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How to Handle Clients Who Just Want You to “Fix It”

If you’ve worked as a career coach or resume writer, you’ve likely had a client slide their resume across your desk and say, “Can you just fix this for me?” Sometimes it’s just a resume or cover letter, and other times it’s their whole career direction. The request often comes from a place of stress, and while it’s tempting to wave a magic wand and solve everything, doing so leaves you carrying the whole load. Not only does this risk burnout for you, but it also robs your client of the chance to learn, grow, and build confidence. The key is finding balance.  How can we stay supportive, set healthy boundaries, and still guide our clients toward real growth?

Your Path

Start with empathy.
When a client says, “I can’t do this, you do it,” it usually comes from stress, anxiety, or discouragement. Acknowledge their feelings to ease resistance and show compassion. Simple responses like, “I hear how stressful this feels for you,” or “I get it—resumes and job searches can feel overwhelming” validate their emotions without taking on their burden.

Clarify your role and set clear boundaries.
Position yourself as a guide, not a fixer. For example: “I’ll create a strong draft for your resume, but I’ll also need your input to make sure it reflects your voice and experiences.” Boundaries can be supportive when delivered with care: “I can revise this section for you, but I’ll need your accomplishments, so it truly represents you.” This helps clients understand you’re a partner, not a replacement.  This sets limits while showing you’re invested in their success.

Shift the focus to teamwork.
Frame the process as a collaboration: “We’ll work on this together, you bring the details, I’ll bring the strategy.” You can also invite small contributions: “How about you give me your top three accomplishments, and I’ll help shape them into strong bullet points.” This empowers clients and reminds them they’re capable of meaningful input. 

Use small, doable steps.
Large tasks feel overwhelming, so break them down into manageable parts. Instead of saying, “Rewrite your whole work history,” try: “Today, let’s just focus on your most recent job.” This keeps progress moving while building the client’s confidence.

Teach, don’t just tell.
Rather than handing over a finished product, explain your edits and the reasons behind them. Showing why you adjusted phrasing or formatting helps clients build skills for the future and feel more ownership of their career tools.

Protect your own mental health.
It’s easy to carry clients’ stress home with you. You can be caring and professional without overextending yourself.  Protecting your time and energy ensures you can keep serving clients well without burning out. 

Coming Home 

Remember: Your job is not just to “fix it.” It’s to empower. When clients participate in the process, they leave with confidence, not just a polished resume.

 

Here’s to mindful moves, 

Felicia A. Shanklin, M.Ed., CPRW

Licensed Mental Health First Aid Instructor (Adult)
Balanced Harmony Master Series Director


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