As an experienced writer, you know that a well-crafted resume can make all the difference in the job-hunting process. In today’s highly competitive job market, your resume needs to stand out from the crowd to catch the eye of potential employers. A professional writer resume demonstrates your skillset, experience, and accomplishments in a clear and concise way.
Key Components of a Professional Writer Resume
A professional writer resume should showcase your writing skills, experience, and achievements. When creating your resume, it’s important to highlight key components that will make you stand out to potential employers. Here are the key components of a professional writer resume:
A. Header
Your header should include your name, phone number, email address, and a link to your online portfolio or website if applicable. Your name should be in a larger font than the rest of your contact information.
B. Summary or Objective
Your summary or objective should be a brief statement that summarizes your experience and skills as a writer. This section should show potential employers what you can bring to the table as a writer. Keep it concise and to the point.
C. Work Experience
Your work experience section should list your previous writing jobs, including the company name, job title, and dates of employment. For each job, provide a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments. Use active verbs and quantify your achievements where possible to make your resume stand out.
D. Education
Your education section should list your degree(s), major(s), and any relevant coursework or honors. Include the name of the institution(s) you attended, as well as the dates you attended.


E. Skills
Your skills section should list any writing-related skills you have that make you an excellent candidate for the job. This may include proficiency in specific software, writing styles, or research techniques. Make sure your skills are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
F. Certifications, Awards, and Memberships
In this section, list any certifications you have earned related to writing, any awards or accolades you have received, and any professional memberships you have. This will help show potential employers that you take your writing career seriously and are dedicated to improving your skills.
Remember, your resume is often the first impression potential employers will have of you as a writer. Make sure it’s professional, easy to read, and highlights your unique qualifications and achievements. With these key components, you can create a winning professional writer resume that will help you land your dream job.
Writing Tips for a Professional Writer Resume
When it comes to building a professional writer resume that stands out, there are certain tips that can help you turn it into a winning document. Here are five essential writing tips that you should follow:
A. Identify Your Target Audience
Before you start writing your resume, it’s important to know who your target audience is. This will help you tailor your resume to their specific needs and requirements. For instance, if you’re applying for a technical writing position, your resume should focus on your technical skills and experience. Similarly, if you’re targeting a content writing role, your resume should highlight your creative writing skills and ability to engage with readers.
B. Use Action Verbs
Using action verbs is an excellent way to make your resume stand out. By starting each bullet point with an active verb, you’ll create a sense of energy and momentum in your resume, making it more engaging and interesting to read. Some examples of action verbs you can use include “created,” “wrote,” “analyzed,” “edited,” “published,” and “researched.”
C. Quantify Your Achievements
When describing your accomplishments on your resume, it’s essential to quantify them with specific results and numbers. This will show your potential employer that you are a results-driven professional who can deliver quantifiable outcomes. For example, instead of saying “wrote blog posts,” you could say “wrote 50 blog posts that generated 500,000 page views and increased engagement by 30%.”
D. Customize Your Resume for Each Job Application
Customizing your resume for each job application is another crucial tip to follow. By tailoring your resume to the specific job and company you’re applying for, you’ll demonstrate that you understand the requirements and expectations of the role. Use the job description as a guide to identify the key skills and experiences you should highlight on your resume.
E. Avoid Common Mistakes
Finally, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes when writing your resume. These can include errors in spelling and grammar, overusing buzzwords or clichés, and including irrelevant information. Be sure to proofread your resume carefully and have someone else review it as well. You want to create a professional document that showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light.
Following these writing tips can help you create a professional writer resume that stands out from the crowd. Remember to tailor your resume to your target audience, use action verbs, quantify your achievements, customize it for each job application, and avoid common mistakes. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of landing an interview and getting the job you want.
Choosing the Right Resume Template
When it comes to creating a professional writer resume, one of the most important steps is choosing the right resume template. The template you select should be based on the type of job you’re applying for and on your individual strengths and experiences.
There are three main types of resume templates: chronological, functional, and combination. Each of these templates has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before choosing which one to use.


A. Chronological Resume
A chronological resume is one of the most common types of resume templates. It presents your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job and working backwards. This type of resume is ideal for writers with a strong work history and a clear career progression.
If you have significant experience in the field, a chronological resume highlights your longevity and commitment to the profession. You can showcase achievements and promotions, and it’s easy for potential employers to quickly see your relevant experience.
However, chronological resumes may not be the best choice if you have gaps in your employment history, particularly if they are lengthy. Additionally, if you’re changing careers or industries, a chronological resume might not demonstrate your transferable skills as effectively as other types of resumes.
B. Functional Resume
A functional resume is organized around your skills and accomplishments, rather than your work history. This type of resume is particularly useful if you’re just entering the job market or if you’re changing careers.
A functional resume allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and achievements, even if they were attained outside of a traditional job setting. It can also emphasize your unique qualifications for the job you’re applying for.
However, functional resumes may not work as well if you’re applying for a job that requires specific experience or technical skills, as it may not easily indicate whether you have those qualifications. Additionally, some employers may view functional resumes as less traditional or less professional than chronological resumes.
C. Combination Resume
A combination resume, as the name implies, is a mixture of the chronological and functional resume templates. It takes the best aspects of both and combines them to create a well-rounded document that emphasizes skills, experience, and achievements.
A combination resume can be particularly effective if you have a solid work history but also have skills or accomplishments that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. It allows you to present both your career trajectory and your unique qualifications in a clear and concise manner.
However, like both the chronological and functional resumes, the combination resume also has its downsides. It may not work as well if you have significant gaps in your work history or if your experience is not directly related to the job you’re applying for.
Choosing the right resume template is an important step in creating a professional writer resume that will catch the attention of potential employers.
Formatting Your Professional Writer Resume
As a professional writer, your resume should reflect your writing skills and attention to detail. Formatting your resume correctly is just as important as the content you include. Here are some tips on how to format your professional writer resume:
A. Font and Font Size
Choose a font that is easy to read, such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use a font size between 10 and 12 points for the body of your resume, and up to 14 points for headings. Avoid using fancy or decorative fonts, as they can be difficult to read and may not be compatible with all devices.
B. Margins
Set your margins to 1 inch on all sides to create a clean and professional look. This will also help ensure that your resume fits on one page, which is typically recommended for most job applications.
C. White Space and Layout
Make sure to use plenty of white space throughout your resume to make it easy to read and visually appealing. Use bullet points to break up long paragraphs and emphasize key points. Keep your layout clean and organized, with a consistent format for each section.
D. Sections and Headings
Divide your resume into sections, such as Education, Experience, Skills, and Awards. Use clear headings and formatting to make it easy for the reader to navigate your resume. You may also want to customize your headings to match the job description or industry.
E. Bullet Points
Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and responsibilities in each position, rather than using paragraphs. This will help make your resume easier to skim and draw attention to your most relevant experience. Begin each bullet point with an action verb, such as “wrote,” “edited,” or “managed.”
Formatting your professional writer resume correctly is essential to make it stand out and communicate your skills effectively. Remember to use a simple font, set margins to 1 inch, use plenty of white space, divide your resume into sections, and use bullet points to highlight your experience. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a professional and impressive resume.
Examples of Professional Writer Resumes
To help you get a better understanding of what a professional writer resume should look like, we’ve provided examples of entry-level, experienced, and freelance writer resumes.
A. Entry-Level Writer Resume Example
Jane Doe
Writer
Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]
Summary
Motivated and detail-oriented writer with a passion for storytelling and creating engaging content. Strong research and writing skills with a dedication to delivering high-quality work. Eager to contribute to a creative team and gain hands-on experience in the writing industry.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in English
University of XYZ, City, State (20XX – 20XX)
Writing Skills
- Content Writing
- Copywriting
- Editing and Proofreading
- Research Skills
- Creative Writing
- SEO Writing
Writing Experience
Intern, XYZ Publications (20XX – 20XX)
- Assisted senior writers in content creation, editing, and proofreading for online and print publications.
- Conducted research on various topics and contributed to brainstorming sessions for new content ideas.
- Developed skills in writing for different audiences and adhering to brand guidelines.
Freelance Writer (20XX – Present)
- Completed writing assignments for various clients, including blog posts, articles, and web content.
- Conducted thorough research to ensure accurate and informative content.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their requirements and deliver content that meets their needs.
Projects
- Developed and maintained a personal blog focusing on travel and lifestyle topics.
Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- WordPress
- SEO Tools (e.g., Google Analytics, SEMrush)
- Social Media Platforms
Certifications
- Content Marketing Certification, HubSpot Academy
- Copywriting Essentials, Udemy
This resume showcases the candidate’s education, skills, and relevant experience as an intern and freelance writer. It highlights their writing skills, research abilities, and proficiency in software tools. The candidate also includes a section on their personal blog, demonstrating their passion for writing and initiative to create their own content.
B. Experienced Writer Resume Example
John Smith
Writer
Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]
Summary
Experienced and versatile writer with a proven track record of delivering compelling and engaging content. Skilled in various writing styles and genres, including creative writing, journalism, and technical writing. Strong research, editing, and proofreading abilities.
Professional Experience
Senior Writer, XYZ Media (20XX – Present)
- Develop and write articles, blog posts, and features on a wide range of topics.
- Conduct interviews and research to gather information and ensure accuracy of content.
- Collaborate with editors, graphic designers, and marketing teams to create cohesive and impactful content.
Contributing Writer, ABC Magazine (20XX – 20XX)
- Pitched and wrote feature articles for a monthly lifestyle magazine.
- Conducted interviews with industry experts and conducted thorough research for each article.
- Worked closely with the editorial team to meet deadlines and maintain the magazine’s high editorial standards.
Writing Skills
- Copywriting
- Technical Writing
- Creative Writing
- Editing and Proofreading
- Research and Fact-Checking
- Journalism
- SEO Writing
Publications
- Published articles in XYZ Magazine, ABC Blog, and DEF Journal.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
University of XYZ, City, State (20XX – 20XX)
Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Content Management Systems (CMS)
- SEO Tools (e.g., Moz, Ahrefs)
- Social Media Platforms
Certifications
- Advanced Copyediting, Poynter News University
- Advanced SEO Writing, Coursera
This resume highlights the candidate’s extensive writing experience and expertise across different genres and industries. It emphasizes their professional experience as a senior writer and contributing writer, showcasing their ability to deliver high-quality content, conduct interviews, and collaborate with teams. The resume also includes a section on published articles, demonstrating the candidate’s credibility and recognition in the field.
C. Freelance Writer Resume Example
Sarah Thompson
Freelance Writer
Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]
Summary
Versatile and experienced freelance writer with a passion for creating engaging and informative content. Proven ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work across various industries. Strong research, writing, and editing skills.
Writing Services
- Blog Writing
- Article Writing
- Web Content Writing
- Copywriting
- Editing and Proofreading
- Social Media Content
Writing Experience
Freelance Writer (20XX – Present)
- Collaborate with clients to understand their content needs and deliver compelling and tailored writing solutions.
- Write engaging blog posts, articles, and web content on various topics, including lifestyle, health, and technology.
- Conduct research to ensure accuracy and provide credible information in the content.
Selected Freelance Projects
- Created engaging web content for a digital marketing agency, optimizing it for search engine visibility.
- Developed social media content and managed accounts for multiple clients, increasing their online presence and engagement.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in English
University of XYZ, City, State (20XX – 20XX)
Skills
- Strong Writing and Communication Skills
- Research Skills
- Time Management and Deadline Adherence
- SEO Writing
- Content Planning and Organization
- Client Collaboration
Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- WordPress
- SEO Tools (e.g., Google Analytics, SEMrush)
- Social Media Platforms
This resume emphasizes the candidate’s versatility and experience as a freelance writer. It highlights their range of writing services, such as blog writing, article writing, and copywriting. The resume showcases their ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate with clients. It also includes selected freelance projects to demonstrate the candidate’s expertise in creating engaging web content and managing social media accounts.
Overall, each resume effectively presents the candidate’s skills, experience, and qualifications relevant to their respective writing roles. The resumes are well-organized, highlighting key information and utilizing sections such as education, experience, skills, and certifications.
Cover Letter Tips for Professional Writers
As a professional writer, your cover letter can be the deciding factor in whether or not you land your next gig. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the purpose and importance of a cover letter and to know the dos and don’ts of writing one.
A. Purpose and Importance of a Cover Letter
The primary purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to potential employers and explain why you are the best candidate for the job. A well-written cover letter can showcase your writing skills, work experience, and education in a concise and compelling way.
A cover letter is also an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail. It can provide insight into your enthusiasm for the job and the company, as well as your ability to follow instructions and meet deadlines.
B. Components of a Professional Writer Cover Letter
A professional writer cover letter should include the following components:
- Contact Information: Your name, address, email, and phone number.
- The Employer’s Contact Information: The name and address of the employer you are applying to.
- Salutation: Address the letter to the hiring manager or the person in charge of hiring for the position you’re applying for.
- Introduction: Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the job and the company.
- Body: Highlight your skills, experience, and education relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Closing: Reiterate your interest in the job and the company and thank the employer for considering your application.
- Signature: End the letter with a handwritten signature, followed by your printed name.
C. Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Cover Letter
Dos:
- Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible.
- Customize your cover letter for each job application.
- Keep it concise and to the point, ideally one page.
- Use the job description and company website to tailor your letter to the position and the employer’s culture.
- Proofread carefully for errors and typos.
- End with a call to action, such as requesting an interview or offering to follow up.
Don’ts:
- Use a generic greeting, such as “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Repeat your resume verbatim; a cover letter should enhance your resume and provide additional context to your application.
- Ramble or include irrelevant information – stay on topic and be concise.
- Use a casual or overly-formal tone; aim for professional and friendly.
- Forget to check the company’s job application instructions. Some employers may have specific requirements for submitting a cover letter, such as attaching it as a separate document.
A well-written cover letter can showcase your skills, experience, and professionalism and help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Commonly Asked Questions about Professional Writer Resumes
When it comes to crafting a professional writer resume, there are a few common questions that come up time and time again. In this section, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about writer resumes.
A. Should I Include a Photo on My Resume?
The short answer is no – you should not include a photo on your professional writer resume. While it is common in some countries to include a photo on a resume, in the United States it is generally not expected or required. In fact, including a photo can be seen as unprofessional or even discriminatory. Your resume should focus on your qualifications and experience, not your appearance.
B. How Long Should My Professional Writer Resume Be?
The length of your writer resume will depend on your level of experience and the job you’re applying for. As a general rule, your resume should be one to two pages in length. If you’re just starting out in your writing career and don’t have a lot of experience to showcase, aim for a one-page resume. If you’re a more seasoned writer with a lot of experience, you may need two pages to adequately highlight your qualifications.
C. What Skills Should I Include on My Writer Resume?
The skills you include on your writer resume will depend on the type of writing you do and the job you’re applying for. However, there are a few key skills that are important for most professional writers to have. These include:
- Excellent writing and editing skills
- Creativity and the ability to come up with new ideas
- Attention to detail
- Research skills
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Time management and the ability to meet deadlines
- Adaptability and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Familiarity with different writing styles and formats (e.g. AP style, SEO)
Be sure to tailor the skills section of your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, highlighting the skills that are most relevant and important for that particular position.
D. How Do I Write a Resume Objective for a Writer?
The resume objective is a brief statement at the top of your resume that highlights your career goals and what you hope to achieve in your next role. When writing a resume objective for a writer, focus on your unique skills and experience that make you a good fit for the job. For example:
“Creative and detail-oriented writer with 5 years of experience in content creation and editing seeking a role as a content strategist with a focus on delivering high-quality, engaging content.”
Your resume objective should be specific, concise, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.
E. What are ATS and How Do They Affect My Writer Resume?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software programs used by employers to automate and streamline the hiring process. These systems scan and parse resumes, looking for specific keywords and qualifications that match the job requirements. For writers, it’s crucial to understand how ATS work and optimize your resume accordingly to increase your chances of getting noticed.
To make your writer resume ATS-friendly, start by carefully reading the job description and identifying the keywords and skills the employer is seeking. Incorporate these relevant keywords throughout your resume, especially in the skills and experience sections. It’s important to strike a balance between incorporating keywords and maintaining a natural flow in your writing.
Formatting is another crucial aspect when it comes to ATS. Stick to a simple and clean resume format with clear headings and bullet points to ensure that the ATS can read your resume accurately. Avoid using images, tables, or complex formatting that may confuse the software.
Additionally, avoid using acronyms or abbreviations that the ATS may not recognize. Instead, spell out the full terms to ensure that your resume gets properly parsed and understood by the system.
By understanding how ATS work and optimizing your writer resume accordingly, you can increase your chances of getting past the initial screening process and landing an interview opportunity. Remember to tailor your resume to each job application, using relevant keywords and following ATS-friendly formatting guidelines to make a positive impression on both the software and the human recruiters reviewing your application.
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