Freelance Writer Resume Examples
Freelance Writer Resume Examples
Browse related Freelance Writer resume examples for inspiration
In This Guide:
What Does a Freelance Writer Do?
Freelance writers juggle different clients and projects. Some of us stick to one niche, while others write for all kinds of businesses and publications.
You might pitch your own ideas or get assignments from clients. It all depends on your style and who you work with.
Pay varies a lot. According to Payscale, the median hourly rate is $23.90. Some writers earn a little, some clear over $100,000 a year.
Your day-to-day work and income can look really different, so it’s good to know what the job market is like.
Freelance writer job market and outlook
The freelance writing job market keeps growing, especially online. Upwork reports that 59 million Americans do freelance work, and about 17% focus on writing or content services.
Different niches have different demand. If you specialize, you can find steady gigs in marketing, tech, or health. Generalists still get work, but competition can be tough.
I notice more companies hire freelance writers for blogs, email campaigns, and web content. If you build your skills and portfolio, you open more doors for remote projects.
How to Write a Freelance Writer Resume
How to Write a Freelance Writer Resume
A strong freelance writer resume shows off your best writing, relevant skills, and past projects. You want clients and editors to see your unique voice right away.
You don’t need a complex format. Focus on clear sections-summary, work history, education, and skills. Each one should highlight what makes you a great fit.
Tailor your resume for every gig. I always tweak mine to match each client’s needs and industry. That small change helps you stand out.
Write a compelling summary or objective
Start your freelance writer resume with a short, punchy summary or objective. This is your shot to highlight what makes you stand out-think of it as your personal pitch.
Focus on your top strengths as a writer. For example, mention if you boost client engagement by 30%, or write for well-known publications. Use numbers whenever you can.
Tailor your summary to each job. Show what you bring to the table. This helps editors and hiring managers see right away why you’re a perfect fit.
Outline your freelance writing experience
Start with your most recent freelance gigs. I usually list the client name, project type, and a one-liner about the results-think “Increased blog traffic by 40% in 6 months.”
Show off your niche. If you specialize in tech, finance, or health, say it. Mention the types of content you write-articles, whitepapers, web copy, or newsletters.
Highlight numbers where you can. For example, “Delivered 30+ articles monthly” or “Managed five long-term client accounts at once.” This helps show your reliability and productivity.
Add education and certifications
Include your degree, major, and school name. If you studied English, journalism, or communications, list those. This gives clients a sense of your knowledge base.
If you have certifications in writing, editing, or SEO, highlight them. I also mention short courses or workshops, especially if they’re from known platforms like Coursera or Udemy.
You don’t need a fancy degree. Even a few relevant classes or certificates show you’re serious about your craft. This helps set you apart from other freelance writers.
List key freelance writer skills and proficiencies
Highlight both hard and soft skills. I include things like SEO, WordPress, and strong research abilities. Don’t forget about editing, fact-checking, and adapting your voice.
Show off your client-focused skills too. If you’re great at managing deadlines, juggling multiple projects, or using collaboration tools like Slack or Trello, put those front and center.
Tailor your skills to match gigs you want. If a client’s looking for AP Style or content marketing chops, call those out. Specific skills make your resume stand out.
Link to online writing samples
I always add a link to my writing portfolio or samples. This gives editors a real look at my work, not just a list of projects.
You can put your portfolio link in your contact header. About 67% of clients say they prefer resumes with direct access to published work.
A clean, easy-to-navigate portfolio site helps you stand out. Make sure your best and most relevant pieces are front and center.
That’s it-you’re ready to show what you can do.
Choosing the Best Resume Format and Layout
Choosing your resume format can make or break your chances. Recruiters spend less than 8 seconds on a first scan, so you want every detail to shine.
As a freelance writer, you need a resume that shows off both your skills and your projects. The right layout highlights what you do best and keeps things easy to read.
I always say: clean design and smart formatting matter as much as your work history. Let’s look at the practical tips and strategies that work for freelance writers.
Resume design and formatting tips
First impressions matter. A clean, organized resume layout instantly shows you pay attention to detail. I always go for classic, easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Calibri, size 10-12.
Stick with 0.5 to 1-inch margins. This keeps things readable and leaves enough white space. I usually set mine to 0.75 inches-it looks tidy without feeling crowded.
Save your file as a PDF. This helps your formatting stay consistent, no matter where it gets opened. PDFs are also universally accessible and look the same on any device.
Choosing the right header for your freelance writer resume
Your resume header sets the tone. I always include my full name, city, email, and a link to my portfolio. This helps recruiters check my work right away.
You want your title to reflect your niche. Instead of just “Freelance Writer,” use something like “SEO Copywriter” or “Technical Content Specialist.” This makes your expertise obvious at a glance.
Adding keywords from the job description in your header can help with ATS scans. Around 75% of companies use these systems, so this small tweak can boost your chances.
A clear, tailored header shows you care about details-something every client wants in a writer. It’s a solid way to wrap up your format and layout choices.
Essential Sections of a Freelance Writer Resume
Essential Sections of a Freelance Writer Resume
A solid freelance writer resume covers more than just your writing gigs. You need to show your skills, experience, and education in a way that makes sense for clients and editors.
You want each section to highlight what you do best. I always focus on clear organization and details that match the type of writing work I target.
Let’s break down the key sections-summary, experience, skills, education, and a few extras-that help you stand out and land more projects.
Resume summary or objective
Your resume summary or objective sets the tone. It’s the first thing clients or employers read, so you want to make it count.
Summaries work best if you’ve got over 3 years of experience. Focus on your top achievements, your writing style, and the value you bring.
If you’re newer, go with an objective. Lay out your goals and how you plan to help the client. Always keep it under 3 sentences-short, punchy, and to the point.
Use industry keywords and mention any certifications you hold. This helps you stand out and pass through applicant tracking systems.
Experience section: how to showcase your work
When I build out my Experience section, I focus on clients, projects, and results-not just employer names. This helps me stand out in the freelance world.
List your main clients, publication names, and project types. You can call this section Client History or Publications-whatever matches your gigs.
Use bullet points for each project. Include metrics like number of articles written, monthly readers, or SEO growth where possible. Numbers grab attention.
Link to a portfolio or writing samples when you can. This lets people see your actual work, not just descriptions. It’s a quick credibility boost.
Up next, let’s get into the skills section. This is where you highlight what makes your writing and workflow tick.
Skills section: hard and soft skills to include
When I build my freelance writer resume, I put hard skills like SEO, editing, and using content management systems up front. These show clients I can deliver what they need.
Soft skills matter just as much. Think time management, adaptability, and client communication. You want to show you handle tight deadlines, feedback, and all sorts of projects.
I recommend using a bulleted list for your skills section. This helps recruiters scan your resume quickly, especially if they're using ATS software to filter candidates.
Education and certifications
You don’t need a literature degree to land freelance gigs, but listing your degree, major, and school adds credibility-especially if your studies relate to writing or your target niche.
I always include certifications that show I keep up with industry trends-think HubSpot Content Marketing, SEMrush SEO Fundamentals, or a Copyblogger credential. These catch a client’s eye fast.
Skip the GPA and extracurriculars. Focus on any honors or distinctions. If your degree isn’t writing-related, certifications can show you’re serious about your craft and always learning.
Additional sections for freelance writers
I always add professional memberships if I belong to groups like the Content Marketing Institute. This shows I stay current in the writing world and care about networking.
You might also include an awards section. Even one or two writing awards or nominations boost your credibility for clients and editors-especially if the competition was tough.
Testimonials count as social proof. A short client quote or two (20-30 words max) can help show you deliver, not just claim you do. Real feedback builds trust fast.
If you have published work, list selected publications or link to an online portfolio. This helps clients see your writing style and versatility right away.
Adding these extra sections wraps up your resume, showing more of your personality and professionalism. It’s a good way to stand out from the crowd.
How to Write the Experience Section for Freelance Writers
The experience section is where you show off your freelance writing work. This is how you prove your skills to future clients or employers.
You want to make every project count. Be specific about what you did and the results you got. Numbers are key here.
If you do freelance writing on the side, you can add a separate section just for these gigs. This keeps your resume clear and organized.
How to quantify your impact
I know it’s tempting to skip metrics, but numbers make your experience real. Quantifying your results shows clients exactly what you bring to the table.
Highlight stats like readership growth, shares, or repeat clients. For example: “Boosted blog traffic by 40%” or “Wrote 12 articles that reached 10,000+ views each.”
There are lots of ways to show value-mention subscriber increases, social engagement, or project volume. This helps your freelance writer resume stand out fast.
Writing a freelance writer resume with no experience
If you’re brand new, lean hard on any writing you’ve done-personal blogs, school projects, or guest posts. This shows you’re building skills, even if it’s not paid work.
Highlight transferable skills like research, editing, or meeting deadlines. List relevant courses or workshops, especially if you’ve completed online certifications or joined writing communities.
Include unpaid gigs-internships, volunteer work, or contributing to newsletters. Even a small section like “Writing Projects” helps your resume look more legit and demonstrates your commitment.
Everyone starts somewhere. Focus on what you have done, not what you haven’t. That makes your experience section stronger and more compelling, even early in your journey.
Top Skills and Certifications for Freelance Writers
Top Skills and Certifications for Freelance Writers
Freelance writing is more than just stringing words together. Clients look for writers with both hard and soft skills, plus a few relevant certifications.
I find that strong writing, research, and editing skills are key. Soft skills like adaptability and communication also matter if you want to stand out from the crowd.
Certifications and courses show you’re serious about developing your craft. They help you stay competitive, especially if your background isn’t directly related to writing.
Best hard skills for freelance writers
When I talk about hard skills for freelance writers, I mean the stuff you can actually measure or test. These skills prove you can handle the technical side of writing.
You need strong writing and editing abilities, plus research skills for digging up facts. Knowing your way around CMS platforms like WordPress is a big plus for most gigs.
It helps to be familiar with SEO, keyword research tools, and social media platforms. If you can use tools like Google Analytics or Mailchimp, make sure you show that off on your resume.
Best soft skills for freelance writers
Communication is key. I always clarify project requirements and keep clients updated. This avoids confusion and helps me deliver exactly what they want, every single time.
Time management matters a lot. You need to juggle multiple deadlines and projects. I use tools like Trello or Google Calendar to keep track and never miss a due date.
Adaptability helps big time in freelance writing. You might be writing about finance one day and travel the next. Staying flexible makes you more marketable to clients in different industries.
Top certifications for freelance writers
Certifications like the HubSpot Content Marketing Certification or SEMrush SEO Fundamentals show clients you’re serious about your craft. These are recognized by thousands of hiring managers.
You might also consider Copyblogger Certified Content Marketer or Certified Technical Writer. These programs focus on practical skills and real-world applications.
If you want to stand out, list your most relevant certifications near the top of your resume. This helps clients spot your expertise right away-especially if you’re targeting a niche.
Freelance Writer Resume Examples
Looking for freelance writer resume examples? You’re in the right place. I’ve seen hundreds of resumes land jobs for writers at all levels.
I cover real-world samples for every freelance writing niche. Whether you’re starting out or building a portfolio, these examples show what works in 2024.
Entry-Level Freelance Writer Resume
Getting started as a freelance writer can feel overwhelming. If you’re new, your resume should focus on transferable skills, school projects, or even personal blogs.
I always add quantifiable results, even for small gigs. For example, “Wrote 10 blog posts that increased site traffic by 20% in one month.” Numbers catch attention.
You don’t need tons of experience to impress clients. Highlight your research, editing, and time management skills. This shows you’re reliable and ready for remote work.
Mid-Level Freelance Writer Resume
At the mid-level, I usually have 2-5 years of writing experience across different platforms. My clients expect quality, speed, and a solid understanding of industry trends.
Now’s the time to highlight repeat clients and projects that show growth. I like to mention if I’ve managed content calendars, edited other writers, or worked with SEO tools.
You want to show measurable results-maybe a 30% increase in website traffic or consistent delivery of 10+ articles per month. Listing these makes your resume stand out.
Freelance Content Writer Resume
If you focus on content writing, your resume should highlight SEO, research, and digital publishing skills. I like to list specific platforms-WordPress, HubSpot, or Medium-right on my resume.
Show off results with numbers. I include stats like “boosted organic traffic by 40%” or “wrote 120+ articles for 15 clients.” This helps your impact stand out clearly.
Tailor your freelance content writer resume for each client or gig. Mention topics you've covered, from tech to wellness. That makes your expertise more convincing and relatable.
Freelance Copywriter Resume
If you're a freelance copywriter, your resume should show off results. I always include stats-like conversion rates and click-through improvements-to prove my impact.
Highlight your expertise in writing for web, ads, or email. List the industries you know, and mention clients or brands if you can. This builds instant credibility.
You want to feature skills like SEO, A/B testing, and content strategy. Tools like Google Analytics and SEMrush add extra value. Recruiters look for these on every copywriter resume.
Freelance Technical Writer Resume
If you’re into tech and love breaking down complex stuff, technical writing could be your thing. I focus on manuals, how-tos, and software documentation for clients.
Highlight software skills like MadCap Flare, RoboHelp, or even basic HTML. Clients want to see experience with APIs, process documentation, or user guides-quantify your impact if you can.
You want to show off your ability to translate jargon into clear instructions. Add numbers-like “created 30+ product guides” or “cut support tickets by 25%.” This helps you stand out.
Freelance Creative Writer Resume
A freelance creative writer resume spotlights originality, imagination, and adaptability. I always highlight my best work-think short stories, poetry, or branded storytelling for blogs and campaigns.
You want to showcase a portfolio with at least 5-10 published pieces. This helps clients see your range and style in fiction, narrative nonfiction, or even branded content.
Include any awards, contest wins, or featured publications. Numbers matter-mention if your story reached 10,000+ readers or trended on a platform. That builds instant credibility.
Freelance Ghostwriter Resume
If you ghostwrite, your resume needs to highlight adaptability and confidentiality. I always emphasize my ability to match different voices and handle sensitive projects for clients.
List specific genres or industries you cover-like memoirs, business books, or blog posts. Quantify your work: “Ghostwrote 20+ client books, 50+ articles, and 10 executive speeches.”
Showcase endorsements or client feedback if possible. You can mention non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) without naming names. This helps build trust with potential clients.
Freelance Grant Writer Resume
As a freelance grant writer, I focus on securing funding for nonprofits, schools, and startups. I highlight successful grants-showing dollar amounts and specific funders-to prove my impact.
You want to list technical writing skills, research abilities, and attention to detail. Demonstrate experience with federal, state, or private grants. Numbers matter: “Secured over $500K in funding for three clients.”
Include software skills like Grants.gov, Salesforce, or Foundation Directory Online. This helps show you can navigate common grant platforms and manage deadlines with ease.
Freelance Script Writer Resume
A freelance script writer resume should highlight your ability to create compelling scripts for TV, film, YouTube, podcasts, or ads. I always list produced credits and viewer stats.
Show off collaborations with directors or producers and any awards or nominations. Numbers help-mention how many scripts you’ve sold or delivered, and viewer engagement rates if possible.
You want to spotlight versatility, like writing for different genres or platforms. If you use Final Draft or Celtx, mention that. This helps clients know you’re ready to go.
Freelance Marketing Writer Resume
If you write marketing content for brands, highlight your impact. I include metrics-like boosting website traffic by 40% or increasing email open rates by 25%-right on my resume.
Focus on SEO, campaign strategy, and content creation. Showcase tools you use, like HubSpot, Google Analytics, or Mailchimp. This helps clients see your technical edge.
You want to show off client results, but also your adaptability. Marketing trends shift fast, so I update my skills section often to reflect new platforms and approaches.
Freelance Medical Writer Resume
If you write medical content, your resume needs to show expertise in clinical research, regulatory writing, and patient education. I recommend highlighting any certifications or relevant degrees right away.
Mention specific projects, like writing clinical trial protocols or summarizing research for medical journals. Numbers matter: say you’ve worked with over 15 biotech clients or created 30+ regulatory documents.
You want to use clear language and avoid jargon, unless you’re applying to a specialized role. This helps hiring managers see you can translate complex medical info for any audience.
Freelance Travel Writer Resume
A freelance travel writer resume needs to highlight published articles, blog collaborations, and social media content. I always include links to work on established travel sites or magazines.
You want to show off your expertise across locations, interview skills, and SEO knowledge. If you’ve increased site traffic by, say, 20% with your stories, mention that.
Add sections for languages spoken, familiarity with travel regulations, and digital photography. This helps clients see you as versatile and ready for any assignment.
Freelance Business Writer Resume
If you write white papers, annual reports, or B2B blog posts, focus on quantifiable impact. For example, “helped increase site traffic 30%” or “cut editing time by 20 hours monthly.”
Highlight skills in industry research, data analysis, and executive communication. You want hiring managers to know you transform complex info into clear, actionable business writing.
I always include client names (when permitted) and emphasize published work in trade journals or business outlets. This helps show credibility and real-world results.
Freelance Academic Writer Resume
If you handle research-heavy projects, your freelance academic writer resume should highlight your subject expertise and familiarity with citation styles like APA, MLA, and Chicago.
Add stats, like the number of peer-reviewed articles or grant proposals you’ve written. Mention your experience with literature reviews or systematic analysis.
You want to show off skills in data interpretation, editing, and plagiarism-free writing. Hiring managers look for accuracy, attention to detail, and solid references.
Freelance Feature Writer Resume
Feature writing is all about in-depth storytelling and original voice. I focus on highlighting long-form articles, interviews, and profiles that show my unique perspective.
You want to show portfolio diversity-magazines, online publications, and blogs. Mention stats like “over 20 published features” or “articles with 10,000+ reads.” This helps editors see your impact.
Emphasize research skills and narrative structure. Editors like writers who dig deep and can craft engaging stories. Use active verbs and clear numbers to back up your claims.
Content writer resume examples and tips
If you’re searching for content writer resume examples, you’re not alone. Over 70% of hiring managers look for clear, organized resumes that highlight writing skills and measurable results.
I always recommend using action verbs like "crafted," "edited," or "optimized." Quantify your impact: "Increased organic traffic by 45%" or "Produced 20+ SEO articles monthly." This shows value fast.
Tailor your resume for each gig. Use keywords from the job post. This helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) flag your application. Relevant experience always stands out more than generic content.
Freelance writer resume sample and template
If you’re looking for a practical freelance writer resume sample, you’re not alone. I always suggest starting with a clear summary, skills, and published work examples.
You want your freelance writer resume template to highlight client results, platforms you use, and niche expertise. List quantifiable achievements-think “boosted website traffic by 35%” or “published 20+ client blogs.”
A strong freelance resume includes sections for skills, tools, and client testimonials. This helps you stand out and makes it easy for clients to see your value right away.
Copywriter resume sample for freelancers
If you’re looking for a copywriter resume sample that actually gets attention, focus on results. I always highlight campaigns, conversion rates, and engagement numbers right at the top.
Tailor your resume to freelance gigs-mention project-based work, client industries, and content types like ads, landing pages, and emails. This shows versatility and adaptability.
Don’t forget to add quantifiable wins. For example, “Increased open rates by 35%” or “Wrote copy for 20+ brands.” Numbers always stand out and make your experience real.
That wraps up my favorite freelance writer resume examples. I hope you find a style that fits your own story-and helps you land work that excites you.
Tips for Optimizing Your Freelance Writer Resume
If you want clients to notice your freelance writer resume, you need more than just a list of gigs. I always focus on clarity and organization.
You have to tailor your resume for every project or job. Recruiters look for specific skills and clear writing. Your format and word choice both matter a lot.
What recruiters look for in freelance writer resumes
Recruiters want proof you actually deliver. They look for measurable results-think increased traffic, published articles, or engagement rates. Numbers like “boosted readership by 22%” catch their attention.
You need to show a diverse portfolio. If you write blogs, technical docs, copy, or social posts, include samples from each. This helps recruiters see your adaptability and range.
Highlight relevant experience and key skills like SEO, research, or CMS tools. Certifications in content marketing or writing software add extra credibility and demonstrate ongoing learning.
Omit needless words and improve clarity
I always trim extra words from my resume. Short, direct sentences make everything easier to read. Recruiters spend only 6-8 seconds scanning, so clarity really matters.
You want each bullet point to show value fast. Cut out filler phrases like "responsible for" or "helped with." Just start with strong action verbs and get to the point.
Use tight writing-skip unnecessary pronouns and articles. This helps your freelance writer resume look polished and professional. Clean, clear language always stands out.
Focus on what matters most. Highlight results and skills, not fluff. That’s a simple way to keep your resume sharp and easy to follow.
Key Takeaways for Building a Freelance Writer Resume
Freelance writing is in high demand-one of the top ten freelance fields right now. A strong resume helps you stand out to clients and agencies.
You want your freelance writer resume to show your skills, experience, and results. In the next sections, I’ll break down what actually works for freelance writers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Freelance Writer resumes
What is a freelance writer resume template?
A freelance writer resume template is a pre-designed document tailored for showcasing writing experience, skills, and published work. It helps writers highlight projects for clients, blogs, magazines, and digital platforms.
Are freelance writer resume templates ATS-friendly?
Yes, ResumeJudge’s freelance writer resume templates are ATS-friendly, ensuring your resume passes automated screening. This boosts your chances of landing interviews with agencies, publishers, and content platforms.
When should I use a freelance writer resume template?
Use a freelance writer resume template when applying for gigs in publishing, marketing, journalism, or content creation. It’s ideal for both new and experienced freelancers showcasing diverse writing portfolios.
Can I customize a freelance writer resume template?
Absolutely! ResumeJudge templates are fully customizable, letting you add personal branding, specific projects, client lists, and niche writing expertise to stand out in competitive markets.
What's the difference between freelance writer and other resume templates?
Freelance writer templates emphasize writing samples, freelance clients, and varied project work, while other templates may focus on traditional employment history. ResumeJudge highlights these key differences for you.
How long should a freelance writer resume be?
Keep your freelance writer resume to one page if possible, focusing on your best work and most relevant experience. ResumeJudge templates help you prioritize essential content for impact.
What sections should I include in a freelance writer resume?
Include sections for a summary, writing skills, published work, freelance projects, and client testimonials. ResumeJudge templates make it easy to organize these sections for clarity.
Can I add links to my writing portfolio in the resume template?
Yes, adding links to your portfolio or published articles is recommended. ResumeJudge’s templates provide dedicated space for links so clients and employers can review your work easily.
Should I include a cover letter with my freelance writer resume?
Including a tailored cover letter strengthens your application. ResumeJudge offers cover letter guides and templates designed specifically for freelance writing roles.
Is a freelance writer resume template suitable for remote or international jobs?
Yes, ResumeJudge’s templates are perfect for remote and global freelance opportunities, helping you showcase your adaptability and experience to clients worldwide.
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