Start an online CV and cover letter writing business

Job seekers, career changers, graduates, people returning to work and professionals going for promotion.

Fixed package prices, for example a CV only, CV plus cover letter, or a full application pack. Extras such as LinkedIn rewrites, rush turnaround and later edits add to the price.

• Clear, concise writing
• Interviewing clients to draw out their achievements
• Knowing what recruiters and applicant tracking systems look for
• Good proofreading

• Client CVs contain personal data, so check your UK GDPR duties and whether you need to register with the ICO and pay the data protection fee
• Never promise a client will get a job, as outcomes are outside your control
• Check whether professional indemnity insurance suits you in case a client says your work caused them a loss
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC once you start earning, and check the trading allowance rules
• Never invent or exaggerate qualifications or experience for a client

Startup costs are typically around £50 to £600, depending on the tools, website or booking system and any insurance you choose. These are estimates, so you could start small and add extras as client numbers grow.

Monthly revenue is typically around £200 to £2,500, depending on how many clients you take and the packages you offer, such as CVs, cover letters or LinkedIn rewrites. Estimates suggest at least about 5 hours a week.

Check your UK GDPR duties, including whether you need to register with the ICO and pay the data protection fee. Check whether professional indemnity insurance suits you, register as a sole trader with HMRC once earning, and never promise job outcomes.