How to Put Freelance Work on Your Resume

So, you’ve been hustling away in the world of freelancing. Whether you’ve been crafting web copy, designing logos, or running social media campaigns, your freelance work deserves a place on your resume. But how do you showcase it without making it sound like you’re still figuring it out? How do you turn those side gigs into serious career assets?

Here is how to add freelance work to your resume in a way that stands out and grabs the attention of hiring managers. 

1. Treat Freelance Work Like a Real Job

This is where a lot of people slip up. If you’ve freelanced for a client or worked on a project, treat it like a full-time role. Don’t downplay it. Freelance work can be just as important, if not more so, than traditional employment. You’re responsible for everything: client relations, deadlines, problem-solving, and delivering results.

Instead of listing your freelance gig as “Freelancer,” get specific. Mention your role, just like you would in a salaried position. For example:

Content Writer
Freelance | May 2022 – Present

• Created compelling copy for 10+ e-commerce websites, increasing conversions by 20%
• Collaborated with clients to build brand voice and messaging
• Managed projects from concept to completion, meeting all deadlines and client expectations

See the difference? It shows you’re running a business, not just doing a “side job.”

2. Highlight Results, Not Just Tasks

Freelancing isn’t about listing what you did; it’s about showing how well you did it. Hiring managers want to see results, tangible, measurable outcomes that speak to your skills and expertise. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. Instead of saying, “I managed social media accounts,” say:

Social Media Manager
Freelance | Jan 2023 – Present

• Grew social media engagement by 35% through strategic content curation
• Created and scheduled daily posts across 3 platforms, increasing brand visibility by 50%

Numbers speak louder than words. They show that you didn’t just show up; you delivered.

3. Connect Freelance Work to Your Career Goals

When you list freelance experience, don’t forget to link it back to your bigger career narrative. You’re not just piecing together random gigs. You’re building a skill set that aligns with your professional goals. So, make sure your freelance work on the resume reflects that.

For instance, if you’re applying for a marketing role and you’ve freelanced as a content strategist, your resume should highlight the skills and experience you gained in that role that directly translates to the job you’re after.

Content Strategist
Freelance | March 2021 – Present

• Developed comprehensive content strategies for small businesses, leading to a 40% increase in website traffic
• Researched target demographics and SEO best practices to maximize reach and engagement

This not only tells the employer what you did but also shows how that experience is relevant to the job you’re applying for.

4. Group Multiple Freelance Projects Together

If you’ve worked on multiple freelance projects, especially if they’re all in the same field, group them under one heading. This consolidates your experience and avoids clutter. Plus, it gives a clean look to your resume.

For example:

Freelance Graphic Design Projects
Freelance | 2019 – Present

• Designed logos, brand identities, and marketing materials for 15+ clients, including startups and established companies
• Worked directly with clients to understand their vision, delivering creative solutions that matched their brand values
• Collaborated with teams on more extensive campaigns, meeting tight deadlines and exceeding client expectations

You don’t need to list every client or project; instead, focus on the impact of your work.

5. Demonstrate Your Soft Skills

Freelance work isn’t just about technical expertise; it also requires a set of soft skills that are highly valuable to employers. As a freelancer, you juggle multiple roles: communication, time management, and self-discipline, to name a few. Make sure these come through in your resume.

Example:

Freelance Web Developer
Freelance | Sept 2020 – Present

• Managed end-to-end web development projects, ensuring seamless communication between clients and design teams
• Delivered projects on time, even under tight deadlines, without compromising quality
• Adapted to clients’ changing needs, showcasing flexibility and problem-solving skills

You’re not just an expert at your craft; you’re also an expert in managing client expectations and timelines. Highlight those traits!

6. Don’t Forget the “Freelancer” Label

Some might argue that freelance work isn’t as legitimate as a full-time job. But you know it’s just as valuable. So, don’t try to hide it or downplay it. Instead, embrace it with confidence. Your experience shows initiative, independence, and an entrepreneurial spirit, all of which are traits employers love.

Simply label your freelance work as “Freelancer” or “Freelance [Role],” then follow it up with the details we discussed. Own it.

Conclusion

Putting your freelance work on your resume can be a game-changer. With the right approach, you can present your freelance experience as a legitimate, powerful asset that boosts your career. Don’t hide your freelance experience; show it off with confidence and focus on what you’ve achieved. Use precise language, focus on results, and connect it to your long-term goals.

Now, get that resume ready! You’ve got this.

How to Put Freelance Work on Your Resume FAQs

Q: How do I list freelance work if I don’t have a lot of clients?
A: Focus on the skills you’ve developed and the impact you’ve had. It’s not about the number of clients; it’s about what you’ve accomplished. Even if you’ve only worked with a few clients, highlight your achievements and the value you brought to those projects.

Q: Should I include freelance work if I’m transitioning into a new industry?
A: Yes! Your freelance experience can still be valuable, especially if you demonstrate transferable skills. Show how your freelance work has equipped you with relevant skills for the new industry, such as project management, communication, or creative thinking.

Q: Can I include unpaid freelance work on my resume?
A: Absolutely! If the work is relevant and demonstrates valuable skills, include it. Make sure you focus on what you accomplished during the project and how it aligns with the job you’re seeking.

Q: How do I format freelance work on a resume without cluttering it?
A: Group similar freelance projects together under one heading and focus on results. Keep it concise and relevant, and use bullet points to make it easy for employers to skim.

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