Short Story Writer Resume Examples & Templates

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and readable structure. They match terms to job descriptions and rank applicants. If your document confuses the ATS, it may never reach a human.

For a Short Story Writer, optimizing helps your resume and writing CV get seen by editors and hiring managers. Use terms editors expect, like "short fiction," "flash fiction," "narrative voice," "point of view (POV)," "character development," "literary magazine publications," "MFA," "manuscript," and "submissions." Mention genres you write in, and any awards or residencies.

• Use clear section titles: "Work Experience," "Publications," "Education," "Skills," "Awards."
• Put keywords naturally in bullet points and publication entries.
• List tools like "Scrivener," "Google Docs," "Submittable," and "Chicago Manual of Style."

Avoid complex formatting. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, or images. Stick to plain text, simple bullets, and standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.

Save as .docx or a simple PDF. Some ATS read .docx better. Don’t upload heavily designed PDFs that mix text and images.

Common mistakes include swapping exact keywords for creative synonyms. For example, don’t use only "storyteller" if job posts say "short story writer" or "fiction author." Also avoid putting crucial info in headers or footers. Many ATS ignore those areas.

Finally, proof your document for spelling and consistency. Use simple dates and clear employer names. That helps both machines and editors read your record fast.

Pick a clean template that lets your narrative voice shine. Use a reverse-chronological layout if you have steady publications or roles, and a functional layout if your credits spread across freelance gigs and residencies.

Keep length tight. One page works for most writers with a few publications, and two pages work if you’ve published widely or held editorial roles.

Use readable, ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt so hiring readers can scan easily.

Give each section enough white space. Use consistent margins and 1.0–1.15 line spacing to avoid a cramped look and to make skimming easier.

Label sections with clear headings: Contact, Bio or Profile, Publications, Awards, Residencies, Education, Selected Clips, and Skills. Put links to clips and reading samples in a simple URL or shortened link.

Avoid heavy graphics, multiple columns, or text boxes that confuse applicant systems. Keep layout simple so parse tools read your credits and so humans find your work quickly.

List publications in a consistent format: title, outlet, date, and link if available. Put awards and residencies where editors will spot them quickly.

Proofread layout and links on mobile and desktop. Make sure your contact details sit at the top and your name stands out without large logos or fonts.

Don’t overuse flourishes. Let your writing samples and publication list show your voice. The resume should guide readers to your best pieces with no friction.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

When you apply for Short Story Writer roles, your cover letter adds the voice your resume lacks. It shows editors why you fit their publication and why your stories will interest their readers.

Key sections breakdown

• Header: Include your contact details, the editor or hiring manager's name if you know it, and the date.
• Opening paragraph: State the exact Short Story Writer position you want. Show real enthusiasm for the publication. Mention one strong qualification or where you saw the opening.
• Body paragraphs (1-3): Connect your past work to the job. Highlight one or two key projects. Name a technical skill like point of view or narrative pacing when relevant. Note soft skills such as collaboration and deadline management. Give one or two numbers that show impact, like published pieces or readership reach. Use words from the job listing so your letter matches what they seek.
• Closing paragraph: Restate your interest in the Short Story Writer role and the publication. Say you can contribute and invite next steps. Thank the reader and include a clear call to action asking for an interview or sample review.

Tone and tailoring

Write like you speak to a friendly editor. Keep sentences short and direct. Use active voice and plain language. Customize each letter to the publication. Avoid generic templates and recycle only the strongest details.

Practical tips

Open with a hook from your work or a quick note about the publication. Mention a recent issue you liked. Keep the letter to one page. Proofread for grammar and clarity. Send only requested samples and follow submission guidelines exactly.

You're a Short Story Writer. Your resume must show your voice and craft clearly. Small mistakes can make editors skip your file.

Pay attention to details, give concrete evidence of your work, and keep formatting reader-friendly. That will help your resume get read and remembered.

These FAQs and tips help you shape a Short Story Writer resume that highlights voice, publication history, and storytelling craft. Use them to pick what to show, where to put it, and how to present small wins clearly to editors and agents.