Land Your Dream Writing Gig: Crafting a Resume That Sings

Key Takeaways

• Showcase your writing skills within your resume.
• Tailor your resume to each specific job application.
• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.
• Use keywords relevant to the writing industry.

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So, you’re a writer looking for work. That means you’re competing with other talented wordsmiths, all vying for the same opportunities. Your resume is your first impression, your opening statement, your elevator pitch—all rolled into one crucial document. It needs to not just tell potential employers you can write, but show them. This guide will walk you through crafting a writing resume that shines, highlighting your unique abilities and landing you that interview.

Show, Don't Just Tell: Demonstrating Your Writing Prowess

The most important aspect of a writing resume is demonstrating your skills. Don't just list "Excellent writing skills" – weave compelling language throughout the entire document. Use strong action verbs, vary your sentence structure, and ensure your resume is free of any typos or grammatical errors. Think of your resume itself as a writing sample.

Tailoring Your Resume: One Size Doesn't Fit All

Generic resumes often end up in the rejection pile. Take the time to tailor your resume to each specific job you apply for. Carefully review the job description and highlight the skills and experiences that align with the employer’s needs. If the job posting emphasizes SEO writing, for example, make sure your resume reflects any relevant experience in that area.

Quantifying Your Accomplishments: Let the Numbers Speak

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. Instead of saying "Wrote blog posts," say "Wrote 50+ blog posts that increased website traffic by 20%." Using numbers provides concrete evidence of your impact and makes your accomplishments more compelling.

Keywords are Key: Speaking the Industry's Language

Just like in writing online content, keywords are crucial for your resume. Research common keywords used in the writing industry and incorporate them naturally throughout your resume. This will not only help applicant tracking systems (ATS) identify your qualifications but also signal to recruiters that you understand the industry landscape.

Formatting for Success: Making Your Resume Reader-Friendly

Choose a clean, professional font and format your resume for easy readability. Use bullet points, clear headings, and white space to break up the text and guide the reader's eye. Keep your resume concise and focused, ideally limiting it to one page, especially if you're early in your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I showcase different types of writing experience?

A: Create distinct sections within your resume for different writing niches. For example, you could have sections for "Blog Writing," "Copywriting," "Technical Writing," or "Journalism." This allows you to highlight your versatility and expertise in various areas.

Q: Should I include a portfolio link?

A: Absolutely! A portfolio is essential for showcasing your best writing samples. Include a link to your online portfolio or create a separate PDF portfolio to submit with your resume. Choose samples that are relevant to the jobs you're applying for.

Q: What if I don't have a lot of paid writing experience?

A: Highlight any relevant volunteer experience, personal projects, or contributions to online publications. You can also include coursework, workshops, or online writing courses you've completed to demonstrate your commitment to developing your skills.

Q: How often should I update my writing resume?

A: It's a good practice to review and update your resume every few months, even if you're not actively job searching. This allows you to keep it fresh, add new accomplishments, and refine your skills summary as you progress in your writing career.