Key Takeaways

• Position freelance writing as relevant experience, even for non-writing jobs.
• Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Use action verbs and keywords to highlight your skills.
• Tailor your resume to each specific job application.

Ready to impress potential employers with your freelance writing prowess?

A strong resume is crucial for landing your dream job, and if you've spent time as a freelance writer, you have valuable experience to showcase. Whether you're applying for a writing-focused role or something else entirely, this guide will show you how to effectively present your freelance writing experience to make your resume shine.

Framing Your Freelance Writing Experience

Consider your freelance writing as running your own business. You're the content creator, marketer, and project manager all rolled into one! This experience demonstrates initiative, time management, and a strong work ethic – qualities highly sought after by employers. Even if you're pursuing a non-writing role, your freelance work demonstrates valuable transferable skills.

Where to Include Freelance Writing on Your Resume

• Work Experience: If you've dedicated significant time to freelancing, list it under "Work Experience" just like any other job. Use your business name (or simply "Freelance Writer") as the company name.

• Skills Section: Highlight specific writing skills gained through freelancing, such as SEO writing, copywriting, content creation, editing, or specific software proficiency.

• Portfolio/Website: Include a link to your online portfolio or website showcasing your best work. This allows potential employers to see your writing style and capabilities firsthand.

Describing Your Freelance Writing Accomplishments

Don't just list your clients; showcase your achievements! Use action verbs and quantify your contributions whenever possible. Here are some examples:

• Instead of: "Wrote blog posts for various clients."

• Try: "Created engaging blog content that increased website traffic by 20% for three different clients in the tech industry."

• Instead of: "Edited articles."

• Try: "Edited and proofread over 50 articles, ensuring grammatical accuracy and consistent brand voice."

• Instead of: "Managed multiple writing projects."

• Try: "Successfully managed and delivered over 100 writing projects, consistently meeting deadlines and client expectations."

Tailoring Your Resume

The most effective resumes are tailored to each job application. Carefully review the job description and identify the specific skills and experience the employer is seeking. Highlight the aspects of your freelance writing experience that align with these requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I present freelance writing if I've only done it sporadically?

A: Even if your freelance work hasn't been consistent, it still counts! You can group it under one entry in your "Work Experience" section, like "Freelance Writer (Various Clients)." Focus on the skills and accomplishments you gained, even from short-term projects.

Q: What if I haven't earned much money from freelancing?

A: Earning potential isn't the primary focus when presenting freelance writing on a resume. Emphasize the value you provided to clients, such as increased website traffic, improved brand messaging, or positive reader engagement.

Q: Should I include samples of my work with my resume?

A: Unless specifically requested, it's generally best to provide a link to your online portfolio or website. This keeps your resume concise and allows potential employers to explore your work at their leisure.

Q: How can I use freelance writing to strengthen my resume for a non-writing job?

A: Highlight the transferable skills you've developed, such as communication, time management, research abilities, and attention to detail. These skills are valuable in a wide range of professions.

Freelance writing experience, presented effectively, can significantly enhance your resume and increase your chances of landing your desired job. Remember to focus on your accomplishments, quantify your contributions, and tailor your resume to each application.