The Changing Landscape of Résumé Writing: Richard Lambert’s Journey
Introduction
Richard Lambert, a Harvard graduate, carved out a successful niche by building a multimillion-dollar résumé-writing business on platforms like Fiverr and his own company. However, as artificial intelligence increasingly enters the realm of job applications, Lambert has experienced a concerning decline in earnings. This article explores how AI is reshaping the résumé-writing industry and how Lambert is adapting to the changes.
A Decline in Earnings
In a revealing essay shared with Business Insider, Lambert disclosed that his monthly income has dropped nearly 30% this year. He now averages around $70,000, a stark contrast to the six-figure highs he enjoyed in 2023.
AI: The New First Stop for Job Seekers
Lambert acknowledges a significant shift in client behavior—many now turn to AI tools for résumé assistance before reaching out to professional writers. While he still witnesses a strong demand for his services, he has pointed out that AI-generated résumés often suffer from quirks in punctuation and tone that can betray their origin.
The Importance of Individuality
“When you apply for a job, you want your personality and individuality to shine through—not AI,” Lambert stated. This perspective underlines the ongoing need for human input in tailoring résumés to meet competitive job market standards.
Embracing Change: A New Skill Set
Facing these industry shifts, Lambert has chosen to explore a radically different path. He has embarked on what he refers to as an “unpaid internship” at a marina near his lake house, dedicating about nine hours a week to work in the mechanic shop.
Learning Practical Skills
During his time at the marina, Lambert is learning to trailer boats and disassemble engines, activities that starkly contrast his former computer-bound profession. “It’s a skill set so different from being the Harvard-educated guy who sits behind a computer,” he remarked, highlighting the drastic change in his daily routine.
A Healthier Work-Life Balance
The rise of AI may have negatively impacted Lambert’s income, but it has also catalyzed a healthier work-life balance for him. Last year, he struggled to juggle work demands with personal interests, but today, with fewer projects, he has the freedom to explore these interests.
Giving Back: Helping Others
In his newfound free time, Lambert has taken to helping strangers on platforms like Reddit with their job applications, using his expertise to assist those in need. This shift from client-focused work to community service has provided him with a fulfilling sense of purpose.
The Marina Experience
Working at the marina not only lets Lambert get his hands dirty, but it also offers him a refreshing perspective on work and skill development—something he feels is vital in today’s fast-evolving landscape.
A Cautious Outlook on the Future
Despite the challenges posed by AI, Lambert remains cautiously optimistic about the short-term future of résumé writing. He believes that demand will persist for the next few years, but the long-term outlook remains uncertain.
Navigating Change
“I have no idea what the world will look like in five years or how AI will change my work,” Lambert reflected, acknowledging the unpredictable path ahead.
Blending Expertise with New Skills
For now, he is combining his proven expertise in career consulting with the satisfaction he finds in mechanical work—an area where AI simply cannot compete.
The Role of Human Touch
In an increasingly automated world, the human touch remains irreplaceable. Lambert’s experiences illustrate the need for professionals to adapt and evolve alongside technological advancements.
Finding New Passions
For Lambert, the shift in focus from résumé writing to hands-on mechanical work has opened doors to new passions and interests, showcasing the importance of realignment during career transitions.
Resilience in the Face of Change
Lambert’s story embodies resilience in the face of change, reminding us that every challenge can lead to new opportunities.
Conclusion
Richard Lambert’s journey highlights the shifting dynamics in the job market, particularly in the résumé-writing sector. While AI may pose challenges, it also paves the way for professionals to innovate, adapt, and explore new avenues. As technology continues to evolve, the need for human creativity and individuality will remain essential.
Questions and Answers
What has been Richard Lambert’s experience with his résumé-writing business recently?
- Lambert has seen his monthly income drop nearly 30%, averaging around $70,000, compared to previous six-figure earnings in 2023.
How has AI impacted client behavior according to Lambert?
- Many clients are increasingly turning to AI tools for résumé assistance before reaching out to professional writers.
What new skill has Lambert begun to develop?
- Lambert has started learning mechanical skills by interning at a marina, where he works in the mechanic shop.
What benefits has Lambert found from working less on résumé writing?
- He has gained a healthier work-life balance, allowing him more time to explore personal interests and give back to the community.
- What does Lambert think about the future of résumé writing amid the rise of AI?
- While he remains optimistic about the short-term profitability of résumé writing, he is uncertain about the long-term impact of AI on his work.
