Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are tools employers use to scan resumes for keywords and basic formatting. For a Freelance Video Editor, this means your resume might never reach a human if it doesn’t pass the ATS. These systems look for specific terms like software names, project types, or skills from the job ad. They ignore fancy layouts, so keep it simple.

Best practices: Use standard section titles like "Work Experience" and "Skills." Pull keywords directly from the job description (e.g., "Adobe Premiere" or "color grading"). Avoid tables, columns, or graphics. Stick to fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Save as a PDF or .docx—no .psd files!

Common mistakes: Using "Vid Editor" instead of "Video Editor" messes up keyword matching. Headers with company logos (like Huels-Lowe) might get skipped. Leaving out "motion graphics" when the job asks for it means your resume gets tossed.

As a freelance video editor, your resume needs to balance creativity with clarity. Use a clean, reverse-chronological layout to showcase your most relevant projects and clients up front. A one-page format works best unless you have 10+ years of experience. Avoid templates with graphics or columns—ATS systems often skip over complex layouts.

Stick to 11pt Arial or Garamond for body text. Use bold for section headers (14pt) and italics for subheadings. Let white space breathe—never cram text into tight columns. ATS parsers struggle with design-heavy sections like infographics or sidebars.

Common mistakes: Using Comic Sans or Papyrus for a "creative" vibe (it’s unprofessional). Overloading with project details without metrics (e.g., "Edited 30-minute documentary for Huel and Klein" vs. "Reduced editing time by 25% for Huel and Klein’s viral campaign").

Freelance video editors often work with tight deadlines and diverse clients. A strong cover letter shows you understand the unique demands of this role. It lets you stand out from other applicants by highlighting your specific skills and past successes.

Start with your contact info, the date, and the hiring manager’s details. Keep it simple but professional.

Opening: Mention the job title and why you want to work with them. Maybe say you saw their project on a platform like YouTube or Vimeo. Add a quick line about your top skill, like fast turnaround times or creative editing styles.

Body: Use 1-2 paragraphs to show how your experience matches their needs. Talk about tools you use (Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects) and specific projects. For example: "I edited a 30-minute documentary that got 50,000 views in a week." Add numbers to prove your impact.

Include soft skills like communication or time management. Clients value clear updates and meeting deadlines. Tailor your examples to their type of content—social media, corporate videos, etc.

Closing: Reiterate your enthusiasm and suggest a next step. Ask for a 15-minute call to discuss the project. Thank them for their time. Keep it friendly but professional.

Write like you’re talking to a peer in the industry. Avoid vague statements. Be clear about what you bring to the table.

As a Freelance Video Editor, your resume is a visual and technical showcase. Small mistakes can cost you big opportunities. Here are common pitfalls to avoid, so your resume highlights your skills and projects the way clients expect.

Freelance Video Editor resumes need a sharp focus on technical skills, creative projects, and client results. This guide answers common questions and shares actionable tips to help you craft a resume that highlights your editing expertise and stands out to hiring producers and creative directors.