resume for a writer job

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• Free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

7 Writer Resume Examples Created to Win the Job in 2024

Writer Resume

• Writer Resumes by Role
• Write Your Writer Resume

As a writer, you’re the creative soul behind hundreds and thousands of words that help and engage the readers. Whether you write compelling stories, how-to guides, or complex documentation, you’re a wordsmith through and through. 

You know the joy of writing better than anyone. However, having to succinctly summarize your strengths in a one-page resume is challenging enough to cause some serious writer’s block.

We’re here to give you a healthy dose of inspiration and expert tips. Our AI cover letter generator and writer resume examples helped creatives like you land their dream jobs, and now, it’s your turn!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Ensure you detail your impact factor from your editing input of manuscripts and the overall publishing outcomes.

Ghost Writer Resume

• Here’s the deal with your ghost writer resume’s bullet lists: kick things off with your latest gig and then take a step back through time with each entry. It’s pretty straightforward but incredibly effective at showcasing a sustained, fulfilling upward career path, helping you curry favor with the hiring team.

Proposal Writer  Resume

• Embark on a meticulous review of the job description, on the lookout for specific keywords, recurring phrases, and the skills deemed necessary for the role. And then? By incorporating these elements in your resume, you subtly suggest that you possess the exact qualifications the hiring company is seeking.

Technical Writer Resume

• As such, mentioning your ability to conduct competition analysis and using the insights to improve processes in your technical writer resume will boost your value.

Freelance Writer  Resume

• Your freelance writer resume should underscore your ability to collaborate with other cross-functional members and make impactful contributions to the outcomes.

Grant Writer Resume

• While this highlight doesn’t have to take much space in your grant writer resume, it showcases your skill in persuasive writing and strategic communication and a knack for aligning with the potential funder’s priorities and goals.

Medical Writer  Resume

• For inspiration, take a glance at Christina’s summary of her stint as a clinical research coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital and research assistant at Harvard University.

Related resume examples

• Content Creator
• Virtual Assistant
• Social Media manager

Write a Unique Writer Resume to Match the Job

Straight-up writing isn’t the only skill required for this job, and you juggle the various facets of your role with ease. From keyword research and optimization to managing various CMS and collaborating with other creatives, you’ve proven yourself to be not just a skilled writer, but also a marketing whiz.

In order to capture the interest of potential employers, describe your diverse skill set, and be as job-specific as possible. Steer clear of generic terms like “dedicated” or “creative,” even though you embody both of those traits. Instead, read the job description carefully and include as many relevant skills as possible.

At this point in your resume, it’s best to focus on your technical skills, be it software proficiencies or SEO knowledge. Your personality will have its time in the spotlight in your cover letter.

Want some inspiration?

15 popular writer skills

• Google Docs
• Microsoft Word
• Technical Writing
• Google Analytics
• SEO Techniques
• A/B Testing
• Research Skills
• Keyword Research
• Social Media

Your writer work experience bullet points

As a writer, you’ve likely hit many brag-worthy milestones. Perhaps you’ve written an article that was published in the local paper, or you have a byline in an industry-leading publication, or you’ve authored a series of novels. No matter your achievement, this is where you can show them off.

Leverage this section to talk about your greatest accomplishments. Make the most of it by adding some metrics to really showcase your impact as a successful writer or content marketer.

Tailor it to the job—for example, if the role emphasizes all-around content creation and not just writing, talk about your editing chops or social media management, too.

• Show that you can write engaging copy by discussing page reads, traffic, and bounce rates.
• Express your knowledge of SEO and marketing with metrics like open rates, click-through rates, organic search traffic, or increasing subscriber counts.
• Highlight that you’re efficient and reliable with metrics like on-time delivery rates or reducing the need for revision through meticulous edits.
• Describe the number of articles you’ve written, social media campaigns you’ve participated in, or documentation you’ve edited.

See what we mean?

• Optimized product descriptions for SEO and clarity that resulted in a 32% decrease in bounce rate on product pages
• Shortened document review cycles by 53% by implementing an automated review process in Cflow
• Utilized storytelling techniques in Active Campaign email marketing, achieving a 38% rise in click-through rates
• Secured top three rankings for high-competition keywords, resulting in a 44% increase in organic search traffic

9 active verbs to start your writer work experience bullet points

• Collaborated

3 Tips for Crafting a Writer Resume as a Beginner

• Make sure to prepare a portfolio with relevant samples and link to it in your resume. If you care about the job a great deal, you could even write a short sample that’s specific to the role and showcase it right at the top.
• You may not have a particular niche yet, so showcase your ability to adapt by mentioning specific examples, like how you’ve shifted from writing SEO-optimized blog posts to crafting engaging social media captions. Highlight your skill in using different platforms such as WordPress for blogs and Hootsuite for social media management.
• Attention to detail is crucial for a writer, so show your future employer that you’ve done your homework by tailoring your AI resume to match the job. Update skills, work experience bullet points, and career objectives based on each role.

3 Tips for Creating a Writer Resume Once You’re Experienced

• Show off your extensive writing background by discussing the niches you’ve worked in before, be it writing documentation or financial journalism. If your experience aligns with the job you’re applying for, even better—find similarities and highlight them in your resume.
• Talk about the impact you’ve had in your past roles. Perhaps your keyword optimization boosted organic traffic by 39%, or the newsletters you prepared in Mailchimp achieved higher-than-ever open rates? Mention those wins to show that your writing skills deliver powerful results.
• Writing may feel like a lonely job, but the ability to cooperate across departments and teams is crucial. Mention working with editors, graphic designers, marketers, and junior colleagues to deliver high-quality copy.

It’s best to spotlight your technical skills instead. However, highlight your interpersonal skills in your work experience bullet points and your cover letter by discussing cross-departmental collaboration and working directly with clients.

A career objective or summary can be effective, but only if you use it to highlight why you’re the right writer for the role. Mention the company by name and tie it to the job description to make an impression.

Yes, you should still give the hiring manager a taste of your writing so that they can see your skills in action. Alternatively, you can prepare a tailored sample for that particular company, but don’t go overboard—you may still be asked to complete a writing test during the recruitment process.

Writer Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples
• How To Write a Writer Resume
• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Writer Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

John Ludwig (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, New York, NY 12345

A dynamic Writer with entry-level experience specializing in content writing, editing, blogging, journalism, and marketing. A strong background in crafting compelling articles and blog posts to grow audiences and refine brand messaging. Adept at ensuring consistency of tone and voice across all written materials.

Professional Experience

Writer, Ludwig Freelance Services, New York, NY May 2021 – Present

• Write and edit blog posts, web copy, and advertisements for clients across a wide variety of industries, including nutrition businesses, legal firms, marketing services, fitness products, and PR businesses
• Collaborate with clients to discuss project specifications, identify tone and brand voice, and create compelling copy that resonates with target audiences
• Improve web traffic by 20% for an online nutrition website featuring recipes and information on vegan diets using SEO strategies
• Edit existing web pages and copy for articles and blog posts to improve content quality

Academic Experience

Academic Projects, Columbia University, New York, NY September 2017 – May 2021

• Contributed short stories and poetry to the university literary magazine, The Columbia Review , and achieved a positive critical response
• Wrote and edited articles for the university newspaper, proofread copy from journalism students, and provided constructive feedback

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) English Columbia University, New York, NY  September 2017 – May 2021 GPA: 3.75

• Writer, The Columbia Review, 2019 – 2021
• Lead Editor, Columbia University Newspaper, 2018 – 2021
• Copywriting
• Proofreading
• Brand Messaging
• Microsoft Office Suite

Alicia Santos (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, Boston, MA 12345

An innovative Writer with five years of professional experience, specializing in copywriting, brand messaging, tone of voice, and editing. A proven track record of delivering over 150+ articles, blogs, and creative writing pieces across a variety of topics and subject matter. Expertise in conducting market research to enhance organic SEO growth.

Writer, Boston Copywriting Pros., Boston, MA May 2018 – Present

• Craft 100+ compelling articles, posts, marketing materials, and web pages for a diverse client base, perform market research on industry trends, and ensure alignment with brand messaging and strategy to drive organic growth and audience engagement
• Lead the development of articles and web copy for an emerging blockchain investment consulting site, resulting in a top 15 Google ranking
• Write a series of thought leadership articles for a career consulting firm on job search and career change strategies, resulting in a 30% increase in monthly page views

Writer, Arthur & Taylor Legal Associates May 2016 – May 2018

• Wrote 50+ blog posts, landing pages, and thought leadership articles covering a range of legal topics, including personal injury and workers’ compensation
• Crafted copy for web pages to highlight successful cases and provide insights into the firm’s legal expertise while maintaining client confidentiality
• Created informative blog posts on the legal process and state laws governing personal injury statutes and workers compensation in a variety of situations

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Journalism Boston University, Boston, MA September 2012 – May 2016

• Content Development
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Mark Andrews (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Francisco, CA 12345

A Senior Writer with 10+ years of experience, specializing in copywriting, content strategy, team management, and editing. A strong history of crafting over 300+ compelling journalism articles and film reviews for industry-leading publications. Expertise in identifying creative solutions to refine content quality and improve style guidelines.

Senior Writer, CinemaCritics.com., San Francisco, CA May 2016 – Present

• Write comprehensive reviews of over 200+ films for a leading movie review website with over 5M subscribers, conduct critical analysis of themes, acting, scores, and plot, and provide observations on the artistic success of films within the larger cinema canon
• Manage a team of editors, content writers, and film critics to deliver compelling reviews of vintage and current commercial films, television, and indie films
• Coordinate with creative teams to identify process improvement opportunities to enhance style guidelines and improve the quality of content

Writer, Bay Area News, San Francisco, CA May 2011 – May 2016

• Edited, wrote, and proofread 150+ journalism articles for an online news publication with over 800K monthly subscribers, which included coordinating with journalists and staff writers to deliver compelling stories and opinion pieces on current events
• Evaluate articles prior to publication and deliver constructive criticism to writers to improve tone of voice and ensure proper handling of sensitive content matter

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Journalism University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA September 2007 – May 2011

• Style Guidelines
• Team Management

How To Create a Writer Resume

As a professional writer, recruiters and hiring managers will scrutinize your resume more heavily during the job search. You’ll be assessed based on your portfolio of work and must submit an accomplishment-driven resume that demonstrates your writing capabilities, such as copywriting, film reviews, and blogging. Resumes follow a unique language structure, but there are several strategies to craft compelling content within that framework. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide expert tips to help you translate your writing experience into a powerful marketing document.

1. Create a profile by summarizing your writing qualifications

To grab the hiring manager’s attention, build a professional profile that captures your personal brand. In the opening sentence, list your title, years of experience, and three to four specializations that align with the job description.

In the subsequent sentences, highlight key achievements or mention something specific about your writing approach. By providing an engaging snapshot of your career, you’ll greatly increase your odds of landing the interview and securing your next big job opportunity.

Senior-Level Profile Example

A senior writer with over 10 years of experience specializing in copywriting, content strategy, team management, and editing. A strong history of crafting over 300 journalism articles and film reviews for industry-leading publications. Expertise in identifying creative solutions to refine content quality and improve style guidelines.

Entry-Level Profile Example

A dynamic writer with entry-level experience specializing in content writing, editing, blogging, journalism, and marketing. A strong background in crafting articles and blog posts to grow audiences and refine brand messaging. Adept at ensuring consistency of tone and voice across all written materials.

2. Create a powerful list of your writing experience

To craft an accomplishment-driven professional experience section, provide unique insights to showcase your writing style and career achievements. Also, leverage hard numbers and data to bolster the impact of your bullet points.

For example, mentioning the number of articles or blog posts you’ve written may help establish the scope of your professional experience. If you were focused on writing copy for web pages, you might want to include metrics that showcase the impact your efforts had on search engine optimization (SEO). Using numbers to your advantage can go a long way in differentiating yourself from the competition.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example

Writer, Ludwig Freelance Services, New York, NY

May 2021 – present

• Collaborate with clients to discuss project specifications, identify tone and brand voice, and create exciting copy that resonates with target audiences

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example

Writer, Boston Copywriting Pros., Boston, MA

May 2018 – present

• Craft more than 100 engaging articles, posts, marketing materials, and web pages for a diverse client base, perform market research on industry trends, and ensure alignment with brand messaging and strategy to drive organic growth and audience engagement

3. List your education and certifications relevant to writing

In addition to your education, consider pursuing certifications to help your resume stand out from the applicant pool. For instance, if you were pursuing a job as a technical writer, you’d want to complete courses from an accredited organization such as Technical Writer HQ . If you’re a marketing professional, you could obtain a professional content writer certification.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Bachelor of Arts (B.S.) English
• Temple University, Philadelphia, PA September 2012 – June 2016

Certifications

• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• Creative Writing Certification, Coursera, 2020
• Content Strategy for Professionals Specialization, Northwestern University, 2018

4. List your key writing skills and proficiencies

Companies rely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) to identify candidates who meet their organizational needs. Although you’ll be evaluated based on your writing portfolio, you’ll still need to pass the initial ATS scan for the opportunity to showcase your work. Incorporating specific key skills and action verbs from the job description is a crucial element of the resume writing process. Below, you’ll find a list of keywords that you may encounter during your job search:

5. Provide a link to your writing portfolio

Feature a link to your writing portfolio in the profile or header. Your writing samples will heavily impact whether or not prospective employers bring you in for an interview. Make it as easy as possible for them to access your portfolio. Also, consider providing a link to your writing samples in the featured section or about section of your LinkedIn profile.

How To Pick the Best Writer Resume Template

If you struggle to select the ideal resume template, you’re not alone. With such a wide variety of options available, finding a template that fits your personal brand can be challenging. Limited use of color is acceptable, but avoid incorporating large graphics. These elements can negatively impact your formatting and draw the reader’s eye away from your career accomplishments. Ultimately, the quality of your writing will always be the deciding factor in whether or not a company chooses to hire you, so prioritize organization and structure over aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions: Writer Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for writer resumes -.

Differentiating your usage of action verbs is an important aspect of the resume-building process, especially for professional writers. Using the same verbs repeatedly can cause your bullet points to appear stale or redundant. Keep in mind that as a writer, your word choice, language, and sentence structure will be more heavily scrutinized than other types of job seekers. Below, you’ll find a list of action verbs to keep your content fresh and compelling:

How do you align your resume with a job description? -

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , writer positions are expected to grow by 4% by 2031. Although the demand for experienced writers is high, you’ll need to align your resume with the job description to capitalize on these opportunities. The most lucrative writing positions will always have the strongest competition, so it’s vital you make a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Start by tactically integrating keywords from the job posting directly into your profile, professional experience, and skills section. This will help you achieve ATS compliance. However, it’s important to remember that hiring managers also want to see tangible examples of your experience. For example, rather than only listing SEO writing as a skill, highlight specific projects you worked on that demonstrate your expertise in this area.

What is the best writer resume format? -

Professional writers should utilize a reverse chronological resume format in almost every instance. Hiring managers are always more interested in your recent experience, and this approach places that information towards the top of your document. If you have specific achievements that are older, consider creating a career highlights section directly below your profile. The downside of this is that while your accomplishments are featured higher up on the resume, the hiring manager won’t have context for your bullets.

Craft your perfect resume in minutes

Get 2x more interviews with Resume Builder. Access Pro Plan features for a limited time!

Providing a matching cover letter can be a helpful tool for professional writers. This allows you to showcase your unique writing style without the constraints of resume language. If you submit a cover letter, carefully tailor it to individual job descriptions. Mention something specific about the company’s reputation, mission statement, or work culture and why this draws you to apply for the position. For more information, visit our editor cover letter guide .

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Check Out Related Examples

Content Strategist Resume Examples and Templates

Copywriter Resume Examples and Templates

Journalism Resume Examples and Templates

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How To Add a Resume to LinkedIn Learn More
• How To Format Your Resume in Word in 2024 Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

• Good Writing
• Revising & Rewriting
• Nonfiction Writing
• Academic Writing
• Travel Writing
• Magazine Writing
• Pitching Query Letters
• Working With Editors
• Professional Writers
• Newspaper Writing
• Making Money Writing
• Running a Writing Business
• Literary Agents
• Getting Published
• Fiction Writing
• Self-Publishing
• Marketing & Selling Books
• Building a Blog
• Making Money Blogging
• Boosting Blog Traffic
• Online Writing
• eZine Writing
• Making Money Online
• Non-Fiction Writing
• Midlife Blossoms

Sample of a Professional Writer’s Resume (Author CV)

• July 1, 2023

This example of a writer’s resume (or author CV for published writers) shows how to format and highlight writing and other experience during a job search. If you’re looking for writing jobs or looking for supplementary ways to support yourself as a working writer, you’ll find my resume tips helpful. 

Not only am I sharing my sample writers CV or author resume, I’m also sharing several recent tips I learned when I was looking for a temporary, casual part-time job. Feel free to ask questions about looking for writing income in the comments section.

I’m Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen; I’ve been earning a full-time living as a writer, blogger and author for almost 20 years. I took several breaks from full-time writing to go back to school and get my MSW (Master of Social Work). I also created a YouTube channel, worked with social service organizations, bought a camper van and traveled across Canada and parts of the United States.

Since my work history is sporadic and I only have an author CV or writer’s resume (which means very little experience working under the supervision of an employer or organization, and no references!), I need to tweak my resume to fit an employer’s needs.

What I recently learned about looking for work with a writer’s resume

Since I’ve been supporting myself as a self-employed blogger, I haven’t had much experience as an employee in a business or organization. I visited WorkBC to ask for a professional opinion on my author CV because I wasn’t sure that my writer’s resume was good enough.

I also wanted to learn if anything changed since I wrote Freelance Writing Pay Rates for Newspapers and Magazines (unfortunately, pay rates haven’t increased. On the contrary, many have decreased!).

Job search tips for writers:

• Visit big career search websites to see which organizations are hiring, available positions, job requirements, etc — but don’t apply through the job search website itself! You’ll get lost in the hundreds or thousands of resumes and job applicants.
• Go to the employer’s website and search for the job posting. If, for example, Writer’s Digest posted an opening for a journalist, editor or copy writer for their print or online magazine, visit the Writer’s Digest website. Find the job posting and apply directly to the hiring editor or manager.
• Tweak your resume so it directly addresses the employer’s job needs and requirements. I might highlight my credentials on my author’s CV or showcase my blogging experience on my writer’s resume.
• Never repeat information in your cover letter that is already in your resume. So, for example, if my writer’s resume highlights my experience as a full-time blogger and YouTube content creator, I wouldn’t include it in my cover letter to the potential employer.
• Never give up.

The most important thing I learned is to use the employer’s keywords in your cover letter and resume. Why? Because many organizations use automatic resume scanning software. If your resume doesn’t contain the keywords listed in the employer’s job description, it’ll get put at the bottom of the pile.

Here’s how to find and use the best keywords in your search for a job as a writer…

Find the keywords in the employer’s job  description. It’s not enough to send a resume with your writing experience or even an author CV with all your published works. Use those exact same keywords in your cover letter and resume that the employer used in the job description.  

For example, in a Fund Developer/Grant Writer job posting the employer used the following words and phrases: PASSIONATE ABOUT SENIORS, CREATIVE, detailed, FLEXIBLE, responsive, ORGANIZED, patient, confident, COMPASSIONATE, efficient, personable, CURIOUS, level-headed, and a CRITICAL THINKER.

See the words in capitalized letters? The employer wrote it that way. Clearly, those skills are extremely important to that organization. 

Your first task is to remember that the most important skills aren’t in a sample writer’s resume or author CV. Rather, those skills should be highlighted in your cover letter when you apply for the job. It’s not about being the best, most experienced or most highly qualified writer! It’s about meeting the employer’s needs.

Show your potential employer that you can and will meet the company’s needs. And don’t just say “I’m an organized, flexible Grant Writer with critical thinking skills.” Show how you’re organized, flexible, and able to think critically when you’re applying for the writing job. Use specific examples that are short, descriptive and detailed.

What do you include your writer’s resume or author CV?

• There is no one “right way” to write a resume, CV or even a cover letter. 
• Find the balance between allowing your personality to shine and staying professional, clear and direct.
• Get an objective professional opinion on your author CV or writer’s resume. 
• Visit an organization such as WorkBC in person. They offer free resume feedback, workshops and other resources to help people find jobs.

Finally, even if the employer asks for no phone calls, it’s worth following up after a week or 10 days. A polite phone call or even a voicemail message will show a potential employer that you’re keen and interested in working at their company.

In If Not Now, When? 7 Tips for Changing Careers I share 7 things to remember when you’re making a midlife career change.

Sample “Writer’s Resume” or Author CV

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen, MSW

Phone and Email

• Author of Growing Forward When You Can’t Go Back (Bethany House, 2019).
• Creator of the “She Blossoms” blog and book family ( BlossomTips.com , HowLoveBlossoms.com , TheAdventurousWriter.com , LauriePawlik.com ). 
• Creator of “Uprooted – She Blossoms” on YouTube 

Professional Experience

Writer and Blogger – Full-time and Self-Employed

BlossomTips.com, 2005 to Present

• Created a healthy, financially successful network of “She Blossoms” blogs to help women cope with loss, pain, and grief
• Learned SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and web writing skills to attract organic traffic
• Built a weekly newsletter following and Facebook group of almost 10,000 readers

Mentoring Coordinator – Big Brothers of Vancouver

Nov 2011 – Sept 2012 (covering a maternity leave)

• Interviewed, trained, and matched volunteer mentors with socially disadvantaged youth
• Interviewed, trained, and matched adults and students in the In-School Mentoring Program
• Coordinated, supported, and monitored matches to ensure growth and success
• Facilitated relationships with regular follow-up, match reviews, and support as needed
• Recorded case notes in case management system, and update paper files weekly

Mentoring Coordinator – Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Calgary

Aug 2004 – June 2005

• Same job responsibilities as above
• Also developed materials, processes, and framework for pilot program Between Generations, and managed the program out of four schools

Teacher, Grade 8 Language Arts and High School Journalism

Rosslyn Academy, Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa

2001 – 2004

• Planned curriculum, taught courses, and achieved American curriculum academic standards
• Met with students, parents, teachers and administration to facilitate student success
• Facilitated Middle School Student Council executive and events

Team Leader – Eighth Grade Teachers

Rosslyn Academy Nairobi, Kenya; 2002 – 2004

• Coordinated core teachers and overall planning of projects and activities; facilitated biweekly team meetings
• Organized and supervised Interdisciplinary Projects, on and off campus Service Projects, and Cultural Field Studies trips
• Communicated with parents and consulted with administration and other teachers regarding student care, behaviour patterns, retention probability, etc.

Master of Social Work (MSW) – University of British Columbia

September 2012 – April 2014

Bachelor of Education (BEd, Secondary) – University of Alberta

May 2000 – April 2001

Bachelor of Arts (BA, Psychology and Criminology) – University of Alberta

September 1990 – April 1994

Internships

Drug and Alcohol Addictions Counsellor, Union Gospel Mission

January 2014 – April 2014

• Interviewed potential clients for residential drug and alcohol recovery program; oriented new clients to program (a six month residential recovery program for men)
• Taught life skills, Alcoholics Anonymous, and specialized Genesis addictions material to clients
• Participated in counseling sessions with clients

Support Education Coordinator, Alzheimer Society of Vancouver

January – June 2013

• Facilitated several different types of support groups for people with Early Stages of Dementia and family caregivers (eg, adult children, spouses, facility, etc)
• Assisted in creating, organizing, and starting a new support group for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Taught and co-taught various public seminars and information sessions, such as Healthy Brains seminars, Family Caregivers Workshops, and the Shaping the Journey series

Volunteer Experience

Big Sister (Mentor) – Big Sisters, Vancouver

June 2012 – Present

• Developed a healthy, supportive, affectionate relationship with a “Little” Sister (we were

       matched when she was 11 years old)

Library Volunteer, Bowen Island Library, Bowen Island, BC

Mar 2008 – May 2010

• Worked front desk, checked out books, helped library users research and find material
• Checked in and re-shelved books

Newsletter Coordinator, Cates Hill Chapel, Bowen Island, BC

Mar 2006 – Sept 2008

• Gathered info and news from members and staff for newsletter
• Wrote, edited, formatted and distributed monthly newsletter

President, Undergrad Psychology Association, U of A, Edmonton, AB

1992 – 1994

• Supervised the club’s events and activities; assisted and guided executive members
• Scheduled and facilitated meetings

3 high-priority changes I’d make on this example of a writer’s resume:

• Combine the two separate Mentoring Coordinator jobs into one, and highlight different skills and experiences in each.
• Highlight more specific skills and training—such as my writing experience—in each job. 
• Only include the Volunteer Experience section if it was relevant to the job I was applying for.

A final tip, courtesy of the WorkBC staff member who looked at my writer’s resume, is to keep a long “sample resume” of all of your past jobs, workshops and trainings attended, education, volunteer experience, etc in one giant resume. Every time you apply for a different job, pick items from your own resume that apply to that job. 

If you tailor every application you send to the actual job you’re applying for, you’ll dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview. And if you get an interview, you increase your chances of getting hired for a job!

I hope my sample writer’s resume and job search tips were helpful. As always, fellow scribes, your comments are welcome below. 

Need encouragement? Get my weekly update!

Comments cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

• Career Blog

Creative Writer Resume in 2024: Examples and Tips

As a creative writer, you possess a unique set of skills that allow you to craft engaging and thought-provoking pieces of writing that captivate your audience. But how do you convey your abilities effectively on your resume? This article aims to explore the best ways to showcase your creativity and writing expertise on your resume, with examples and tips that will help you land your dream job in the writing industry.

Definition of a Creative Writer

Creative writing is a form of writing that focuses on originality, imagination, and expression, often in the form of poetry, fiction, or non-fiction. A creative writer’s job is to tell stories, evoke emotions, or convey information in an engaging and captivating manner that connects with the reader on a deep level. You are a master at crafting narratives that transport the reader to different worlds or provide them with insights and perspectives they hadn’t previously considered.

Best Practices for Creative Writer Resumes

When it comes to applying for a creative writer position, your resume can be your most valuable asset. It is the first impression a potential employer will have of you, and it needs to be well-crafted. A great resume can help you stand out from the competition and get the job you want. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of a well-crafted resume, unique considerations for creative writers, and formatting best practices.

Importance of a well-crafted resume

Your resume is essentially your marketing tool. It should be well-written, easy to read, and highlight your strengths as a writer. A well-crafted resume can help you showcase your skills and experience in a clear and concise manner. It can help you land an interview and ultimately, the job.

Remember that a potential employer will have limited time to look over your resume. Try to keep it to one or two pages and make sure it is easy to read. Use bullet points, headings, and subheadings to organize your information. Your resume should also be tailored to the specific job you are applying for.

Unique considerations for creative writers

As a creative writer, your resume should reflect your unique skills and experiences. While traditional resumes focus on work experience, creative writers should also highlight their writing skills. This can include published works, writing awards, or creative writing programs you’ve attended.

Another important consideration is the type of job you are applying for. Creative writing encompasses a wide range of fields, from journalism to marketing to fiction. Make sure you tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, and highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant.

Formatting best practices

Here are some formatting best practices for creative writer resumes:

• Use a simple and clear font such as Times New Roman or Arial
• Keep your resume to one or two pages
• Use bullet points, headings, and subheadings to organize your information
• Make sure your contact information is easy to find and up-to-date
• Tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for
• Use action verbs to describe your experiences and accomplishments
• Highlight your writing experience and skills
• Include any relevant work experience, education, and training

Your resume is your ticket to landing your dream creative writer job. By following these best practices, you can create a resume that showcases your unique skills and experience and helps you stand out from the competition. Remember to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, and showcase your writing ability. Good luck!

Key Elements of a Creative Writer Resume

A creative writer resume should include the following key elements: an objective or summary statement, writing experience, education and training, skills and competencies, and awards and achievements. These elements are important because they help showcase your skills, experience, and abilities as a creative writer.

Objective or Summary Statement

The objective or summary statement should be a brief, concise statement that describes your career goals and objectives as a creative writer. This statement should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your skills and accomplishments.

Writing Experience

Your writing experience should highlight your professional writing experience, including any published works or writing samples. You should also include any relevant freelance or writing projects you have completed. Be sure to include any experience that demonstrates your ability to write creatively and effectively.

Education and Training

Your education and training should showcase any relevant degrees, certificates or training programs that you have completed. This section should also highlight any specialized courses or seminars that you have attended in creative writing.

Skills and Competencies

Your skills and competencies should showcase your specific abilities, such as storytelling, character development, or dialogue writing. You should also highlight any expertise you have in specific genres or writing styles, such as poetry or screenwriting.

Awards and Achievements

Finally, your awards and achievements should highlight any recognition you have received for your writing. This could include literary awards or accolades, such as publication in literary journals or magazines.

By including these key elements in your creative writer resume, you can effectively showcase your skills, experience, and abilities as a writer. Remember to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your unique strengths as a creative writer.

Creative Writer Resume Example

When it comes to securing a job in the competitive field of creative writing, a well-crafted resume can make all the difference. As a creative writer, you’ll want to showcase your unique style and voice while also highlighting your experience and skillset. Here, we break down the key elements of a successful creative writer resume, providing best practices and tips along the way.

Step-by-step breakdown

Start with a clear objective or summary statement that highlights your relevant experience and qualifications. This should be tailored to the specific job or company you’re applying to.

Create a section devoted to your writing experience, including any published works, articles, or freelance projects. Don’t forget to mention any relevant education or certifications as well.

Highlight your skills and abilities, such as writing proficiency in a particular genre or style, editing skills, or experience with content management systems.

Emphasize your creativity and originality by including a section on your personal projects or writing samples. This can showcase your unique voice and perspective, as well as your ability to think outside the box.

Don’t forget the basics: include your contact information, previous work experience, and education.

Analysis of key elements and best practices

When crafting your creative writer resume, there are a few key elements to keep in mind.

First, it’s important to tailor your resume to the specific job and company you’re applying to. This means customizing your objective statement, focusing on relevant experience and skills, and highlighting any particular strengths that align with the job requirements.

Another important element is highlighting your creativity and originality. As a creative writer, you want to showcase your unique voice and perspective, as well as your ability to bring fresh ideas to the table. Including a section on personal projects or writing samples is a great way to do this.

Finally, be sure to emphasize your writing experience, including any published works or notable freelance projects. This can demonstrate your proficiency in the craft, as well as your dedication and expertise.

In terms of best practices, it’s important to keep your resume clean and concise, while also incorporating some personality and flair. Use bullet points and clear headings to organize your information, and don’t be afraid to showcase your personality through the content and style of your resume.

By following these steps and incorporating these best practices, you can craft a successful creative writer resume that highlights your unique skills and showcases your creativity and expertise.

Crafting a Strong Objective or Summary Statement

As a creative writer, your resume should reflect your unique voice and style in addition to your qualifications and experience. A strong objective or summary statement is your opportunity to capture the attention of potential employers and show them what sets you apart from other applicants. Here are some tips for writing an attention-grabbing statement:

Tips for Writing an Attention-Grabbing Objective or Summary Statement

1. be clear and concise.

Your objective or summary statement should be brief and to the point. Avoid using long or complex sentences that can confuse the reader. Instead, use clear and concise language to convey your message.

2. Highlight Your Unique Qualities

What makes you stand out from other applicants? Highlight your unique qualities in your objective or summary statement to make a strong first impression.

3. Showcase Your Expertise

Use industry-specific keywords and phrases to showcase your expertise and demonstrate your knowledge of the field.

4. Use Active Verbs

Use active verbs to describe your skills and achievements, such as “created,” “developed,” and “produced.” This shows that you are proactive and results-driven.

5. Tailor Your Statement to the Job

Customize your objective or summary statement for each job you apply for to show that you are a good fit for the position and the company culture.

Examples of Effective Statements

Here are some examples of effective objective or summary statements for a creative writer resume:

Creative and detail-oriented writer with five years of experience in digital content creation. Extensive knowledge of SEO best practices and a proven track record of creating engaging and shareable content. Seeking a position as a content marketer with a focus on social media.

Award-winning writer with a passion for storytelling and a talent for creating compelling narratives. Proficient in creative writing, copywriting, and scriptwriting. Seeking a position as a content writer for a reputable publishing company.

Experienced writer with a background in journalism and a strong understanding of current events. Skilled at conducting research, conducting interviews, and writing engaging news stories. Seeking a position as a staff writer for a respected news outlet.

By following these tips and examples, you can craft a strong objective or summary statement that will set you apart from other applicants and capture the attention of potential employers.

Demonstrating Writing Experience

To convince potential employers that you have the writing skills and expertise to excel in a creative writing role, you must demonstrate your writing experience in a clear and effective manner. To help you stand out from the crowd, here are some best practices for showcasing your writing experience on your resume and some examples of how to present it.

Best Practices for Showcasing Writing Experience

Tailor your resume to the specific job: Before applying for a creative writing job, it’s essential to know what skills and writing experience the employer is looking for. Study the job description and highlight the skills that match your experience. Customizing your resume to the specific job will help you to stand out and demonstrate your understanding of the employer’s requirements.

Use quantifiable metrics: If possible, quantify your writing experience in terms of the impact or results of your work. For example, if you wrote content for a company’s website, explain how your writing increased traffic or conversions.

Highlight your writing skills: To showcase your writing skills, create a portfolio of samples that demonstrate your range of writing abilities. Be sure to include samples that show your ability to write in different styles, such as blogs, articles, social media posts, and marketing copy.

Use active verbs: When describing your writing experience, use strong, active verbs that communicate your accomplishments. Instead of saying, “I wrote content for the company website,” say “I developed and executed the content strategy for the company website, increasing traffic by 20%.”

Emphasize collaboration: If you’ve worked with other writers, editors, or creative professionals, highlight your ability to work collaboratively. Many writing jobs require teamwork, so demonstrating your experience with collaboration will show employers that you’re a team player.

Examples of Relevant Experience and How to Present It

• Content Writer: Create a section of your resume that focuses on your experience as a content writer, ensuring to include the following details:
• Note how many years of experience you have
• Highlight your area of expertise, such as blogs, articles, social media posts, product descriptions, or whitepapers.
• Mention your success rate, such as social media ads leading to 15% increased sales, or blog articles generating 500 average views per article.
• Provide samples of your writing or links to the websites or published work.
• Highlight any collaborations with other writers, editors, or creative professionals.
• Freelance Writer: For freelancers, showcase the following:
• Provide a short paragraph about your experience working remotely with clients and projects managed.
• Sources of income, such as how much revenue have you generated from writing/consulting per year.
• Include the type of writing skills that you have in your portfolio, such as scriptwriting, marketing copy, press releases, video script, eBook writing, and research papers.

Highlighting Education and Training

One of the important sections of a creative writer’s resume is their education and training. This section should be placed after the work experience section, and it should include all relevant education and training that the writer has received.

How to Demonstrate Relevant Education and Training

It’s important to only include education and training that is relevant to the creative writing field. For example, if the writer has a degree in business, it may not be as valuable to include that information as it would be to include specific courses that pertain to writing, such as creative writing workshops, literature classes, or writing conferences attended.

It’s best to present this information in chronological order, starting with the most recent educational experience. In addition to the name of the school, degree or certification earned, and dates of attendance, it’s also good to include any honors, awards or recognition received during the educational experience.

Best Practices for Presenting Educational Background

There are several best practices to keep in mind when presenting your educational background. First, keep it concise and to the point. Use bullet points and avoid long paragraphs. Also, focus on specific details that will be valuable to the employer, such as any specialized training, licenses or certificates that are relevant to the job.

Another best practice is to tailor your education and training section to the position you’re applying for. If you’re applying for a writing position at a fashion magazine, highlighting any fashion-related courses or writing projects can help you stand out.

Including your education and training in your creative writer resume can be a valuable tool in helping you land your dream job. By following these best practices, your resume will showcase your educational achievements and qualifications in the most effective way possible.

Showcasing Relevant Skills and Competencies

As a creative writer, there are certain key skills and competencies that you should highlight on your resume. These skills not only demonstrate your writing ability but also show how you stand out from other writers in the field.

Key Skills for Creative Writers

Writing Skills : Your writing skills are your bread and butter as a creative writer. You must be able to create compelling narratives, craft vivid descriptions, and create characters that resonate with your readers.

Research Skills : Good creative writing involves a great deal of research. You must be able to conduct in-depth research to create a realistic and authentic world for your readers.

Editing Skills : Editing is an essential part of the writing process. You must be able to revise and refine your work until it is polished and ready for publication.

Time Management : Creativity doesn’t always come on demand, but deadlines do. You must be able to manage your time effectively to ensure that you deliver your work on time.

Examples of How to Demonstrate These Skills

Writing Skills : Showcase your writing skills by including a writing sample with your resume. Choose a piece that showcases your ability to create compelling narratives and vivid descriptions.

Research Skills : Highlight your research skills by including a project where you had to conduct extensive research. Briefly describe the research you conducted and how it impacted the final product.

Editing Skills : Emphasize your editing skills by showcasing a before and after example of a piece you have edited. Describe the changes you made and how they improved the piece.

Time Management : Demonstrate your time management skills by including a project where you had to juggle multiple deadlines. Highlight how you prioritized your work and delivered your projects on time.

By showcasing these skills and competencies on your resume, you demonstrate that you are a well-rounded creative writer who can deliver high-quality work on time. This will help you stand out from other candidates and land your dream job in the creative writing field.

Including Awards and Achievements

When it comes to creating a resume as a creative writer, it’s important to showcase your accomplishments and recognition within the industry. Including awards and achievements can help set you apart from the competition and demonstrate your expertise. Here are some best practices for presenting awards and achievements on your resume:

Best practices for presenting awards and achievements

Make a separate section for awards and achievements: Consider creating a separate section on your resume specifically for awards and achievements. This will make it easier for potential employers to find and recognize your accomplishments.

Be specific: When listing awards or achievements, be specific about what you earned the recognition for. Include the name of the award, the organization, and the year it was received.

Highlight the most relevant accomplishments: If you have a long list of awards or achievements, consider only including the ones that are the most relevant to the job you’re applying for. This will help demonstrate that you have the skills and experience necessary for the role.

Use bullet points: Create a bullet point list of your awards and achievements to make them easy to read and quickly scan.

Examples of awards and achievements relevant to creative writers

Here are some examples of awards and achievements that could be relevant to a creative writer:

Pulitzer Prize for Fiction: This award recognizes exceptional works of fiction, which would demonstrate your ability to craft compelling stories.

National Book Award: Winning this award demonstrates your expertise in writing and would be a significant accomplishment on a resume.

Pushcart Prize: This award recognizes exceptional short stories, essays, or poems, which would demonstrate your ability to create impactful pieces within a limited timeframe.

Best New Poets: Being selected for this annual anthology showcases your talent as an up-and-coming poet.

Lambda Literary Award: This award honors exceptional LGBTQ literature, which would demonstrate your dedication to inclusivity and representation in your writing.

By including relevant awards and achievements on your resume, you can demonstrate your expertise and catch the attention of potential employers. Remember to be specific, highlight the most relevant accomplishments, and make them easy to read with bullet points.

Creative Writer Resume Tips and Tricks

In addition to the examples and tips already provided, there are further strategies you can use to craft a standout creative writer resume. The following tips and tricks can help you make your resume more competitive and compelling:

Additional Tips for Crafting a Standout Creative Writer Resume

Highlight your unique skills: As a creative writer, you likely have skills that set you apart from other candidates. Whether it’s your ability to develop compelling storylines or your knack for writing vivid descriptions, be sure to showcase what makes you unique in your resume.

Create a portfolio: While your resume should demonstrate your skills and experience, a portfolio of your writing can be invaluable in showcasing your talent. Consider creating a website or online portfolio where you can showcase your best work.

Use active language: Avoid passive phrases such as “responsible for” or “involved in.” Instead, use active language to describe your achievements and responsibilities. For example, rather than saying “assisted with project management,” say “managed project timelines and budgets.”

Cater your resume to the job: When applying for a specific job, it’s important to tailor your resume to the position. Review the job description and highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant. Use the language and keywords in the job posting to make sure your resume stands out to the employer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While there are many things you can do to make your creative writer resume stand out, there are also common mistakes that can hold your resume back. Here are a few things to avoid:

Spelling and grammar errors: As a writer, it’s important to demonstrate strong writing skills in your resume. Spelling and grammar errors can suggest that you lack attention to detail and may not take your work seriously.

Too much information: While it’s important to provide a comprehensive overview of your skills and experience, it’s also important to be concise. Try to limit your resume to one or two pages, and focus on providing the most relevant information.

Lack of specificity: Avoid vague statements such as “worked on various projects” or “contributed to the team.” Instead, be specific about the projects you worked on and the specific contributions you made.

By incorporating these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a creative writer resume that stands out and impresses potential employers.

Related Articles

• Getting the Best Employment References for Your Job Search
• Thank You and Appreciation Letter Samples for a Boss in 2023
• Resume Sections, Titles, and Headings: Complete Guide 2023
• Veterinary Assistant Job Description: Salary, Skills, & More
• Team Leader Resume Samples for All Experience Levels in 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Marketing Resumes

9 Content Writer Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Content writing is a booming profession that is a necessary part of almost any industry. with a large number of content writers available at any given time, it is important to create a unique and attractive resume to stand out from the crowd and snag your next content creation job. this guide will give you tips to help you strengthen your resume and will provide resume samples to model your resume on..

The content writing market is a predominantly female, growing, and shifting industry. Traditionally, content writers were full-time employees who wrote solely for one company. Today, with the increasing need for content, companies are contracting freelancers and new companies are being created to offer clients content writing services.

Thankfully for some, content writing has pretty low barriers to entry. While a degree might be helpful, it is not mandatory. What will ultimately determine your success is your writing skills. So gaining as much experience as possible and building a strong and effective body of work is key.

This guide will take you through 7 content writer titles, give you some insight into what recruiters are looking for when hiring each one, give you resume samples, and some tips to take your resume to the next level.

Content Writer Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Content Writer
• Creative Content Writer
• Technical Writer
• Medical Writer
• Scriptwriter
• Brand Journalist
• Digital Content Writer

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Content Writer Resumes

Content Writer Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Marketing Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 9: Content Writer Resume Example

A content writer writes engaging and attractive content for a company’s website, newsletter, advertisement material, or anywhere else they may need. The topics you write about may be broad and often require research and fact-checking. Having a degree in English or a similar field is definitely beneficial to your resume but it is not necessary for success. Your resume should focus on showing as much experience as possible. Take a look at this strong content writer's resume.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Content Writer resume in 2024

   create a portfolio of your work..

Along with your resume, you need to show recruiters samples of work you have written in the past. If you know what kind of content a company wants you to produce, provide your strongest samples of that type of content.

   Show variety in your experience section.

You should show recruiters that you are capable of producing many different kinds of content. So mention your experience writing blog posts, advertisements, website content, social media posts, and more. The more variety the better.

Skills you can include on your Content Writer resume

Template 2 of 9: creative content writer resume example.

Creative content writers create copies that require creativity and imagination. This is in contrast to more technical copies such as manuals or guidebooks. Creative content can include blogs, ebooks, advertisements, poems, etc. You must be able to think outside the box and create unique copies to thrive in this position. Your resume should focus on your experience writing creative copies and any background in the arts or a similar field is likely to be attractive to a recruiter. Here is a sample resume for a creative content writer.

Tips to help you write your Creative Content Writer resume in 2024

   include all languages you write in..

Being able to create content in multiple languages is a huge advantage and is very attractive to recruiters. It means you can translate your work and also expands the number of companies you can apply to, and countries you can apply in.

   Include metrics to show impressive content engagement.

Content is written to be consumed. Your content, therefore, needs to be very engaging. Show recruiters that you can create engaging content by using metrics. This resume does this effectively. E.g. this applicant’s copy ‘[shot] engagement up by 200% within 5 months of [a] campaign.

Skills you can include on your Creative Content Writer resume

Template 3 of 9: technical writer resume example.

A technical writer writes content that gives information to a target audience. Some of the mediums used include guides, manuals, journal articles, etc. Your goal is to make complex information easily digestible and understandable. Your resume should show a strong background in technical writing and, preferably, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field as well. Take a look at this recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Technical Writer resume in 2024

   include a portfolio with strong technical writing samples..

When applying to technical writing jobs, you should always include a portfolio. In this portfolio, include your strongest and most recognizable technical writing samples. This will give recruiters a better idea of what you can do.

   Indicate the mediums you have experience in.

Show that you are a well-rounded technical writer by mentioning the different mediums you write in. This applicant has included tutorials and product manuals among the mediums they have experience with.

Skills you can include on your Technical Writer resume

Template 4 of 9: technical writer resume example.

Technical writing gives little space for creativity and is commonly used for laying out a company's procedures or giving very specific or educational information to their audience. This content includes manuals, guides, product instructions, etc. In most instances, you will be given the information you need to use, and your job will be to transform it into engaging and easily-read content. A degree in English or a similar field would be beneficial but not absolutely necessary. A history writing technical copies, on the other hand, is essential to attract recruiters. Take a look at this impressive technical writer’s resume.

   Include any technical writing certification.

Go the extra mile by earning certification in technical writing. It’s an easy way to show recruiters your dedication and prove your skills. This is especially helpful if you are trying to transition into technical writing or just starting out.

   Have a specialization.

If you generally specialize in writing for a specific industry, mention that in the intro to your resume. This is especially useful if you are applying for a job within that industry.

Template 5 of 9: Medical Writer Resume Example

As a Medical Writer, you'll be bridging the gap between complex medical and scientific information and your target audience, working on various projects like academic papers, promotional materials, and educational content. This field is evolving rapidly, so it's essential to showcase your knowledge of the latest industry trends and adaptability to new formats on your resume. Not only should you highlight your educational background and writing experience, but also demonstrate your ability to understand and communicate complex medical concepts and terminology in a clear, concise manner. In your resume, emphasize your expertise in areas like clinical research, regulatory submissions, or medical education, depending on the specific position you're applying for. It's crucial to tailor your resume to the needs and requirements of each organization, as some may prioritize candidates with experience in a particular therapeutic area or a background working with specific target audiences (e.g., physicians, patients, or payers).

Tips to help you write your Medical Writer resume in 2024

   showcase your writing samples.

As a Medical Writer, it's important to include relevant writing samples in your resume or portfolio. This will give potential employers an idea of your writing style, attention to detail, and ability to convey complex information in a digestible format.

   Highlight your therapeutic area expertise

Employers often seek Medical Writers with specific expertise in one or more therapeutic areas. Make sure to emphasize any experience or knowledge you have in key therapeutic areas relevant to the job you're applying for, and try to quantify your experience if possible (e.g., number of projects or publications).

Skills you can include on your Medical Writer resume

Template 6 of 9: medical writer resume example.

Medical writing is very specific and very technical. It could take the form of medical studies, training programs, literary reviews, brochures, etc. To be suited in this industry you need to have a medical background or a strong understanding of the field. This work may require in-depth research and specification. There is no room for error as the consequences of any misinformation could be deadly for the reader if acted upon. Recruiters will be looking to see your experience and qualifications in the medical field. Here is an example of a strong medical writer’s resume.

   Have a specialized portfolio.

If you have worked as a writer in other fields, make sure you create a specialized portfolio containing your strongest content from the medical field only.

   Use medical industry keywords.

Show recruiters that you are well versed in the medical field by using industry-standard keywords. Use words like ‘clinical trials’, ‘PubMed’, ‘RW medication, etc. It shows that you are knowledgeable in the field and may help you bypass resume filters recruiters may have put in place.

Template 7 of 9: Scriptwriter Resume Example

Scriptwriters write scripts for performances. You may create scripts for theatre, film, TV, adverts, etc. Scriptwriting requires expertise in storytelling and script structure. You also need to have an in-depth knowledge of the medium your script will be performed on. Film scripts and theatre scripts, for example, are different in style and structure. A degree in the arts would be very attractive to recruiters, as would a background in writing and/or performing. This applicant has an educational background in film and creative writing which would be very attractive to recruiters.

Tips to help you write your Scriptwriter resume in 2024

   specify the medium you write for..

As we have mentioned, each medium requires very different scriptwriting. So work on specializing in one medium and have your resume focus on your expertise and experience in that medium.

   Highlight recognition of your work.

If your scripts have won competitions or if the plays or films you wrote were wildly successful, highlight this in your resume. Include titles of your work if they are well-known.

Skills you can include on your Scriptwriter resume

Template 8 of 9: brand journalist resume example.

This form of content writing focuses on creating a narrative for a brand by writing engaging stories. It is a creative and effective way to market a brand and express the company’s values and ethos. Recruiters will be looking for an educational background in journalism and any journalism experience so ensure that your resume highlights that. A background in marketing would also be helpful to your application. This resume is a great example of a strong brand journalist resume.

Tips to help you write your Brand Journalist resume in 2024

   list the marketing mediums you are familiar with..

Show recruiters that you are skilled in creating brand journalism content for different mediums by listing them in the skills section as this applicant has. This applicant has experience with social media marketing, and email marketing among others.

   Mention any Fortune 500 company you have written copies for.

Impress recruiters by listing any known and successful companies that you have created copies for. These companies only hire the best of the best, so including their names in your resume is a sure way to stand out from your competition.

Skills you can include on your Brand Journalist resume

Template 9 of 9: digital content writer resume example.

As the name suggests, these content writers write copies for digital platforms. A couple of examples of digital platforms include websites, social media, emails, blogs, etc. Consumers are inundated with digital content all day, so you need to create particularly engaging content to be successful. You also need to be knowledgeable about the digital space and how to use SEOs to get as many viewers to read your content. Recruiters will be looking for any qualification that shows your expertise in the digital space, as well as any qualifications or experience to show your creativity and success in creating copies. Here is a resume sample from an entry-level digital content writer.

Tips to help you write your Digital Content Writer resume in 2024

   create a digital media focussed skills list..

Your skills list should show recruiters that you are experienced with digital media tools and concepts. These skills can include SEO, JavaScript, WordPress, etc.

   Include non-paying content writing jobs.

If you are just joining the industry, feel free to include any volunteer or intern work you did as a content writer. The experience and skills gained are just as useful as they would be in a paid position.

Skills you can include on your Digital Content Writer resume

We spoke with hiring managers who recruit content writers at top companies like HubSpot, Shopify, and Vox Media to get their insights on what they look for in content writer resumes. The following tips are based on their real-world experience and can help you create a resume that stands out from the competition and gets you hired.

   Highlight your writing niche and industry expertise

Employers want to know that you have experience writing about topics relevant to their industry. Highlight your niche and the industries you've written for prominently in your resume.

Compare these two examples:

• Wrote blog posts and articles on various topics
• Created content for multiple industries

Instead, be specific like this:

• Wrote blog posts and articles about personal finance, investing, and retirement planning
• Created content for fintech startups and financial services companies

   Show results and impact with metrics

Whenever possible, quantify the results and impact of your content writing. Use metrics to show how your writing contributed to business goals.

Here are some examples:

• Wrote SEO-optimized blog posts that increased organic traffic by 50% in 6 months
• Created email nurture series that improved lead-to-customer conversion rate by 20%
• Wrote product descriptions that increased average order value by $20

Metrics prove to employers that you can drive real results with your writing.

   Include links to your best writing samples

Hiring managers want to see examples of your published work. Include links to your strongest writing samples that are relevant to the company and job you're applying for.

Add a 'Selected Writing Samples' section to your resume like this:

• How to Create a Budget You Can Stick To [link]
• 5 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score Fast [link]
• The Beginner's Guide to Investing in Stocks [link]

Choose recent samples that demonstrate the type of content you'd be writing in the role. Avoid linking to your whole portfolio site - pick your best individual articles.

   Mention content types and channels you have experience with

Today's content writers need to be skilled at creating content in various formats and for different channels. In your work experience, mention the range of content types you've written.

For example:

• Wrote in-depth blog posts, ebooks, case studies, and white papers
• Created website copy, landing pages, product descriptions, and category pages
• Developed scripts for explainer videos and podcast episodes
• Wrote Facebook and Google ads, promotional emails, and newsletters

This shows employers you have the versatility to handle all their content needs, from top-funnel blog posts to bottom-funnel conversion copy.

   Demonstrate your skills in content optimization and distribution

Writing is just one part of a content writer's job. To be successful, you also need to know how to optimize content for search engines and promote it to reach the target audience.

Bad example:

• Wrote SEO-friendly blog posts

Good examples:

• Optimized blog posts for target keywords, meta descriptions, header tags, and internal linking
• Used keyword research to plan blog editorial calendar and identify topic clusters
• Promoted blog content on social media and online communities to increase reach
• Built backlinks to blog posts to improve search engine rankings

Optimize your resume itself for relevant keywords the employer might be scanning for, like 'SEO writing', 'content distribution', 'email marketing', etc.

   Show progression and increasing responsibility

Employers want to see that you've progressed in your content writing career and taken on more responsibility over time. As you list out your work experience, highlight how your role grew.

Content Writer, ABC Company Jan 2019 - Dec 2020 Started as a Content Writing Intern, creating 4 blog posts per week Promoted to Junior Content Writer after 3 months, managing the blog editorial calendar and writing 8 posts per week Became Head Content Writer after 1 year, leading a team of 3 writers and overseeing all content production

Even if your job title didn't change, you can still show progression in the scope of your work and the results you achieved.

Writing Your Content Writer Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. put your name on the first line.

Your name should be the most prominent part of your header, on its own line. Use a larger font size than the rest of your header details.

Here's an example of what to do:

• Samantha Thompson
• [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/samthompson

Avoid this common mistake:

• Samantha Thompson | [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/samthompson

2. Include your location, even if applying remotely

Hiring managers want to know where you're based. Include your city and state in your header.

If you're applying for remote content writer roles, you should still include your location. Many companies prefer to hire within certain time zones or regions, even for remote positions.

Samantha Thompson [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/samthompson

3. Add links to your portfolio and social profiles

As a content writer, hiring managers will want to see samples of your work. Make it easy for them by including a link to your online writing portfolio in your header.

Also include links to relevant social profiles, like LinkedIn and Twitter, where you share industry insights and engage with other writers.

• [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY
• Portfolio: samanthathompson.com | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samthompson | Twitter: @samwritesalot

  Summary

A summary on your resume is optional. While it's not mandatory, it can be a helpful way to provide context about your career journey, especially if you're changing industries or have a lot of experience. However, you should never use an objective statement, as it's outdated and focuses on what you want rather than what you can offer.

When writing your summary, avoid repeating information that's already included in other sections of your resume. Instead, use it to highlight key skills, experiences, or accomplishments that are most relevant to the content writer position you're targeting. Keep it concise, ideally no more than a paragraph, and tailor it to the job description to improve your chances of passing applicant tracking systems (ATS).

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Content Writer resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Content Writer Resume Summary Examples , or Content Writer Resume Objective Examples .

1. Showcase your writing and communication skills

Your summary is an opportunity to demonstrate your writing abilities right off the bat. Craft a compelling narrative that engages the reader and highlights your key qualifications:

• Creative and detail-oriented content writer with 5+ years of experience crafting engaging blog posts, articles, and web copy. Skilled at translating complex topics into clear, compelling content that drives traffic and resonates with target audiences.
• Versatile writer and editor with a passion for storytelling and a knack for adapting to different writing styles and formats. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and deliver high-quality content on tight deadlines.

Avoid generic or overused phrases that don't provide concrete examples of your skills:

• Experienced content writer with excellent communication skills and a proven track record of success.
• Hardworking and dedicated professional with a passion for writing.

2. Tailor your summary to the job description

To increase your chances of getting noticed by employers, make sure your summary aligns with the requirements and preferences outlined in the job posting. Mirror key phrases and highlight relevant skills and experiences.

Job description: Seeking a creative and detail-oriented content writer to craft compelling blog posts and articles that drive traffic and engage our target audience. Must have experience writing about personal finance and investing topics.

Tailored summary:

Skilled content writer with 3+ years of experience creating engaging and informative personal finance and investing content. Adept at breaking down complex topics into accessible, SEO-optimized articles and blog posts that drive traffic and keep readers coming back for more.

Avoid using a generic summary that could apply to any content writing position:

Experienced writer with a diverse portfolio and a passion for creating high-quality content on a variety of topics. Strong research and editing skills and the ability to adapt to different writing styles and formats.

  Experience

Your work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show hiring managers what you've accomplished in previous roles, and how that translates to the content writer position you're applying for. Here are some tips to make your work experience section stand out:

1. Highlight content creation accomplishments

When describing your previous roles, focus on your content creation achievements rather than just listing responsibilities. Use numbers and metrics to quantify your impact where possible.

For example, instead of saying:

• Wrote blog posts for company website
• Created social media content
• Wrote 10+ SEO-optimized blog posts per month, increasing organic traffic by 25%
• Created engaging social media content resulting in a 20% increase in followers and a 15% boost in engagement rate

2. Showcase your versatility

Modern content writers need to be versatile, creating content across various formats and platforms. Highlight experiences that showcase your range, such as:

• Writing for different target audiences and industries
• Creating various content types (blog posts, articles, web copy, social media, video scripts, eBooks, etc.)
• Adapting to different brand voices and style guides
• Experience with content management systems, SEO tools, and analytics

Versatile content writer experienced in creating engaging content across industries, including blog posts, articles, eBooks, infographics, and social media. Adept at matching brand voice and optimizing for SEO.

3. Demonstrate career growth

Hiring managers love to see career progression on your resume. If you've been promoted or taken on more responsibility in your content writing career, make sure to highlight that in your work experience section.

• Promoted from Junior Content Writer to Content Strategist within 18 months
• Started as a Freelance Writer and grew into a Content Team Lead managing a team of 5 writers

You can also show growth through your achievements, such as:

• Took on more complex writing projects and client accounts
• Mentored junior writers and provided editorial feedback
• Implemented new content processes and style guides

4. Tailor your experience to the job

One of the biggest mistakes content writers make on their resumes is including every bit of experience they have, even if it's not relevant to the job they're applying for. This can make your resume feel unfocused.

Instead, curate your work experience section to focus on the most relevant roles and accomplishments for the content writer position you want. For each job, pick 3-5 bullet points that best demonstrate your fit.

Look at the job description for clues on what to highlight. For example, if the job emphasizes SEO, lead with accomplishments related to SEO-optimized content and organic traffic growth. If it's a social media heavy role, focus on those experiences.

Grew Instagram following by 20% and increased engagement on Facebook posts.

Developed and executed a social media content strategy across Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Grew Instagram following by 20%, increased Facebook engagement by 15%, and generated 500+ LinkedIn leads through optimized content.

  Education

The education section of a content writer's resume should be concise and highlight your most relevant qualifications. Hiring managers will look for a mix of formal education, industry-specific training, and any other credentials that prove you're the best candidate. Here's how to write an effective education section:

1. List your highest degree first

Start with your most recent or advanced degree, like a master's or bachelor's degree. Include the name of the degree, the institution, and the year you graduated.

If you have a degree relevant to content writing, such as English, journalism, or marketing, make sure to highlight it. You can also include your GPA if it's impressive (3.5 or above).

Master of Arts in English, University of California, Los Angeles, 2018 Bachelor of Science in Marketing, New York University, 2016 GPA: 3.8

2. Include relevant coursework

If you're a recent graduate or have limited work experience, listing relevant coursework can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Choose classes that relate directly to content writing, like:

• Creative Writing
• Copywriting
• Digital Marketing

Keep the list short and focused. Too many courses will clutter your resume and dilute the impact.

3. Highlight writing-related awards and honors

If you've received any special recognition for your writing during your academic career, the education section is the perfect place to showcase it. Awards and honors help you stand out from other candidates.

Some examples of relevant awards include:

• Dean's List
• Phi Beta Kappa
• Departmental Honors in English
• Best Thesis Award

Be selective and only include the most impressive and writing-focused awards.

4. Keep it brief if you're a senior-level writer

If you have extensive work experience, your education section should be short and to the point. Hiring managers will be more interested in your professional accomplishments than your academic background.

A bad example for a senior content writer would be:

Bachelor of Arts in English, XYZ University, 1995-1999 Relevant Coursework: Creative Writing, Journalism 101, American Literature GPA: 3.7 Dean's List, Fall 1998

Instead, keep it concise:

B.A. English, XYZ University

Action Verbs For Content Writer Resumes

Strong action verbs help recruiters easily understand the tasks you have undertaken as a content writer and the successes you have had with those tasks. They help you and your successes stand out from the crowd and can help you secure that job. Content writers create concepts, and write, edit, and proofread copies. They also do this in several different mediums. Your action verbs should help show off this variety in experience. 

Here is a list of useful action verbs to get you started.

• Collaborated
• Conceptualized
• Contributed

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Content Writer Resumes

Skills for content writer resumes.

Content writing is a broad and creative industry with fairly low barriers to entry, especially for general content writing. When creating your skills section, you need to make it specific to the industry you want to write in and the mediums you want to write for. This will inform which skills are the most relevant to list. E.g a digital content writer needs to show their skills in the digital space like SEO, while a medical content writer needs to show their skills in the medical field.

Here is a list of recruiter-approved hard skills that content writers should consider including in their resumes.

• Web Content Writing
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Feature Writing
• Online Journalism
• SEO Copywriting
• News Writing
• Content Management
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Photoshop
• Social Media Marketing
• Translation
• Online Marketing
• Copy Editing
• Digital Media
• Social Media
• Web Content Creation
• Content Development
• Proofreading
• Article Writing
• Content Strategy

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Content Writer Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Content Writer Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Content Writer job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Other marketing resumes, content creator.

Underwriter

• Social Media Manager Resume Guide
• Creative Director Resume Guide
• Marketing Manager Resume Guide
• Digital Marketing Resume Guide
• Event Coordinator Resume Guide
• Digital Media Resume Guide
• Brand Manager Resume Guide
• Communications Resume Guide
• Content Creator Resume Guide
• E-Commerce Resume Guide
• Growth Marketing Resume Guide

Content Writer Resume Guide

• Video Editor Resume Guide
• Marketing Executive Resume Guide
• VP of Marketing Resume Guide
• Digital Strategist Resume Guide
• Brand Ambassador Resume Guide
• Technical Writer Resume Guide
• SEO Resume Guide
• Director of Marketing Resume Guide
• Brand Strategist Resume Guide
• Campaign Manager Resume Guide
• Content Writer Resume Example
• Creative Content Writer Resume Example
• Technical Writer Resume Example
• Medical Writer Resume Example
• Scriptwriter Resume Example
• Brand Journalist Resume Example
• Digital Content Writer Resume Example
• Tips for Content Writer Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• All Resume Examples
• Content Writer CV Examples
• Content Writer Cover Letter
• Content Writer Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

Download this PDF template.

Creating an account is free and takes five seconds. you'll get access to the pdf version of this resume template., choose an option..

• Have an account? Sign in

E-mail Please enter a valid email address This email address hasn't been signed up yet, or it has already been signed up with Facebook or Google login.

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number. It looks like your password is incorrect.

Remember me

Forgot your password?

Sign up to get access to Resume Worded's Career Coaching platform in less than 2 minutes

Name Please enter your name correctly

E-mail Remember to use a real email address that you have access to. You will need to confirm your email address before you get access to our features, so please enter it correctly. Please enter a valid email address, or another email address to sign up. We unfortunately can't accept that email domain right now. This email address has already been taken, or you've already signed up via Google or Facebook login. We currently are experiencing a very high server load so Email signup is currently disabled for the next 24 hours. Please sign up with Google or Facebook to continue! We apologize for the inconvenience!

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number.

Receive resume templates, real resume samples, and updates monthly via email

By continuing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Lost your password? Please enter the email address you used when you signed up. We'll send you a link to create a new password.

E-mail This email address either hasn't been signed up yet, or you signed up with Facebook or Google. This email address doesn't look valid.

Back to log-in

These professional templates are optimized to beat resume screeners (i.e. the Applicant Tracking System). You can download the templates in Word, Google Docs, or PDF. For free (limited time).

   access samples from top resumes, get inspired by real bullet points that helped candidates get into top companies.,    get a resume score., find out how effective your resume really is. you'll get access to our confidential resume review tool which will tell you how recruiters see your resume..

Writing an effective resume has never been easier .

Upgrade to resume worded pro to unlock your full resume review., get this resume template (+ 8 others), plus proven bullet points., for a small one-time fee, you'll get everything you need to write a winning resume in your industry., here's what you'll get:.

• 📄 Get the editable resume template in Google Docs + Word . Plus, you'll also get all 8 other templates .
• ✍️ Get sample bullet points that worked for others in your industry . Copy proven lines and tailor them to your resume.
• 🎯 Optimized to pass all resume screeners (i.e. ATS) . All templates have been professionally designed by recruiters and 100% readable by ATS.

Buy now. Instant delivery via email.

  instant access. one-time only., what's your email address.

I had a clear uptick in responses after using your template. I got many compliments on it from senior hiring staff, and my resume scored way higher when I ran it through ATS resume scanners because it was more readable. Thank you!

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

• Knowledge Base
• Free Resume Templates
• Resume Builder
• Resume Examples
• Free Resume Review

Click here to directly go to the complete content writer resume sample.

Want to get a job as a writer?

Then you have to create a writer resume!

If you know how to write, and have an excellent hold in grammar, then you are all set to get a content writer/freelance writer job. However, it is not as easy as it sounds.

You need to give your employer or your freelance clients a reason to hire you.

And a writer resume is the best way to do that. It will give a cohesive structure to the recruiter to understand your candidacy.

Read on to get a broader insight into the best ways to frame a resume that is not only shortlist-worthy but job-winning as well.

Let us further discuss the following topics:

• What should a writers resume look like?
• How do you write a resume for a writer?
• How do you say you're a good writer on a resume?
• What skills does a content writer need?
• How do I compose a writer’s resume objective or summary?

What Does a Content Writer Do?

The job description is one of the most crucial sections to go through while applying. It allows you to analyze what recruiters want and add industry-specific keywords to your resume.

Adding those keywords to your resume increases the chances of your resume getting parsed by the Applicant Tracking Systems, a software used by companies to shortlist resumes based on the data provided by them.

• Creating research-based content for online and in print platforms
• Delivering finished content or drafts within the stipulated time frame
• Leverage industry best practices to churn out new ideas for content
• Coordinate with other writers in the team and the content manager
• Develop content based on the requirement such as different content for websites, marketing campaigns, videos & blogs
• Track the Key Performance Indicators to analyze the performance and suggest improvements
• Make use of search engine optimization strategies to develop engaging content and maximize the traffic on the website

Also Read: How to draft a technical writer resume?

Content Writer Salary

It is essential to understand the financial stability a job will provide. Hence, we have created a list from disparate sources to give an idea of how much a content writer makes annually.

The average base salary of a content writer in the United States is:

Sections To Include in Content Writer Resume

A resume has different sections that can help you communicate various details of your professional experience, education qualification, certifications, awards or recognitions, etc.

Given below are the traditional standard resume sections that need to be framed at all times:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Summary/Objective
• Professional Experience

The optional sections given below can be framed if required to add value to your standard sections:

• Projects (if any)
• Certifications (if any)
• Additional Information (if any)
• Awards & Recognitions (if any)

Also Read: How to curate perfect resume sections?

How to Write Your Content Writer Resume

Your content writer resume format should be professional and contain only the important details.

The recruiters have very little time. So, you need to give all the information to the recruiter without wasting any time.

Along with that, the resume should look professional and presentable.

Here are a couple of design tips for content writer resume:

• Use the reverse-chronological resume format to craft the content writer resume
• Don't use unreadably, flashy fonts in the content writer resume. Instead, use basic fonts such as "Ariel", "Calibri", "Times New Roman" to write the resume.
• Keep the font size between 10 - 12 points in the body section of the resume
• Keep the font size between 12 - 16 points for the heading section
• Keep 1-1.15 points space between lines to keep it clean and readable.
• Keep a 1-inch margin on all sides of the resume.
• Always keep the resume within 1 page. Since content writer is a junior position, you don't need more than 1 page to display your achivements.
• When you send the resume to recruiter, send it in a pdf format, else the resume format may get messed up.

Also Read: How to format a resume in 2022 for maximum impact?

Craft A Stellar Content Writer Resume Header

Make it easier for the recruiters to keep track of your writers resume by giving a unique identity to your technical content writer resume.

Follow the below-given points to achieve that:

• Write your header in the topmost part of your resume for writers.
• Use the largest font size in the range of 16-20 to write your header.
• Leave a single space between your first and last name.
• In case you have a middle name, place the initial of your middle name between your first and last name.
• Example: Emily Hans Traynor should be written as 'Emily H. Traynor'.

Refer to the writer resume sample illustrating an ideal resume header given below:

Also Read: What to include in your resume header in 2022?

Cover Your Contact Details in Your Content Writer Resume

In case of any possible shortlist, the recruiters will require some of your particulars to get in touch with you.

Given below is a list of what an ideal personal information section should contain:

• Contact Number
• Email Address
• Current Location
• LinkedIn/Personal Website

Hiration Pro Tip : Including details like gender, passport details, date of birth, etc., depending on the country where you intend to work. Read the hiring norms for the country you are targeting before you include/don't include these details.

Writer Resume: Contact Number

You need to provide your contact number in your professional writer’s resume because there may be instances where the recruiters may want to interview you over the phone.

They may even want your verbal confirmation to schedule any official meetings or clarify any official issues.

Write your mobile number in the format given below:

• Use your country’s ISD code as a prefix before your phone number
• Put a plus sign (+) before the ISD code
• Eg: +1 72467 52362

Hiration Pro Tip : If you have two or more mobile numbers, make sure that you accurately mention only that mobile number on which you are available 24x7. Be sure that you are writing it correctly in your resume.

Writer Resume: Email Address

Your professional email ID should have your real name, so make sure to provide your official email ID that has your real name.

Example: emily@xyz[dot]com or emilyhans@xyz[dot]com

Avoid giving out your email IDs that have false or fancy names as it may make you seem like a candidate without knowledge of work ethics and cut down your chances of being selected for the targeted job profile.

Example: realemily@xyz[dot]com or emilyreal@xyz[dot]com

Writer Resume: Current Location

Do not give out personal address details like your house number, street number, or your locality in your resume for writers.

If you are looking for a job in your own country, mention the city and state of your residence.

But if you are looking for a job outside your country, simply mention your city and country of residence.

Writer Resume: Published Work Link

As a writer your published work speaks louder than your resume. So, you must include your published work links in your resume.

If you don't have experience, you can give links to your unpublished works as well.

For the recruiter's ease, you can divide your published works into different catagories such as web content, blogs, newsletters, social media copy, etc.

To have a visual understanding of an ideal personal information section, take a look at the creative content writer resume sample below:

Also read: How many contact details should you provide for recruiters?

Content Writer Resume: Profile Title

Your profile titles are the identity of your professional status in your professional writer resume.

It ideally communicates the following facts to the recruiter:

• Your current designation.
• Your functional industry.
• Your level of seniority in your line of work.

You can follow the below-mentioned guidelines to write it impeccably:

• It should be the second-largest text in your resume after your resume header.
• It should ideally be framed in the range of 14-16 font size.

Never overstate your profile title, as it will pass off as intentionally lying to the recruiters.

You can refer to our resume sample to get a better insight into how an ideal profile title can be perfectly framed:

Draft a Content Writer Resume Summary

Compose a summary of your freelance content writer resume to give a run-through of your professional experience.

Here is a listing of what you should follow to write an ideal summary:

• Compose a summary at the end as it makes it easy to pick the highlights of your career from your work experience section.
• Include the keywords that the recruiter has used in the job description.
• Try to restrict your writer's resume summary to 3-4 lines.
• Write a resume summary only if you have over three years of work experience.

Also Read: How to compose the perfect resume summary?

Should You Create a Content Writer Resume Objective Instead?

Compose a writer resume objective if you fit in any of the following categories:

• You are professionally inexperienced.
• You have less work background of fewer than 3 years.
• You are a fresh graduate writing an entry-level resume.

It is not wise to list all that you expect from an organization but to state all that you can contribute towards the higher goals of the organization.

The main aim of writing a writer resume objective is to sell your skills as a professional and to convince the recruiters that you are the right candidate they are looking for.

Also Read: When to include resume objective section?

Add a Key Skills Section to Your Writing Resume

This section can help you highlight the most critical skills you are equipped with as a professional.

You can also rank high on the ATS by establishing an effective key skills section.

Scan through your writer's resume, pick out the core skills that have been justified in your professional experience section, and objectively frame them in the key skills section.

Doing so can make it easier for the recruiters to recognize your potential.

Given below is a creative content writer resume sample showcasing the perfect key skills section:

Also Read: What skills to put on a resume?

Create a Content Writer Resume Professional Experience Section

The professional experience section in your content writer resume is one of the main features that can help you communicate your skills to the recruiters.

Here are the main elements you need to add in the Content Writer Resume:

• Name of the company
• Your Designation
• Location of employment
• Start and End Date of employment
• 5-6 bullet points to communicate your responsibilities and achievements.

Make use of these three essential factors mentioned below to curate an impeccable content writer resume:

STAR Format

• Frame Points

Grouping & Highlighting

Following this format will allow you to create a cause-effect relation between your work and your skills, along with the result.

STAR describes the following elements in your professional experience statements:

• S described the situation , backdrop, or the context of your contributions.
• T describes the actual task that was assigned to you as part of your job.
• A describes the strategy you put into action to execute the assigned task.
• R describes the result or outcome of your action in the form of an achievement figure.

Framing Points

Framing your points can significantly impact the clarity of your professional experience statements.

Let us look at two writer resume examples to understand why framing points are essential and how they can be implemented in your professional writer resume.

• Delivered 40+ emails daily to promote services & products to increase sales by 20%
• Wrote 2+ articles of 700-900 words by maintaining 100% quality and zero plagiarism
• Edited the old posts by complying with the updated SEO guidelines & proofread the posts written by 12+ freelancers
• Posted articles on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook & Twitter to increase traffic by 15%

Lengthy paragraphs tend to make your professional experience statements look bulky, and they may fail to intrigue the recruiters to recognize your potential.

Use bullet points to frame one-liners to state your work experience and make it easier for the recruiters to read.

Another influential factor that can enhance your framed points in your professional experience section is grouping & highlighting.

Let us look at two writer resume examples to understand why grouping & highlighting your one-liner points are essential and how they can be implemented in your resume for writing jobs.

• Won "Best Content Writer Award" in a team of 40+ content writers in Jul '15

Email Marketing & Web Content Writing

Social Media Marketing & SEO

Key Achievement

Use grouping & highlighting to organize your one-liners and make it easier for the recruiters to read and comprehend your professional statements.

Refer to our writers resume sample showcasing what an ideal professional experience section looks like:

Also Read: How to draft your work experience in a resume?

Enter Educational Details in Your Content Writer Resume

Every job profile requires you to possess a different level of educational qualification.

Make sure to provide your educational details as mentioned by the recruiters in the hiring requirements of the targeted job.

For example, as a content writer, to curate your education section correctly, you would be expected to possess at least a Bachelor's Degree.

The education section of your professional writer resume should ideally consist of the following:

• Name of the school/university you have attended
• Name of the courses you have pursued
• The location of your school/university
• Enrollment and graduation dates in mm/yy - mm/yy format

Here is a resume sample showcasing the ideal education section for your technical content writer resume:

Also Read: How to professionally list details of your education on resume?

Add Certifications to Your Writer's Resume

The certifications add value to your creative writer resume as a suitable applicant.

It can make the recruiters recognize you as a dedicated applicant who went ahead to get certified to practice one's field of work.

The certification section of your resume for writers communicates the following details about you:

• Certification course name
• Certifying institute name
• Course completion date in mm/yy format

Some Useful Certification for Content Writers Are:

• Content Marketing Certification - HubSpot Academy
• Fundamentals of Digital Marketing - Google Digital Garage
• Search Engine Optimization Fundamentals - Coursera
• Ninja Writing: The Four Levels of Writing Mastery - Udemy
• Content Marketing Toolkit Course - Semrush

Also read: How many certifications should you list on your resume?

Include Additional Information in Your Content Writer Resume

If you have some space left after adding the primary sections in your resume, you can add some more relevant information in your resume. Such as:

• Volunteer Work
• Memberships

1. Volunteer Works

A good way to learn content writing and gain some experience is by doing pro-bono volunteer works.

And these experiences are counted as actual experience. You can add such volunteer experience in your resume .

2. Languages

Being able to communicate in a second language is a huge advantage in workspace.

If you know more than one language, make sure to add it in your resume.

3. Memberships

Writers thrive on community.

If you are a subject matter expert, or you work in the content writing field, you can find good communities online.

If you've already joined such communities, you can mention the works you've done for the community in your resume.

The resume sample that we have attached below shows what a perfectly composed additional information section of your professional writer resume should look like:

Content Writer Sample Resume

• Created interesting posts for the company's major clients on social media with zero plagiarism
• Deployed Google Ads Keyword Planner to find the top ranking keywords to write keyword optimized blogs
• Maintained Excel sheets to manage the total number of posts needed to be posted on a weekly basis; ~ 40 posts weekly
• Arranged KTs and assigned topics to employees to train new writers in SEO and latest tools & equipment
• Tracked daily site ranking and CTR through SEMrush and Google Analytics & increased organic traffic on the website
• Wrote ~4000 words daily by creating articles, blogs, news, outreach and social media content
• Spearheaded content writing team of 50 members & edited their work to make it 100% plagiarism-free & error-free
• Interviewed 50+ candidates and trained 20+ interns & new recruits
• Promoted the website through email marketing and acquired 25+ new clients
• Communicated with 100+ freelancers , assigning them topics & editing their blogs
• Coordinated with the designing team to create relevant infographics & rendered feedback & suggestions
• Orchestrated copywriting work such as pamphlets, brochures , banners & organized offline promotional events
• Updated & edited 200+ old blogs published on the company's website with new keywords to improve their SEO rankings
• Wrote over 500 articles/blogs for the company's website & various clients
• Managed company's website via the latest SEO techniques to increase traffic by 30% and improve site ranking by 50,000
• Orchestrated 50+ emails per day to promote products and services leading to a 30% increase in sales
• Wrote 3+ blogs & articles spanning 700-800 words by maintaining 100% quality with zero plagiarism
• Edited & updated the old posts by complying with SEO guidelines & proofread the posts sent by 10+ freelancers
• Created content for social media for various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram & Twitter; increased traffic by 10%
• Won "Best Content Writer Award" in a team of 50+ content writers in Jun '14
• GPA: 4.5/5.0
• Top 5% of the class
• Languages : English, Spanish, and French

Key Takeaways

• Frame only one-liner points to communicate your professional experience and avoid bulky paragraphs.
• Use power verbs in present participle to describe your current job profiles and past participle power verbs to describe past job profiles.
• Use keywords wherever applicable to rank high on the ATS and make sure to justify them in the professional experience section.
• Limit your writer's resume summary/objective to 3-4 lines to keep it specific and on point.
• Provide your personal information as per an organization’s hiring guidelines .

Go to Hiration's resume builder which has 24x7 chat support and create a professional resume for yourself.

Additionally, you can also reach out to us at [email protected] and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries!

Share this blog

Subscribe to Free Resume Writing Blog by Hiration

Get the latest posts delivered right to your inbox

Stay up to date! Get all the latest & greatest posts delivered straight to your inbox

Is Your Resume ATS Friendly To Get Shortlisted?

Upload your resume for a free expert review.

12 Writer Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

Writers are creative storytellers who can craft compelling narratives that capture the attention of their audience. As a writer, your resume should be just like a story. It should be engaging, captivating, and have a clear beginning, middle, and end. In this guide, we'll review X writer resume examples to help you write your own captivating story.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Writer Resumes:

• Develop content for websites, blogs, articles, press releases, and other digital and print media
• Research topics and create content that is accurate, engaging, and optimized for search engine visibility
• Collaborate with marketing, design, and other teams to ensure content meets the needs of the project
• Create content that is consistent with the company’s brand and tone of voice
• Edit and proofread content for accuracy, grammar, and spelling
• Monitor and analyze content performance and adjust content strategy accordingly
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Develop content strategies and editorial calendars
• Create content for social media platforms
• Create content for email campaigns
• Develop content for video and audio projects

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Writer Resume Example:

• Developed a content strategy and editorial calendar that resulted in a 25% increase in website traffic and a 15% increase in social media engagement over a six-month period.
• Collaborated with the marketing team to create a series of email campaigns that generated a 10% increase in open rates and a 5% increase in click-through rates.
• Conducted keyword research and optimized website content, resulting in a 20% increase in organic search traffic and a 10% increase in search engine rankings.
• Created a series of blog posts and articles that resulted in a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% increase in lead generation over a one-year period.
• Developed a content marketing strategy that aligned with the company's brand and tone of voice, resulting in a 15% increase in brand awareness and a 10% increase in customer loyalty.
• Managed multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, consistently delivering high-quality content on time and within budget.
• Developed and executed a content marketing campaign that resulted in a 40% increase in website traffic and a 25% increase in lead generation over a six-month period.
• Collaborated with the design team to create visually engaging content for social media platforms, resulting in a 20% increase in engagement and a 10% increase in followers.
• Managed a team of freelance writers and editors, ensuring that all content was accurate, engaging, and optimized for search engine visibility.
• Content strategy development
• Editorial calendar management
• SEO optimization
• Keyword research
• Email campaign creation
• Blogging and article writing
• Content marketing
• Brand voice alignment
• Project management
• Deadline management
• Budget management
• Social media content creation
• Team management
• Freelancer coordination
• Editing and proofreading

Creative Writer Resume Example:

• Developed creative concepts and storylines for a national advertising campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 20% boost in sales.
• Wrote engaging scripts for a series of promotional videos, leading to a 40% increase in viewer engagement and a 25% rise in social media shares.
• Collaborated with a team of designers and marketers to create compelling copy for a new product launch, resulting in a 15% increase in website traffic and a 10% growth in conversions.
• Researched and analyzed industry trends to inform content creation strategies, resulting in a 50% increase in website traffic and a 20% improvement in SEO rankings.
• Edited and proofread marketing materials for a global company, ensuring accuracy and clarity in messaging, resulting in a 25% reduction in customer complaints and a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.
• Managed multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, consistently delivering high-quality content on time and within budget, resulting in a 100% client satisfaction rate and a 10% increase in repeat business.
• Brainstormed and developed creative concepts for a successful social media campaign, resulting in a 50% increase in follower engagement and a 30% growth in brand reach.
• Collaborated with designers and stakeholders to create visually appealing and impactful website copy, leading to a 20% increase in website conversions and a 15% decrease in bounce rate.
• Stayed up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, implementing innovative content strategies that resulted in a 40% increase in social media followers and a 25% boost in engagement metrics.
• Creative thinking and conceptualization
• Scriptwriting
• Copywriting
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Research and analysis
• Visual storytelling
• Understanding of SEO principles
• Knowledge of industry trends
• Ability to implement innovative content strategies
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to increase brand awareness and engagement
• Ability to boost sales and conversions
• Ability to reduce customer complaints and increase satisfaction
• Ability to increase website traffic and improve SEO rankings
• Ability to increase social media followers and engagement metrics
• Ability to decrease website bounce rate.

Freelance Writer Resume Example:

• Researched and developed compelling article ideas, resulting in a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% growth in reader engagement.
• Collaborated with a team of writers and editors to create high-quality content, leading to a 25% increase in client satisfaction and repeat business.
• Implemented SEO strategies and optimized content, resulting in a 15% improvement in search engine rankings and organic traffic.
• Managed multiple projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality content to clients, resulting in a 95% client retention rate.
• Developed content strategies and editorial plans for clients, resulting in a 40% increase in social media followers and a 25% growth in website conversions.
• Monitored analytics and conducted A/B testing to optimize content performance, achieving a 10% increase in click-through rates and a 20% decrease in bounce rates.
• Wrote original content for websites and blogs, consistently exceeding client expectations and receiving positive feedback, resulting in a 90% client satisfaction rate.
• Edited and proofread content for accuracy and clarity, ensuring error-free and polished final deliverables.
• Stayed up-to-date on industry trends and news, incorporating relevant information into articles and establishing credibility as a subject matter expert.
• Excellent research skills
• Ability to develop compelling content ideas
• Team collaboration
• SEO knowledge and implementation
• Content optimization
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Editorial planning
• Social media strategy
• Analytics monitoring
• A/B testing
• Original content creation
• Industry trend awareness
• Subject matter expertise
• Client satisfaction management
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Understanding of website conversions
• Ability to decrease bounce rates
• Ability to increase click-through rates
• Ability to increase reader engagement
• Ability to increase website traffic
• Ability to increase client retention rate
• Ability to increase social media followers.

Senior Writer Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a content strategy for a major marketing campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% increase in lead generation.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create and launch a series of highly successful product launch campaigns, resulting in a 25% increase in sales and a 15% increase in customer retention.
• Mentored and trained a team of junior writers, leading to improved content quality and a 10% increase in client satisfaction scores.
• Managed the creation and execution of a comprehensive content marketing plan, resulting in a 40% increase in organic search traffic and a 20% increase in social media engagement.
• Collaborated with the sales team to develop persuasive sales collateral, leading to a 30% increase in lead conversion rates and a 15% increase in revenue.
• Implemented a content optimization strategy, including keyword research and on-page SEO, resulting in a 25% increase in search engine rankings and a 10% increase in organic traffic.
• Developed and executed a content strategy for a major website redesign project, resulting in a 50% increase in user engagement and a 20% decrease in bounce rate.
• Collaborated with the design team to create visually appealing and user-friendly website copy, leading to a 30% increase in time spent on site and a 15% increase in page views.
• Managed a team of writers and editors, ensuring consistent brand voice and style across all content, resulting in a 20% increase in brand recognition and a 10% increase in customer loyalty.
• Content Strategy Development
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Mentoring and Team Leadership
• Content Marketing Management
• Sales Collateral Development
• Content Optimization and SEO
• Keyword Research
• Website Redesign and User Engagement Strategy
• Visual and User-Friendly Copy Creation
• Team Management
• Brand Voice and Style Consistency
• Lead Generation and Conversion
• Customer Retention Strategies
• Social Media Engagement
• Organic Traffic Growth
• Search Engine Ranking Improvement
• User Engagement Analysis
• Bounce Rate Reduction
• Brand Recognition Enhancement
• Customer Loyalty Building
• Product Launch Campaigns
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Project Management
• Time Management
• Creativity and Innovation
• Excellent Written and Verbal Communication
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Proficiency in Content Management Systems (CMS) and SEO Tools.

UX Writer Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive content strategy for a mobile app, resulting in a 25% increase in user engagement and a 10% decrease in user churn rate.
• Collaborated with UX designers and product managers to create user personas and conduct user research, leading to a 20% improvement in user satisfaction scores.
• Developed content guidelines and style guides that improved content consistency and reduced content-related support tickets by 15%.
• Managed the end-to-end content creation process for a website redesign project, resulting in a 30% increase in organic traffic and a 20% improvement in conversion rates.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to conduct A/B tests and user feedback sessions, leading to a 15% increase in click-through rates and a 10% decrease in bounce rates.
• Developed and maintained a content library that improved content accessibility and reduced content creation time by 20%.
• Developed and implemented a content optimization strategy for an e-commerce platform, resulting in a 15% increase in average order value and a 10% increase in conversion rates.
• Conducted user research and usability testing to identify pain points in the user journey, leading to a 20% decrease in cart abandonment rate.
• Collaborated with developers to implement microcopy improvements, resulting in a 25% decrease in user errors and a 10% increase in task completion rates.
• User Research
• Persona Creation
• Content Guidelines and Style Guide Development
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• A/B Testing
• User Feedback Analysis
• Content Library Management
• Content Optimization
• Usability Testing
• Microcopy Writing
• UX Writing for Mobile Apps
• Website Content Management
• E-commerce Content Strategy
• Conversion Rate Optimization
• User Engagement Improvement
• User Error Reduction
• Task Completion Rate Improvement
• Click-through Rate Improvement
• Cart Abandonment Rate Reduction
• User Satisfaction Improvement
• Content Consistency Maintenance
• Content Accessibility Improvement
• User Churn Rate Reduction
• Average Order Value Increase
• Support Ticket Reduction
• Content Creation Time Management.

Blog Writer Resume Example:

• Researched and created blog posts that consistently ranked on the first page of search engine results, resulting in a 50% increase in organic traffic to the company website.
• Implemented a content calendar and optimized blog post frequency, resulting in a 30% increase in blog readership and engagement.
• Collaborated with the marketing team to develop and execute a social media strategy, resulting in a 20% increase in blog post shares and reach.
• Developed and executed a guest blogging strategy, resulting in a 40% increase in backlinks and improved domain authority for the company website.
• Utilized data analytics tools to track blog post performance and identify areas for improvement, resulting in a 25% increase in average time spent on blog posts.
• Implemented SEO best practices, resulting in a 15% increase in organic search traffic to the blog.
• Developed and maintained relationships with industry influencers, resulting in a 30% increase in guest blogging opportunities and increased brand visibility.
• Collaborated with the design team to create visually appealing blog posts, resulting in a 20% increase in average time spent on the blog.
• Implemented a comment moderation strategy, resulting in a 50% decrease in spam comments and improved user engagement on the blog.
• Content creation and curation
• Social media strategy development
• Data analytics
• Guest blogging strategy development
• Relationship building and networking
• Visual content creation
• Comment moderation
• Understanding of search engine algorithms
• Ability to analyze and interpret web traffic metrics
• Proficiency in content management systems
• Excellent written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams
• Time management and organization skills
• Understanding of digital marketing strategies
• Familiarity with graphic design tools
• Ability to adapt to changing digital trends
• Proficiency in HTML and CSS
• Understanding of user experience (UX) principles.

Curriculum Writer Resume Example:

• Developed and designed a comprehensive curriculum for a new online course, resulting in a 25% increase in student enrollment and a 10% improvement in course completion rates.
• Collaborated with subject matter experts to ensure the curriculum aligned with industry standards and best practices, resulting in a 15% increase in student satisfaction scores.
• Implemented innovative assessment strategies, including project-based assignments and interactive quizzes, leading to a 20% improvement in student learning outcomes.
• Researched and analyzed educational trends and best practices to inform curriculum development, resulting in the integration of cutting-edge teaching methodologies and technologies.
• Created and maintained a centralized repository of course materials, including handouts, slides, and other resources, improving accessibility and efficiency for instructors and students.
• Participated in professional development activities, such as attending conferences and workshops, to stay updated on the latest advancements in curriculum design and instructional strategies.
• Developed and implemented a comprehensive evaluation framework to assess the effectiveness of curriculum and instructional materials, resulting in data-driven improvements and a 15% increase in student performance.
• Collaborated with a team of curriculum writers to streamline the course development process, reducing the time required to create a new course by 20%.
• Created and maintained documentation of curriculum development processes, ensuring consistency and facilitating knowledge sharing among team members.
• Curriculum development and design
• Online course creation
• Collaboration with subject matter experts
• Alignment with industry standards and best practices
• Implementation of innovative assessment strategies
• Research and analysis of educational trends
• Integration of cutting-edge teaching methodologies and technologies
• Creation and maintenance of course materials repository
• Participation in professional development activities
• Comprehensive evaluation of curriculum effectiveness
• Streamlining of course development processes
• Documentation of curriculum development processes
• Knowledge of latest advancements in curriculum design and instructional strategies
• Ability to increase student enrollment and course completion rates
• Ability to improve student satisfaction and learning outcomes
• Ability to drive data-driven improvements in curriculum
• Ability to reduce time required for new course creation
• Ability to facilitate knowledge sharing among team members.

Proposal Writer Resume Example:

• Developed and wrote compelling proposals and grant applications, resulting in a 30% increase in funding secured for the organization.
• Established and maintained relationships with key funders, leading to a 20% increase in repeat funding and a 15% increase in new funding sources.
• Implemented a system for tracking proposal outcomes and feedback, resulting in a 25% improvement in proposal success rate and a 10% increase in proposal quality.
• Researched and analyzed potential funding sources, identifying new opportunities that resulted in a 40% increase in funding options for the organization.
• Coordinated proposal development activities with internal stakeholders, ensuring timely submission of proposals and a 20% reduction in proposal development time.
• Developed and maintained a library of proposal templates and resources, streamlining the proposal writing process and increasing efficiency by 30%.
• Tracked and monitored proposal deadlines, ensuring all proposals were submitted on time and reducing the number of missed opportunities by 15%.
• Developed and maintained a database of proposal-related information, improving accessibility and organization of proposal materials by 25%.
• Implemented a system for tracking proposal metrics and budgeting, resulting in a 20% increase in cost-effectiveness and a 10% reduction in budget overruns.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong research and analytical abilities
• Proficiency in grant and proposal writing
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with key funders
• Proficiency in tracking and monitoring proposal outcomes
• Excellent organizational and coordination skills
• Ability to develop and maintain a library of proposal templates and resources
• Proficiency in tracking and monitoring proposal deadlines
• Ability to develop and maintain a database of proposal-related information
• Proficiency in tracking proposal metrics and budgeting
• Strong project management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Proficiency in using proposal management software
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal stakeholders
• Strong negotiation skills
• Ability to identify and secure new funding sources
• Knowledge of budgeting and cost-effectiveness analysis
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations.

Resume Writer Resume Example:

• Developed customized resumes and cover letters for clients that resulted in a 25% increase in interview callbacks and job offers.
• Utilized industry-specific terminology and keywords to optimize resumes for applicant tracking systems, leading to a 40% improvement in resume visibility and candidate selection.
• Provided feedback and advice to clients on how to improve their resumes, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction and referrals.
• Researched and analyzed job descriptions to identify key skills and qualifications, resulting in a 30% improvement in matching candidates to job requirements.
• Collaborated with clients to identify their unique skills, abilities, and accomplishments, resulting in a 20% increase in personalized and impactful resumes.
• Utilized social media platforms to promote services and build a client base, resulting in a 50% increase in client inquiries and bookings.
• Edited and proofread resumes and other documents for accuracy and clarity, resulting in a 95% error-free rate and improved readability.
• Developed and maintained relationships with clients to ensure satisfaction, resulting in a 90% client retention rate and positive testimonials.
• Participated in professional development activities to stay current on industry trends and best practices, resulting in a 20% increase in knowledge and expertise in resume writing and job search strategies.
• Exceptional written communication skills
• Proficiency in using applicant tracking systems
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Knowledge of industry-specific terminology
• Ability to identify and highlight client's unique skills and accomplishments
• Expertise in editing and proofreading
• Strong interpersonal skills for client relationship management
• Knowledge of social media marketing strategies
• Ability to provide constructive feedback
• Proficiency in analyzing job descriptions
• Knowledge of current industry trends and best practices
• Ability to customize resumes and cover letters
• Expertise in job search strategies
• Attention to detail for accuracy and clarity
• Ability to work collaboratively with clients
• Strong organizational skills
• Proficiency in digital tools and software for resume writing
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Grant Writer Resume Example:

• Researched and identified potential grant opportunities, resulting in a 30% increase in the number of successful grant applications.
• Developed and maintained relationships with funding sources, leading to a 25% increase in grant funding received.
• Implemented a system for tracking grant performance metrics, allowing for data-driven decision making and a 20% improvement in grant outcomes.
• Developed grant proposals and applications that resulted in a 40% increase in grant awards.
• Managed a database of grant opportunities, ensuring timely submission of applications and a 15% increase in successful grant applications.
• Established a system for tracking grant compliance requirements, ensuring adherence to regulations and a 100% compliance rate.
• Developed and maintained a calendar of grant deadlines, resulting in a 20% reduction in missed deadlines.
• Implemented a system for tracking grant reporting requirements, leading to a 30% improvement in the accuracy and timeliness of grant reports.
• Identified and addressed performance bottlenecks in the grant application process, resulting in a 25% reduction in application processing time and an increase in the number of applications submitted.
• Grant research and identification
• Relationship building with funding sources
• Data-driven decision making
• Grant performance tracking
• Grant proposal and application development
• Database management
• Compliance tracking and adherence
• Grant reporting
• Process improvement
• Strategic planning
• Problem-solving skills
• Time management
• Financial analysis and budgeting
• Understanding of grant-related regulations and laws
• Proficiency in grant management software
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations
• Ability to interpret and implement complex instructions
• Negotiation skills
• Ethical decision making.

Staff Writer Resume Example:

• Researched and wrote a series of articles on emerging industry trends, resulting in a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% growth in social media engagement.
• Collaborated with a team of editors and designers to develop a content strategy that aligned with the company's brand voice, resulting in a consistent and cohesive content experience for readers.
• Utilized SEO best practices to optimize articles for search engines, leading to a 25% increase in organic search traffic and a higher ranking in search engine results pages.
• Conducted in-depth interviews with industry experts and thought leaders to gather insights for feature articles, resulting in a 40% increase in readership and a 15% growth in subscriber base.
• Edited and proofread content for accuracy and clarity, ensuring a high standard of quality and professionalism in all published materials.
• Monitored analytics and tracked content performance, using data-driven insights to inform content strategy and make data-backed recommendations for improvement.
• Developed and maintained relationships with key industry sources, resulting in exclusive interviews and access to insider information for articles.
• Participated in brainstorming sessions with the editorial team to generate new ideas and angles for articles, contributing to a diverse and engaging content calendar.
• Stayed up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, continuously expanding knowledge and expertise in the field of writing and journalism.
• Proficiency in SEO best practices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a team
• Ability to conduct in-depth interviews
• Editing and proofreading skills
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Creative brainstorming and idea generation
• Knowledge of industry trends and best practices
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Proficiency in using content management systems
• Understanding of social media platforms and their use for content promotion
• Ability to write in a variety of styles and tones
• Ability to handle constructive criticism and feedback
• Familiarity with copyright laws and ethical guidelines in journalism
• Proficiency in digital marketing strategies
• Ability to adapt to changing trends and technologies in digital content creation.

Contributing Writer Resume Example:

• Researched and developed content ideas for articles, blog posts, and social media, resulting in a 30% increase in website traffic and a 20% growth in social media followers.
• Wrote and edited content for various publications, ensuring accuracy and consistency across platforms, leading to a 25% increase in reader engagement and positive feedback.
• Collaborated with a team of writers, editors, and designers to produce high-quality content, resulting in a 10% increase in publication reach and a 15% improvement in content quality.
• Maintained relationships with editors and stakeholders, resulting in a 20% increase in article placements and a 10% growth in publication partnerships.
• Monitored industry trends and news to ensure content relevance, leading to a 15% increase in article shares and a 10% improvement in reader satisfaction.
• Participated in brainstorming sessions and generated new content ideas, contributing to a 10% increase in article diversity and a 5% growth in reader engagement.
• Developed and maintained an editorial calendar, ensuring timely delivery of content and a 20% reduction in missed deadlines.
• Proofread and edited content for grammar, punctuation, and accuracy, resulting in a 15% decrease in errors and a 10% improvement in content quality.
• Monitored and responded to reader feedback, fostering a 10% increase in reader loyalty and a 5% growth in reader engagement.
• Content creation and development
• Research skills
• Writing and editing skills
• Relationship management
• Industry trend monitoring
• Idea generation and brainstorming
• Proofreading skills
• Reader engagement and feedback response
• Time management and deadline adherence
• Knowledge of various publication platforms
• Ability to increase reader engagement and loyalty
• Ability to increase website traffic and social media followers
• Ability to improve content quality and diversity
• Ability to foster publication partnerships
• Ability to reduce errors in content
• Ability to handle constructive criticism and feedback.

Sports Writer Resume Example:

• SEO and Digital Content Strategy
• Social Media Management and Growth
• Podcast Production and Hosting
• Investigative Reporting and Storytelling
• Live-Tweeting and Real-Time Reporting
• Opinion Writing and Editorial Commentary
• Data Analysis and Player Ranking Systems
• Fact-Checking and Editorial Integrity
• Sports Event Coverage and Journalism
• Collaboration with Design Teams for Multimedia Content
• Fantasy Sports Analysis and Commentary
• Engaging and Interactive Storytelling
• Audience Engagement and Community Building
• Content Monetization and Ad Revenue Generation
• Knowledge of Sports Statistics and History

High Level Resume Tips for Writers:

Must-have information for a writer resume:.

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an Writer resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other Writer candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Writers:

Writer resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

Award-winning Writer with a portfolio of published works in major publications and a proven track record of engaging readers with compelling storytelling.

Creative Writer with expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content that drives traffic and boosts engagement for online platforms.

Versatile Writer with experience in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and copywriting, and a talent for adapting to different brand voices and styles.

Why these are strong: These resume headlines are strong for Writers as they highlight key strengths and accomplishments that are relevant to their roles. The first headline emphasizes the candidate's portfolio of published works and their ability to engage readers with compelling storytelling. The second headline showcases the candidate's expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content, which is a crucial skill for many writing roles in the digital age. Finally, the third headline highlights the candidate's versatility and adaptability, which are highly valued traits in the writing industry.

Weak Headlines

• Creative Writer with Strong Communication Skills
• Experienced Writer with a Passion for Storytelling
• Detail-Oriented Writer with Excellent Grammar and Spelling Skills

Why these are weak: These resume headlines need improvement for Writers as they lack specificity and fail to highlight the candidate's unique skills or accomplishments. The first headline mentions strong communication skills, but doesn't provide any context or examples of how the candidate has used those skills in their writing. The second headline mentions experience and passion, but doesn't showcase any specific achievements or publications. The third headline highlights grammar and spelling skills, but doesn't mention any other important writing skills or experiences.

Writing an Exceptional Writer Resume Summary:

Resume summaries are crucial for Writers as they provide a brief yet impactful way to showcase their writing skills, experience, and unique value proposition. A well-crafted summary can immediately capture the attention of hiring managers, setting the tone for the rest of the resume and positioning the candidate as an ideal fit for the role.

For Writers specifically, an effective resume summary is one that highlights their ability to create compelling content that engages and informs the reader, consistently.

Key points that writers should convey in a resume summary include:

Relevant Experience: Clearly mention the number of years of experience you have in writing, highlighting any notable achievements or career highlights. If you have experience with different types of writing or industries that are particularly relevant to the job, mention that too.

Writing Expertise: Showcase your knowledge of writing styles, techniques, and formats, as well as any industry-specific knowledge that would be beneficial to the role (e.g., marketing, journalism, technical writing).

Collaboration and Communication: In any writing role, collaboration and communication are going to be core components. Emphasize your ability to work with editors, clients, and other stakeholders to create high-quality content that meets their needs.

Research and Analysis: Highlight your ability to conduct research, analyze data, and incorporate findings into your writing to create informative and engaging content.

Creativity and Innovation: Show that you can think outside the box, come up with fresh ideas, and bring a unique perspective to your writing.

To nail the resume summary, use your best judgment to choose the right combination of these that align closest with the individual role you’re applying for. Remember, your resume summary will be one of the first things that a potential employer will see about you and your writing career. So, make sure to make it count!

Writer Resume Summary Examples:

Strong summaries.

• Creative and versatile Writer with 5 years of experience crafting compelling content for various industries, including healthcare, technology, and finance. Skilled in conducting thorough research, developing engaging narratives, and meeting tight deadlines. Proven track record of increasing website traffic and social media engagement by 40% through effective content marketing strategies.
• Detail-oriented Technical Writer with 3 years of experience creating user manuals, online help systems, and other technical documentation for software and hardware products. Proficient in Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and other authoring tools. Collaborative team player with excellent communication skills and a strong ability to simplify complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Accomplished Copywriter with 7 years of experience developing brand messaging, advertising campaigns, and marketing materials for Fortune 500 companies. Expert in crafting persuasive copy that resonates with target audiences and drives conversions. Consistently recognized for delivering high-quality work on time and under budget.

Why these are strong: These resume summaries are strong for Writers as they highlight the candidates' specific skills, experience, and achievements in their respective fields. The first summary emphasizes the candidate's versatility and success in content marketing, while the second summary showcases their technical writing expertise and proficiency in authoring tools. The third summary highlights the candidate's accomplishments in copywriting for major corporations, demonstrating their ability to deliver high-quality work under pressure. Overall, these summaries effectively communicate the candidates' unique value propositions to potential employers.

Weak Summaries

• Writer with experience in creating content for various industries and audiences, seeking a new opportunity to utilize my skills and grow as a professional.
• Experienced Writer skilled in crafting engaging and informative content, with a background in journalism and marketing, looking to leverage my expertise to contribute to a company's content strategy.
• Writer with a passion for storytelling and a focus on SEO optimization, committed to creating high-quality content that drives traffic and engagement.

Why these are weak: These resume summaries need improvement for Writers as they lack specific examples of the candidate's writing accomplishments or unique value proposition. The first summary provides only a general overview of the candidate's experience without mentioning any specific industries or types of content they have created. The second summary mentions the candidate's background in journalism and marketing but doesn't provide any concrete examples of their writing successes in those fields. The third summary mentions SEO optimization but doesn't provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in driving traffic or engagement through their writing, which would make their profile more compelling to potential employers.

Resume Objective Examples for Writers:

Strong objectives.

• Creative and detail-oriented Writer with a passion for storytelling, seeking an entry-level position to utilize my strong writing skills and ability to craft compelling narratives to contribute to the success of a growing media company.
• Recent graduate with a degree in English and experience in content creation, eager to apply my knowledge of grammar, syntax, and style to create engaging and informative content for a variety of audiences in a fast-paced editorial environment.
• Goal-driven and versatile professional with a background in journalism and social media, seeking a Writer position to leverage my skills in research, interviewing, and multimedia storytelling to produce high-quality content that informs and inspires readers.

Why these are strong: These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Writers because they showcase the candidates' passion, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to learn and contribute to the success of the organization. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's creativity and attention to detail, which are important attributes for a Writer. The second objective showcases the candidate's educational background and experience in content creation, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in journalism and social media, making them a promising fit for a Writer position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the company's content strategy.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking a position as a Writer where I can utilize my skills and gain experience in the industry.
• Aspiring Writer with a passion for storytelling and some experience in content creation, looking to develop my career in the field.
• Recent graduate with a degree in English, interested in a Writer role to further my writing skills and gain experience in the industry.

Why these are weak: These resume objectives need improvement for up and coming Writers because they lack specificity and don't effectively showcase the unique value or skills the candidates possess. The first objective is generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background, passion, or relevant experience. The second objective hints at some experience in content creation and a passion for storytelling, but it doesn't mention any specific achievements, education, or industries the candidate is interested in. The third objective, although it mentions a degree in English, doesn't elaborate on the candidate's expertise, skills, or any particular area of writing they are passionate about, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

Write a More Targeted Resume with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your writer work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Highlight your writing experience and expertise in specific genres or styles.
• Showcase your ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
• Demonstrate your research skills and ability to write about complex topics in a clear and concise manner.
• Provide examples of how you have collaborated with editors, designers, and other team members to produce high-quality content.
• Mention any awards, recognition, or unique accomplishments associated with your writing.
• Include metrics such as page views, engagement rates, or social media shares to showcase the impact of your writing.
• Use industry-specific language and terminology to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the field.
• Show how you have adapted your writing style to different audiences and platforms, such as social media, blogs, or print publications.
• Highlight any experience with SEO, keyword research, or content strategy to showcase your understanding of how writing fits into a larger marketing or business strategy.

Example Work Experiences for Writers:

Strong experiences.

Developed and executed a content strategy for a B2B software company, resulting in a 50% increase in website traffic and a 25% increase in lead generation within the first six months.

Collaborated with a team of designers and developers to create engaging and informative blog posts, resulting in a 40% increase in social media shares and a 15% increase in website engagement.

Conducted in-depth research and interviews to produce a series of thought leadership articles, positioning the company as an industry leader and resulting in a 10% increase in brand recognition.

Managed a team of freelance writers to produce high-quality content for a digital marketing agency, resulting in a 95% client satisfaction rate and a 20% increase in revenue over a one-year period.

Developed and implemented a comprehensive style guide for a national publication, resulting in a consistent and cohesive brand voice across all content and a 30% increase in readership.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create compelling copy for email marketing campaigns, resulting in a 40% increase in open rates and a 20% increase in click-through rates.

Why these are strong:

• These work experiences are strong because they showcase the candidate's ability to develop and execute effective content strategies, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and produce high-quality content that drives results. The use of specific metrics and action-oriented language demonstrates the candidate's impact and value as a skilled Writer.

Weak Experiences

Conducted research and wrote articles for the company blog on various topics related to the industry.

Assisted in editing and proofreading content for marketing materials and website copy.

Participated in brainstorming sessions for new content ideas.

Wrote product descriptions for the company's e-commerce website.

Conducted interviews with subject matter experts to gather information for articles.

Proofread and edited content for grammar and spelling errors.

• Created social media posts for the company's social media accounts.
• Assisted in developing content for email marketing campaigns.
• Conducted research on industry trends and competitors.

Why these are weak:

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specificity and quantifiable results. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the impact of the individual's work or the benefits brought to the company. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements, using more powerful action verbs, and providing clear context that demonstrates their leadership qualities and direct contributions to successful outcomes.

Top Skills & Keywords for Writer Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for writers, hard skills.

• Content Creation
• Editing and Proofreading
• SEO Writing
• Research and Fact-Checking
• Journalism Ethics and Standards
• Technical Writing
• Grant Writing
• Social Media Writing
• Writing for Different Platforms (e.g. blogs, email, social media, etc.)

Soft Skills

• Strong Written Communication Skills
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy
• Creativity and Imagination
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Research and Analytical Skills
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Editing and Proofreading Abilities
• Empathy and Understanding of Audience
• Openness to Feedback and Constructive Criticism
• Ability to Work Independently and Meet Deadlines

Go Above & Beyond with a Writer Cover Letter

Writer cover letter example: (based on resume).

As a Writer, you understand the power of words and the importance of crafting a compelling narrative. Similarly, pairing your resume with a well-written cover letter can give you a crucial edge over the competition and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to showcase your writing skills and demonstrate your passion for the role. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be an overwhelming task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as a Writer:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the company and role
• Illustrate your unique writing style and how it aligns with the specific job requirements
• Communicate your understanding of the company's brand voice and how you plan to contribute to it
• Share success stories and writing achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume
• Demonstrate your ability to write persuasively and effectively, which are essential for Writers
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter

In summary, a cover letter is an excellent opportunity for Writers to showcase their writing skills, demonstrate their passion for the role, and differentiate themselves from other applicants. By taking the time to craft a tailored cover letter, Writers can significantly increase their chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing their dream job.

Resume FAQs for Writers:

How long should i make my writer resume.

In general, a Writer's resume should be one to two pages long. It should include relevant information such as writing experience, education, and any published works. It is important to keep the resume concise and to the point, highlighting the most important and impressive achievements. Additionally, including a portfolio or writing samples can help showcase a Writer's skills and abilities. Ultimately, the length of the resume should be determined by the amount of relevant information that needs to be included, while still being easy to read and visually appealing.

What is the best way to format a Writer resume?

As an AI language model, I can suggest the following tips for formatting a Writer resume: 1. Keep it simple and professional: Use a clean and easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and avoid using too many colors or graphics. 2. Highlight your writing skills: Make sure to include a section that showcases your writing skills, such as published works, writing awards, or writing samples. 3. Tailor your resume to the job: Customize your resume to the job you are applying for by including relevant keywords and skills that match the job description. 4. Include a summary statement: A brief summary statement at the top of your resume can help to highlight your strengths and catch the attention of the hiring manager. 5. Use bullet points: Use bullet points to break up your resume into easy-to-read sections and to highlight your accomplishments and skills. Overall, the key to formatting

Which Writer skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

As an AI language model, I can suggest that there are several important Writer skills that should be highlighted in a resume. Firstly, strong writing skills are essential, including the ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively. Secondly, excellent research skills are important, as Writers often need to gather information from a variety of sources to create compelling content. Thirdly, attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can undermine the credibility of a piece of writing. Fourthly, creativity and the ability to think outside the box are highly valued, as Writers need to come up with fresh and engaging ideas to capture readers' attention. Finally, strong communication skills are essential, as Writers often need to work closely with editors, clients, and other stakeholders to ensure that their work meets the desired objectives. By highlighting these skills in a resume, Writers can demonstrate their value to potential employers and increase their chances of landing their dream job.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Writer?

If you have no experience as a Writer, there are still ways to create a strong resume that highlights your skills and potential. Here are some tips: 1. Focus on your education: If you have a degree in English, journalism, or a related field, make sure to highlight it prominently on your resume. You can also mention any relevant coursework or writing projects you completed during your studies. 2. Highlight relevant skills: Even if you haven't worked as a Writer before, you may have skills that are relevant to the field. For example, if you have experience with social media or blogging, you can highlight those skills as they are often used in content creation. 3. Include writing samples: Even if you haven't been paid for your writing, you can still include samples of your work on your resume. This could be anything from a blog post to a short story. Make sure to choose your best work and showcase your writing style. 4. Volunteer or intern: Consider volunteering or interning at

Compare Your Writer Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Writer job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Writers:

Writer resume example, more resume guidance:.

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Resume Examples
• Freelance Writer

Freelance Writer resume examples & templates

Freelance writer job market and outlook

You know how to write, so we won’t waste your time telling you that you need to use active verbs and strong descriptors. What we will do is give you the structure and reasoning behind each part of your freelance writer resume so you can build your client base and grab those well-paying assignments!

The power of Resume.io is our resume guides and resume examples for 300+ professions, along with an easy-to-use resume builder. Let us help you build your portfolio and impress editors with a freelance writer resume that shines the on spotlight on your writing and research skills.

This resume guide, along with the corresponding resume example will cover the following topics:

What does a freelance writer do?

• How to write a freelance writer resume (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a freelance writer resume
• Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional resume layout and design hints.

Freelance writers build a list of clients and perform a variety of writing services for them. Many freelancers develop a niche and cater to clients within that niche, while others write for a range of businesses and media.

Freelancers may generate their own story ideas and then pitch them to different media outlets or they may work for clients who assign them pieces to write. They may specialize in marketing, business content, health and medicine, or any of hundreds of topics, but they key is building a portfolio of work and soliciting new work.

How much does a freelance writer earn? That’s a tough question to answer. Some freelance writers, especially when they are starting out, earn very little as they build their experience. Other accomplished freelancers may earn more than $100,000.

The median hourly pay for freelance writers is $23.90 per hour, according to Payscale , and as someone who works for themselves, you can choose how many hours to work.

The market for freelance writers depends heavily on your niche. Freelance writing and editing fell in at No. 7 for most job listings on FlexJobs in 2020 and the company expects that trend to continue, CNBC reported . 

In general, the freelance work style makes up more than one-third of the workforce. In the past year, 59 million Americans performed some sort of freelance work, according to Freelance Forward 2020 by Upwork. Of those, 17% describe their work as writing, journalism or content services. Another 33% classified themselves as creative.

Top freelance writing niches

Looking to make the most out of your freelance writing career? These are the niches that command high payment:

• Long-form blog posts
• Ghostwriting
• White papers
• Sales or landing pages
• Video scripts
• Academic content
• Email sequences
• Press releases
• Business plans
• Case studies

How to write a freelance writer resume

We’re not talking about the words here, but the sections that structure your freelance writer resume. Your resume sample should contain the following elements:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

A successful freelancer resume entices prospective clients to read your clips. When you write, you sometimes maintain the voice of your client and at other times, you employ your personal writing voice and style. Choose the appropriate tone for each prospective client and follow it throughout all the sections of your resume. Make sure your message (I am the perfect person for this job!) comes through clearly.

Then, use the following strategies to make the most impressive statement you can: 

• The editor or hiring manager is your audience; write specifically for that person.
• Give a professional image visually by choosing a resume template and design that adds a bit of flare, but projects efficiency and responsibility.
• When submitting online, optimize your resume with appropriate keywords so it won’t be filtered out by ATS screening software.

Don’t get caught by the ATS

When you make online submissions, you may be “seen” first by an Applicant Tracking System. This software uses algorithms to filter out candidates based on keywords, phrases and other data the employer has tagged to the job listing.

To help get your resume into the hands of the person who can assign you work, make sure you analyze the job listing and requirements and plug those keywords and phrases into your resume (when appropriate, or course).

Choosing the best resume format for a freelance writer

As a freelance writer, the final judgment on you will be your clips, so you make sure you choose a resume builder such as ours that allows you to link to your portfolio. That aside, you should use a modified version of the standard reverse chronological order format. For you, that means listing clients or publications from your latest on back. 

If you are a freelance writer with deep technical or niche knowledge, you may try a functional resume format, but be aware that recruiters favor reverse chronological order.

For writers who have just taken the plunge into freelancing or are just beginning their careers, you may consider a functional resume format which doesn't list previous employers, or a hybrid format which begins with a skills or experience section before featuring a shorter work history section.

Resume summary example: your pitch

Working as a freelance writer means selling yourself over and over again, so you should have a great idea of how to develop this section. You want to start with your biggest client successes or most celebrated writing work. Then, use your writers’ voice to explain why you are the right person for this particular job. 

You only have two or three sentences, but especially if you are in marketing or another writing field that requires quick attention-getters, you shouldn’t struggle with this. Just don’t sell yourself short. Talk up your ability to make tight deadlines or your technical expertise. You know you can do the job, so tell your prospect client!

If you need a little more guidance, check out our other relate resume samples, like this   freelancer resume example , or if you’re a newsperson, our journalist resume example may fit the bill. Ever try your hand at the movies? We also have a screenwriter resume sample for your perusal. Our content writer resume sample may also get your creative juices flowing.

See the resume example text for a summary below. 

Passionate Freelance Writer with several years of experience writing for a variety of businesses, platforms, and media sources. Adept in developing original content based on the needs of a client, and committed to writing with integrity and a dedication to craft. Bringing forth valuable experience serving as a content creator for high-traffic blogs and websites. Capable of writing about a variety of topics and skilled in performing research and achieving ultimate preparedness for a job. 

Employment history sample: your career headlines

Your employment history section may look a bit different, especially if you have been at it for a while. Instead of listing employers, you should list clients and the work you have produced for them. They can click the link to your portfolio to read your clips.

You may want to rename this section “Client history,” “Client list” or “Publications,” depending on your exact circumstances.

You may think of this more as a publication history if you work for many different media outlets. The idea is to show who you write for and what type of writing you do. Offer a brief description of both your relationship to the client when appropriate and the actual writing.

See the adaptable resume example content below.

• Worked to deliver interesting and innovative blog content on a weekly basis.
• Performed interviews and compiled data in an organized way.
• Worked to foster relationships with people who provide information for articles.
• Connected with readers and monitored feedback from them.
• Remained in close contact with the website developer about needs and goals.
• Effectively managed my time and continually worked to deliver compelling creative content.

CV skills section example: where’s your expertise?

Why do you need a skills section? After all, these attributes appear in your summary and work history sections. You need this section of your freelance writer resume because it allows prospective clients to quickly decide whether you’re a great candidate without drilling further down into your document.

When you write, you may be asked to create a bulleted list of key points. That’s your skills section. It is here that you highlight the knowledge and expertise that you bring to the job. This section is easily tailored to help you get past the ATS and also to show that you understand exactly what skills are relevant to the assignment.

See the resume example text for a skills section below. 

• Advanced Writing Skills
• Excellent Spelling and Grammar
• Time Management Skills
• Research Skills
• Interview Skills
• Content Creation Skills

Freelance writer resume education example

Freelance writers come from all types of backgrounds, so all your education is relevant. That’s especially true if you are writing about the subject(s) you studied in school.

List all your degrees and certifications here. Any honors or distinctions should be noted here as well. If you hold a degree higher than a bachelor’s degree, you may leave out your high school. 

If you have room while sticking with a one- or two-page format, you may consider adding any of the following sections if they apply:

• Awards and accolades
• Certifications
• Professional affiliations

Steer clear of personal information such as hobbies. If you hobby gives you a skill that will boost your candidacy, put that into your skills section.

See the resume example content below for formatting. 

• 2001-2005 Hofstra University, Associate of Communications Hempstead, NY
• 1997-2001 St. Peter's Academy, High School Diploma NY, NY

Resume layout and design: your lede

Writers spend a lot of time on the first sentence of their work for a reason: first impressions matter. They matter even more in the layout and design of your resume sample. You need to convey a professional, organized image visually as well as in words.

If your freelance writer resume is cluttered, unclear or disorganized (and certainly if it has any spelling or grammatical errors), your prospective client is likely to wonder if your writing or research are the same.

Here are a few tips to keep the look clean: 

• Stick with classic, easy-to-read fonts.
• Use color sparingly or not at all.
• Do not include a photo or any graphics. If any of your work includes those elements, link to them through your portfolio.
• You have an editor (or use an editing program), so do the same with your resume. Make sure you have a friend or colleague proofread before you hit send.
• Consider using one of our resume templates , where the most tedious formatting tasks are a done deal.

Key takeaways for a freelance writer resume

• The freelance writing markets is one of the a top 10 hottest freelance segments in terms of job listings.
• You’re a writer, so apply your craft to ensure your tone, style and message are targeted to each prospective clients’ needs.
• Use keywords and phrases to your advantage to help avoid the ATS filter.
• Avail yourself of our online resume builder to make save time your time for your clients!

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide

For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.

If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.

So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:

• The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
• 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
• 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
• Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
• Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
• Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
• Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
• Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
• Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
• Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .

To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.

New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good. 

After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
• Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
• Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.

So, which one should you go for?

In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume. 

Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

• Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
• Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
• Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
• Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
• Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.

Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :

If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.

But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .

Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template

Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.

Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.

What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?

Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.

They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!

See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:

#2. Add Your Contact Information

Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .

The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .

This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.

Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.

So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.

Must-Have Information

• Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
• Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
• Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.

Optional Information

• Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional. 
• LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate. 
• Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
• Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
• Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
• Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.

All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:

#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .

When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.

So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.

This is where the resume headline comes in.

Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.

Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.

So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:

Resume Summary

A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Your job title and years of experience.
• A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
• Your most relevant skills for the job.

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.

Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.

Resume Objective

A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.

It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.

So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:

Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.

Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:

IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

The most important part of your resume is your work experience.

This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.

If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.

There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.

The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:

• Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
• Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
• Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.

Here’s a real-life example:

Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.

Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with: 

Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.

Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.

For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:

• Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
• Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
• Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.

Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.

To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.

Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:

• Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
• Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
• Generated leads through cold-calling
• Managed existing company clients

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

• Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
• Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
• Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.

In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:

• Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
• Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
• Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.

In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.

Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.

They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.

By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.

Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:

As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.

To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.

You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:

• In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
• Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
• In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .

If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.

So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:

• No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
• Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
• Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?

Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.

For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .

Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:

• Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
• Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
• Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
• Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”

Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go! 

#5. List Your Education

The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!

Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :

• Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
• University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
• Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
• Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
• GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
• Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
• Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
• Minor. “Minor in Psychology”

Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:

This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.

Resume Education Tips

Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.

Just follow these expert tips:

• If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
• You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
• If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
• Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
• Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
• Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!

#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section

After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .

So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:

• Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
• Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.

Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:

Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.

So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.

Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.

Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :

Methodologies & Tools

• Agile Methodology
• SCRUM Framework
• Waterfall Project Management
• Microsoft Project
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Risk Management

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.

Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
• Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
• A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
• Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.

While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.

• Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
• Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
• Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
• Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.

Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.

Include Transferable Skills

These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.

Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)

Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.

Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.

But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!

Are you bi-lingual? Or even better  – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!

Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.

To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:

• Intermediate

You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!

Hobbies and Interests

If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.

While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.

For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.

And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!

Volunteering Experience

If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money. 

Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.

Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.

Certifications

Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .

If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.

Awards and Recognitions

There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.

So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.

For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.

Publications

Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.

If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!

Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!

Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.

For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.

This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.

But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .

Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.

Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!

Extracurricular Activities

Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.

Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.

For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.

For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.

11+ Expert Resume Tips

You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!

Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:

• Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
• Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
• Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
• Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
• Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
• Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
• Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
• Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
• Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
• Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
• Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
• Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
• Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.

FREE Resume Checklist

Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!

Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!

If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.

And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.

Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.

#1. Traditional Resume Template

Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.

#2. Modern Resume Template

Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.

#3. Creative Resume Template

Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture. 

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking. 

#5. IT Resume Template

Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.

#9. Executive Resume Template

Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.

Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse resume here.

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing resume here.

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer resume here.

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.

#8. High School Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a high school resume here.

#9. Student Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a student resume here.

#10. Server Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a server resume here.

#11. Actor Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an actor resume here.

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.

#13. Engineering Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineering resume here.

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.

#15. Architect Resume Example 

Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist resume here.

Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Bartender Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Supervisor Resume

Next Steps After Your Resume

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.

After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !

In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.

Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.

Just follow this structure:

• Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
• Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
• Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
• Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.

Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:

Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.

It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.

But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?

That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!

Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?

For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.

Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible. 

If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template . 

Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.

#2. How do you make a resume in Word?

The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should: 

• Open MS Word
• Click “file” from the menu bar 
• Select “new”
• Type “resume templates” in the search bar 

That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.

Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!

#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?

If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.

However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.

For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.

So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.

#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?

You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.

All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go! 

That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.

If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format. 

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.

Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.

#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume? 

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.

#7. Should I put my address on my resume? 

You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.

Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address. 

So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”

#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.

If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume. 

In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.

Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.

#9. Is a resume a CV?

Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.

In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.

In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.

You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.

Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.

And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.

In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.

Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.

A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.

To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...

• Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
• Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
• Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
• Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
• Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

Writer resume examples for 2024

A writer's resume should highlight a strong work ethic, customer service skills, and the ability to create engaging content. The ability to write articles, blog posts, and press releases is also important. According to Dr. Joshua Rodefer Ph.D. , Assistant Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Mercer University, "a broad background in coursework is necessary, but quantitative skills, including exposure to data science, data analytics, and computer programming, are special skills that are becoming increasingly important."

Writer resume example

How to format your writer resume:.

• Tailor your resume's job title to match the writer role you're applying for
• Highlight achievements instead of responsibilities in your writing experience
• Experts recommend limiting your writer resume to one page, focusing on relevance

Choose from 10+ customizable writer resume templates

Choose from a variety of easy-to-use writer resume templates and get expert advice from Zippia’s AI resume writer along the way. Using pre-approved templates, you can rest assured that the structure and format of your writer resume is top notch. Choose a template with the colors, fonts & text sizes that are appropriate for your industry.

Entry level writer resume example

Professional writer resume example, resume tips to land the job:.

• If you're choosing between a resume objective or work experience and you want to fit your resume on one page, always choose work experience. However, it's ok for senior level writer resumes to be two full pages long.
• Recruiters and hiring managers suggest short, succinct bullet points, instead of long, wordy paragraphs. Make it easy for recruiters to understand your key accomplishments, in 30 seconds.
• As a rule of thumb, lead each bullet point with a verb such "Grew", "Increased", or "Developed".

Writer resume format and sections

1. add contact information to your writer resume.

Writer Resume Contact Information Example # 1

Hank Rutherford Hill

St. Arlen, Texas | 333-111-2222 | [email protected]

2. Add relevant education to your writer resume

Your resume's education section should include:

• The name of your school
• The date you graduated ( Month, Year or Year are both appropriate)
• The name of your degree

If you graduated more than 15 years ago, you should consider dropping your graduation date to avoid age discrimination.

Optional subsections for your education section include:

• Academic awards (Dean's List, Latin honors, etc. )
• GPA (if you're a recent graduate and your GPA was 3.5+)
• Extra certifications
• Academic projects (thesis, dissertation, etc. )

Other tips to consider when writing your education section include:

• If you're a recent graduate, you might opt to place your education section above your experience section
• The more work experience you get, the shorter your education section should be
• List your education in reverse chronological order, with your most recent and high-ranking degrees first
• If you haven't graduated yet, you can include "Expected graduation date" to the entry for that school

Check More About Writer Education

Writer Resume Relevant Education Example # 1

Bachelor's Degree In Journalism 2002 - 2005

Northwestern University Evanston, IL

Writer Resume Relevant Education Example # 2

Bachelor's Degree In Journalism 2012 - 2015

Pennsylvania State University Main, PA

3. Next, create a writer skills section on your resume

Your resume's skills section should include the most important keywords from the job description, as long as you actually have those skills. If you haven't started your job search yet, you can look over resumes to get an idea of what skills are the most important.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your resume's skills section:

• Include 6-12 skills, in bullet point form
• List mostly hard skills ; soft skills are hard to test
• Emphasize the skills that are most important for the job

Hard skills are generally more important to hiring managers because they relate to on-the-job knowledge and specific experience with a certain technology or process.

Soft skills are also valuable, as they're highly transferable and make you a great person to work alongside, but they're impossible to prove on a resume.

Example of skills to include on an writer resume

Customer service is the process of offering assistance to all the current and potential customers -- answering questions, fixing problems, and providing excellent service. The main goal of customer service is to build a strong relationship with the customers so that they keep coming back for more business.

News Story is a term that is quite self-explanatory as it refers to all the information that is recorded either in writing or as an interview and aims to inform the public about any particular matter, event, idea or mishap. A news story can be very short as well lengthy depending on the type and quantity of content and consist of relevant facts and figures.

Blog post refers to information that you write on a blog. It can include content in the form of text, photos, infographics, or videos.

Top Skills for a Writer

• Work Ethic , 17.8%
• Customer Service , 14.2%
• Web Content , 8.0%
• Math , 7.4%
• Other Skills , 52.6%

4. List your writer experience

The most important part of any resume for a writer is the experience section. Recruiters and hiring managers expect to see your experience listed in reverse chronological order, meaning that you should begin with your most recent experience and then work backwards.

Don't just list your job duties below each job entry. Instead, make sure most of your bullet points discuss impressive achievements from your past positions. Whenever you can, use numbers to contextualize your accomplishments for the hiring manager reading your resume.

It's okay if you can't include exact percentages or dollar figures. There's a big difference even between saying "Managed a team of writers" and "Managed a team of 6 writers over a 9-month project. "

Most importantly, make sure that the experience you include is relevant to the job you're applying for. Use the job description to ensure that each bullet point on your resume is appropriate and helpful.

What experience really stands out on Writer resumes?

Associate Professor and Chair in English , Indiana University Northwest

• Guided growth of online traffic from 40 million page views to 110 million page views.
• Communicated with Athletic Communication Director Made appearances on student radio shows
• Developed integrated marketing communications plan for coordination of programs and ads, among various media platforms.
• Tested new online product before release.
• Returned as an editor to the ABC News Washington, DC Bureau.
• Researched, wrote and edited assigned and enterprise stories for publication and online.
• Emphasized online techniques that would resonate with an online readership and improve Google search ranking.
• Revamped the staff to meet company goals of posting more news online and with more immediacy.
• Collaborated with a media consultant to provide brand awareness and value for clients interested in developing an internet based brand.
• Edited images using Adobe Photoshop, adding visual appeal to content.
• Created web articles using content management system (CMS).
• Assumed leadership role in building Internet Content Group from the ground up.
• Collaborated in long-range issue planning and layout of current month's magazine.
• Supervised Internet Content Group's full-time editorial staff and stable of contract editors.
• Developed social media strategy and online community to recruit testers.
• Covered meetings and wrote feature and informational articles for Michigan State University's online magazine focused on delivering relevant student topics.
• Interviewed industry leaders for articles on relevant and timely business topics.
• Copyedited, QCed, and coordinated print, CD-ROM, and online products.
• Utilized RUNSQLSTM in CLLE programs and SQL Statements in a Source Physical file View.
• Interacted as newspapers official Twitter and Facebook accounts and assisted local editors as needed.

5. Highlight writer certifications on your resume

Specific writer certifications can be a powerful tool to show employers you've developed the appropriate skills.

If you have any of these certifications, make sure to put them on your writer resume:

• Adobe Digital Publishing
• Video Communication with Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 (Pr)
• Certified Blockchain & Digital Marketing Professional

6. Finally, add an writer resume summary or objective statement

A resume summary statement consists of 1-3 sentences at the top of your writer resume that quickly summarizes who you are and what you have to offer. The summary statement should include your job title, years of experience (if it's 3+), and an impressive accomplishment, if you have space for it.

Remember to emphasize skills and experiences that feature in the job description.

Common writer resume skills

• Customer Service
• Web Content
• News Stories
• Press Releases
• Subject Matter Experts
• Writing Articles
• Content Marketing
• Video Games
• Feature Stories
• News Articles
• Conduct Interviews
• Copywriting
• Student Newspaper
• Real Estate
• Develop User
• Smartphones
• Search Engine
• Target Audience
• Informative Articles
• POP Culture
• Content Writing
• Biographies
• Adobe Photoshop
• Contributor
• Short Stories

Entry level writer resume templates

Professional writer resume templates

Writer Jobs

Links to help optimize your writer resume.

• How To Write A Resume
• List Of Skills For Your Resume
• How To Write A Resume Summary Statement
• Action Words For Your Resume
• How To List References On Your Resume

Updated June 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Writer Related Resumes

• Associate Editor Resume
• Content Editor Resume
• Content Writer Resume
• Editor Resume
• Editorial Internship Resume
• Grant Writer Resume
• News Reporter Resume
• Proposal Writer Resume
• Reporter Resume
• Senior Technical Writer Resume
• Technical Writer Resume
• Technical Writer And Editor Resume
• Writer And Editor Resume
• Writer/Producer Resume

Writer Related Careers

• Assistant Editor
• Associate Editor
• Content Editor
• Content Writer
• Editorial Internship
• Grant Writer
• News Reporter
• Proposal Writer
• Senior Technical Writer
• Senior Writer
• Sports Editor
• Staff Writer

Writer Related Jobs

Writer jobs by location.

• Writer Auburn
• Writer Cutlerville
• Writer Fremont
• Writer Fresno
• Writer Greeneville
• Writer Hillcrest Heights
• Writer Islip
• Writer Lowell
• Writer Miami
• Writer Miami Beach
• Writer Northampton
• Writer Olney
• Writer Pelham
• Writer Sacramento
• Writer Watertown Town
• Zippia Careers
• Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Industry
• Writer Resume

Browse arts, entertainment, sports, and media jobs

Top 16 Writer Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 14, 2023 12 min read

A resume objective is a brief statement that appears at the top of your resume and outlines your career goals. It can help you stand out from other applicants by highlighting your qualifications and demonstrating that you are a great fit for the writer position. When writing your resume objective, keep it concise and to the point. Focus on the skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the job. For example, if you’re applying for a writing position at a magazine, you might say something like “Recent graduate with strong writing skills seeking to leverage my creativity and enthusiasm in a writer role at XYZ Magazine.” Additionally, avoid using generic phrases such as “seeking an opportunity” or “to obtain employment” as these do not provide any information about what makes you unique or qualified for the position. By crafting an effective resume objective, you can show employers why they should hire you over other candidates.

or download as PDF

Top 16 Writer Resume Objective Samples

• To utilize my writing and editing skills to create compelling content that engages readers.
• To contribute to a creative team in developing engaging and informative content.
• To apply my knowledge of writing, grammar, and research to produce high-quality written materials.
• To collaborate with other writers and editors to develop effective copy for various projects.
• To leverage my experience in creating content for webpages, blogs, newsletters, magazines, and other publications.
• To use my strong communication skills to convey ideas clearly and concisely.
• To employ my expertise in SEO optimization to enhance visibility of written materials online.
• To utilize my technical writing skills to produce clear and accurate instructions for users.
• Seeking an opportunity to write engaging stories that captivate the reader’s attention.
• Looking for a position where I can utilize my creativity in producing fresh content on a regular basis.
• Aiming to join an organization where I can use my writing skills to promote the company’s mission and values.
• Aspiring to work as a writer in order to express myself through meaningful stories that inspire others.
• Seeking an opportunity where I can use my ability to craft persuasive copy that drives conversions.
• Eager to join a team of writers who share the same passion for creating powerful content that resonates with audiences.
• Looking for a position where I can put my proofreading abilities into practice while ensuring accuracy of written materials.
• Hoping to find an environment where I can hone my storytelling techniques while producing quality work on tight deadlines.

How to Write a Writer Resume Objective

Writing an effective resume objective is an important step in creating an effective resume. A well-crafted resume objective can help you stand out from the crowd and land your dream job. In this essay, I will provide tips on how to write a writer resume objective that will leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

First, think about the kind of job you are applying for and what your aspirations are. This will give you a better understanding of what type of skills and experiences you need to include in your resume objective. Then, list the necessary qualifications or experiences that make you uniquely qualified for that particular role. It’s important to be specific here so that employers can easily see why you’re the best fit for the job.

Next, focus on how your skills and experience can benefit the employer. Here, it’s important to showcase any accomplishments or awards you have achieved in your writing career as these demonstrate your ability to produce quality work. Additionally, highlight any published pieces or other writing projects that show off your writing ability and creativity.

Finally, make sure your writer resume objective is succinct and memorable. Employers have limited time to read each application they receive, so it’s crucial that yours stands out from the crowd by being concise yet impactful. Your resume objective should be no longer than three sentences long; this ensures that all relevant information is included without overwhelming recruiters with too much detail.

By following these steps, you can create a professional and impressive writer resume objective that will help get you noticed by potential employers and land your dream job!

Related : What does a Writer do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Writer Resume Objective

In the competitive field of writing, it's essential to make your resume stand out from the crowd. One effective way to do this is by highlighting your key skills in your resume objective. This section provides potential employers with a snapshot of your abilities and expertise right at the beginning of your resume. It's crucial to carefully select and articulate these skills, as they can set the tone for the rest of your application. In this section, we will discuss some key skills that you should consider including in your writer resume objective to increase your chances of landing that coveted writing job.

1. Proofreading

Proofreading is a crucial skill for a writer because it ensures the final written product is free of errors, inconsistencies, and grammatical mistakes. It demonstrates attention to detail and high standards of work, which are important qualities in a writer. In a resume objective, showcasing this skill can highlight the individual's ability to produce polished, professional content, making them more appealing to potential employers.

2. Storyboarding

Storyboarding is a crucial skill for a writer because it demonstrates their ability to visualize, plan and organize their thoughts and ideas effectively. This skill shows the writer's proficiency in creating a flow and structure for their stories, ensuring that they are coherent, engaging, and impactful. It also indicates their ability to work on projects that require visual elements like scripts for videos, films, or animations. Including this skill in a resume objective can highlight the writer's comprehensive storytelling abilities, making them stand out to potential employers.

3. Outlining

Outlining is a crucial skill for a writer as it helps in organizing thoughts, ideas, and the overall structure of the piece they are working on. This skill can be beneficial when writing a resume objective because it allows the writer to clearly present their career goals and how they plan to achieve them. It also helps in effectively communicating their skills, experiences, and qualifications in a logical and concise manner. A well-outlined objective can grab the attention of employers and make the resume stand out.

4. Dialogue crafting

A writer, particularly in fields such as screenwriting, playwriting, or fiction writing, needs to be proficient in dialogue crafting. This skill is crucial for creating realistic and engaging interactions between characters that can drive the plot forward and reveal character traits. By including this skill in a resume objective, the writer demonstrates their ability to create compelling narratives and character dynamics. It also shows potential employers that the candidate understands an essential component of storytelling which could set them apart from other applicants.

5. World-building

World-building is a crucial skill for a writer, particularly those working in genres such as fantasy or science fiction. It involves creating complex, believable settings for stories, including the culture, history, geography, and social norms of fictional worlds. This skill demonstrates a writer's creativity, imagination, attention to detail, and ability to create engaging narratives that draw readers into unique environments. In a resume objective, highlighting this skill can show potential employers that the candidate is capable of crafting compelling stories with depth and originality.

6. Character development

A writer's ability to develop compelling, believable characters is crucial in storytelling. This skill demonstrates the writer's understanding of human nature, psychology, and interpersonal dynamics, which are all vital in creating engaging narratives that resonate with readers. Character development also showcases a writer's creativity and imagination. In a resume objective, this skill can indicate the writer's capability to create diverse and complex characters, thus enhancing the richness and depth of their work. This could be particularly important for roles in fiction writing, scriptwriting or any form of narrative content creation.

7. Pacing control

Pacing control is a crucial skill for a writer as it determines the rhythm and tempo of their storytelling. It helps in building suspense, developing characters, and keeping the reader engaged throughout the story. This skill can be particularly important when mentioned in a resume objective because it shows potential employers that the candidate has mastered an essential aspect of effective writing. It indicates that they can deliver compelling content that will captivate audiences, making them an asset to any publishing team or creative project.

8. Conflict resolution

As a writer, conflict resolution is an important skill to have because it allows one to effectively handle disagreements or issues that may arise during the writing process. This could be conflicts with co-editors, publishers, or even within the narrative of the story itself. Being able to resolve these conflicts in a professional and efficient manner can lead to a smoother writing process and a more cohesive final product. Additionally, showcasing this skill in a resume objective demonstrates the ability to maintain positive working relationships and contribute to a productive work environment.

9. Theme exploration

A writer's ability to explore various themes is essential for creating diverse and engaging content. This skill showcases their versatility and creativity, which can be applied to different writing projects. It also demonstrates their ability to understand and convey complex ideas, making them an asset in any team or project. In a resume objective, highlighting this skill can help the writer stand out as a candidate capable of delivering unique and thought-provoking work.

10. Scrivener proficiency

Scrivener proficiency is a crucial skill for a writer's resume objective because it demonstrates the ability to use one of the most popular and comprehensive writing tools in the industry. Scrivener is specifically designed for long writing projects, such as novels, scripts, or dissertations. It allows writers to organize their work efficiently, conduct research, and edit effectively. Therefore, proficiency in this software indicates that a writer can manage complex writing tasks effectively and produce high-quality work.

In conclusion, highlighting key skills in your writer resume objective is crucial for making a strong impression. It not only showcases your abilities but also communicates your value to potential employers. Remember, the objective is where you make your first impression; hence, it should effectively convey your expertise and potential as a candidate. Tailoring these skills to match the job description can further increase your chances of landing an interview. Ultimately, the goal is to present yourself as a well-rounded and capable writer who can contribute positively to any organization or project.

Related : Writer Editor Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a Writer Resume Objective

A resume objective is a critical part of any job application, as it provides employers with an overview of your professional goals and qualifications. Unfortunately, there are many common mistakes that writers make when crafting their resume objectives. To ensure that you stand out from the competition and present yourself in the best light possible, it is important to avoid these common errors.

The first mistake that writers often make when writing their resume objective is failing to tailor it to the specific job they are applying for. A generic resume objective that could apply to any job is unlikely to impress potential employers; instead, you should focus on how your skills and experience align with the position at hand. By doing so, you demonstrate that you understand the role and have taken the time to craft a personalized objective statement.

Another mistake made by writers when writing their resume objectives is focusing too heavily on themselves rather than on what they can offer an employer. While it’s important to showcase your strengths and accomplishments, be sure not to come across as arrogant or self-serving in your objective statement. Instead, emphasize how your skillset can benefit the company you are applying for and how you will contribute positively to their team.

Finally, many writers fail to keep their resume objectives concise and clear. Employers don’t have much time to review applications and thus want an effective summary of why you are qualified for the job; don’t waste words on fluff or irrelevant information. Stick to concise statements that highlight your strongest qualities while conveying why you are the ideal candidate for the position at hand.

By avoiding these common mistakes when crafting a writer’s resume objective, you can ensure that yours stands out from the rest of the applicants vying for the same job. Taking some extra time upfront will pay off in spades during the hiring process!

Related : Writer Resume Examples

A right resume objective for a writer would be to highlight their ability to create compelling, articulate content that meets the needs of the client; whereas a wrong resume objective for a writer would be to emphasize their desire to increase their income or gain more fame.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles

• Top 16 Copywriter Resume Objective Examples
• Top 16 Assistant Underwriter Resume Objective Examples
• Top 16 Junior Underwriter Resume Objective Examples
• Top 16 Loan Underwriter Resume Objective Examples
• Top 16 Mortgage Underwriter Resume Objective Examples
• Top 16 Freelance Copywriter Resume Objective Examples

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)

Your resume is arguably the most valuable piece of paper for your career. But this document can be daunting for many. Maybe you’re not sure how to fit in all your information onto one page. Maybe you’re not sure about the right way to format and write your resume. Maybe you don’t even know what the heck a resume is!

Whatever your concern, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect resume, from scratch.

What Is a Resume?

What are employers looking for in a resume.

• Pick Your Format
• Start With Your Basic Information
• Add in Your Work Experience
• Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience
• Don’t Forget Your Education
• Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests
• Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)
• Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)
• Edit and Refine It

What Are Some Examples of a Good Resume?

A resume is a summary of your career, whether yours is just getting started or has been going on for years. Coming in at around one page in length (two only under specific circumstances), it showcases the jobs you’ve held and currently hold, the responsibilities you’ve taken on, the skills you’ve developed, and the qualities you bring to the table as an employee. Together, those things make it super easy for any hiring manager to see your qualifications and fit for a role.

For all the work you may put into writing one, hiring managers actually spend very little time—mere seconds in many cases—looking at your resume. But despite this sad fact, it’s safe to say that creating a great resume (rather than hastily throwing one together) still matters.

“If you miss the mark, your resume may never be read. Even worse, you might be removed from the applicant pool by a computer before a human even knows you exist,” says Muse career coach Heather Yurovsky , founder of Shatter & Shine. So you want to get it right because, as she explains, isn’t the goal to “spend less time looking for a job and more time in a role you love?”

You might be wondering if you can lean on your LinkedIn profile instead of writing a resume. The answer, sadly, is no. Most hiring managers still expect you to submit a resume, even if they also look at your LinkedIn. Even if you don’t need a resume for a job you’re applying for now, you’re going to need one at some point in your career—they’re not anywhere close to going out of style. So it’s best to always have one at the ready should an opportunity pop up.

And although LinkedIn has plenty of benefits, a resume has one clear advantage: While your LinkedIn is usually a broader picture of your career trajectory, your resume gives you the opportunity to tailor your career story to a specific role or company (more on that later).

Oh, and you’ve probably heard of something called a CV? It’s slightly different from a resume , and usually more common with academics and job seekers outside the U.S.

Hiring managers look for three things on your resume, “What did you do? Why did you do it? And what was the result?” says Muse career coach Martin McGovern , owner of Career Therapy. “If you can answer all three of these questions in...your resume bullet points, you’re going to be on the right track.”

Clear, easy-to-understand language is key. “The truth is that most resumes make no sense. They are stuffed with jargon, they are too technical, and they are filled with redundancies. Try to read a resume that isn’t yours and you will quickly realize that it feels like an alien wrote it,” McGovern adds. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter who has no idea how your role works—how can you make your resume accessible to them?

The hiring manager also cares about more than just you and you alone—they care about you in relation to them. “Hiring managers want to see if a candidate matches the requirements” of the role they’re hiring for, Yurovsky explains. “Your resume should paint this picture so the hiring manager not only knows what day-to-day responsibilities you can handle, but why you, above other[s], bring value to their organization.”

How Do You Write a Resume?

Whether you’re someone who’s never written a resume in your life, or you need a nice, thorough refresher on the process of creating one, follow these steps to go from a blank page to a complete—and dare I say beautiful—document.

Related: This Free Worksheet Makes It Easy to Create (or Update) Your Resume

1. Pick Your Format

Before you start typing one single thing, you have to decide what you want the overall resume to look like.

Resume builders can be helpful for this step—they’ll take all your basic information and organize it for you, eliminating some of the legwork. You can also use a pre-made outline, such as one of these free Google Docs templates .

But it’s often safest to start with a clean slate all on your own and eventually upgrade to a more advanced layout. (If you'd still like a place to write all the relevant information before you get started, check out our resume outline .) This allows you to course correct, edit and re-edit, and choose a resume format that best fits your particular situation (after all, not everyone has a career trajectory that’s easy to compartmentalize).

In general, you’re most likely to cover and/or include sections on the following:

• Your work experience
• Your non-work experience, including professional organizations, community involvement, or side projects
• Your education and certifications
• Your skills (specifically hard skills) and interests

So how do you format and organize all of that information?

By far the most common (and safest, if you’re not sure which route to take) option is reverse chronological order . This means you organize your experiences from most recent to least recent. So your work experiences would go above your education, and your current role would go above previous roles you’ve held. This of course has its exceptions—maybe you went back to grad school between jobs, or your most recent role is irrelevant to the job you’re applying for. So the whole page may not be exactly in reverse chronological order depending on your situation. It’s just a guideline.

There’s also something called a functional or skills-based resume . This is used pretty rarely, mainly with career changers and those with limited or complicated work histories. It gets its name because it’s primarily about listing your skills rather than experiences, and showcases them above your work history and education.

You can also opt for a combination resume , which is a mix between a reverse chronological resume and skills-based resume. It highlights your skills at the top, but allows just as much room below to cover your job and school experience.

Use caution when choosing these two formats: “Combo and skills-based [resumes] can be hard to follow, because [they force] the reader to hunt for connections between your skills and experience, and [don’t] provide the full context of your work,” says Muse Career Coach Angela Smith , founder of Loft Consulting. “I’ve also heard a lot of recruiters say that they automatically discount skill-based resumes because they feel the candidate is trying to hide something. I don’t necessarily believe that, but I think it’s important for job-seekers to know that perception is out there.”

2. Start With Your Basic Information

Your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:

• Your full name (preferably the name you use across the web)
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address

You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your GitHub (for technical roles), your social media profiles (if relevant to the job), or your address. If you’re looking to move for a job, you may choose to leave out your address or write “open to relocating” to better your chances of getting an interview.

The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.

3. Add in Your Work Experience

This section will most likely be the bulk of your resume. Even if you’re changing careers, employers still want to see where you’ve worked, what you’ve done, and the impact of that work to get a sense of your background and expertise.

Your “Work Experience” might be one entire category, or you might choose to break it up into “Relevant Experience” and “Additional Experience” to highlight the jobs that are most important for hiring managers to focus on. Either way, you’ll almost always want to have your most recent experience at the top and your older experience down below.

Within your work experience, you’ll want to include each official job title, the company (and possibly its location), and the years you worked there. Below that, you’ll add in two to four bullet points explaining what you did in that job, the skills you built and exercised, the tools you used, and the results of what you did. If you accomplished a lot during your time there, focus on the responsibilities that made the most impact or you’re the most proud of, as well as the ones that best align you with the job you’re applying for (more on that in the following sections). It’s key here to list, if relevant, quantitative as well as qualitative accomplishments.

For example, you might write:

Associate Accountant, Finances and Co., Ann Arbor, MI September 2017 – Present

• Manage billing and invoicing for more than 50 clients, ensuring the deadlines and needs of our enterprise partners, including Big Company and Super Star Org, are met
• Collaborate closely with sales, account management, and project management teams on project setup, maintenance, and invoice management
• Assist in the streamlining of invoicing guidelines and procedures through documentation and the implementation of new software, resulting in an average two-week decrease in total time spent per client

Your resume bullets should be in past tense if you’re referring to past jobs and present tense if you’re talking about your current roles. In addition, your bullets should always start with a strong action verb that best describes what you did. And if you have examples of your work, consider hyperlinking them here as well.

If you have a ton of experience and this category is starting to run long (read: over one page), consider kicking out your oldest jobs unless they’re super relevant to the job you’re applying for, or extra impressive for your field.

Not sure where to start? “It’s helpful to do a brain dump and create a document that has everything and anything you consider as experience or an achievement,” says Yurovsky. From there, she explains, you can start to whittle down what is and isn’t important. And you can refer to this document later if you ever decide to update your resume for a specific role.

Need more specific advice on listing your work experience on your resume? Check out these additional resources:

• When you’ve held multiple jobs at the same company: 2 Jobs, 1 Company: How to Show Multiple Positions on Your Resume
• When you’re not sure what your accomplishments are or how to explain them: Resume Revamp: How to Turn Your Duties Into Accomplishments
• When you want to spruce up a boring or insignificant job: How to Make Your Most Boring Jobs Sound More Interesting on Your Resume
• When you’re considering fudging a job title: The Answer to “Can I Change My Job Title on My Resume to Make It More Accurate?”
• When you’ve had a bunch of short-term gigs: How to List Temporary Jobs on Your Resume

4. Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience

Anything you’ve done that’s not work experience—your side gig, volunteer work, special projects—can be hosted under clearly-labeled sections (“Volunteer Experience” or “Activities,” for example). Depending on how robust your work experience is, these things may be worth including, particularly if they’ve helped you level up your skill set or better align you with your dream job. Plus, they make you look that much more well-rounded, passionate, and hardworking.

If you’re a recent grad, you might also build out a section for on-campus activities, such as clubs, organizations, or leadership experience. This can be a great supplement if you’re lacking in the jobs department. You can frame these just as you would professional jobs—including your title, the organization’s name, and bullets describing what your role was and what you accomplished.

Read More: This Is Exactly How to List Volunteer Work on Your Resume

5. Don’t Forget Your Education

If you’re still in school or just graduated, your education can go at the top of your resume, but for pretty much everyone else, this goes near the bottom. Most people include their school, graduation year (for folks less up to about a decade out of school), major, and degree. Brand-new grads might also write in their GPA, honors and awards, study abroad, thesis, or other notable achievements. But keep this section super simple, as you don’t want it to take up too much space over your work experience.

It’s possible you have unique education experience, such as taking an online course or certification. If you did this specifically as a way to boost yourself within your industry, definitely include it. Again, list everything more or less reverse chronologically—so a grad school degree would go above an undergrad degree, and a more recent relevant online course would go above that.

Learn more about the ins and outs of listing your education on your resume:

• How to (and How Not to) List Education on Your Resume
• How to List Online Courses on Your Resume the Right Way (Because Yes, There Is a Wrong Way)

6. Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests

The skills section of a resume gets a bad rap, but it’s just as important as the rest of the stuff you include. It’s a quick list a recruiter can scan to see if your skill set aligns with what they’re hiring for. And it’s super ATS-friendly (ATS stands for “applicant tracking system,” the robot that in some cases reads your resume before a human does) because it allows you to add in keywords the machine is scanning for.

Usually this section goes at the bottom of your resume, but in special cases—such as a skills-based resume or when someone’s switching fields—you may place it further up.

What exactly do you throw in here? You’ll want to list any hard skills and applications you’re familiar with (Photoshop, SEO, JavaScript, to name a few examples), and, if relevant, your level of expertise. Avoid including soft skills here, like time management or public speaking—save those for your bullet points instead.

Be strategic when filling in your skills. Don’t list things you actually couldn’t do at a high competence level (I’m looking at those of you who say you’re “great” at Excel), and maybe nix skills that are completely irrelevant to the job you want. For example, you may not even need to include Excel if you’re applying for say, a design position, unless it’s listed as a job requirement.

Maybe you’re thinking, I’m a really good volleyball player, but that’s not a “skill,” right? No, it’s not, but it is a hobby. Adding in a hobby section at the bottom of your resume is underrated, and frequently a smart choice. It can be a great conversation starter with a hiring manager, and it can show that you’re a good culture fit—or a culture add—for the company. Also, it’s just a nice way to add in some of your personality. So tack on a bullet point listing out some of your interests, such as hiking, rowing, or crafting (no more than five to seven work-appropriate verbs), and you’re all set here.

7. Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)

You may have heard of a resume summary statement . They’re not super common, but they can be useful to include near the top of your resume if you’re looking to add clarity or context to your resume. If you’re a career changer, you might find a summary statement helpful in explaining your leap and tying your experience to your new path. Or if you’re a more experienced professional, you can use a summary statement to highlight a theme that brings your career trajectory together.

Overall, you probably won’t need a summary statement if your career is pretty linear and your bullet points do a great job of emphasizing what you have to offer in terms of skills and experience. But if you think it makes sense to include one, “Take the time to think about what the person reading your summary wants to know before you write it,” says McGovern. “Good summaries explain why you do what you do and how it can help. For instance: Merging a background in ABC, I help companies improve XYZ through 123. Summaries shouldn’t be any more complicated than that.”

So, taking McGovern’s example, you might say:

Merging a background in social media marketing and PR with seven years in the consumer tech space, I help companies improve their internal and external communication and brand awareness through data-driven, quality content and strategies that align with the modern trends of the space.

Yurovsky adds that “you don’t want your summary statement to be a dense paragraph with too much information. You want it to be easy to read, concise, and memorable. Almost like a tagline.”

Read More: 3 Resume Summary Examples That’ll Make Writing Your Own Easier

8. Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)

Once you have your resume written out—you’ve broken down your work experience, tagged on some activities and additional experiences, and listed out your skills—it’s important to go back to the job description (or multiple job descriptions, if you’re applying to several similar jobs) and make sure that what your resume says matches up with the kind of candidate the employers are looking for. In other words, tailor it .

Let’s explain further. You’ll want to begin by tackling the ATS . This means combing the job description to see if individual words and phrases line up. What skills are they asking for, and have you listed them (so long as you actually have them)? What words are they using to describe their ideal hire, and do you use similar language in your resume?

Next, take a bird’s-eye view. If you were the hiring manager for the role, where on your resume would your eyes be drawn to? And what would you be looking for? Whatever you think will be most important for the recruiter, make sure it’s near the top of your resume, or otherwise emphasized.

Finally, dig into the role and responsibilities of the job. Does your resume reflect similar experience? If not, is there a way you can spin it so that it’s clear you’re capable of doing the job (and doing it well)?

These articles can help you if the word “tailoring” makes you start to sweat:

• What It Really Means to “Tailor Your Resume”
• Your Guide to Making Unrelated Experience Look Relevant on Your Resume
• A Cool Trick: How to Spin 1 Resume Bullet 5 Different Ways

9. Edit and Refine It

Please, please don’t just write your resume and shoot it out without giving it a second glance. Hiring managers may not spend hours browsing it, but if there’s one thing that sticks out more than anything else it’s a glaring typo.

The best approach? Write a rough draft, then leave and come back to it later with fresh eyes to give it an edit.

Cover the basics: Is your contact information correct and updated? Are you using the right verb tenses? Does everything look consistent and accurate in terms of spelling and grammar?

Then do some cutting if your resume’s quite long. It’s no longer a hard-and-fast rule that all resumes must be only one page—but consider it a smart guideline for most applicants, especially if you've got less than 10 years work experience. The exception is if you’re very senior or very established in your career; in this scenario, a two-page resume isn’t completely out of the question. Everyone else, read this article for advice on how to cut your resume down.

Formatting-wise, it’s key to consider a couple things. First, what font are you using , and is it legible (for a human and a robot)? When in doubt, go with one of these simple, but sleek, options: Arial, Arial Narrow, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond, or Helvetica.

Second, are you going to save it as a Word document or PDF ? Neither option is wrong, although a PDF helps ensure that your formatting is maintained, no matter what type of computer the hiring manager uses to open the document.

Third, is your resume formatted in a way that it’s skimmable? If it’s feeling crowded or overrun with words, read this: 12 Tiny Changes That Make Your Resume Easy for Recruiters to Skim .

Once you’ve given it a few good looks, it may be worth sending it to a friend or colleague (or even a career coach ) to get a second opinion. Don’t just have them edit it for spelling and grammar—they should dig into your bullets and offer feedback on whether or not your resume is showing you in the best possible light (it’s smart to also send them the job description for something to compare it to).

Here’s the thing: Your resume won’t ever look exactly like someone else’s, nor should it. How you choose to format it, organize your information, and talk about specific experiences depends not just on your career path, but on your field, the job you’re applying for, the company that job is at, and more.

So there isn’t a universal way to do a resume. But there are common themes. To give you some context as to how yours might turn out, here are three examples of different kinds of resumes.

The Most Popular: A Reverse Chronological Resume

As previously mentioned, a reverse chronological resume is preferred by many coaches and HR experts, mainly because it’s super readable. When everything’s in a clear order, it’s easy to skim and even easier to draw lines between experiences.

Who it’s good for: Just about everyone—from students applying to internships all the way up to senior-level executives (with an optional resume summary statement)

Download an Example Chronological Resume for a Software Engineer

The Unorthodox Route: A Functional or Skills-Based Resume

Rather than listing out your experience in reverse chronological order, a functional or skills-based resume has bullet points that reflect how each of your skills is demonstrated by the work you’ve done over the course of your career. At the bottom, you’ll include everything else, such as your education, job history, professional achievements, community involvement, and other technical skills. This is a good option if you have a somewhat all-over-the-place work history and want to tie everything together neatly.

Who it’s good for: Career changers whose work experiences may not appear to be relevant and people with an abundance of temporary jobs or gaps in their work histories.

Download an Example Functional Resume for a Project Manager

The Creative Angle: An Infographic Resume or Resume Website

This resume type is characterized by how it’s formatted visually. You may choose a reverse chronological order or skills-based style to organize your information, but also use graphics, colors, unique fonts, and even multimedia elements to help that information pop. Keep in mind that any creative resume is still likely subject to an ATS—and certain elements may be unreadable by a robot. So consider going this route only if you know a human will be reading your resume (and that said human might enjoy it).

Who it’s good for: People applying to creative roles (designers, editors, writers, marketers, video producers, for example), startups, or fun companies, or to jobs where a creative resume is encouraged, if not required.

Download an Example Infographic Resume for a Designer

Not a designer but want your resume to look just as pretty as this example? Check out these articles:

• 5 Sites to Create an Awesome Infographic Resume (Even if You’re the Least Creative Person Ever)
• How to Build a Resume Website That Will Impress Every Hiring Manager Who Sees It
• 5 Digital Tools That Will Make Your Resume Infinitely More Beautiful

Your resume is a living, breathing document. So while you won’t go through this whole process every time you apply for a job, you should be thinking about all these things as you go to update your resume for your next career step. You might decide later on to switch up the order, or remove or add things, or even get creative and try out a whole new format. If you’re not getting the calls back you expect, you may decide to scrap it and start over —and that’s totally OK.

Regardless of where this piece of paper goes and how it grows, when you give it the care and attention it deserves, you set yourself up for success. And you’ll make it that much more likely that you’ll land an interview and get the chance to prove to the hiring manager—over the phone or in person—what you’ve got to offer.

Search form

Make a Gift

Department of Economics

• Undergraduate

18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

• Job Search Tips

7 Must-Have Resume Headers and Sections: Perfect Your Resume!

12 min read

Structure your resume for success!

Writing an awesome resume is hard! With a blank page staring at you, it’s difficult to even know where to begin. Don’t panic – we’re here to help. 

Just getting a basic structure in place makes it much easier to write the information you need, so start with some straightforward resume headers and sections. In this article, we’ll share some ways to organize your resume and discuss the perfect resume headers and sections to stand out. 

Why are resume headers so important?

Hiring managers depend heavily on your resume layout to find the information that’s relevant to them, so an easy-to-read layout will greatly improve your chances of securing an interview. In short, the more intuitively your resume is organized, the easier it is for hiring managers to decipher the information and pick out the details they’re looking for.  

There are certain things to keep in mind when drafting your resume. In particular, you’ll need to decide where to put information and how to label it. When hiring managers have just a few seconds to glance over your resume, it’s important that you organize it so they can easily find the key information.

The way you organize the information on your resume is almost as important as the content itself. These are just some of the reasons: 

Your resume will likely be scanned by an applicant tracking system

If your information is not labeled correctly, the ATS won’t know how to categorize it. Applicant tracking systems scan through your information using page markers like headers. If you have easily navigable resume headers and sections, the ATS is more likely to interpret your resume accurately. 

If your resume is not well structured, however, the applicant tracking system will have a hard time locating relevant details. It will present the employer with jumbled information.

In short, a well-organized resume will make it easy for the ATS to identify keywords and categorize your information, bringing you one step closer to winning an interview and landing the job.

Your resume will be scanned by a hiring manager – but only for a few seconds

Most hiring managers are tasked with going through dozens, sometimes hundreds, of resumes in a short period of time. Because of this high demand, most hiring managers spend only a few seconds scanning each resume. Of course, that’s not even close to enough time to actually read the whole resume. 

So, how can we guide the eyes of the employer to the information we absolutely need them to see? 

With clear and concise resume section headers, of course!

Let’s expand on the role of the hiring manager and look more closely at how they spend these precious seconds analyzing each resume.

Ladders analyzed recruiter tendencies, and the results speak volumes about what the most important aspects of a successful resume are (you can check out the full report here ). In short, they found the average hiring manager spends just 7.4 seconds looking at each resume.

To make you seem professional 

Your resume is the first impression you’ll make on the hiring manager, so it needs to look smart and professional. You could present a long, rambling essay on your experience and skills, but what they’re expecting, and what looks infinitely more professional, is a well-presented, concise summary of your suitability for the role. 

A  well-laid-out resume shows you know what’s expected and can present an attractive, structured, and relevant document that makes a compelling argument for your candidacy. Resume headers play a key role in achieving that. 

Now that we've established why concise resume organization is essential to success let’s dive into the details of how you can effectively use resume headers and sections to structure your resume.

Headers for your resume

First, determine which information is likely to be most important to the employer. Usually, it’s things that prove your suitability for the role, such as experience, skills, and qualifications. Then, clearly label that information and format it clearly. The most important sections include: 

1. Resume title and header section

Let’s start with the first of the resume headers, the header for your entire resume. This main header section (also called the resume title) is going to be more robust than the others as it serves as an overall introduction to the resume and provides some basic information about you. Position it at the very top of your resume. It doesn’t need to take up much space – a couple of lines should suffice. 

The essentials that you absolutely must include in your professional resume header are:

Name - in a larger font than the rest of your resume, at the very top of the page.

Email address and phone number - make it as easy as possible for recruiters to contact you!

Location - just city, state, and zip code will suffice

The following details are optional but really helpful if you've spent time optimizing them – they can add that little extra zing that other candidates may not provide. 

Personal website: Depending on the industry you’re going into, a personal website can give you a huge advantage over the competition and help your resume header stand out. For example, an Artist or Graphic Designer can leverage a portfolio website to show off their expertise.

LinkedIn: Most hiring managers will check your LinkedIn profile, so if you have one, make sure you include a link. You can check out our post on how to include a LinkedIn URL on a resume. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile yet, it’s worth setting one up to support your job search. It’s free and could help you land a job quicker !

2. The resume summary

Including a professional resume summary will help you catch the attention of a hiring manager. There’s an example above to give you inspiration on how to format the resume summary. As the first information that a hiring manager will read about you, it’s important this section is jam-packed with keywords and reasons for them to hire you. There’s no need to label this section as long as you stick to paragraph form. If you do wish to give it a header, choose something simple, such as: 

Professional Profile

Professional Summary

Personal Statement

Expert tip: Look upon the resume summary as your elevator pitch and include the most compelling and convincing information, skills, experience relevant to your target role.

3. Key Skills

A key skills section is very useful for highlighting keywords relevant to the role and capturing the attention of a hiring manager with snappy, relevant bullet points. For more information, read our post on choosing the right core competencies for your resume . You could choose one of the following headers: 

Core Competencies

Areas of Expertise

4. Work Experience

The work experience section should take up the bulk of your resume. You could add “Key Achievements” subheadings for each job, too, to really highlight the value you bring to an organization.

You may want to create a separate header for voluntary work, although it’s perfectly fine to include volunteering within your career history if you prefer – particularly if it will cover a career gap. 

Resume headers for this section could include: 

Career Summary

Work Experience

Professional History

Employment History 

Professional Experience

Voluntary Roles

Internships 

5. Education

This is another important category that’s often part of the recruiter’s initial scan. You can also be more specific and divide it into academic and work-related learning. Key information to add within this section is the level of qualification, subject title, and year of completion. A simple header here is perfect, such as: 

Qualifications

Academic Background

Professional Development

Certifications

This post has more details on listing education on a resume.

6. Technical Skills

Having a technical skills section is optional if your industry doesn't require a lot of technical skills – but we don't recommend completely eliminating any relevant skills you have. If you don’t feel a whole Technical Skills section is worth it for the roles you’re aiming at, you can include the skills in your Core Competencies section instead.

However, if you’re applying in an industry where specific hard skills are valued, it’s helpful to create a dedicated section. For example, you could directly address the requirements of the job listing with headers like: 

IT Proficiency

Technical Skills

For more information on drafting the perfect skills section, check out our blog post that covers what skills you should put on your resume .

7. Achievements 

Ideally, you’ll list career-related achievements as part of every job you include. But if you feel a bit light on achievements, or you have a handful of knockout achievements that you really want to highlight, or you have some personal achievements that don’t sit comfortably anywhere else on the resume, you may want to create a separate achievements section. This will draw the readers’ eye to details you’re particularly keen to show off, whether that’s a professional achievement, such as saving the company $5 million, or a personal achievement, such as raising $10,000 for a charity. 

Personal achievements should be positioned at the end of the resume, whilst professional achievements should be positioned much more prominently. Bear in mind the rule that the most critical information you want to convey to a recruiter should be clear within the top third of the first page. 

Header ideas for this section include: 

Key Achievements

Personal Achievements

Contributions

Accomplishments 

8. Optional sections

These other resume header examples are not strictly necessary unless you want to highlight a personal selling point that is highly relevant to the role you’re applying for. You could consider including:

Affiliations, such as memberships of professional bodies

Projects - personal or professional 

Research and Publications

Activities and Interests

Resume headers and section examples

Use these examples of resume headers to get you started:

Main resume header and contact details

Key Skills 

Professional Experience 

Qualifications 

Technical Skills 

Personal Achievements 

With this structure in place, you’ll be ready to guide your thoughts and start writing so that you can get the key information down on the page. Then, you’ll be ready to tweak and tailor it to perfectly fit the role you’re applying for.

How to style your resume headers

Good resume headers stand out from the rest of the text but don't go over the top. A larger and bolder font will do the trick. You may also want to consider underlining headers in a resume to separate them from the body of the text – although not in such a way that they’re mistaken for hyperlinks. You've done a good job if it’s clear at first glance where the headers are located.

Make the text in the headers short and specific. Don't get too creative with these section headers, either. They're signposts to identify how you've organized your resume; they shouldn’t distract the reader from the valuable content within each section!

The following is a good example of a resume header format by the professional writers here at ZipJob :

Creative resume headings

While we’re all in favor of creativity and individuality, we really can’t recommend using creative headers. Whether that’s in terms of wording (such as “What you need to know about me”) or format (such as graphics and text boxes), creative headers are generally not the way forward. The keys are to remain professional, to make the reader’s job easier by giving them what they expect, and to present a resume that is scanned accurately by an ATS. 

Resume sections for students

While students will need the same resume sections as an experienced professional, they may be presented in a different order. If you have no work experience relevant to your desired role, position your education section above the experience section and elaborate more on the skills and knowledge you gained at university. 

Your experience section can then be much shorter and focus on part-time roles, internships, volunteering, and seasonal work. You’ll still be able to show a great work ethic and transferable skills by including them, even if they’re not directly applicable to your chosen career. 

Should my resume have headers and footers?

So far, in this article, we’ve focused on section headings for your resume. But what about using the Header and Footer functions in Word? It’s tempting to use the Header function for your name and contact details and the Footer function to duplicate the information on the second and subsequent pages, but we’d strongly advise against it. Some ATS can’t read the information in headers and footers, so although a human will be able to see the details as you intended, the information may get missed when your resume is scanned. 

Use headers as signposts to get the YES you’re waiting for

Your resume headers and sections are a guide for the hiring manager and applicant tracking systems to find your information. With the correct resume header format, your resume is one step closer to landing you that elusive interview.

We wish you lots of luck in your job search. When you’ve written your resume, why not submit it for a free review from our team of resume experts? 

This post was originally written in 2016 and was updated in 2021, 2023 and 2024.

Recommended reading:

Resume Format Types: Examples & Which Option Is Best?

How to Write a Good Resume Summary (+Examples)

What Is A Resume Title? (+30 Examples

Jen David, Editor & Content Writer, Jen David, Editor & Content Writer

Jen David has been writing CVs since 2010 and is the founder of CV Shed . She has worked with clients in numerous industries and at all stages of their careers, from students through to senior executives of global businesses. She loves producing polished, focused CVs that appeal to both human recruiters and applicant tracking systems, enabling her clients to take the next step in their careers. Jen has written and edited numerous articles for publication on industry-leading job boards.

Our resume services get results.

We’ve helped change over 30,000 careers.

Get a free resume review today

Our experts will review your resume’s grammar, layout, and ability to pass ATS — all free and delivered straight to your inbox.

Log In to Resume Trick

• Log in with Google

Forgot password?

Don’t have an account? Sign Up here

Create your free account

Please verify email. check your inbox and follow the activation link., recover your password.

Please enter your email to reset your password. You will receive letter with the password reset link.

What Motivates You to Do a Good Job?

• Aug 22, 2024

Navigating job interviews can be daunting, but being prepared for common questions can significantly boost your confidence and performance.

One such pivotal question often posed by interviewers is, "What motivates you to do a good job?" This inquiry goes beyond assessing your skills and qualifications; it delves into your personal drivers and professional aspirations.

In this article, we will explore strategies to craft a compelling and authentic answer , ensuring you leave a lasting impression and advance one step closer to landing your desired job.

Why do interviewers ask this question?

Inquiring about drive and ambition is a dreaded question in job interviews . This may seem like a simple survey, but it holds great significance for employers.

This query helps them determine several key aspects about you:

Question variations

When asked about motivation in the workplace, there are several variations of the same "what motivates you" question that may arise.

Some common ones include:

• What drives you to succeed in your work?
• What inspires you to perform at your best?
• What factors motivate you to achieve your goals?
• What keeps you motivated in your job?
• What influences your work ethic and dedication?*
• What are your primary motivators at work?
• What energizes you to go the extra mile?
• What gives you the most satisfaction?
• What makes you passionate about your job?
• What aspects of your occupation keep you engaged and motivated?

All of these inquiries essentially boil down to one thing: What pushes you to do your best? And the answer can vary greatly from person to person.

How to prepare an answer to "What motivates you at work?"

Step 1. self-reflection.

• Identify Your Motivators. Think about what genuinely drives you. Is it achieving goals , continuous learning, helping others, solving complex problems, recognition, or something else?
• Analyze Past Experiences. Reflect on your previous jobs or projects. What aspects excited you the most? What achievements made you feel fulfilled?

Step 2. Align with the Company

• Research the Company. Find out the company’s values, and mission. What do they emphasize? Teamwork, innovation, customer satisfaction, etc.?
• Understand the Role. Review the job description and identify key responsibilities. What qualities are they looking for in a candidate?

How to answer what motivates you to do a good job

Here’s how you can structure your response:.

• Share your primary inspirations . Be clear and concise.
• Use examples from your past work experiences that illustrate what motivates you. This makes your respond more concrete and believable.
• Show that your motivations align with the job responsibilities and the company’s culture.
• End with a positive note , expressing your excitement about the role and how you plan to bring your motives to the job.
• Give a generic or rehearsed answer.
• Use vague statements and forget to include specific examples to support your point.
• Mention negative motivators like fear of failure or dislike of criticism.
• Focus excessively on financial rewards or compensation .
• Make lengthy claims with too many details.

Types of motivation

Look at some examples divided by inspiration type to understand how different drivers can shape individuals' dedication and performance in their roles.

Intrinsic motivation

Definition: Driven by internal rewards and personal satisfaction.

Personal Growth : Motivated by opportunities to learn and improve skills .

I am motivated by personal growth and the satisfaction of mastering new skills. In my previous role, I took on a project that involved learning a programming language. Despite the initial challenges, I successfully implemented the new system, which not only enhanced my technical abilities but also improved our team's efficiency by 30%.

Passion for the Work : Motivated by a genuine interest in the job itself.

I have always been passionate about designing user-friendly interfaces. Seeing users interact seamlessly with the products I design is incredibly fulfilling for me.

Sense of Achievement : Motivated by completing tasks and achieving goals.

I am driven by the satisfaction of seeing a project through from start to finish. Delivering a successful project on time gives a feeling of fulfillment.

Extrinsic motivation

Definition: Driven by external rewards or to avoid negative outcomes.

Praise : Motivated by acknowledgment from peers, supervisors, or the public.

Receiving positive feedback and recognition for my efforts from my colleagues and supervisors is a strong motivator for me. It drives me to maintain high standards in my work.

Career Advancement : Motivated by opportunities for promotion and career growth.

I am motivated by clear career progression opportunities. Knowing that my hard work and dedication can lead to promotions and new challenges keeps me focused and driven.

Social motivation

Definition: Driven by the desire to interact with others and contribute to the community.

Team Collaboration : Motivated by working collaboratively and building a team.

I thrive in a team environment where mutual support is key. Acting together with my colleagues to achieve common goals is very motivating for me.

Helping Others : Motivated by making a positive difference in the lives of strangers.

I am passionate about customer service because I enjoy helping people solve their problems and seeing the positive impact of my work on their satisfaction.

Purpose-driven motivation

Definition: Driven by a sense of purpose or mission.

Company Mission : Motivated by aligning personal values with the company’s mission.

I am deeply motivated by the mission of your company to provide sustainable solutions. Contributing to an organization that prioritizes environmental responsibility aligns with my personal goals.

Social Impact : Motivated by the broader impact of one’s work on society .

I find great motivation in working for organizations that make a positive impact on society. My previous role at a nonprofit organization allowed me to contribute to meaningful social change, which was incredibly rewarding.

What motivates you to work good sample answers

Now, let's explore inspiring reply examples tailored for diverse industries, showcasing how professionals are motivated by different factors in their careers.

What motivates your best on-the-job performance? I am motivated by the opportunity to innovate and solve complex problems. In my role as a software engineer at Tech Innovators, I thrive on the challenge of developing algorithms and finding efficient solutions to coding issues. The satisfaction of creating something new and valuable drives me to continually learn and improve.

Resume examples:

What motivates you to work hard? My inspiration comes from witnessing the positive impact my work has on the health of patients. At Mercy Hospital, I find immense satisfaction in seeing patients regain their health and vitality under our care. I recently worked with a patient recovering from surgery who expressed her gratitude for the attentive and compassionate care that significantly accelerated her recovery. This personal connection and knowing that my efforts directly improve patients' lives fuels my desire to provide the highest standard of care every day.

What motivates you at work? I excel at designing digital marketing campaigns that genuinely connect with our target audience. I spearheaded a social media initiative where we shared compelling customer stories and interactive content, resulting in a notable boost in brand loyalty. Seeing firsthand how our strategies positively impact consumer behavior and strengthen brand relationships is a source of enthusiasm and dedication for me.

Financial Services

What is your motivation to work? I draw my strength from the fact that financial goals are not only met but exceeded. As a Financial Advisor at Wealth Management Inc., I have consistently exceeded my client's investment goals, which has significantly increased client satisfaction and loyalty. The opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses and be recognized for my accomplishments fuels my dedication to providing superior financial advice.

What drives you at the workplace? My passion lies in sparking a love for learning and helping students reach their full potential. I find great joy in watching students master challenging concepts and enhance their critical thinking skills. For instance, seeing a student who struggled with algebra finally understand and apply it confidently is incredibly rewarding. The chance to shape young minds and support their academic and personal development drives me to constantly refine my teaching methods.

Describe things that motivate you. I relish the challenge of not only meeting but exceeding daily sales goals. For example, during a recent event, I managed to significantly boost revenue by personally engaging with customers and understanding their needs. The competitive atmosphere and acknowledgment for high sales performance drive my commitment to consistently achieve outstanding results.

Volunteering

What keeps you motivated? The chance to make a positive impact on underserved communities is what motivates me. In my role at Hope Foundation, leading initiatives that provide education and resources to disadvantaged youth has been incredibly fulfilling. Seeing tangible improvements in their lives and knowing that our efforts contribute to a brighter future for them drives my dedication to nonprofit work.

What motivates you to perform your job well? I am driven by the prospect of continuous professional development and career advancement. I excel in roles that push me to dissect intricate business challenges and formulate strategic recommendations. For instance, working on a project to streamline operations not only sharpened my data analysis and management skills but also resulted in a significant efficiency boost for the client.

Hospitality

What motivates you to do a good job? I am passionate about creating memorable experiences for guests and exceeding their expectations. As a hotel manager at Beachside Resorts, ensuring that every guest receives exceptional service and enjoys their stay motivates me. The opportunity to build strong relationships with guests and receive feedback on their time spending drives my pursuit of excellence in hospitality.

Manufacturing

What motivates you? As a production engineer , I take great satisfaction in streamlining production processes to minimize waste and boost output. I recently implemented a new automation system that significantly reduced production time and increased overall efficiency. The potential to innovate and apply new technologies that increase productivity and product quality feeds my commitment to continuous improvement.

What motivates you to do a great job? The opportunity to represent clients and achieve favorable outcomes in legal disputes is incredibly rewarding. The challenge of researching complex cases and presenting compelling arguments in court motivates me to excel in my legal practice and deliver positive results for my clients.

Real Estate

Tell about the things that motivate you. I take pride in successfully negotiating property deals and consistently exceeding sales quotas. For instance, I recently closed a difficult transaction that met all of the client's requirements and earned a significant commission. The potential for commission-based income and being recognized as a top performer keeps me energized to deliver exceptional service and the best possible results.

Technology Startup

What motivates you at work? I am motivated by the mission of leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. The opportunity to contribute to creating solutions that have a meaningful impact on our customers' success motivates me to push boundaries and deliver leading-edge products.

Environmental Conservation

What drives you to perform your best? I am passionate about environmental sustainability and preserving natural resources for future generations. Leading initiatives that promote eco-friendly practices and reduce carbon footprints is deeply fulfilling.

Entertainment

What makes a job fun and motivating for you? I am driven by the opportunity to entertain and inspire audiences through creative expression. As a filmmaker at Starlight Studios, creating compelling stories that resonate with viewers and evoke emotions is my passion. The ability to connect with audiences on a deep level and receive positive feedback about my work motivates me to continue pushing artistic boundaries.

In conclusion, how you respond to "What motivates you to do a good job?" can significantly impact your interview success.

By understanding your own motivations—whether they stem from intrinsic satisfaction, a drive for excellence, a passion for impact, or a commitment to growth—and aligning them with the values and goals of the company, you can craft a compelling answer.

Remember to illustrate your motivations with specific examples from your experiences that highlight your dedication and effectiveness.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Amanda Baker

Certified Professional Resume Writer

Amanda Baker is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career coach with over a decade of experience crafting compelling resumes and career marketing tools. As a black resume writer, Amanda brings a distinctive perspective to her work, guided by her commitment to nurturing the next generation of job seekers. Her ultimate goal is to equip young professionals with the skills and knowledge to confidently navigate the competitive job market.

Rate this article:

Like the article spread the word, related articles.

30-Day Resignation Letter: How to Write (with Examples)

Resigning from a job is a significant career move that requires careful consideration and ...

Tell Me How You Handled a Difficult Situation: Examples

Navigating job interviews can be a challenging experience, especially when faced with questions ...

How to Write a Cash Advance Letter: Examples and Tips

In both personal and professional settings, there may come a time when you find yourself in ...

More From Forbes

4 must-have items in your resume to get a remote job.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

4 Must-Have Items In Your Resume to Get a Remote Job

For a lot of people, remote working is the dream. The benefits of remote work include no longer

dealing with traffic and long commutes, greater flexibility in managing your schedule, and the comfort of working from home.

But even more importantly, remote work can also open avenues for professional growth as it allows you to work for companies across the globe without having to relocate. If this sounds like an excellent deal to you, you’re not alone. According to the Pew Research Center , at least 65% of workers prefer to work remotely full-time, and 98% would like to have the option to work remotely at least part of the time.

With many CEOs calling their employees to return to the office , you may need to exert more effort to get a remote role, at least compared to the pandemic years . That being said, the demand for remote roles is still high in many industries, and with the right tweaks, your resume should help you get the remote role you want.

Here are four must-have items in your resume if you want to get a remote job today.

iPhone 16 Release: Apple Confirms Special Event, On A Surprise New Date

Trump signals he may skip abc news debate after bashing network, officials confirm arrest of billionaire telegram ceo pavel durov in france: here’s what we know, previous remote work experience.

As with any job, you want to show previous related work experience to prove that you are qualified for it. With remote jobs, you want your future employer to see how well you fare with working unsupervised and what results you achieved in such setups.

But even if this is your first time pursuing a fully remote role, you can still highlight past experiences where you successfully collaborated with co-workers or stakeholders in different states or even overseas to accomplish set goals.

It’s particularly helpful to think about projects where you coordinated across time zones, managed communication remotely, or relied on digital tools such as Zoom or Slack to get the job done.

To make your resume even more attractive to employers, try your best to quantify your results and show how your work improved the company’s processes or contributed to the bottom line.

For example, you might mention how you implemented a new project management tool that streamlined workflow and resulted in a 25% increase in task completion rates, helping the team consistently meet deadlines. You could also cite a time when you managed a remote team across different time zones, which allowed your team to operate more efficiently and cut overhead costs by 15%.

The more you can show your ability to deliver good results in a remote setting, the more attractive you’ll be to potential employers. The key is to highlight your successes and show that distance will not hinder you from creating stellar results.

Collaboration Skills

At the heart of any successful remote working experience is effective collaboration with your peers and managers. Employers value collaboration skills because you don’t see each other face to face; it’s easy to work in silos and lose touch with the team’s overall goals.

Including collaboration as part of your skills is crucial, but to truly stand out, you’ll want to demonstrate that you were instrumental in getting the team to work collaboratively, even when you’re all miles apart.

Don’t forget to mention your experience in using specific project management tools like Asana , Trello , or Monday.com — this is important because it demonstrates your proficiency with the tools that help you assign tasks, track progress, and ensure timely deliveries, especially as a remote worker.

Excellent In Presentations

Presentations are a crucial skill for anybody to master, but it’s even more important for people working remotely. Because you’re not in the office, your best opportunity to make a good first impression is during meetings, and having excellent presentation skills will help you clearly communicate your ideas, engage your audience, and establish a professional presence.

You’ll want to cover the basics first. Ensure your slides are clear, concise, and visually engaging. Focus on structuring your content logically and practicing your delivery to maintain a confident and professional demeanor.

Once you have your content down, you’ll also want to be adept at using the tools. Remote presentations come with unique challenges, so also familiarize yourself with tools like Zoom , Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet . Learn how to use their features effectively, and find out how you can maximize them to achieve your goals.

Mastering the tools helps you maintain command of the room and avoid technical glitches as much as possible. You already spent a ton of time polishing your slides and delivery, so the last thing you want is to fumble around trying to share a screen or get a video playing!

Data & Numbers

From tracking customer behavior to optimizing supply chains, data allows companies to predict trends, personalize experiences, and stay ahead of the competition. But while we’re all practically up to our ears in data, it takes people with actual data analytics skills to find patterns and create actionable insights that companies can use to inform their operations.

If this is you, then you’re in luck. With Quanthub estimating the demand to have grown 650% since 2012, your skills are highly sought after, and companies will want to hire you, even if you’re on the other side of the globe.

But first, you’ll want to ensure that your data analytics skills and experience are highlighted in your resume. For example, if you’ve led projects where data-driven decisions led to increased efficiency or growth, you want to detail that impact in terms of numbers.

Mention specific tools that you’ve mastered and how you used them to uncover trends or optimize processes. Did you create a predictive model that saved your company thousands or even millions? Again, don’t just mention it—quantify it in terms of how it has benefited your company and its bottom line.

The more you can do this, the better your chances of getting hired for remote roles. It might be a bit more challenging, but the effort will pay off. So polish up your resume, highlight those key achievements, and get ready to seize the opportunities that come your way. Rooting for you!

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

How to List References on Your Resume (with Examples)

Customers Interviewed by:

It used to be common practice to include a couple of references on your resume or add a line stating that “ references are available on request. ” But adding your references directly to your resume is a dated practice.

It’s also too early in the application process to provide references. Hiring managers don’t have time or interest in checking references at the first stage of screening candidates, so adding them to your resume is a waste of valuable space.

Instead, present your references the right way. Keep reading to learn:

• If you should ever put references on your resume.
• Where your references should go.
• How to write a references list .
• Who you can ask for a reference.

Should you put references on your resume?

No, you should leave your references off your resume.

Later on in the application process—during the interview phase —the hiring team will request references if they want them. When you provide your references, format them separately on a separate document. (You’ll see how below!)

Why should you avoid putting references on your resume?

Career experts advise you to avoid adding references to your resume for two reasons:

• The space you have on your resume is limited.
• It can make your resume look dated or age you as a candidate.

“References take up valuable real estate you could be using for more compelling info like your accomplishments and skills , as well as keywords related to the role you’re seeking,” shares Emily K. Frank , professional career counselor and certified career coach.

When you only have one or two pages to sell yourself to potential employers, you need every line to be impactful and intentional. Adding references disrupts the purpose of your resume: to give the hiring team an idea of your past experiences and skills. 

According to Emily, “it also looks a bit dated and old-fashioned, like adding your hobbies and interests, which has the potential to make it appear you are not up to date on things.”

Not only can adding references to your resume make you appear out of sync with modern resume guidelines , but it can make you come across as older in your application. These small details can inadvertently trigger some subconscious ageism in hiring teams, putting you at a disadvantage. 

How to write a resume reference list

When passing along references to hiring managers or recruiters, you should organize them as a separate document. 

How should you format your resume reference list?

• Reference name
• Job title and company name
• Email address and phone number
• Description of reference

Check with your preferred references in advance to confirm they’re willing to be a reference. Make sure you get current contact information and preferred method of contact so you have it ready when the hiring team requests it.

Examples of a resume reference list

By including all the information above, your reference list will look like this:

Anaya Guzman

Head of Product Development

Phone: (555) 555-1234

Email: [email protected]

Note: Anaya was my direct supervisor during my time as a product manager at FlipCart.

Whether you’re emailing your reference list or handing a hard copy to the interviewer in-person, maintain consistency by including your name, job title, and contact information at the top of your resume (just like on your resume). 

This looks more polished and helps the hiring manager stay organized if the list of references gets separated from the rest of your application. 

Include all the key sections of your resume—and leave out your references—in minutes. Jobscan’s free resume builder will format an ATS-friendly resume ready to be optimized to the job description.

Who should you ask for a reference?

Carefully select the people you ask to be a reference. Consider how well the individual knows your work ethic, your skillset, and what it’s like to work with you. 

Depending on where you are in your career, your reference list may include different types of people. 

Common employment references include:

• Former supervisors or managers
• Direct reports
• Freelance or contract clients

You can also ask for business references from:

• Professional mentors
• Contacts from professional organizations
• Contacts from training and professional development programs

If you’re a new grad or an entry-level applicant, you can ask:

• Professors or academic advisors
• Volunteer coordinators you’ve worked under

You can add personal references alongside your professional references—just not your mom. Personal references can help shed light on key soft skills that translate well to the workplace.

Some personal references can include:

• Coaches and instructors from extracurricular activities
• Friends who have worked with you on projects
• Leaders of clubs, hobby groups, or community service organizations

Your best reference is an expert in your work ethic. But, if someone in your network has experience in a particular field or is familiar with the role you’re applying for, you can alter your reference list to put them at the top.

Tips for asking for a reference

Asking for a reference is important. No one wants to get an unexpected call or email and be put on the spot. Here are some things to consider before you list people as resume references:

• Ask permission in advance (and say thank you) : Contact your desired connections and ask if they can be a reference. Not only is this polite, but if they know a call may be coming, they have time to think about what to say in advance. Follow up with a thank you. You never know when you’ll need another reference.
• Make sure your references feel comfortable : Give people the opportunity to say “no.” If they’re someone you currently work with and you want to keep your job search quiet, be sure that they’re comfortable being secretive about your plans. 
• Prepare your references with information about the job: Providing the job description and the company name to your references helps them recognize the caller or email that’s contacting them. You can even send them a copy of your resume to review, so they highlight the important skills and experience for the role. 

Key Takeaways

• Don’t put your references on your resume and don’t bother including a line, “ references available upon request .” It’s implied that you’ll provide references if necessary.
• Adding them to your resume can backfire by taking up too much valuable real estate and cause the hiring team to assume you’re an older applicant. 
• Put your strongest reference at the top of the list . The hiring manager may not call each reference so don’t bury your most relevant reference at the bottom. Even if the hiring team checks only one reference, it’s likely to be the first. 

References are individuals who can vouch for your qualifications, character, and work history. They provide employers with an additional perspective on your abilities and potential fit for the role you’re applying for.

No, it is not necessary to put references directly on your resume. In fact, it’s common practice to leave them off unless the job posting specifically requests them. Most employers will ask for references at a later stage in the hiring process, so you should be prepared to provide them when asked.

You should choose people who can speak positively about your professional skills , work ethic, and character. Ideal references include former supervisors, managers, colleagues, mentors, or even clients. If you’re a recent graduate, you can also consider using professors or advisors who are familiar with your work and character.

No, you should only provide references if the employer specifically requests them. Including references when not asked can make your resume look outdated and take up valuable space that could be better used to highlight your skills and accomplishments.

If you’re asked to provide references, you typically need three to five. However, these should not be listed on your resume itself. Instead, prepare a separate reference sheet that you can submit if requested.

Employers use references to verify the information you’ve provided in your resume and during interviews. References help them gain insight into your past job performance, work habits, reliability, and how you might fit into their team or company culture.

No, you should always ask for permission before including someone as a reference. Not only is it courteous, but it also ensures that your references are prepared and willing to provide a positive endorsement when contacted by the employer.

You typically need references during the later stages of the hiring process, such as after a successful interview or when a job offer is being considered. Employers may request them as part of their final decision-making process.

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

Related Articles

August 22, 2024

August 16, 2024

August 14, 2024

August 10, 2024

August 8, 2024

August 6, 2024

July 29, 2024

Join 2 million job seekers who get bi-weekly job search tips

Get insider knowledge and ready-to-use job-seeking tips and hacks delivered to your inbox.

'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

How to use ChatGPT to write your resume

Back-to-school season is here, which means applications to their next academic ventures, internships, or first jobs are top of mind for many students. Whether you're seeking to launch your career or you've been in the labor market for decades, there's one thing we can all agree on -- creating a resume that attracts the eye of recruiters is a challenge.

How to use ChatGPT to write:  Cover letters  |  Code | Excel formulas | Essays  

Landing a job that aligns with your qualifications and expectations is hard enough. You also have to sum up all your professional experiences and strengths in one application -- and the heart of that application is your CV or resume. 

The ideal resume is a concise one-page document that highlights your academic, professional, and leadership achievements, which is just as difficult to assemble as it sounds. OpenAI's  ChatGPT  can make the resume-building process a breeze.

How ChatGPT can help build your resume

You can use ChatGPT to generate ideas and bullet points for your role from scratch or to refine and optimize your current points that are not hitting the mark. Beyond key points, the AI tool can help you answer questions about putting together your resume. Here's how to get started.

Side note:  We are using ChatGPT, but you can use any AI chatbot -- there are plenty of capable AI chatbots to choose from .

1. Choose a resume template

ChatGPT will help you with the text in your resume, but you'll need to pick a template before you get started. The program you're using to write the resume -- such as Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or Canva -- will likely have a resume template already.

Also: How to use ChatGPT to digitize your handwritten notes for free

A quick Google search for resume templates will also bring up hundreds of editable templates you can import into your program of choice.

2. Sign in to ChatGPT (optional)

On April 1, 2024, OpenAI stopped requiring you to log in to ChatGPT. You can now access ChatGPT simply by visiting ChatGPT's website . However, if you want to take advantage of certain perks, such as being able to revisit the chat later, analyzing PDFs , or digitizing hand-written notes , you need to sign up to access those features. 

Also:  How to save a ChatGPT conversation to revisit later

Signing up is easy. Go to OpenAI's ChatGPT homepage and open an account by creating an OpenAI login or using your existing Google or Microsoft account. ChatGPT is free, so the sign-up process is simple, requiring no credit cards or obscure information. 

3. Add text

If you want ChatGPT to generate text for your resume from scratch, all you have to do is ask. 

Whether you want it to generate your professional summary or an individual bullet, ask it directly. For example, I asked ChatGPT, "Can you write a short, professional resume summary about my role as a tech reporter?" Within seconds, it generated what you see in the screenshot below.

Also:  How to get ChatGPT to browse the web for free

Although ChatGPT can create content ready to be copied and pasted into a resume, you should tweak the text so it is personalized to your experiences and doesn't look like a chatbot wrote it.

Employers want to learn about what makes you unique. Without your assistance, the chatbot can only access generic content about your role. You can also use the  Custom Instructions  feature to share some details about your role and interests that ChatGPT can reference when outputting the text to give it a little more nuance. 

4. Use ChatGPT to revamp your text

Whether you fill out the template yourself before using ChatGPT's assistance or have an existing resume you want to enhance, ChatGPT is a great resource for polishing up text. 

All you have to do is copy and paste your text and ask ChatGPT to make it better. 

Also: The best AI chatbots: ChatGPT and other interesting alternatives to try

For example, I asked ChatGPT, "Can you make this resume bullet sound better: 'I write stories about technology.'" Within seconds, it outputted an elaborate bullet point that incorporated a professional tone and made that simple sentence more complex, as seen in the screenshot above.

Once you get your result, you can always tell ChatGPT to tweak it further with prompts like, "Make it shorter" or "Can you include [additional details]?" 

How much does it cost for ChatGPT to write my resume?

ChatGPT is currently free to use regardless of what type of writing you use it for, which includes resume-building assistance. 

How can ChatGPT help me with my resume?

ChatGPT can generate text for different parts of your resume, including your professional summary and individual bullet points for each experience.

Also:  How to nail the 'Do you have any questions for me?' part of the interview

The chatbot can also help enhance your current resume by optimizing your text. If you have any questions about how to format your resume and what to include, ChatGPT can give you some answers.

What should I put in my resume?

Ideally, you want a resume to highlight all your career accomplishments. This can include any educational, professional, and leadership experiences that are meaningful to you. You should also include as much detail about your unique experiences to make you stand out from other applicants.

How I test an AI chatbot's coding ability - and you can, too

How to use chatgpt: everything to know about using gpt-4o and gpt-4o mini, how to use chatgpt to analyze pdfs (and more) for free.