The first thing to take account of, when writing a Curriculum Vitae as a freelance writer, is that one size does not fit all. A freelance writer will normally undertake many different types of freelance writing jobs, and should tailor each CV accordingly.
What is the Difference Between a CV and a Resume?
A CV or Curriculum Vitae would normally include all educational qualifications, as well as a detailed chronological list of employment details. A resume need only list highlights from a person’s career.
A freelance writer putting themselves forward for a writing job would normally provide something in between the two. Educational qualifications are likely to be less important than experience as a writer; and chronology is less important than grouping types of writing together in a way that makes sense and is easy to digest for the reader.
How to Write a CV or Resume for a Freelance Writer
The first step in writing a CV is to bring together all the relevant information. List the titles of all the works, and put them in groups:
- articles
- features
- books
- scripts
- screenplays
- etc.
Each title should have
- the date of publication or production
- the name of the publication and publisher, or the name of the producer and theatre or broadcaster
This list will form the basis of the CV. The next step is to arrange all the information appropriately for each different job.
Writers who undertake different sorts of writing work need to adapt their CVs accordingly. Television producers are not likely to be interested in articles which a writer has written, so all television or radio scripts should come first in a CV addressed to them. However, CVs aimed at magazine editors should have articles arranged prominently.
CV Layout
The basic layout of a writer's CV or resume consists of:
- Contact Details
- Introduction
- Credits
- Commendations
Contact Details
At the top, remember to put all contact information:
- name
- address
- e-mail address
- website details
Introductory Paragraph
The initial paragraph of introduction must highlight your skills as they apply to the writing job which you are trying to get. This should be revised for each job application, ensuring that the most apposite points for the job in hand are highlighted. Remember that a CV or resume should be written in 3rd person (the cover letter allows the opportunity - if required - to speak in 1st person about any experiences that are relevant).
Credits
Below the introductory paragraph, arrange all writing credits, grouped together in appropriate categories. Make good use of indentations and bullet points to make the list easy to read at a glance.
Commendations
Finally highlight any writing awards, notable commendations or review quotes.
Cover Letter
The cover letter is very important, whether replying to an advertisement calling for applications, or writing a letter of inquiry “on spec”, every cover letter should be personally addressed to the editor or producer and contain individual elements. Nothing will put prospective employers off more than a duplicated letter, which has been obviously sent off to multiple recipients.
Taking that into consideration, it is also important to follow certain style guidelines:
- First paragraph: get to the point, and sell yourself and/or your idea in a sentence or two.
- Second paragraph: expand a little on why you’re uniquely qualified for the job.
- Third paragraph: list your enclosures (CV and sample or clippings), and make a dignified exit, thanking the person for his or her time.
For more advice on the basics of being a Freelance Writer.
Janice Hally - Janice Hally has written more than 300 broadcast hours of prime-time TV drama in the UK, as well as fiction and non-fiction books.
