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Professional Writing and Coaching Certifications

Tools to Help You Build Rock-Solid Resumes.

Deliver Reliable Career Advice.

Foster Real Transformations.

Questions? Schedule a Complimentary Consultation

It's time to elevate your career development business.

Are you looking to set your resume-writing or career-coaching business apart from the crowd? Explore our new certifications designed by one of the most innovative voices in the career development industry, Donna Shannon.

Certified Private Service Resume Writer (CPSRW)

Launching December 2025

Applications Now Open

The CPSRW is an exclusive certification recognizes the highest level of expertise in resume writing for private service, estate, and luxury lifestyle management professionals. Candidates are accepted by application or personal invitation only and must demonstrate advanced knowledge of high-net-worth staffing dynamics, confidentiality, and precision branding for discerning clientele.

Certified Professional Career Strategist (CPCS)

Launching Spring 2026

As a master-level certification, the CPCS addresses job-searching strategies adaptable to both private service and corporate career tracks. Applicants will receive in-depth training in the Personal Touch Career Services’ Down & Dirty Job Search program. Additionally, we require documentation of 500 combined hours of one-on-one coaching, group coaching, and workshop facilitation focused on career development and job searching. Applicants will have the opportunity to complete their hours under the guidance of one of our established career coaches.

More about the CPSRW

What is the private service industry?

Unbeknownst to most people, a secret world of dedicated professionals keeps the personal lives and properties of the High Net Worth (HNW) and Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) running smoothly. Comprised of such experts as Estate Managers, Personal Assistants, Directors of Residences, Butlers, Private Chefs, and Nannies, these steadfast professionals seamlessly manage $MM private estates – all while earning lucrative salaries.

Why us?

The Personal Touch Career Services is one of the few resume writing services in the world that truly understands the luxury lifestyle management industry.

Donna Shannon: Visionary Career Coach and Resume Expert

Donna Shannon (they/them) has helped people land meaningful jobs for over 20 years. Originally hired as the Placement Specialist by the renowned Starkey International Institute for Household Management in 2005, they gained a significant understanding of the nuances of the private service industry. Since then, Donna has remained close to thought leaders in this unique field as an active member of several associations. Additionally, they are a highly sought-after national speaker, invited to present at industry-specific conferences since 2012.

Industry Recognition:
  • Master Career Director (MCD) from Career  Directors International (CDI)
  • Awarded Domestic Estate Management Association (DEMA) 2014 Educator of the Year
National Speaking Engagements:
  • Domestic Estate Management Association (DEMA)
  • The Estate Management Network (EMN)
  • The Private Service Alliance (PSA)
  • The Personal Assistant Network
  • The Association of Celebrity Personal Assistants – Los Angeles (ACPA-LA)
  • The International Nanny Association (INA)
  • The Association of Premiere Nanny Agencies (APNA)
  • Newborn Care Solutions

 As the private service industry's Gold Standard, we will accept only the best into the CPSRW program. 

To be considered for the program, an application must first be submitted with the following requirements:

  • Sample resume showcasing your skills (does not have to be specific to Private Service. Show us your best).
  • 1 client testimonial
  • $50 application fee

Once accepted in to the program, there will be education specific to the Private Service industry, as well as a rounded portfolio, to receive the certification.

 

One Year to Complete the Following:

  • "Essentials for Private Service Resumes" workshop with Donna Shannon
  • Complete PTCS online courses
  • Log 2,000 hours (or 3 years of professional experience)
  • 5 client testimonials
  • Completed resume portfolio with 2 of each positions:
    • Private Chef
    • Household or Estate Manager
    • Personal Assistant or Executive Personal Assistant
    •  Chief of Staff or Director of Residences
    • Private-Service specific LinkedIn profiles (any role)
  • Passing grade for Multiple-choice Exam covering:
    • ATS systems and keyword optimization
    • Resume formats
    • Industry nuances
    • Career Branding principles