How to Put Freelance Work on Your CV

Freelance work offers diverse experience and unique skills that can elevate your CV, especially if presented effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide on showcasing freelance experience in a way that stands out to recruiters and potential employers. Additionally, if you're looking to craft a polished, professional CV, a CV writing service can help make your experience shine.

1. Decide Where to Place Freelance Work

Before diving in, decide where to put your freelance experience on your CV. Depending on the relevance and duration, freelance work can appear in:

• Work Experience Section: If freelancing is your primary or most relevant experience, treat it like any full-time job.
• Projects Section: If freelancing complements your primary role or consists of short-term projects, list it under a “Projects” section.
• Skills Section: If freelance work has helped you acquire specific, industry-relevant skills, mention these under a “Skills” section and note the context.

2. Choose an Appropriate Job Title

Instead of simply saying “Freelancer,” use a title that reflects the type of work you did, such as “Freelance Graphic Designer” or “Independent Marketing Consultant.” This approach makes your experience immediately clear and gives it credibility. If you’re unsure how to phrase your role, a professional CV writing service can help craft the perfect title.

3. Showcase Relevant Skills and Achievements

When detailing freelance work, emphasize achievements and skills that align with the job you're applying for. Put:

• Client names (if allowed) or sectors: Example - "Developed social media strategy for clients in the tech industry."
• Quantifiable achievements: Show measurable results, like “Increased client engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns.”
• Key responsibilities: Describe your primary duties, especially those related to the role you’re pursuing.

For instance:

Freelance Marketing Specialist
January 2021 – Present

• Developed digital marketing strategies for small businesses, leading to a 35% increase in client website traffic.
• Managed social media campaigns, increasing followers by 500+ monthly.

Highlighting your accomplishments in this way adds weight to your freelance experience and aligns it with the structured expectations of traditional employment. Not sure how to phrase achievements effectively? A resume writing service can transform your accomplishments into impactful statements.

4. Add Freelance Work to a Portfolio Section

If your freelance projects are creative or technical in nature (like design, writing, or software development), create a portfolio section. Mention links to your portfolio website, LinkedIn profile, or specific projects. A visually appealing portfolio gives employers a real sense of your freelance expertise and impact.

5. Mention Transferable Skills and Soft Skills

Freelance work often requires time management, problem-solving, and self-motivation—skills highly valued by employers. In a “Skills” or “Professional Profile” section, highlight:

• Project Management: Managed multiple client projects simultaneously with on-time delivery.
• Communication: Communicated effectively with clients across various industries.
• Adaptability: Quickly adapted to new industries and project requirements.

An experienced CV writing service can help you craft these soft skills to align seamlessly with the job requirements and help you shine as a self-sufficient, resourceful candidate.

6. Consider Using a Professional CV Writing Service for Polish and Precision

With so many ways to showcase freelance work, it’s essential to be selective, clear, and precise. A professional CV writing service can bring an outside perspective, ensuring your freelance experience is presented strategically.

Final Thoughts

Freelance work is invaluable and often sets candidates apart. With the right CV format and language, you can highlight your freelance experience as a strong, credible asset to potential employers. Need expert help? Trust a CV writing service to turn your freelancing journey into a professional showcase that gets noticed.