Writer Resume Examples & Templates
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Writer Resume Examples and Templates
Junior Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong quantifiable achievements
The resume highlights impressive metrics, like producing over 50 articles and achieving a 25% reader engagement rate. This clearly shows the candidate's impact and effectiveness as a writer, which is essential for a Writer role.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes important areas like SEO and content strategy. These skills align well with what employers look for in a Writer, demonstrating the candidate's qualifications for the position.
Compelling introduction
The introduction effectively presents the candidate's passion for storytelling and adaptability in writing styles. This sets a positive tone and connects well with the expectations for a Writer.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific industry keywords
The resume could benefit from incorporating more specific keywords related to writing, such as 'copywriting' and 'content marketing'. This would enhance ATS compatibility and make it more appealing to hiring managers.
Limited detail on freelance work
The freelance experience could include more specific outcomes or projects to better showcase the candidate's versatility and range. Adding details about specific clients or notable projects would strengthen this section.
No clear summary of career goals
Adding a brief statement about career aspirations or what the candidate aims to achieve in the writing field could make the resume more personal and focused, helping it resonate with potential employers.
Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong impact in work experience
The resume showcases significant achievements, like three best-selling novels and a 30% sales increase. These quantifiable results highlight the candidate's success and relevance for a Writer role.
Compelling introduction
The introduction captures attention by emphasizing over 6 years of experience and a proven track record. This establishes the candidate's credentials early, which is key for a Writer position.
Effective use of industry keywords
The resume includes relevant keywords like 'creative writing' and 'content creation.' This helps align with ATS requirements and ensures the candidate stands out to hiring managers.
Engaging skills section
The skills listed, such as 'Storytelling' and 'Social Media Management,' are directly applicable to the Writer role. This gives a clear view of the candidate's capabilities relevant to the position.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks a tailored summary
The introduction could be more tailored by including specific aspirations or interests in writing. Mentioning specific genres or writing styles could better connect with the target Writer role.
Limited quantifiable results in earlier roles
While the current role shows strong results, the previous position at The Guardian could benefit from similar quantification. Adding specific metrics would enhance the impact of that experience.
No clear format for education section
The education section could improve by using bullet points for clarity. Highlighting relevant coursework or projects related to writing would also strengthen this part of the resume.
Absence of a portfolio link
Including a link to an online portfolio or samples of work would provide tangible evidence of writing ability. This is especially important for a Writer position to showcase versatility and style.
Senior Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong experience section
The experience section highlights quantifiable achievements, like a 50% increase in organic traffic and a 30% boost in engagement metrics. This showcases your impact as a writer, which is essential for attracting potential employers in the writing field.
Clear and compelling summary
Your summary effectively captures your experience and skills. It emphasizes your ability to engage audiences and understand market trends, aligning well with the expectations for a writer focused on storytelling and content creation.
Relevant skills listed
You’ve included key skills like SEO Optimization and Content Strategy that are important for modern writing roles. This alignment with industry keywords enhances your resume's effectiveness in catching the attention of hiring managers.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific examples in education
The education section mentions your Master's but doesn't highlight specific projects or courses that relate to writing. Adding details about relevant coursework or projects could better illustrate your qualifications for the writer role.
Generic skills section
The skills listed are good but could be more tailored. Including specific writing-related tools or software (like WordPress or Grammarly) relevant to the writing industry would strengthen your resume's appeal.
No clear objective statement
Lead Writer Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership experience
Your role as Lead Writer involved directing a team of 8 writers, showcasing effective leadership. This experience is crucial for a Writer position, as it highlights your ability to manage projects and guide teams towards successful content creation.
Quantifiable achievements
You effectively use numbers to demonstrate your impact, like a 30% increase in audience engagement and a 40% improvement in organic search rankings. These quantifiable results strengthen your profile for a Writer role by showcasing your effectiveness in driving results.
Relevant skills listed
Your skills section includes key competencies such as Content Strategy and SEO Optimization. These are essential for a Writer, as they indicate your ability to create effective content that meets both creative and technical requirements.
Compelling summary statement
Your summary is clear and highlights your experience and accomplishments. It effectively sets the tone for your resume, making it clear that you bring a wealth of knowledge in content creation and strategy for the Writer position.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific tools or software
Your resume doesn't mention specific writing tools or software commonly used in the industry, such as CMS platforms or content analytics tools. Including these could enhance your appeal for a Writer role by showing you’re familiar with industry standards.
Limited diversity in duties
While your duties are impressive, they mostly focus on leadership and strategy. Adding more variety, such as specific writing projects or formats you’ve worked on, could provide a fuller picture of your capabilities as a Writer.
No clear connection to digital formats
Given the importance of digital content today, your resume could benefit from emphasizing your experience with various digital formats, like social media or multimedia storytelling, which are often key components of a Writer's responsibilities.
Not tailored to specific writing niches
Your resume could be made stronger by tailoring it to specific writing niches, like technical writing or copywriting. This would help potential employers see how your skills align with their specific needs and enhance your chances for the Writer role.
Content Strategist Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong quantifiable achievements
The resume showcases impressive results like 'increased organic traffic by 50% year-over-year' and 'increased client engagement by 35%'. These metrics effectively demonstrate the candidate's impact, which is crucial for a Writer seeking to prove their effectiveness in content creation.
Relevant skills listed
The skills section includes essential competencies like 'Content Strategy', 'SEO', and 'Copywriting'. These align well with the requirements of a Writer, ensuring the candidate appears well-equipped for the role.
Clear career progression
The candidate's career trajectory from a Content Strategist to a Senior Content Strategist illustrates growth and increasing responsibility. This provides confidence in their capability to deliver high-quality writing and strategy.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Summary could be more specific
The summary mentions 'creating impactful content strategies', but it could be more direct about writing skills. Tailoring it to emphasize writing experience would better align it with the Writer role.
Lacks specific writing examples
The resume focuses on strategy but doesn't include specific writing samples or projects. Adding examples of written work would help showcase the candidate's writing ability directly related to the Writer position.
Formatting could enhance readability
The use of lists in the experience section is good, but ensuring consistent formatting throughout can improve overall readability. Consider using bullet points for all sections to create a cohesive look.
Editor-in-Chief Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong quantifiable achievements
The resume highlights significant achievements, like increasing site traffic by 150% and boosting engagement metrics by 75%. These quantifiable results showcase the candidate's ability to deliver impactful content strategies, which is essential for a Writer role.
Relevant skills listed
Skills like 'Content Strategy' and 'SEO Optimization' directly relate to the Writer position. This alignment helps emphasize the candidate's qualifications and expertise, making it easier for hiring managers to see their fit for the role.
Compelling summary statement
The introduction captures attention with phrases like 'dynamic and results-oriented.' It effectively sets the tone for the resume and showcases the candidate's passion for storytelling, which is crucial for a Writer.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lack of specific writing examples
The resume mentions managing a team and launching a podcast but lacks specific examples of the candidate's writing. Adding a few notable articles or projects could better demonstrate their writing skills relevant to the Writer role.
Limited focus on soft skills
The resume lists many technical skills but doesn’t highlight soft skills like creativity or adaptability. Including these would round out the candidate's profile and show their ability to thrive in a Writer position.
No clear connection to audience engagement
While the resume mentions increasing traffic, it doesn’t link this to how the content engaged readers. Adding examples of audience feedback or engagement metrics would strengthen the case for the candidate’s effectiveness as a Writer.
1. How to write a Writer resume
Searching for a writing job can be tough, especially when you're up against so many talented individuals. How can you ensure your resume captures attention? Hiring managers want to see how you've utilized your writing skills to create impactful content, not just a list of job titles. Many writers mistakenly focus on their educational background or general skills instead of quantifying their achievements and contributions.
This guide will help you craft a compelling resume that stands out. You'll learn to transform vague responsibilities into concrete accomplishments, like changing "Wrote articles" to "Produced 20 articles that increased site traffic by 30%." We'll focus on key sections like work experience and summary. By the end, you'll have a resume that clearly showcases your unique writing talent.
Use the right format for a Writer resume
When writing a resume for a Writer position, consider using a chronological format. This format highlights your work history in reverse order, showcasing your most recent and relevant experience first. It's ideal for candidates with a consistent career path. If you have gaps in your employment or are changing careers, a functional or combination format may serve you better, allowing you to emphasize skills over specific job titles. Regardless of the format you choose, ensure your resume is ATS-friendly. Keep sections clear and simple, avoiding columns, tables, or complex graphics.
Here's a quick list of formats:
- Chronological: Best for steady career progression.
- Functional: Great for career changers.
- Combination: Useful when you have relevant skills and experiences.
Craft an impactful Writer resume summary
A resume summary is a brief introduction that highlights your skills and experiences. For experienced candidates, this should focus on your achievements and specialization. If you're entry-level or changing careers, consider an objective statement that outlines your goals and what you hope to achieve in the Writing field. A strong summary formula is: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This helps recruiters quickly grasp your qualifications and what you bring to the table.
Make sure your summary aligns with the job you're applying for. Incorporate keywords from the job description to improve your chances with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Good resume summary example
"Creative Writer with 5+ years of experience in developing engaging content for diverse audiences. Proficient in SEO and social media strategies, with a track record of increasing organic traffic by 30% at Stark Group."
This works because it provides specific years of experience, highlights relevant skills, and quantifies an achievement.
Bad resume summary example
"Aspiring Writer looking for opportunities to gain experience in the field."
This fails because it lacks specific details about skills or experiences that could attract an employer's attention.
Highlight your Writer work experience
List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Include your job title, company name, and dates of employment. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements, starting each point with a strong action verb relevant to writing. For example, instead of saying 'Responsible for creating content', say 'Developed engaging articles that increased reader engagement by 25%'. This approach gives a clearer picture of your impact. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can also help structure your bullet points for maximum clarity and impact.
Quantifying your achievements with metrics makes your contributions clearer to potential employers.
Good work experience example
- Developed engaging blog posts for Hartmann that increased site traffic by 40% over six months.
This works because it clearly states the action taken and quantifies the impact, demonstrating the candidate's effectiveness.
Bad work experience example
- Wrote various articles and content for Emard and Feest.
This fails because it lacks specifics on what types of articles were written or the results generated from those efforts.
Present relevant education for a Writer
In this section, include your school name, degree, and graduation year or expected date. If you're a recent graduate, make your education more prominent and consider including your GPA or relevant coursework. For experienced writers, education can be less prominent and often omits GPA. If you have certifications related to writing or content creation, you can list them here or in a separate section.
Listing relevant coursework can help show your qualifications, especially if you're newer to the field.
Good education example
BA in English Literature
University of Wisconsin
Graduated May 2022
This works because it clearly shows the degree, institution, and date, making it easy for employers to verify educational background.
Bad education example
Some College Courses
Some University
Did not finish
This fails because it lacks specifics and indicates unfinished education, which doesn't add strength to the resume.
Add essential skills for a Writer resume
Technical skills for a Writer resume
Soft skills for a Writer resume
Include these powerful action words on your Writer resume
Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:
Add additional resume sections for a Writer
Consider adding sections for Projects, Certifications, or Publications. These can showcase your practical experience and any recognized work you've done. If you've worked on significant writing projects or have certifications in writing or editing, include those to highlight your qualifications. Volunteer work can also be valuable, especially if it relates to writing or content creation.
Good example
Project: 'Voices of the Community' - A collaborative writing project for local non-profit, resulting in a published anthology.
This works because it details the project, its purpose, and the outcome, showing real-world impact.
Bad example
Wrote a few things for my blog.
This fails because it's vague and lacks any measurable impact or relevance to potential employers.
2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Writer
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are tools that companies use to manage job applications. They scan resumes for keywords and can reject them based on formatting or missing information. For a Writer, optimizing your resume for ATS is essential to ensure it gets through the initial screening.
To make your resume ATS-friendly, follow these best practices:
- Use standard section titles like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
- Incorporate relevant keywords from job descriptions, such as "content creation," "copywriting," "SEO," and "editing."
- Avoid complex formatting like tables, columns, or text boxes that ATS may struggle to read.
- Stick to standard, readable fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.
- Save your file in a common format like PDF or .docx, and avoid heavily designed layouts.
Some common mistakes to avoid include using creative synonyms instead of exact keywords, relying on headers that might be ignored, and omitting critical keywords relevant to your writing skills. Make sure your resume clearly communicates your abilities and experience without unnecessary distractions.
ATS-compatible example
Skills: Content Creation, SEO, Copywriting, Editing, Creative Writing
Why this works: This skills section directly lists relevant keywords that ATS is likely looking for. By using clear, standard language, it ensures that the ATS can easily identify your qualifications for the Writer role.
ATS-incompatible example
Expertise in: Crafting compelling narratives, wordsmithing, and creative storytelling
Why this fails: This section uses creative synonyms instead of the exact keywords that ATS looks for, like "content creation" or "copywriting." This can lead to your resume being overlooked since it doesn't match the job description closely enough.
3. How to format and design a Writer resume
When you're crafting a resume for a writer position, choosing the right template is crucial. A clean, professional layout works best, especially in a reverse-chronological format. This layout highlights your most recent work and makes it easy for hiring managers to see your writing journey.
Your resume should ideally fit on one page, particularly if you're in the early stages of your writing career. For more experienced writers, you might extend to two pages, but keep it concise. Focus on showcasing relevant writing samples and accomplishments.
Select professional fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia in sizes 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Ensure there's plenty of white space around sections to avoid clutter. Simple formats beat flashy designs; they’re easier for both human readers and ATS to digest.
Common mistakes include overusing graphics or complex layouts, which can confuse ATS systems. Stick to standard section headings and avoid excessive color or unusual fonts. Lastly, make sure your spacing is consistent throughout your resume to enhance readability.
Well formatted example
Zenobia Cartwright
123 Writer Lane
City, State, ZIP
zenobia.cartwright@email.com
(555) 123-4567
Experience
Content Writer, Dibbert-Goldner
June 2021 - Present
- Crafted engaging blog posts and articles to boost website traffic by 30%.
Education
B.A. in English, University of State
Graduated: May 2021
This clean layout ensures readability and is ATS-friendly. The clear section headings and consistent spacing make it easy for hiring managers to find key information quickly.
Poorly formatted example
Toney Koepp
123 Writer Lane, City, State, ZIP
toney.koepp@email.com | (555) 123-4567
Experience:
Content Writer at Green-Hudson | 2020 - Present
(Details in a cluttered paragraph format that’s hard to read)
Education:
B.A. in Literature from University of State - 2020
ATS may struggle to parse the cluttered format, and the lack of clear headings makes it hard for hiring managers to find what they need. This format reduces professionalism and clarity.
4. Cover letter for a Writer
Writing a tailored cover letter is a must when applying for a Writer position. It helps you stand out by showing your genuine interest in the role and company. Your cover letter should complement your resume, highlighting your unique voice and style.
Start with a clear header that includes your contact details, the company's information, and the date. In the opening paragraph, mention the specific Writer position you're applying for. Share your enthusiasm for the company and briefly highlight your most compelling qualification or how you found the job posting.
In the body paragraphs, connect your writing experience to the job requirements. Discuss key projects you've worked on, specific writing skills you possess, and any relevant soft skills like creativity and adaptability. Use keywords from the job description to tailor your content to the company.
- Highlight quantifiable achievements, such as audience growth or article engagement rates.
- Discuss your adaptability in writing for different formats, like blogs, articles, or social media.
- Showcase examples of how you've met deadlines and collaborated with teams.
In your closing paragraph, reiterate your strong interest in the Writer role. Express confidence in your ability to contribute to the team. Include a call to action, like requesting an interview, and thank the reader for their time.
Keep a professional yet enthusiastic tone throughout. Make sure to customize each letter for the specific application, steering clear of generic templates.
Sample a Writer cover letter
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the Writer position at The New York Times, as advertised on your careers page. With a background in creative writing and over five years of experience in journalism, I am eager to contribute my skills and passion for storytelling to your esteemed publication.
During my time at XYZ Magazine, I successfully increased our online readership by 30% through engaging articles and a focus on trending topics. My experience includes writing compelling features, interviews, and news pieces that resonate with diverse audiences. I am skilled in SEO and social media promotion, ensuring my content reaches the right readers at the right time.
Moreover, I thrive in collaborative environments, having worked closely with editors and fellow writers to produce high-quality content under tight deadlines. I am particularly proud of a series I developed on local community issues that sparked meaningful conversations and increased engagement.
I am truly passionate about the power of words and how they can inform and inspire. I believe my background aligns well with the mission of The New York Times, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. I would love to discuss how my skills can benefit your publication further. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Writer resume
Creating a resume for a writer requires careful attention to detail. You want to showcase your skills and experience clearly to stand out to potential employers. Avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in how your resume is perceived.
Make sure your resume reflects your writing style and abilities while being easy to read. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
Avoid vagueness in descriptions
Mistake Example: "Wrote articles for various publications."
Correction: Be specific about what you wrote and where it was published. Instead, write: "Contributed over 30 articles to 'The Local News' focusing on community events and culture."
Generic applications
Mistake Example: "I am a skilled writer looking for opportunities."
Correction: Tailor your resume to each job. Instead, write: "Seeking a position as a content writer at XYZ Corp, where I can utilize my research and storytelling skills to engage readers."
Typos and grammar mistakes
Mistake Example: "I have a passion for writting and creating compelling content."
Correction: Proofread your resume multiple times. Instead, write: "I have a passion for writing and creating compelling content." Consider using tools like Grammarly for assistance.
Irrelevant information
Mistake Example: "Hobbies include hiking, cooking, and playing video games."
Correction: Keep your resume focused on writing-related skills. Instead, write: "Participated in writing workshops and volunteered as an editor for a local magazine."
Poor formatting for readability
Mistake Example: "Experience: 2019 Writer, 2020 Editor, 2021 Author" (all in one dense paragraph).
Correction: Use clear sections with bullet points. Instead, format like this:
Experience:
- Writer, 2019
- Editor, 2020
- Author, 2021
6. FAQs about Writer resumes
Creating a resume as a writer requires a focus on showcasing your creativity, portfolio, and writing skills. Here, you'll find common questions and helpful tips to make your resume effective and engaging.
What skills should I highlight in my writer resume?
What skills should I highlight in my writer resume?
Emphasize skills like:
- Creative writing
- Edit and proofreading
- Research abilities
- Content strategy
What's the best format for a writer's resume?
What's the best format for a writer's resume?
A clean, modern format works best. Use a clear layout with sections for your experience, skills, and portfolio links. Avoid clutter and focus on readability.
How long should my writer resume be?
How long should my writer resume be?
Keep it to one page if possible. Focus on relevant experience and skills. If you have extensive experience, two pages can be acceptable, but be concise.
How can I showcase my writing projects in my resume?
How can I showcase my writing projects in my resume?
Include a dedicated section for your portfolio. List notable projects, publications, or links to your work. Use brief descriptions to explain your role and impact.
Should I include certifications on my writer resume?
Should I include certifications on my writer resume?
Yes, include relevant certifications, like courses in creative writing or digital marketing. They can enhance your credibility and show your commitment to professional growth.
Pro Tips
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like 'wrote,' 'edited,' or 'developed.' This makes your achievements sound more impactful and dynamic.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
Customize your resume for each application. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description. This shows you’re serious and have done your homework.
Include Testimonials
If you have positive feedback from clients or colleagues, include brief testimonials. This adds credibility and shows how others value your work.
7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Writer resume
Crafting a compelling Writer resume is key to landing your next gig. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Use a clean, professional format that’s easy to read and ATS-friendly.
- Highlight your relevant writing skills and experiences that match the specific writing position you’re applying for.
- Incorporate strong action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible to showcase your impact.
- Optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems by including keywords related to the job description naturally.
Remember, your resume is your first chance to impress. Use resume-building tools or templates to make the process easier and take that next step in your writing career!
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