Listing Freelance Projects on a Resume After Career Change
Quick answer: List freelance projects as work experience, focusing on skills and results.↗ Share on X
When you change careers, your resume needs to change too. One big question is how to list freelance projects. This can be tricky, but it is very important. As someone who has helped friends with their resumes and interviews, I know how hard it can be.
What to Include in Freelance Project Listings
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Turn Volunteer Work into Interview Stories That Get You Hired →First, think about what skills you used in your freelance projects. Did you write articles, design websites, or help with social media? Make a list of these skills and try to match them to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job as a social media manager, highlight your experience with social media in your freelance work.
I once helped a friend who was changing careers from teaching to marketing. She had done some freelance writing and social media work, so we made sure to highlight these skills on her resume.
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How to Format Freelance Project Listings
When listing freelance projects, use a format similar to what you would use for a regular job. Include the name of the project, the dates you worked on it, and a brief description of what you did. Try to use numbers to show what you achieved. For example, instead of saying 'increased social media following', say 'increased social media following by 500%'.
For instance, a freelance writing project might look like this:
- Project: Article Writing for XYZ Company
- Dates: January to March
- Description: Wrote 10 articles on topics related to health and wellness, increasing website traffic by 20%.
Tips for Listing Freelance Projects
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Build a LinkedIn Profile That Shows Your Transferable Skills →One important thing to remember is to be honest. Only include projects that you actually worked on, and do not exaggerate your role or achievements. It is also a good idea to include any relevant certifications or training you have received.
As someone who has navigated my own career changes, I know how important it is to be flexible and open to new opportunities. Freelance projects can be a great way to gain experience and build your skills, and they can be a valuable addition to your resume.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake people make when listing freelance projects is to leave out important details. Make sure to include the skills you used, the results you achieved, and any relevant certifications or training. Another mistake is to make your freelance project listings too long. Try to keep each listing brief and to the point.
For example, instead of saying 'I worked on a project and it was very successful', say 'I worked on a project, increasing sales by 15% and improving customer satisfaction by 25%'.
Conclusion
Listing freelance projects on a resume after a career change can be challenging, but it is a great way to show your skills and experience. By following these tips and being honest and clear, you can make your freelance projects a valuable part of your resume.
Frequently asked questions
How do I list freelance projects on my resume?
List freelance projects as work experience, focusing on skills and results.
What skills should I highlight in my freelance project listings?
Highlight skills that match the job you are applying for, such as writing, design, or social media skills.
How do I format my freelance project listings?
Use a format similar to what you would use for a regular job, including the name of the project, dates, and a brief description.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when listing freelance projects?
Leave out important details, make listings too long, and exaggerate your role or achievements.
Why are freelance projects important to include on my resume?
Freelance projects can be a great way to gain experience and build your skills, and they can be a valuable addition to your resume.