A. Former clients of such services often flame them on Usenet. A typical complaint goes, For a $2000, I received some banal resume tips [similar to this FAQ] and a list of companies to send my resume to [available for free from a public library]. Usually, the client receives some counseling for the money, but the information could be had much cheaper from the Internet or a public library. For referrals, you may contact the National Board for Certified Counselors at 800-398-5389.

One can also find free or low-cost counseling at a local YMCA/YWCA, college career center, public library, or a state employment development department.