MDCS Resume Writer-Career Coach Service RFR July 2025.pdf

REQUEST FOR RESPONSE (RFR)

MASSHIRE DEPARTMENT OF CAREER SERVICES

REQUEST FOR TRAINING SERVICES

COMMBUYS Bid BD-26-1043-DAO01-32500-118530

ISSUE DATE: July 3, 2025

IN ACCORDANCE WITH M.G.L. C. 66 AND M.G.L. C. 4, § 7 (26), THIS RFQ AND ALL

RESPONSES HERETO INCLUDING THE WINNING BID SHALL BECOME PUBLIC

RECORD, AND CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EOLWD LEGAL UNIT BY SUBMITTING A

REQUEST AT EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF LABOR & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PUBIC

RECORDS REQUEST ANY PORTIONS OF A RESPONSE THAT ARE LABELED AS

CONFIDENTIAL WILL STILL BE CONSIDERED PUBLIC RECORD.

https://www.mass.gov/forms/executive-office-of-labor-and-workforce-development-public-records-request https://www.mass.gov/forms/executive-office-of-labor-and-workforce-development-public-records-request

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Purchasing Department Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, through its MassHire Department of Career Services (MDCS)

Address 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 500 City, State Zip Code Boston, MA 02114 Procurement Point of Contact Carol McQuilken Telephone Number 617-626-6529 E-Mail Address Carol.M.McQuilken2@mass.gov RFR Name/Title Department of Career Services Request for Training Services RFR RFR Number BD-24-1043-DAO01-32500-118530 Eligible Bidders Any Vendor that is (a) registered in

COMMBUYS and (b) can meet the procedural and substantive requirements of this RFR.

1. DESCRIPTION OR PURPOSE OF PROCUREMENT:

This Request for Response (RFR) document will outline the requirements and deliverables for providing a comprehensive “Certified Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training and certification program to MassHire Department of Career Services (MDCS) staff across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This training is intended to enhance MDCS staff skills in assisting jobseekers with a variety of career counseling and planning services, including the crafting of compelling résumés, that align with industry standards and best practices.

2. MASSHIRE MISSION

MassHire envisions a better future for employees and businesses in Massachusetts through meaningful work and sustainable growth. MassHire creates and sustains powerful connections between businesses and jobseekers through a statewide network of employment professionals.

3. CONTRACT PERFORMANCE AND BUSINESS SPECIFICATIONS:

3.1. STAFF BACKGROUND

Training is being sought for Career Counselors located at MassHire Career Centers (MCCs), also known as American Job Centers, who provide basic, individualized training and career planning services to diverse populations. They conduct intake, assessments, individualized counseling, and job placement assistance throughout the jobseeker’s career plan and goals. The priority populations served are those with various barriers to reemployment.

3.2. TRAINING OBJECTIVES

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The objectives of this “Certified Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training and certification program are to provide MassHire Career Counselors with the ability to:

CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL RESUME WRITER (CPRW)*

• Explain, “What is a Résumé?”

• Identify and describe the key components of a professional résumé, including contact information, professional summary, work experience, education, skills, and any additional sections.

• Understand the different types of résumés by identifying the most appropriate format for a particular professional scenario.

• Understand optimal font, spacing, and layout options to ensure résumé readability and professional presentation.

• Understand the purpose and essential components of a professional summary in a résumé, demonstrating its role in aligning career goals and individual strengths with employer needs.

• Differentiate between technical and interpersonal skills, explaining their relevance across multiple industries including their impact on job roles and organizational fit.

• Tailor a résumé to align with a specific job description by incorporating relevant experience, skills, and achievements, as well as action verbs and keywords that optimize ATS compatibility.

• Assist special job seeker populations, including individuals with limited work experience, older workers, individuals changing jobs or careers, and executives.

• Improve jobseekers’ potential for job placement through the creation of tailored résumés that resonate with hiring managers and providing high-quality résumé support.

* See CPRW/CPCC Programs for a detailed CPRW “Program of Study” example including Learning Module Descriptions and Approximate Running Times, Program Completion Times, and tiered Pricing Schedules, in the Attachments TAB in COMMBUYS.

CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CAREER COACH (CPCC)*

• Understand fundamental goals and identify key stages of career development.

• Identify common career challenges and learn to conduct career counseling interviews.

• Understand clients and develop a rapport to build trust.

• Apply self-awareness strategies in helping jobseekers to overcome negativity and develop a growth mindset.

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• Influence behavioral change to help jobseekers gain clarity on their values and goals.

• Incorporate strategies to help jobseekers overcome employment challenges and job search barriers.

• Create and deliver comprehensive, effective career development plans.

• Improve jobseekers’ potential for job placement through high quality career coaching, counseling, and support.

* See CPRW/CPCC Programs for a detailed CPRW “Program of Study” example including Learning Module Descriptions and Approximate Running Times, Program Completion Times, and tiered Pricing Schedules, in the Attachments TAB in COMMBUYS.

3.3. SCOPE OF WORK

3.3.1. Training Provider Requirements

• The training provider must be a recognized organization specializing in “Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training and certification.

• Training facilitators must be certified professionals with substantial experience in professional résumé writing, career coaching, and counseling.

3.3.2. Training Curriculum Development

• Develop a detailed “Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training and certification program aligned with industry standards and MDCS-specific requirements.

• Design engaging course materials to include presentations, guides, templates, tools and resources.

• Incorporate interactive learning activities, simulations, and practical exercises where applicable.

• Include assessments to measure participant understanding and proficiency.

• Incorporate access to online tools and resources for continuous learning and improvement.

3.3.3. Training Delivery Methods

• Training sessions must be virtual instructor-led, e-learning modules with self-paced learning options, or a blended learning approach (combining instructor-led and e-learning modules).

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• Program practicums (i.e., up to two sessions lasting 7.5 hours each with a 30-minute lunch break) may be offered on-site and live, at a location to be coordinated by MDCS, to enhance knowledge gain, ability, and application.

• Training sessions must be interactive, including practical exercises, case studies, and group discussions.

3.3.4. Certification Examination

• Organize issuing the “Certified Resume Writer and Career Coach” training programs.

• Establish passing score criteria and proctoring procedures.

• Provide post-exam feedback to training participants.

3.3.5. Training Administration

• Schedule and manage training sessions based on participant availability.

• Register trainees, track attendance, and maintain course records.

• Distribute course materials and administer assessments.

3.4. Deliverables

3.4.1. Training materials. Detailed training plan and agenda (to be provided upon bid award), presentation materials, learning activities, training related tools and resources.

3.4.2. Certification Exam. Developed and finalized exam with answer key and scoring rubric.

3.4.3. Training Completion Certificate. Issued to participants upon successful completion of training and passing the certification exam.

This certificate should be recognized within the “Professional Résumé Writing” and “Career Coaching” industry.

3.4.4. Post-Training Evaluation Reports. Analysis of participant feedback and course effectiveness, training outcomes, and recommendations for ongoing improvement.

3.5. Timeline

3.5.1. The training program is anticipated to start on or about September 1, 2025, and be completed by June 30, 2026.

3.6. Performance Metrics (Acceptance Criteria)

3.6.1. Successful completion of all training modules and certification exam by participants.

3.6.2. Certification pass rates of 70% or higher.

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3.6.3. Post-training evaluations to assess knowledge gain and skill improvement.

3.6.4. Feedback from participants on the delivery, effectiveness and applicability of the “Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training.

3.7. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.7.1. Training Provider:

• Develop and deliver the “Professional Résumé Writer and Career Coach” training program as outlined in the RFQ.

• Provide all necessary training materials and resources.

• Ensure certification is granted to all participants who meet program completion criteria.

• Submit a final report at the conclusion of the training.

3.7.2. MassHire Department of Career Services

• Coordinate with the training provider to schedule training sessions.

• Ensure staff attendance and participation.

3.8. SUPPORT

3.8.1. Provide necessary support and resources to facilitate the delivery of training

4. RFR EVALUATION CRITERIA

4.1. Bidders must submit responses that meet all the submission requirements of the RFR. Only responsive proposals that meet the submission requirements will be evaluated, scored, and ranked by the evaluation team according to the evaluation criteria. MDCS may request additional information from Bidders for evaluation purposes.

4.2. MDCS shall assess properly submitted proposals based on the Bidder’s ability to meet the requirements of Section 3, as follows:

4.2.1. Relevant experience and credentials of training providers;

4.2.2. Detailed examples of previous or existing training curriculum development;

4.2.3. Demonstrated success having conducted Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) certification programs;

4.2.4. Demonstrated success having conducted Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) certification programs;

4.2.5. Innovative and creativity of training delivery methods;

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4.2.6. Ability to meet timeline of training program to begin on or about September 15, 2025, and to be completed by June 30, 2026; and

4.2.7. Cost.

5. PROCUREMENT SPECIFICATIONS and COMMBUYS MECHANICS

5.1. Estimated Procurement Calendar

MILESTONES DATE TIME

COMMBUYS RFR Bid Posting Date July 3, 2025 12:00 p.m.

Vendor Questions Submitted via COMMBUYS July 11, 2025 12:00 p.m.

MDCS Answers to be Posted on COMMBUYS July 15, 2025 5:00 p.m.

Bid Responses Due (“Open Date”) July 24, 2025 3:00 p.m.

Bidder Presentations (If required) July 28-29, 2025 TBD

Notice of Apparent Successful Bidder Posted in COMMBUYS (Estimated)

August 1, 2025

Bid Award (Estimated) August 15, 2025

5.2. Bidders are required to monitor COMMBUYS for changes to the procurement calendar for this Bid.

5.3. The applicable procurement law is MGL c. 7, § 22; c. 30, § 51, § 52; and

801 CMR 21.00

5.4. Instructions for Submission of Responses:

5.4.1. Only electronic quotes submitted via COMMBUYS will be accepted in response to this RFR. Responses must be sent via the “Create Quote” functionality in COMMBUYS. For instructions concerning how to submit a Quote, please see Appendix B.

5.4.2. Any submission that fails to meet the submission requirements of the RFR may be found non-responsive without further evaluation unless the evaluation team, at its discretion, determines that the non-compliance is insubstantial and may be corrected. In these cases, the evaluation team may allow the vendor to make minor corrections to the submission.

5.5. Bidder Questions must be entered using the “Bid Q&A” tab for the Bid in COMMBUYS no later than the “Bid Q&A” date and time indicated in the Estimated Procurement Calendar (above). MDCS reserves the right to not respond to questions submitted after this date. It is the Bidder’s responsibility to verify receipt of questions.

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5.6. MDCS reserves the right to make amendments to the Bid after initial publication. It is each Bidder’s responsibility to check COMMBUYS for amendments, addenda, or modifications to this Bid, and any Bid Q&A records related to this Bid. EOLWD/MDCS and the Commonwealth accept no responsibility and will provide no accommodation to Bidders who submit a Quote based on an out-of-date Bid or on information received from a source other than COMMBUYS.

5.7. Electronic Quote Submission Instructions:

https://www.mass.gov/doc/instructions-for-vendors-responding-to-bids

6. CONTRACTING PROCESS

6.1. EOLWD’s intent is to award one (1) contract for this procurement. This means that potential Bidders who are unable to offer a complete solution have the opportunity to partner and/or bundle their services in order to be awarded a contract resulting from this procurement. Prior approval of EOLWD is required for any subcontracted service of the contract. Bidders are responsible for the performance and oversight of subcontractors.

6.2. The acquisition method is fee for service.

6.3. MDCS anticipates the approximate contract start date to be August 1, 2025.

The actual start date will be the Contract Effective Date which is the date the Contract is executed by the parties.

6.4. Statement Of Work (SOW) Terms and Conditions

6.4.1. Upon award, a final SOW will be drafted, approved and executed for the duration of the training period.

6.4.2. Payment milestones will be specified in the final SOW.

6.4.3. The training provider will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

6.5. The entire agreement (the “Agreement”) between the parties shall consist of the following documents, in the following order of precedence. In the event of a conflict, the document of higher precedence shall govern.

6.5.1. Commonwealth Standard Terms and Conditions;

6.5.2. Commonwealth Standard Contract Form;

6.5.3. Request for Response “Department of Career Services Request for

Training Services RFR” (BD-26-1043-DAO01-32500-118530);

6.5.4. The SOW to be executed by the parties, including any Task Orders or other documents negotiated between the parties under the RFR; and

6.5.5. Bidder’s response to the RFR.

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6.6. The expected duration of contract is one year; the commencement date is the date the parties execute the standard contract and SOW.

7. SYSTEM SECURITY

7.1. As part of its work efforts under the resulting SOW, the successful Bidder may be required to use Commonwealth data and/or IT resources. For purposes of this work effort, “Commonwealth Data” shall mean data provided by EOLWD or MDCS to the successful Bidder, which may reside digitally offsite or physically at a Commonwealth, EOLWD or the successful Bidder location.

7.2. Commonwealth Data. In connection with Commonwealth Data, the successful Bidder will implement commercially reasonable safeguards necessary to:

7.2.1. Prevent unauthorized access to Commonwealth Data from any public or private network.

7.2.2. Prevent unauthorized physical access to any information technology resources involved in the development effort; and

7.2.3. Prevent interception and manipulation of Commonwealth Data during transmission to and from any servers.

7.3. Commonwealth Personal Data. In addition to the above requirements for Commonwealth Data, the successful Bidder may be required to use the following Commonwealth personal data under G.L. c. 66A and/or personal information under G.L. c. 93H, or to work on or with information technology systems that contain such personal data, including but not limited to Social Security Numbers, Date of Birth, First and Last Name in conjunction with home address, etc. in order to fulfill part of its specified tasks. For purposes of this work effort, electronic personal data and personal information includes data provided by EOLWD to the successful Bidder which may physically reside at a location owned and/or controlled by the Commonwealth, EOLWD or the successful Bidder. In connection with electronic personal data and personal information, the successful Bidder shall implement the maximum feasible safeguards reasonably needed to:

7.3.1. Ensure the security, confidentiality and integrity of electronic personal data and personal information.

7.3.2. Prevent unauthorized access to electronic personal data or personal information or any other Commonwealth Data from any public or private network.

7.3.3. Notify EOLWD’s Office of General Counsel immediately if any

MDCS Request for Training Services RFR Page 10 of 11 breach of such system or of the security, confidentiality, or integrity of electronic personal data or personal information occurs.

7.3.4. The successful Bidder and any of its employees or subcontractors having access to such data will be required to sign and abide by the EOLWD Confidentiality Policy for vendors. The Confidentiality Policy can be found in the Attachment Tab in

COMMBUYS.

8. REQUIRED FORMS.

The following documents are found in the Attachments tab in COMMBUYS.

Responses to this RFR must contain the following documents where noted:

Form/Document Notes/Instructions

Standard Contract Form and Instructions

For information only; to be executed by successful Bidder.

Commonwealth Terms and Conditions/Commonwealth

For information only; to be executed by successful Bidder.

Request for Taxpayer Identification Number & Certification (Massachusetts Substitute W-9 Form)

For information only; to be executed by successful Bidder.

Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing

Please complete and return with quote/proposal.

Authorization for Electronic Funds Transfer

Please complete and return with quote/proposal.

Prompt Payment Discount Form Please complete and return with quote/proposal.

Business Reference Form Please complete and return with quote/proposal.

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9. ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF SIGNATURE.

Effective June 15, 2021, for all 1) CTR forms, including the Standard Contract Form, W-9s, Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) forms, ISAs, and other CTR-issued documents and forms, or 2) documents related to state finance and within the statutory area of authority or control of CTR (i.e. contracts, payrolls, and related supporting documentation), CTR will accept signatures executed by an authorized signatory in any of the following ways: 1. Traditional “wet signature” (ink on paper); 2. Electronic signature that is either: a. Hand drawn using a mouse or finger if working from a touch screen device; or b. An uploaded picture of the signatory’s hand drawn signature 3. Electronic signatures affixed using a digital tool such as Adobe Sign or DocuSign. If using an electronic signature, the signature must be visible, include the signatory’s name and title, and must be accompanied by a signature date. Please be advised that typed text of a name not generated by a digital tool such as Adobe Sign or DocuSign, even in computer-generated cursive script, or an electronic symbol, are not acceptable forms of electronic signature.

10. COST

Provide cost detail including training, materials, evaluations, certifications, etc., for all MDCS locations referenced above. See Tabs “CPRW Training” and “CPCC Training” in “COST SHEET – Resume Writing-Career Coach Training RFR.xlsx” on the COMMBUYS Attachments TAB.

Bidder/Training Provider Representative:

Name:

Title:

Signature:

Date:

<End of Request for Responses> https://www.commbuys.com/bso/