How to Create a Freelance Writer's Resume

As in a lot of other jobs, freelance writers sometimes find themselves in need of a resume in order to apply for a desired position. While a traditional resume will sometimes suffice, a writer's resume is a better choice. A writers resume focuses on your writing skills and experience. Any training related to either writing or the type of writing you will be doing should also be included.

If you're unsure of what to include on your writers resume, hiring a professional resume writer is an option. However, you should keep in mind that you may need several variations of your resume depending on the type of writing position you're applying for. That is why many freelancers choose to build their own writers resume.

A writer's resume begins like a traditional one with your name and contact information. Use discretion when deciding how much personal information to share. While many legitimate freelance writing positions do request a resume, spammers sometimes use the ruse to gain information.

Next is the objective. This is an often debated part of a resume. There are many that believe that no resume is complete without an objective. There are an equal amount of people who believe that the objective is useless. If you do decide to include an objective, make sure it's personalized to the job. A generic "position to utilize my writing skills" should be avoided.

Skills are next. While you may be tempted to include all your writing skills, it's best to list the ones that are relevant to the position. Remember hiring managers generally only spend 15 to 30 seconds reviewing a resume.

Experience follows. Focus on your writing experience. However, if you've held a non-writing position that can relate to the position you're applying for, it may be worthwhile to include that experience on your writers resume. For instance, if you're applying for a position as a medical writer and have ten years experience as a nurse, you would include your nursing experience because it lets the potential client know that you have a medical background.

Education should also be included. School name, location, degree, year of graduation is a common format. Even if you didn't graduate with a degree, it may be helpful to include relevant classes or activities that you did well in.

That is a basic format for the writer's resume. Don't be afraid to reorder the parts to play up your strong points. If you have little experience, but a Master's degree in Journalism, definitely move the Education section.

As you can see, a writer's resume isn't much different than one for any other job. The key is in highlighting your writing skills.

*Photo courtesy Microsoft ClipArt.