Six Resume Essentials for Freelance Graphic Designers
Freelance graphic designers have the freedom of selecting their employers and taking on work they like, and refuse requests that they do not like. Though they have this freedom, freelance designers are constantly on the lookout for new clients and bid for contracts to get projects that will keep them busy throughout the year. Though a potential client will be ultimately convinced by a design sample, the first thing that will grab their attention is an arresting resume which will show that the writer has potential.
While it may be difficult to brief details of all your writing experience in one or two pages and you cannot lay claim over articles ghostwritten for clients, you may have to prepare a smart resume that is unlike a traditional resume to showcase your skills. To get over the dilemma of selecting between different bodies of work done by you to showcase to a potential client, try to concentrate on topics that are relevant to the service profile advertised and put your best foot forward.
Write a skill based resume
Though most employers and recruiters prefer the standard resume that has everything listed out in a chronological manner, a freelancer resume should be a little more skill based. Write details about educational qualifications and experience in writing content similar to what client is has asked for in the service description. Avoid graphics and colorful lingo and instead use action verbs to describe your writing achievements.
Avoid overkill with details
Accept the fact that no one wants to read a three page resume as even two pages can get tedious. If the same action verbs are repeated again and again it can get passed up as a fake. Do not brag or exaggerate about your work for any past client as in today’s connected world it is very easy to carry out a reference check.
Advertise your online presence
Every freelancer that wants to apply for new contracts should have a website and a blog to showcase writing skills. Link this website/blog to your resume that should have details of your writing or designing abilities which will show prospective clients that you have invested a significant amount of time and effort. As a beginner without much to showcase, you can write an impressive Linked in resume and get endorsements from past colleagues and clients.
Name, address and qualifications
The first two can be on beginning page of resume while details of educational qualification, age, family, hobbies, interest etc., can be on the last page. Avoid giving personal details unless specifically asked for as these can sometimes make the resume too long.
Chronology of work
Start from the latest project you have done and go backwards slowly reducing the number of details with each previous service profile. Just give brief description of each and avoid writing skills mentioned above.
Awards and Recommendations
Keep this section after you have completed listing out details of your writing experience as these become meaningful at that stage. If you are a member of professional writing organizations or editorial societies then mention that in your resume it will create an impression that you take your career seriously. Keep details of all your recent references and recommendations sent by clients and display them on your social media page to win better clients.