Freelance Writer Resume Sample
Crafting a stellar freelance writer resume is a job in itself, filled with challenges like condensing your vast experience and skills into one impressive document. We get it, it’s like asking Hemingway to write a tweet! But don’t fret.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or just looking to polish up your current resume, we’ve got a top-notch freelance writer resume sample and pointers on acing the process to guide you. Let’s dive into the project where every word counts!
Crafting the Perfect Freelance Writer Resume
Every freelance writer knows the power of a compelling pitch. It’s your foot in the door, a chance to make an impression. Similarly, your resume is your pitch to potential employers and clients, and it needs to be just as captivating.
It should encapsulate your skills, experiences, and unique flair in a neat package. But how can you ensure it stands out in a sea of other talented writers? Below, we’ve curated the best practices to guide you in crafting a freelance writer resume that is as captivating as your best piece.
Customize Your Freelance Writer Resume to the Job Ad
Adjusting your resume to align with the job’s requirements is a must to increase your chances of getting noticed. Every writing gig is unique, just like every magazine or blog has its own tone and style.
Tailor your resume for the specific role you’re applying for. For example, if the job ad highlights SEO knowledge, emphasize your SEO writing skills and experience.
Flaunt the Right Skills
Whether it’s long-form content, ad copy, or witty social media snippets, highlight the genres and styles in which you excel. Remember, specificity is key.
For example, instead of just “content writing”, specify “tech-focused long-form articles” or “engaging travel blog posts”. If you are shifting niche, emphasize transferable skills like your research abilities or understanding of audience dynamics.
Add a Professional Summary That Shines
This is your elevator pitch. In a few lines summarize your experience, your niche specialties, and what makes you unique. For example, “Versatile freelance writer with 5+ years of experience in tech and travel niches, known for blending engaging narratives with data-driven insights.”
Be Keyword Conscious
Many companies use software to scan resumes for keywords. Include terms from the job description, but make sure it’s natural. If they’re looking for a “content strategist”, ensure that phase is present in your resume.
Quantify Your Results
Did you boost a client’s web traffic by 50% with your articles? Or maybe you wrote a piece that received 20,000 shares?
Provide concrete numbers to give more credibility to your accomplishments and showcase your direct impact. For example, “Crafted a viral article on eco-travel that received 20,000+ shares, boosting website traffic by 30%.”
Clear and Clean Formatting
Your words are your weapon, but presentation matters too. Use a simple font, consistent bullet points, and break up sections clearly. Remember, the easier it is to skim, the better. A clutter-free design ensures your key achievements and skills don’t get lost in the mix.
Freelance Writer Resume Sample
Rocky Balboa
Seattle, Washington | 555-555-5555 | rockybalboa@email.com | linkedin.com/rockybalboa
Versatile freelance writer with 8+ years of experience in writing for various audiences and platforms. Skilled in crafting engaging and informative content in diverse industries such as travel, technology, and healthcare. Proficient in conducting thorough research, SEO optimization, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to different writing styles. Adept at collaborating with editors and clients to deliver high-quality content that exceeds expectations.
Skills:
- Writing for different platforms (blog posts, social media, newsletters, etc.)
- Conducting research and interviews
- Adhering to brand guidelines and style guides
- Technical SEO and on-page optimization
- Proofreading and editing
- Project management and meeting deadlines
- Client communication and collaboration
Experience:
Freelance Writer | Client One | Seattle, WA | 20XX – 20XX
- Researched and wrote blog posts, social media content, email newsletters, and press releases, resulting in a 60% increase in organic traffic within a year
- Conducted interviews with subject matter experts and industry professionals
- Collaborated with editors and clients to ensure the content aligned with brand voice and style
- Optimized 50+ articles for SEO and readability, ensuring top 5 rankings for targeted keywords in major search engines
- Proofread and edit content for accuracy and clarity
- Met project deadlines and manage multiple assignments simultaneously
Freelance Writer | Client Two | Seattle, WA | 20XX – 20XX
- Wrote feature articles and profiles for print and online publications
- Conducted in-depth research and interviews with sources
- Adhered to the publication's style guide and tone
- Edited and revised articles based on feedback from editors
- Pitched story ideas and proposed content for the editorial calendar
- Analyzed performance metrics using tools like Google Analytics to refine SEO strategies and optimize return on investment
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in English | School One | Seattle, Washington | 20XX
Certifications:
- Certification One, Issuing Organization One, 20XX
- Certification One, Issuing Organization One, 20XX
References: available upon request.
How to Find Freelance Writer Jobs
Wondering where do you start in this vast sea of opportunities? We’re here to guide and support you with some interesting data. In the U.S. writers earn an average salary of $24.84 per hour within a range from $16 to $37.55 depending on location. The areas with leading salaries for writers include:
To find out the salary for writer jobs near you, use the Monster Salary Tool. Moreover, browse Monster’s selection of freelance writing jobs to find your best fit.
Cure Your Writer’s Block on Your Freelance Writer Resume
In the competitive world of freelance writing, your resume isn’t just a list of jobs and qualifications, but a reflection of your storytelling prowess, your adaptability, and the unique flavor you bring to the table. Give Monster’s resume writing services a whirl and we’ll give your resume that extra polish it needs. Our expert team knows exactly how to frame your writing journey, ensuring your freelance writer resume stands out in that crowded talent pool.