services within 10 business days of our delivery of the LinkedIn Headline & Summary, we will consider your package forfeited and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary.
If you purchase a cover letter only, all of the same terms in this section apply.
If you purchase a resume package that includes a cover letter, you must utilize the cover letter portion of your package within 10 business days of receiving your completed resume. If you do not provide the necessary information needed to create your cover letter within this time frame, or request an agreed-upon extension of time, we will consider the cover letter portion of your service forfeited and you will incur charges at the prevailing hourly rate for any changes necessary.
Resume Package Specifics
You will receive a detailed questionnaire via email. Please complete this questionnaire and return it to us as soon as possible. It is important that you take the time to answer the questionnaire completely and to the best of your ability. Most people find that it is an extremely useful process to go through! Don’t worry about grammar or how pretty things sound – that’s our job!
You will be assigned to work with a consultant who will draft your resume. Our consultants are all professional resume writers, and Brenda will review all of the consultant’s work before it is sent to you.
For Entry-Level Resume packages, we will provide up to two revisions of your resume, within 10 business days of delivering your initial resume. This package does not include charts or graphs, and you will be given a basic, attractive resume format. We will also provide you with a text-based resume upon request.
For Mid-Level Resume packages, we will provide up to two revisions of your resume, within 10 business days of delivering your initial resume. This package does not include charts or graphs, and you will be given a basic, attractive resume format. We will also provide you with a text-based resume upon request.
For Executive Resume packages, we will provide unlimited revisions for the package price for 10 business days after document delivery or until you and we agree we have reached a final draft, whichever comes first. Your resume may include graphs and charts, and it will have an Executive look and feel.
You will have an opportunity to provide any feedback or requested edits regarding format and/or content after receipt of your initial draft. We will accommodate all your requests as quickly as possible!
We will provide you with an ATS-compatible resume upon request for submission to online application systems. However please see items 8-9 if you want us to create a keyword-optimized resume.
If you are applying to jobs on line, you may wish to purchase a keyword-optimized resume as an add-on. With this service, we will target a version of your resume to a specific position. You will be asked to participate in the process of keyword integration once we identify the keyword phrases that are needed.
No one resume will be perfect for every position. After you receive your final resume, you will still need to modify the keywords to match each position description for which you apply. If you prefer, The Essay Expert will do this modification for you at our prevailing hourly rate (approximately 1 hour).
Cover Letter Packages
So that we can write the most targeted letters possible for you, we request that you provide us with at least one and preferably three job descriptions. We find “generic” cover letters are not as effective as those targeting a specific position.
If you request more than two cover letters, we encourage you to draft the third letter yourself and to get our feedback and edits. We hope this process will allow you to create future cover letters without having to purchase additional packages. Of course if you prefer for us to continue writing letters for you, we can do that too!
Consultants & Referrals
The Essay Expert works with consultants to do some interviews and draft documents. Please be assured that Brenda will read every word and make sure you are receiving a quality product.
We welcome and encourage your referrals! Please make your referrals to The Essay Expert, and if you have worked with a consultant you particularly like, we will be happy to assign your friends and colleagues to work with that same consultant. We appreciate your business!
Additional Client Responsibilities
Taking the initiative to have your career documents professionally written is a big step. Progress will be made most efficiently when you commit to the following:
It is ideal to begin working with your Consultant as far in advance of your deadline as possible. The Essay Expert LLC is not responsible for missed deadlines due to client delay.
You agree to provide feedback to your Consultant to ensure that your resume and cover letter meet your goals and expectations.
You are solely responsible for direct correspondence with your targeted employers/organizations.
We will be using the Track Changes feature of MS Word. If you need assistance in using this feature, please read “How to Avoid Embarrassing Editing Marks on Your Documents! MS Word’s Track Changes Program.” ***You are responsible for making sure there are no redlining marks or comments on your final documents. We will be happy to send you a clean copy of any document upon request.
Spell check and editing techniques will be used to ensure the correctness and accuracy of your documents, but it is your responsibility to proofread and give final approval of their completion.
You agree to advise The Essay Expert of any changes in your contact information.
Resume services are tax deductible. Consult your accountant regarding how to claim your tax benefit from your resume expense. If you require a receipt for your purchase and have not received one please request a receipt at TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com.
Your resume and cover letter are only the beginning. Obtaining a new position requires taking action, including identifying appropriate opportunities; researching your target companies on line and on LinkedIn; engaging in aggressive networking; tailoring your resume and cover letter for each position you apply to; and following up with employers after you send the initial documents. The Essay Expert recommends the Job Search Success System. Select resume packages include free or discounted access to this program.
If you wish to work with a job search coach on specific job search tasks, please check the box on your resume questionnaire to indicate you are interested in job search coaching, or email TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com to receive a referral to a specialized job search coach.
As you conduct your job search, we recommend that you check all websites where you might have a profile, especially Facebook, to make sure there’s nothing there you would not want an employer or admissions officer to see. They *do* search for you on the web! Some companies actually require you to friend the hiring manager on Facebook. No one is safe from scrutiny!
If you have not done so already, please send your current resume and any cover letter(s) you have drafted to TEESupport@TheEssayExpert.com. Thank you for choosing The Essay Expert, and we look forward to working with you!
Our business school admissions consultants know how to help you write essays that will appeal to the top MBA admissions committees.
We are trained and experienced MBA admissions consultants, averaging over 10 years in the field.
Our Awards & Certifications
About Brenda & Her Team
Brenda Bernstein
Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM) and Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW)
Brenda is one of only a handful of executive resume writers in the world to hold this double certification. A compelling speaker and the #1 best-selling author of How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile, Brenda has worked with hundreds of professionals and executives who understand the value of effectively written career documents.
Brenda, who oversees every executive project, holds an English degree from Yale and a law degree from NYU.
Stephen
Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW), Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) – Executive Resumes, IT Resumes, Operations Resumes, Sales & Marketing Resumes, Pharmaceutical & Biotech Resumes, Finance Resumes, LinkedIn Profiles, Executive Bios, Interview & Job Search Coaching
Stephen is a best-selling author that has been featured in numerous industry and business publications for his expertise in resume writing, branding, and career strategy development. He has helped thousands of professionals and executives navigate today’s challenging job market. Stephen’s experience in sales, operations, and service delivery leadership at a GE Capital Company helps him to understand how hiring decisions are made.
Stephen holds an MBA from Villanova University and a BS degree from the University of Maryland. During his time with GE, Stephen earned the Six Sigma Black Belt Certification. In the career services field, Stephen possesses the ACRW, CPRW, OPNS, and MCS credentials. He currently serves on the Board for the Career Thought Leaders.
Ashley
Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW) – Resumes, Executive Resumes, IT Resumes, and LinkedIn Profiles
A top award-winning Certified Master Resume Writer and Personal Branding Strategist, Ashley has devoted more than a decade to improving resume writing standards around the globe. Starting out as a national IT recruiter in 2005, she now blends her love of writing and graphic design with her acumen in recruiting to craft sophisticated, visually impactful and content-rich personal branding materials. Her career marketing documents have helped global executives in the Fortune 500 command the attention of companies and boards across a range of industries, including Biotechnology, Technology, and Finance. A Boston native now living in South Africa, she is a pioneer in the resume industry throughout the African continent. She has been featured as a speaker as well as in national publications as Africa’s only Certified Master Resume Writer.
Holly
Resume Writer, Editor, Certified Career Transitions Coach (CCTC) – Executive Resumes, Mid-Level Resumes, IT/Engineering Resumes, LinkedIn Profiles, Career Transition & Interview Coaching, Copywriting
As a career coach, Holly strategizes with mid-career professionals to renew their enthusiasm and find work they love. As a resume and LinkedIn profile writer, Holly particularly enjoys working with marketing, nonprofit, and education/higher education professionals and executives, as well as IT/Engineering professionals. She also writes marketing communications to engage new and existing clients for small businesses.
Holly understands career transition through experience and education. After earning an M.A. in Training and Development from The Ohio State University, she worked for over 20 years with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and higher education. More recently, she studied resume writing with the National Resume Writers’ Association and copywriting and marketing through American Writers and Artists, Inc., Freelance Writers’ Den, and Novice to Advanced Marketing System (NAMS). Holly is a Certified Career Transitions Coach through Coach Training Alliance, an International Coach Federation Approved Program. She lives on a pond in Florida where she relaxes with lizards, turtles, and ducks. She also enjoys singing, painting, and being with close friends and family.
Posey
Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW) – DISC Profile Assessments, Career Coaching, LinkedIn Profiles
Posey is a skilled resume writer and career strategist who makes an immediate personal connection with each client, from new grads to executives. She is known for her creative solutions and professional flair; Posey’s work gets clients noticed. Specializing in military, federal, academic, business, medical, hospitality and creative resumes, Posey is an internationally certified advanced resume writer (CARW) as well as an authorized DISC and PIAV administrator and Behavior and Values Coach. She is also a Certified Master Trainer (CMT) and Certified Instructional Systems Designer (CISD) with a BS degree in Safety Engineering.
Jeanne
Extraordinary Virtual Assistant Providing Client Support for The Essay Expert
Jeanne is a Jane of All Trades and a Master of Business Support. She often acts as the face of The Essay Expert, while at the same providing indispensable behind-the-scenes support. Jeanne maintains her tech savvy by staying up to date with current online programs and services available to small businesses such as her own. With 8 years of hands-on experience in all facets of client services, marketing and business programs, as well as a background in web environment, she has helped career services industry professionals across the US to expand and thrive, continually receiving rave reviews from her clients for her dedication, integrity, professionalism and great work.
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