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15 Freelancer Resume Examples &...

15 Freelancer Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

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Many predicted that the pandemic will lead to a job market crash. Doubts and concerns loomed everywhere.

Did it happen?

Not really.

To be more accurate, it was more of a shift than an actual crash.

Traditional workplaces became increasingly uncertain due to mass layoffs. Almost as uncertain as being self-employed.

As a result, numerous professionals decided to try their hand at freelancing. Оthers picked up their on-the-side career where they left it and carried on.

"Normally, around 10% of freelancers have started freelancing sometime in the last six months. However, at the time of the survey in June-July 2020, 34% had started since the onset of COVID-19 in early March."

Freelance Forward Economics Report, Upwork

This begs the question - if you’re searching for a new job or a project, how do you stand out on your freelancer resume?

Does it look any different from your run-of-the-mill resume? Are there any specifics you need to be aware of?

Absolutely!

And this is what we’re here to help you with.

Here is what you can expect from our complete guide:

  • How to choose a format for your freelancer resume when starting from scratch
  • Which resume layouts are better suited for clients. And which ones are preferred by recruiters.
  • How to display your work even if you’re just doing it on the side
  • How to shape your resume so that it doesn’t look scattered
  • What other items you can add to supplement your work experience

General rules to follow when building your freelancer resume

You need to lay some groundwork before you start writing. As with any other resume, you have to make sure you know who’s going to read it.

Typically, you will send your resume either to a hiring manager or to the client.

If your target audience is hiring managers - use the standard resume format is the way to go.

But if you’re pitching directly to a potential client, you’re better off sending a service proposal.

Once you have that, your next task is to check if the position is open only to freelancers.

Why does it matter?

Your competition will be different.

There are two cases:

  1. Anyone can apply - the offered position fits into a traditional company setting. As such, you’re dealing with recruiters, expecting the resume + cover letter combo.
  2. Freelancers only - the job ad poster is searching for a consultant-type freelancer. Here is where the service proposal is, again, more appropriate.

In the first case, the employer can’t catch up on some of the company’s backlog and needs help clearing it up.

To that end, you will have to fit within the company’s established culture and workflow. Sometimes, these freelance gigs can turn into a long-term job position.

In the second case, the client is searching for a solution to a particular problem. It may not be a recurring issue, so there isn’t a need for a permanent job position offer.

Here is where your role as a consultant is much more valuable. Your best approach will be the service proposal.

Why?

Because it directly addresses how you can solve their problem.

Once you’re certain you’re going with a freelancer resume, it’s time to consider formats and substance.

These depend largely on the type of services you offer and your work experience. If you’re a graphic designer or a web developer, you will also have to update your portfolio.

Let’s go back to the intended reader for a bit.

Recruiters prefer the reverse-chronological format. It’s easier to skim and pick up on important pieces of information.

But, if you’re pitching your skills to a client, use the functional and hybrid layouts.

These templates give you enough space to reference relevant projects. Ultimately, their main purpose is to highlight your extensive set of skills.

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Key resume sections for your freelancer resume

  • A clean-looking header that displays your contact information and portfolio links
  • A resume summary to briefly introduce yourself and pitch your skills
  • An experience section to display a customized selection of your freelance work
  • A skills segment to highlight a versatile skill set
  • Education and Certification section to feature your qualifications

Regardless of the format, always focus your resume around one key point. Even if you don’t follow a traditional career path, show what’s the common denominator of your projects.

The selection you exhibit will inform recruiters and clients what motivates you.

For example, have you started freelancing on the side to develop new skills? Or was it a way to network and keep in touch with the professionals operating in your industry?

Just remember to be concise and relevant to the job posting.

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What do hiring managers want to see in your freelancer resume

  • Can you solve their problem?
  • Do you have the necessary skills?
  • Have you done similar projects before? Can you provide client testimonials?
  • Can you provide quality work and on time?
  • What is your general workflow?
  • If you realize your client’s problem lies elsewhere, would you inform them?

In essence, you need to explain why you’re the best fit for your client or potential employer.

pro tip icon
Pro tip

Keep track of all your work. It allows you to chronicle your achievements and pick which success stories to share. Tailor your resume to what the position demands.

If you need more inspiration, check out the 23 Creative Resume Examples for 2022.

Dos and Don’ts: Red Flags to Avoid in Your Resume Header

You know first impressions are everything. This applies to how you present your contact information on your resume, too.

Similar to how your email signature has to convey the right message, your header needs to do the same job.

Generally, you must include:

  • Full job title - combine the service you provide and the freelance nature of your work
  • At least two methods of contact
  • Links to your LinkedIn profile, online portfolio and/or personal website

2 Freelancer Resume Header Examples

Take a look at Tyree’s resume header. Notice anything wrong?

Tyree Jones
Freelancer
help@enhancv.com
Ohio
WRONG

That’s right, it doesn’t look convincing at all.

Imagine if this was Tyree’s business card. Sure, it’s not obligatory to list your location, unless your job requires you to travel.

But, there is no information regarding the type of service he offers. Let alone where to review samples of his work.

A better version of Tyree’s resume header would be:

Tyree Jones
Sports and Celebrity Magazine Freelance Writer
+1-216-555-5555
help@enhancv.com
Cleveland, Ohio
RIGHT

Now you have everything you need to know about his professional life. It’s not wrong to list a LinkedIn profile on your resume instead of a personal website.

Since Tyree is a freelance magazine writer, it's likely his publications are scattered. But chances are, he’s sharing his work on LinkedIn.

Recruiters can review the quality of his articles and check how he behaves on social media.

By contrast, if Tyree had a personal media outlet, such as a blog or a podcast, he should definitely add a link to that.

What’s next?

How to write a captivating freelancer resume summary

It’s time for your sales pitch.

It’s tempting to use buzzwords. After all, many advertisers use them to sell their clients’ products.

But this is another red flag you need to avoid. Instead, use action verbs and refer to keywords from the job description.

This shows that you’ve considered their offer and you've responded accordingly.

With that said, what makes a resume summary relevant?

Start with your job title and the experience you have.

Make sure you briefly cover your special skills and mention where your work can be reviewed. Unless you’re under an NDA, of course.

If applicable, add association memberships and diplomas and certificates.

Let’s see this in action.

2 freelancer resume summary examples

Naturally, we’ll begin with what not to do when writing your sales pitch:

Summary
Freelancer with more than 10 years of experience in writing for celebrity and fashion magazines. Skilled in writing, proofreading and editing.
WRONG

Despite not having any buzzwords, this resume summary doesn’t say much.

The individual brags about writing for celebrity and fashion magazines. Yet, no particular brands or issues have been revealed.

Also, this is someone who’s been in the industry for 10 years. How come there is this glaring lack of achievements and awards.

This is no sales pitch by any means.

Take a look at another resume summary:

Summary
Freelance writer and editor with 15 years of experience in writing and proofreading magazine articles, editorials and featured articles. Specialized in sports, celebrity, pop culture and lifestyle topics. SPJ and ASME member. Winner of the Henry R. Luce Award, the Missouri Lifestyle Journalism Award, and the National Magazine Award.
RIGHT

This one looks more plausible because:

  • You know the scope of the work the individual does
  • Association memberships mean the individual adheres to certain industry standards
  • There are plenty of verifiable prizes and awards listed in the summary

Huge difference, right?

How to describe your work experience on your freelancer resume

This is the section which stumps many freelancers. How can you explain what you do, if you serve different clients?

Easy!

There are two ways to go about this issue:

  1. If your projects are long-term, divide the entries on a case by case basis
  2. If your work is scattered, separate your entries by the type of service you provide

What about the name of the company?

Well, in the first case, you can include the name of your client. Again, unless you’re under a strict NDA.

In the second case, list the company name under which you offer your services.

All that is left to do is to detail all the awesome results you have provided over the years.

Remember, numbers speak volumes.

2 freelancer resume experience examples

Have a look at the following sample:

Tyree Jones
Freelance Writer
TJ Publishing Ltd.
Cleveland, Ohio
A leading publishing house.
  • Published many articles in various high-profile magazines
  • Negotiated and won book contracts
  • Increased magazine readership
WRONG

Tyree has decided to use the second approach.

His work is listed under TJ Publishing Ltd., which is probably his personal company.

So far, so good.

But, there is an overwhelming lack of results.

Supposedly, Tyree hasn’t had any accomplishments in the last six year. On top of that, he doesn’t take much pride in his own company.

This is the time to brag and name drop.

Let’s revise it:

Tyree Jones
Freelance Writer and Editor
TJ Publishing Ltd.
Cleveland, Ohio
Your go-to publisher for anything celebrity, fashion, and lifestyle.
  • Published over 2000+ articles and editorials for Elle, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan and Vanity Fair.
  • Achieved and maintained 13% increase in readership across all our clients five years in a row.
  • Negotiated and won contracts for the autobiographies of 4 A-list and 5 B-list celebrities, which resulted in securing exclusive rights to additional 15 books.
  • Provide internships and guidance to students, studying at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Ohio University.
RIGHT

Now this is how you name drop. Anyone who’s anyone in the fashion realm knows about Elle and Vogue. And writing so many articles for them means that Tyree knows his stuff.

Moreover, he has featured his book deal wins. All without divulging the names of the celebrities. An excellent way to talk about your work and abide by your NDAs.

Finally, Tyree is not a stranger to volunteer work and mentoring. This means he not only has the patience to help students, but empathize with his clients.

What skills are hiring managers looking for in your freelancer resume?

A rather painful topic, especially for beginner freelancers. As many articles and career gurus will tell you - it depends.

And they are not wrong.

You wouldn’t expect a tailor to know how to build websites, would you?

That’s why there is no such thing as a mandatory skill set for freelancers. You can always develop new talents and brush up on old ones.

It’s more important you know how to sell the skills you do have. Above all, you must balance them out. Explain how they can benefit your client or potential employer.

How to showcase your technical abilities on your freelance resume

These are easy to verify. You either have a certificate or a portfolio to display your level of proficiency.

Make sure everything you provide is up to date before referencing outside sources.

Keep yourself informed on industry standards and always upskill when possible.

You can find some of the trendiest skills in the table below. But this is by no means an exhaustive list.

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Popular technical skills for your freelancer resume

  • Python
  • JavaScript
  • Java
  • MySQL
  • React
  • HTML
  • CSS
  • Git
  • SEO
  • Google Analytics
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Adobe Lightroom
  • Bash Shell Scripting
  • Cloud automation (Azure and AWS)
  • CI/CD tooling
  • System administration
  • Kotlin
  • Spring Boot
  • Front-end development
  • Data science
  • Machine learning
  • Web development
  • Backend development
  • Writing
  • Graphic design
  • Social media management
  • Animations / video creation
  • Digital marketing
  • Project management
  • Time management
  • Trello
  • Asana
  • Jira
  • Monday
  • Indy
  • Forest
  • Notion
  • Sales skills

How to advertise your soft skills without sounding fake

Imposter syndrome is an all too familiar feeling to freelancers. But there is a way you can talk about your social skills without feeling you come off as fraudulent.

How?

Every action has consequences. So, lead with results and accomplishments.

Take a look at the following examples:

Observe how your actions affect your work. Clients and employers take notice of your professional conduct.

Take the last entry from the examples list. You probably thought there is no way to measure compassion. Yet, empathy and understanding have led to exclusive book deals.

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Top soft skills to have on your freelancer resume

Do you need specific education or certificates on your resume?

The dreaded answer - it depends.

Each industry has its own standards and requirements. Don’t forget to stay informed of any new business developments.

More notably, review the job ad or client offer to see if they require any training in particular.

There are some who demand you have certain licenses before you work together.

What other extras can you add on your freelancer resume?

Is there anything else you can attach? Of course!

You may be tired to read this once again. But this one relies on what is considered essential in your business niche, too.

Some of these sections include:

Key takeaways: vital tips to keep in mind at all times

  • Research who posted the job offer and who it is intended for
  • Determine whether a freelancer resume or a service proposal is the best approach
  • Choose a reverse-chronological format, if you're sending your resume to a recruiter
  • Opt for a functional or a hybrid layout, if you're contacting a client directly
  • Focus your resume around one topic - skills building, customer pool expansion, networking
  • Tailor each section in your resume according to the job ad
  • Keep your certifications and portfolio up to date
  • Maintain a projects journal so you can easily pick and choose which projects to share
  • Be mindful of your NDAs before you discuss your past projects

Freelancer resume examples

Explore additional freelancer resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

By Role

Freelance Artist

Freelance Artists often emerge from academia or professional art spaces. Portray real-world examples of your artwork, and the processes, materials, and techniques involved. Show relevant art knowledge in your CV, but also emphasize your creativity. Demonstrate how your artistic skills improved certain projects or initiates, such as 'improved brand visibility utilizing...' or 'enhanced visual impact by...'. Following the 'skill-action-results' pattern enables potential employees to measure your effectiveness.
View Freelance Artist Resume

Freelance Consultant

Freelance Consultants often have experience in existing firms before going solo. Detail prior expertise in your industry sector and the benefits it brought to past projects. Highlight specific, quantifiable achievements - percentages of improvements, ratios of losses reduced, etc. Your CV should not merely list skills but illustrate results such as 'increased sales by...', 'improved efficiency by...'. This will give a clear picture of your capabilities.
View Freelance Consultant Resume

Freelance Copy Editor

Freelance Copy Editors often emerge from in-house editorial roles. Emphasize your editing proficiency in different styles or formats. A portfolio showcasing modifications and improvements on a text captures recruiters' attention. Instead of solely listing skills, show their impacts like 'improved readability by...', 'increased publication speed by...' to demonstrate the effectiveness of your editing skills.
View Freelance Copy Editor Resume

Freelance Editor

Freelance Editors often transition from workplaces like publishing houses. In your resume, highlight meticulous editing expertise, attention to detail, and proofreading skills. Show how your editing skills helped achieve stronger narrative flow or improved written clarity in projects. Instead of just stating skills, demonstrate their application: 'enhanced text coherence by...', 'advanced author voice by...'. Show results to reinforce your capabilities.
View Freelance Editor Resume

Freelance Interpreter

Freelance Interpreters often have essential training in languages or cultural studies. Highlight your proficiency in particular languages and any specific skills like simultaneous interpretation. Rather than just listing skills, provide achievements, like 'improved client communication by...' or 'facilitated international meetings by...'. This approach demonstrates how your skills made an impact and can help potential clients.
View Freelance Interpreter Resume

Freelance Journalist

Freelance Journalists often step into the role from a reporting background. Highlight reporting specialties, themes, or areas. Showcase a portfolio of your work underlining various writing styles and stories. Instead of merely stating skills, emphasize the impact and results: 'increased readership by...', 'boosted engagement by...'. This makes your skills more tangible and appealing to potential employers.
View Freelance Journalist Resume

Freelance Makeup Artist

Many Freelance Makeup Artists often come from beauty schools or retail cosmetics. Your resume should emphasize dexterity with different makeup techniques and understanding various skin types. Provide examples of how your makeup skills enhanced client satisfaction, like 'received positive client feedback...' or 'increased bookings by...'. Show clear, impact-driven results for your skills.
View Freelance Makeup Artist Resume

Freelance Photographer

Freelance Photography has roots in visual creativity, with ongoing trends in design and media influencing its scope. Here are suggestions for applying to Freelance Photographer roles:

  • Demonstrating versatile experiences in various photography genres is crucial. Landscapes, portraits, street photography - diversity shows adaptability. Highlight any unique shooting techniques and conditions you've mastered.
  • Showcase your post-production and editing skills. Include your proficiency in tools like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop or Capture One.
  • Underline your ability to carry out projects autonomously. Illustrate your planning, execution, and delivery prowess with past projects.
  • Don’t simply enumerate your skills. Present how they improved the final images, e.g., “enhanced image quality through...”, “increased client satisfaction with...”. A 'skill-action-results' approach works best.
View Freelance Photographer Resume

Freelance Producer

Freelance Producers often spin-off from broadcast studios or media companies. Detail your experience overseeing productions, budgeting and time management. Show how these skills impacted the success of projects: 'delivered project under budget...', 'increased audience engagement by...'. A results-focused CV brings potential value to light.
View Freelance Producer Resume

Freelance Production Assistant

Freelance Production Assistants often have beginnings in administrative or studio junior roles. Highlight your efficiency in assisting production processes, handling schedules, and managing logistics. Use outcomes like 'efficiency increased by...' or 'reduced production downtime by...' to spotlight your skills' effectiveness.
View Freelance Production Assistant Resume

Freelance Programmer

Freelance Programmers are often former software engineers. Mention your proficiency in different programming languages and past projects/roles. Demonstrate the impact of your programming skills like 'optimized system by...', 'increased traffic by...'. Use the 'skill-action-results' approach to highlight competency.
View Freelance Programmer Resume

Freelance Reporter

Freelance Reporters frequently branch out from newspaper or broadcast journalism roles. Emphasize your ability to research, investigate, and present stories comprehensively. Show how these skills resulted in improvements like 'increased reader engagement by...' or 'boosted outlet reputation by...'. A results-oriented resume creates interest.
View Freelance Reporter Resume

Freelance Stylist

Freelance Stylists often develop from retail roles or fashion schools. Detail your understanding of fashion trends, personal shopping, and wardrobe collection. Show how these skills have resulted in positive outcomes for clients, like 'received high feedback...' or 'improved client image by...'. Tangibly presenting your skills improves credibility.
View Freelance Stylist Resume

Freelance Trainer

Freelance Trainers often come from teaching or corporate training backgrounds. Highlight your experience in curriculum design, delivery techniques, and adult learning strategies. Illustrate your impacts such as 'improved learning outcomes by...' or 'increased employee competency by...'. Ensure your skills reflect proven, tangible results.
View Freelance Trainer Resume
freelancer resume example

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