High Level Resume Tips for Writers:
As a Writer, your resume is your chance to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. However, with so many different types of writing and industries, it can be challenging to know what to include and how to present it. To help you keep your priorities straight, we've compiled some key resume tips specifically for Writers:
Highlight your writing skills:
As a Writer, your ability to craft compelling content is your most valuable asset. Highlight your writing skills on your resume, including any specific genres or styles you specialize in, and any awards or recognition you've received for your work.
Demonstrate your research and analytical skills:
Many writing roles require extensive research and analysis, whether it's for journalism, marketing, or technical writing. Showcase your ability to conduct thorough research, analyze data, and synthesize complex information into clear and concise content.
Emphasize your editing and proofreading skills:
As a Writer, you know that editing and proofreading are essential to producing high-quality content. Highlight your attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to catch errors and inconsistencies.
Showcase your ability to work independently and collaboratively:
Depending on the type of writing you do, you may work independently or as part of a team. Emphasize your ability to work both independently and collaboratively, demonstrating your communication skills, ability to give and receive feedback, and willingness to collaborate with others.
Tailor your resume to the job and industry:
Just like with any other profession, it's important to customize your resume to the specific job and industry you're applying for. Use the job description to identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking, and highlight how you meet those requirements. Additionally, consider tailoring your resume to the specific industry you're applying to, whether it's journalism, marketing, or technical writing.
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
- Education
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
- Awards
- Projects
Let's start with resume headlines.
Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Writers:
For Writers, your resume headline is your chance to make a strong first impression and stand out from other candidates. As a writer, you are responsible for creating engaging and compelling content that resonates with your audience. Whether it's crafting a captivating story or writing persuasive copy, you understand the importance of grabbing your reader's attention from the very beginning. Your resume headline serves as that vital introduction, setting the stage for a successful job search.
Just as you would carefully choose your words to convey a message to your readers, your resume headline should be carefully crafted to communicate your value proposition to potential employers. Recruiters and hiring managers often spend just a few seconds glancing at a resume before moving on to the next, so your headline needs to immediately capture their attention and showcase your unique skills and experience.
Some of the best resume headlines that we see from Writers often highlight their expertise in a specific niche or industry, their ability to write for different mediums (such as social media, blogs, or print), or their experience in creating content that drives engagement and conversions.
When crafting your resume headline, think about what sets you apart from other writers. What unique skills or experiences do you bring to the table? What type of writing do you specialize in? Use your headline to communicate your value proposition and make a strong first impression.
Let's take a look at some example comparisons to see what separates a strong resume headline from a weak one.
Writer Resume Headline Examples:
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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
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How to Impress with Your Writer Work Experience:
An effective Writer work experience section should showcase a strong portfolio of written work that demonstrates a deep understanding of various writing styles, including creative, technical, and journalistic writing. It should highlight the candidate's ability to research and write compelling content that engages readers and meets the needs of the target audience. Additionally, it should demonstrate the Writer's ability to work collaboratively with editors, designers, and other team members to produce high-quality content that meets project goals and deadlines.
The work experience section should also highlight the Writer's ability to adapt to different industries and subject matters, as well as their proficiency in using various writing tools and technologies. It should showcase the candidate's ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines. Additionally, it should communicate the Writer's ability to think critically, analyze information, and communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.
Overall, an effective work experience section for a Writer should demonstrate a strong track record of producing high-quality content that meets the needs of clients and readers alike. It should showcase the Writer's ability to work collaboratively, adapt to different industries and subject matters, and deliver projects on time and within budget.
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:
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.
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:
As a Writer, you are a master of words, able to craft compelling stories, articles, and content that captivate readers and convey complex ideas with clarity and precision. To excel in this dynamic field, you must possess a diverse range of skills, from impeccable grammar and syntax to creativity, research, and adaptability. When crafting the skills section of your resume, the objective is to showcase your unique blend of technical and soft skills, highlighting your ability to not only write engaging content but also to collaborate with editors, meet deadlines, and adapt to new writing styles and formats. A well-crafted skills section will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the talent and expertise necessary to excel as a Writer and contribute to their organization's success. In the following sections, we'll outline the top hard and soft skills that consistently appear on the resumes of accomplished Writers.
Top Hard & Soft Skills for Writers
Hard Skills
- Copywriting
- Content Creation
- Editing and Proofreading
- SEO Writing
- Research and Fact-Checking
- Journalism Ethics and Standards
- AP Style
- Technical Writing
- Grant Writing
- Scriptwriting
- 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
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- 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)
Dear Hiring Manager at Company Name,
As a highly skilled Writer with extensive experience in content strategy, content marketing, and project management, I am excited to apply for the Writer position at your company. With a proven track record of creating engaging content that drives website traffic, increases lead generation, and boosts brand awareness, I am confident that I have the skills and expertise to make a significant contribution to your team.
In my most recent role, I 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. I also 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. Additionally, I conducted keyword research and optimized website content, resulting in a 20% increase in organic search traffic and a 10% increase in search engine rankings.
Prior to this, I 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. I also 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. Furthermore, I managed multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, consistently delivering high-quality content on time and within budget.
In my first role as a Writer, I 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. I also 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. Additionally, I managed a team of freelance writers and editors, ensuring that all content was accurate, engaging, and optimized for search engine visibility.
As a Writer, I am passionate about creating content that resonates with audiences and drives business results. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the Writer position at your company. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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:
See how your Writer resume compares to the job description of the role you're applying for.
Our free Resume and Job Description Match tool will analyze and score your resume based on how well it aligns with the position. Here's how you can use the comparison tool to improve your Writer resume, and increase your chances of landing the interview:
- 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
Complete the steps below to generate your free resume analysis.