Making a freelance writer resume & portfolio that wins clients

If you’re stepping into the hustle and bustle of freelance writing, you probably know that a standout resume is an absolute must. The industry can be fiercely competitive, and your freelance writer resume is often the first impression you’ll make on potential clients.

But don’t worry, crafting a killer resume doesn’t have to be a grind. A well-crafted resume should highlight your skills, showcase your experience, and reflect your professionalism—all crucial for landing those dream gigs. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create a resume that not only gets noticed but gets you hired.

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Why do you need a freelance writer resume?

A freelance writing resume is different from a typical job resume. It’s more than just listing your job history and education. You’ve got to showcase your unique writing skills, adaptability, and versatility in various niches. Think of it as your calling card that demonstrates how your talents match what potential clients are looking for.

Tailoring your resume to each job application is crucial. Every client has distinct needs, and a one-size-fits-all resume just won’t cut it. Invest time in tweaking your freelance writer CV to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for each gig you’re applying to.

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The key parts of a freelance writer resume

Here are the essential components to include in your freelance writing resume.

A compelling resume summary

Your resume summary is your elevator pitch. It’s the first thing clients see, and you don’t want to waste that prime real estate. Use this space to concisely communicate your value propositions and what makes you a standout candidate.

Focus on showcasing your unique expertise. Are you exceptional at crafting SEO content, or do you specialize in technical writing? Highlight these specializations to give potential clients an idea of your strengths right away.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of niche identification. Target your resume summary to align with the specific needs of your target audience. If you’re a travel writer, make that crystal clear so clients know you’re the go-to for wanderlust-worthy content.

Quantify your accomplishments because numbers speak louder than words. Clients love seeing specific metrics like “boosted website traffic by 40% in six months.” These stats show you’re results-oriented and effective.

However, still, make sure that your summary includes results-oriented language. Words like “increased,” “generated,” and “optimized” are powerful indicators of your ROI potential. Clients want to see tangible benefits to hiring you, not just fancy phrases.

Don’t forget to fine-tune your summary with the right keywords. Job-specific keywords make your resume ATS-friendly and ensure it gets past initial screenings. Use phrases that match the client’s job description closely.

And finally, pepper in strong action verbs to make your summary dynamic. Instead of saying you “worked on projects,” try “executed high-impact content projects.” These verbs bring your resume to life and leave a strong impression.

Your freelance writing experience

When you’re writing about your freelance experience, think about the jobs that made you proud. Start by naming some recognizable clients you’ve worked with. Brands and big names lend credibility, making clients trust you instantly.

Describe what you did in those projects. Did you increase traffic for a website? Maybe you created content that improved engagement on social media? Highlight the impact you made. Were any of your campaigns especially successful? Talk about these wins.

But what if this is your first time freelancing? Don’t worry, you can still showcase your skills and experience. Talk about any relevant coursework or internships. Provide examples of projects you’ve done on your own, such as starting a blog or contributing to online publications.

Lastly, don’t forget to add a personal touch. Share what you learned from each project. It shows growth and makes you relatable.

Your freelance writing skills

In your resume, clearly list out your top skills for freelance writers to make a strong impression.

• For hard skills, mention your technical writing skills, like the ability to create engaging SEO content. Your content marketing knowledge is crucial because it directly impacts a client’s online presence and conversion rates.
  
• Equally important are your soft skills. Communication stands at the forefront. It’s vital for understanding client needs and delivering exactly what they want. Time management can’t be overlooked, either. Freelancers juggle multiple projects, making the ability to meet deadlines without compromising quality a must.
  
• Showcase these writing skills through specific project descriptions. Instead of just stating you have storytelling abilities, describe a project where your storytelling led to increased user engagement. Talk about your persuasive writing skills by noting a time when your compelling landing page content led to higher conversion rates. Elaborate on your research abilities, such as your knack for uncovering valuable insights that drive content strategy.
  
• Adaptability is another important skill, especially in the ever-changing landscape of freelance writing. Whether you’re tasked with writing a technical white paper or a lighthearted blog post, your versatility can be highlighted by mentioning diverse projects. Collaboration also falls under top-tier skills. Reliable interpersonal skills foster better client relationships and lead to more repeat business.

Regardless of what exact skills you end up adding, demonstrate them through tangible examples that not only tell but show your expertise. Clients will appreciate knowing you can meet their unique demands while delivering top-notch work.

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Building a stellar freelance writing portfolio

A freelance writing portfolio is more than just a collection of your work. It’s your tool to attract and impress potential clients. An online portfolio serves as your digital resume that offers a snapshot of your skills and versatility. Clients want to see not just your style and tone but also your ability to adapt to different topics and formats.

When creating your online portfolio, platforms like Contently, Clippings.me, or WordPress can make the process seamless. Each platform has its own benefits, so choose one that aligns with your needs and technical comfort. For instance, Contently is great for sleek, professional layouts, while WordPress offers more customization options if you’re tech-savvy.

Picking the right writing samples to include can also make or break your portfolio. Showcase a variety of formats to demonstrate your range—blog posts, white papers, feature articles, and more. Make sure these samples align with the types of projects you want to attract. Always include your most recent work to show clients you’re actively engaged in the field.

Remember to highlight not just your best work but also pieces that have proven results. Clients love to see tangible outcomes like increased engagement or higher conversion rates. Talk them through each sample by adding a short description detailing the client’s needs and how your work met those needs. This way, your portfolio doesn’t just tell but shows your capabilities.

Incorporate keywords naturally within your portfolio to make it more discoverable. Terms like “freelance writing portfolio examples” or “writing samples” should be integrated into your narrative. The goal is to create a compelling but straightforward showcase that lands you those coveted gigs. With a great portfolio, clients will know you’re not just another writer but the one they’ve been searching for.

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Technical resume tips for freelance writers

When it comes to resume formatting, there’s a lot to consider. Use white space strategically to create a clean, readable layout—this makes it easier for clients to skim through. Stick to professional fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. They keep things looking sharp and easy on the eyes.

Heading your resume sections is also crucial. They guide the reader and make the document navigable, so make sure your headings stand out. Bold text or a slightly larger font size can do the trick without getting too flashy.

One-page resumes are a must for freelance writers. You’re not recounting your entire life story here, just the essentials. Capture interest without overwhelming by sticking to resume length guidelines.

Next, always proofread your resume before sending it out. Simple grammar checks can make a big difference in how you’re perceived. Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to catch those sneaky errors.

You wouldn’t believe how many resumes get ditched because of typos and grammatical errors. Double-check everything, from your contact info to your job titles. Inaccurate information can be a huge red flag for potential clients.

In summary, make sure your resume is a clear, concise, and error-free showcase of your skills. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a doc that grabs attention.

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Additional resume tips for freelance writers

Here are some extra pointers to further refine your freelance writing resume.

How to handle gaps in your freelance writing experience

First off, be upfront about any employment gaps on your resume. It’s better to be honest and transparent than to leave potential clients guessing. Just say you took a career break and outline what you did during that time.

Next, let’s talk about what you did during that break. Did you volunteer or work on personal projects? Highlight the skills and accomplishments you gained. They’re just as valid as any paid job.

Got some relevant coursework? Throw that in there, too. It shows you were proactive and eager to learn, which translates into valuable skills for freelance work. It’s all about making those gaps work for you, not against you.

Remember, anything you do during a career break can be leveraged. It’s all about framing these activities to show what you bring to the table. So whether it was volunteer work or a passion project, make it count.

Should you include references on your freelance writer resume?

Ever wonder if you should include references on your freelance writer resume? Well, it’s largely situational. For most freelance gigs, it’s fine to go with “References available upon request.” This phrase saves space and keeps your resume looking clean. But for higher-stakes contracts or long-term projects, listing references directly might give you an edge. It shows transparency and readiness, two traits clients love.

Now, who should you list as references? Stick to people who can vouch for your writing skills and work ethic. Former clients, managers, or even colleagues who’ve seen your work can make solid references. Remember, your mom might love your work, but she’s not the best reference for a professional resume. You’re aiming to impress potential clients with credible endorsements.

Don’t forget to ask your references for permission first. Give them a heads-up and share your most updated resume and main achievements so they know what to highlight. You don’t want them caught off guard when they receive a call or email about you. Also, be sure to thank them in advance—it’s good manners and keeps professional relationships strong.

Resume templates and builders for freelance writers

When it comes to finding the right freelance writer resume template, you’ve got a bunch of options. Canva is a go-to for many because it’s user-friendly and offers tons of customizable sections, perfect for tailoring your resume to different gigs. Plus, it provides a sleek design that can integrate your portfolio directly into your resume, which clients will find impressive.

If you’re looking for something more specialized, Contently and Clippings.me are both awesome platforms. They’re tailored specifically for writers, so they know what you need. With Contently, you can highlight your best work and show off your writing skills, while Clippings.me makes it super easy to create a professional-looking portfolio that aligns seamlessly with your resume.

For a more straightforward approach, Resume.io steps up with templates that are already optimized for ATS systems. You don’t have to worry about your resume getting filtered out by automated systems, which is crucial when applying for competitive roles. The key is to pick a tool that not only showcases your writing but also makes you stand out in a sea of freelancers.

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Write your standout resume!

In summary, you’ve got some stellar options for crafting a standout resume. Make sure you’re not just listing jobs but highlighting skills and accomplishments relevant to each gig. Think of your resume as a marketing tool, not just a document outlining your work history.

The importance of a strong resume can’t be overstated, especially in the competitive world of freelance writing. A well-crafted resume lands you high-paying gigs and differentiates you from the rest. If your resume doesn’t shine, you might miss out on fantastic opportunities.

So, what are the next steps? First, choose a resume builder that fits your style and needs. Customize each resume for the gigs you’re after. Finally, keep everything updated and ready to send at a moment’s notice.

Don’t forget to lean on those references. Give them a heads-up and provide any information they might need. Thank them—it’s a small gesture that goes a long way.

Lastly, stay positive and persistent. It can be tough out there, but with the right tools and a bit of grit, you’ll land those dream projects. Keep refining your resume, and don’t be afraid to show off your best work. You’ve got this!

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FAQs about freelance writer resume & portfolio