Freelance Writer Resume Examples and How to Write
Establishing yourself as a freelance writer or advancing your writing career in Australia’s competitive content landscape requires more than just writing talent – your resume must demonstrate your ability to craft compelling content, meet deadlines, and deliver results that drive client success across diverse industries and platforms. With freelance writing opportunities across digital marketing agencies, publishing houses, and corporate clients receiving numerous applications from skilled writers, your resume needs to immediately showcase your writing expertise, portfolio depth, and track record of creating content that engages audiences and achieves business objectives.
This comprehensive guide provides you with proven freelance writer resume examples, templates, and expert strategies tailored specifically for Australia’s diverse content and media landscape. Whether you’re transitioning from traditional employment to freelancing, building your writing portfolio, or seeking to attract higher-value clients, you’ll learn how to craft a resume that demonstrates your versatility, reliability, and ability to deliver exceptional content across multiple formats and industries.
We’ll cover everything from highlighting your writing samples and client testimonials to showcasing your subject matter expertise and digital marketing knowledge, ensuring your resume aligns with Australian client expectations and stands out on platforms like SEEK, Upwork, and specialist creative job boards.
This free sample resume for a freelance writer has an accompanying freelance writer sample cover letter to help you put together a winning job application.
Freelance Writer Resume (Text Version)
SOPHIA ANDERSON
Freelance Writer & Content Strategist
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Phone: 0412 345 678
Email: [email protected]
Portfolio: www.sophiaandersonwriter.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophiaandersonwriter
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Versatile freelance writer with 6+ years experience creating compelling content across digital marketing, B2B communications, and lifestyle publications. Successfully delivered 500+ projects for 80+ clients, generating measurable results including 150% increase in client website traffic and 40% improvement in email engagement rates. Specialise in SEO-optimised content, thought leadership articles, and conversion-focused copy with expertise across technology, healthcare, and professional services sectors. Proven ability to adapt voice and style to diverse brand requirements while consistently meeting tight deadlines and exceeding client expectations.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Freelance Writer & Content Strategist | Self-Employed | Melbourne, VIC | January 2021 – Present
- Manage portfolio of 15+ ongoing clients across technology, healthcare, and professional services sectors, generating $85,000+ annual revenue through retainer and project-based work
- Create comprehensive content strategies and editorial calendars for B2B SaaS companies, resulting in 200% increase in organic search traffic and 60% improvement in lead generation
- Develop thought leadership articles and whitepapers for C-suite executives, establishing clients as industry authorities and generating 500+ social media shares per piece
- Write SEO-optimised blog posts and website content, achieving first-page Google rankings for 85% of target keywords and driving 50,000+ monthly organic visitors
- Produce email marketing campaigns and sales copy, delivering average open rates of 28% and conversion rates of 4.2% across diverse industry verticals
- Collaborate with design and marketing teams to create integrated content campaigns, supporting client revenue growth of $2M+ across active accounts
Freelance Content Writer | Multiple Clients | Melbourne, VIC | March 2019 – December 2020
- Built freelance writing business from startup to 25+ active clients, establishing reputation for high-quality content and reliable project delivery
- Developed expertise in multiple content formats including blog posts, social media content, case studies, press releases, and web copy across 10+ industries
- Implemented content marketing strategies for small to medium businesses, increasing client website engagement by 120% and social media following by 180%
- Created product descriptions and e-commerce content for online retailers, contributing to 30% increase in conversion rates and $500K+ additional revenue
- Maintained 98% client retention rate through consistent quality delivery, clear communication, and proactive project management
- Established efficient workflow systems and client management processes, enabling handling of 40+ concurrent projects while maintaining quality standards
Content Marketing Specialist | Digital Marketing Agency | Sydney, NSW | June 2017 – February 2019
- Developed content marketing strategies and campaigns for 20+ clients ranging from startups to ASX-listed companies across diverse industry sectors
- Created long-form content including industry reports, ebooks, and research studies, generating 10,000+ downloads and establishing clients as thought leaders
- Managed editorial calendars and content production workflows for multiple client accounts, ensuring consistent brand voice and messaging across all touchpoints
- Collaborated with SEO specialists to create keyword-optimised content, achieving average 65% improvement in organic search visibility for client websites
- Conducted content audits and competitive analysis, identifying content gaps and opportunities that informed strategic content recommendations
- Mentored junior writers and content creators, developing training materials and style guides that improved team content quality and efficiency
Junior Copywriter | Creative Agency | Melbourne, VIC | January 2016 – May 2017
- Created advertising copy and marketing materials for diverse client portfolio including retail, hospitality, and professional services brands
- Developed brand voice guidelines and messaging frameworks, ensuring consistent communication across print, digital, and social media channels
- Collaborated with creative directors and designers on integrated marketing campaigns, contributing to 15+ award submissions and 3 industry recognition wins
- Produced social media content and community management strategies, growing client social media followings by average 250% within 12-month engagements
- Supported new business development through proposal writing and client presentation materials, contributing to $2M+ in new account wins
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts (Professional Writing) | RMIT University | 2015
Distinction average, Dean’s List recipient
Major: Professional Writing and Editing, Minor: Digital Media
Relevant coursework: Content Strategy, SEO Writing, Brand Communications, Digital Publishing
Capstone Project: “Digital Content Strategy for Australian Non-Profit Organisations” – Published in RMIT Communications Journal
TECHNICAL SKILLS & CERTIFICATIONS
Writing & Content: SEO Writing, Content Strategy, Copywriting, Technical Writing, Social Media Content, Email Marketing, Blog Writing
Digital Tools: WordPress, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Google Analytics, SEMrush, Canva, Trello, Slack, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace
Certifications:
- Google Analytics Certified (Current)
- HubSpot Content Marketing Certification
- Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification
- Google Ads Search Certification
INDUSTRY SPECIALISATIONS
- Technology & SaaS: B2B software, fintech, cybersecurity, AI/ML
- Healthcare & Wellness: Digital health, medical devices, wellness coaching, aged care
- Professional Services: Legal, accounting, consulting, real estate, financial planning
- E-commerce & Retail: Fashion, home goods, consumer electronics, marketplace platforms
ACHIEVEMENTS & RECOGNITION
- Top 10 Freelance Writers – Australian Writers’ Guild (2023)
- Best Content Marketing Campaign – Digital Marketing Awards Australia (2022)
- Featured Contributor – Content Marketing Institute Australia (2021-2023)
- Published Author: “The Freelancer’s Guide to Content Strategy” – Hardie Grant (2023)
- Keynote Speaker: “Building a Sustainable Freelance Writing Business” – Melbourne Writers Festival (2022)
- Client Testimonial: “Increased our website traffic by 300% and leads by 150%” – Tech Startup CEO
What is The Best Format for a Freelance Writer Resume?
The reverse chronological format is ideal for freelance writer resumes as it clearly demonstrates your professional development and increasing expertise across different writing disciplines and industries. This format allows potential clients to quickly assess your experience progression, specialisation development, and track record of successful project delivery – all critical factors when hiring freelance writers.
Font and Formatting Guidelines:
- Heading Font: 14-16pt for your name, 12-14pt for section headings
- Body Font: 10-12pt for content (11pt provides optimal readability)
- Font Style: Professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
- Margins: 2.5cm on all sides for clean, professional appearance
- File Type: Submit as PDF to maintain formatting consistency
Essential Resume Sections:
Header: Include full name, professional title, location, phone number, professional email address, portfolio website URL, and LinkedIn profile. For freelance writers, your portfolio link is crucial for showcasing your work samples.
Professional Summary: A compelling 3-4 line overview highlighting your years of experience, content types created, client results achieved, and specialisation areas. Focus on measurable outcomes and your unique value proposition as a writer.
Professional Experience: Emphasise projects completed, client results achieved, content performance metrics, and specialisation development. Include both freelance and employed positions to show your full writing journey.
Education: Include relevant writing, journalism, communications, or related qualifications, with emphasis on practical writing training and digital content skills.
Other Essential Sections: Technical skills and certifications, industry specialisations, and achievements that demonstrate your expertise and recognition within the writing community.
What Experience Should Be on Your Freelance Writer Resume?
Your experience section should demonstrate your versatility as a writer, ability to deliver results for clients, and progression in both skill and project complexity. Australian clients value freelance writers who can adapt to different industries, understand business objectives, and create content that drives measurable outcomes. Focus on client results, content performance metrics, project diversity, and specialisation development.
Include specific examples of successful campaigns, content pieces that performed well, client testimonials, and quantifiable results such as traffic increases, engagement improvements, or conversion rate optimisation. Show your ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with client teams.
Correct Example:
Senior Freelance Content Writer | Independent Practice | Brisbane, QLD | January 2020 – Present
- Manage content creation for 20+ recurring clients across fintech, healthcare, and e-commerce sectors, generating $75,000+ annual revenue through strategic content partnerships
- Develop comprehensive content strategies and SEO-optimised blog posts, achieving 180% average increase in organic website traffic and 45% improvement in time-on-page metrics
- Create conversion-focused sales copy and email campaigns, delivering average 6.2% conversion rates and contributing to $1.5M+ in client revenue generation
- Produce thought leadership articles and industry reports for B2B clients, generating 25,000+ social media impressions and establishing clients as industry authorities
- Collaborate with marketing agencies and in-house teams on integrated content campaigns, supporting client acquisition of 500+ new customers annually
- Maintain 96% client retention rate through consistent quality delivery, proactive communication, and strategic content recommendations
Incorrect Example:
Freelance Writer | Various Clients | Brisbane, QLD | January 2020 – Present
- Write articles and content for different clients
- Work on various writing projects as needed
- Help businesses with their content requirements
- Complete assignments on time and to client specifications
- Communicate with clients about project details
- Research topics and write content in different styles
Entry-Level Freelance Writer Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level freelance writers, focus on any writing experience, internships, volunteer work, and personal projects that demonstrate your writing ability, reliability, and understanding of different content formats and audiences.
Correct Example:
Emerging Freelance Writer | Building Portfolio | Adelaide, SA | March 2024 – Present
- Establish freelance writing practice with 8 clients across lifestyle, small business, and non-profit sectors, building reputation for quality content delivery
- Create SEO-optimised blog content and website copy for local small businesses, contributing to 85% average increase in website engagement and 12% improvement in contact form submissions
- Develop social media content strategies and copywriting for startup clients, growing social media followings by 140% average within 6-month engagements
- Produce newsletter content and email marketing campaigns, achieving 22% average open rates and 3.1% click-through rates across client base
- Complete content audits and competitive analysis for new clients, providing strategic recommendations that inform content planning and brand positioning
- Maintain detailed project tracking and client communication systems, ensuring 100% on-time delivery and positive client feedback scores
Incorrect Example:
New Freelance Writer | Various Projects | Adelaide, SA | March 2024 – Present
- Starting freelance writing career with some clients
- Learning about different types of writing projects
- Trying to build experience and improve skills
- Working on content for websites and blogs
- Communicating with clients about their needs
- Completing projects as assigned and requested
How to Write the Education Section for Your Freelance Writer Resume
Education is important for freelance writers as it demonstrates your foundation in writing principles, critical thinking, and communication skills. While not always essential, relevant qualifications in writing, journalism, communications, or related fields can enhance your credibility with clients, particularly for specialised or technical writing projects.
Include your writing-related qualifications, relevant coursework, practical training, internships, and any academic writing achievements. Highlight any specialised training in digital content, SEO writing, or specific industries that align with your target client base.
Freelance Writer Resume Example [Education]
EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) | University of Queensland | 2018
High Distinction average, Dean’s List recipient
Major: Journalism and Media Studies, Minor: Digital Communications
Relevant coursework: Feature Writing, Digital Content Creation, Media Law and Ethics, Public Relations Writing
Editor-in-Chief: University Student Newspaper (20,000 circulation)
Published 50+ articles during degree program
Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing | TAFE NSW | 2019
Practical training in business writing, content strategy, and editorial processes
Completed industry placement with regional magazine publisher
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Advanced Content Marketing Strategy | Content Marketing Institute | 2023
- SEO Writing Masterclass | Copyblogger Media | 2022
- Freelance Business Development Workshop | Australian Writers’ Guild | 2021
How to Write the Skills Section for Your Freelance Writer Resume
The skills section is crucial for freelance writers as it demonstrates your versatility, technical competencies, and specialisation areas that clients are seeking. Include 8-12 highly relevant skills that showcase both your writing abilities and business understanding. Balance creative skills with technical capabilities and industry knowledge that differentiate you in the competitive freelance marketplace.
Freelance Writer Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
- SEO Content Writing and Optimisation
- Content Strategy and Planning
- Copywriting and Conversion Optimisation
- Blog Writing and Article Creation
- Social Media Content Development
- Email Marketing and Newsletter Creation
- Technical Writing and Documentation
- Editing and Proofreading
- Research and Fact-Checking
- Content Management Systems (WordPress, Squarespace)
- Analytics and Performance Tracking
- Brand Voice Development
Freelance Writer Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
- Creative Storytelling and Narrative Development
- Client Communication and Relationship Management
- Project Management and Time Management
- Adaptability and Voice Flexibility
- Research and Critical Thinking
- Attention to Detail and Accuracy
- Self-Motivation and Independent Work
- Deadline Management and Prioritisation
- Collaborative Teamwork and Feedback Integration
- Business Development and Networking
How to pick the best Freelance Writer skills:
- Match client needs: Review job briefs and client requirements in your target sectors to identify the most in-demand skills and capabilities.
- Emphasise measurable skills: Highlight skills that can be quantified or demonstrated through portfolio examples and performance metrics.
- Include technical competencies: Show your proficiency with digital tools, content management systems, and analytics that modern content marketing requires.
- Demonstrate industry knowledge: Include skills that show your understanding of specific industries or content types you specialise in.
- Show business understanding: Include skills that demonstrate your ability to understand client objectives and contribute to business outcomes through your writing.
Freelance Writer Resume Examples [Skills]
CORE WRITING COMPETENCIES
- SEO Content Writing: Created 200+ SEO-optimised articles achieving average first-page Google rankings, driving 50,000+ monthly organic visitors across client websites
- Conversion Copywriting: Developed sales pages and email campaigns generating 4.8% average conversion rates and $800K+ in trackable client revenue
- Content Strategy: Designed comprehensive editorial calendars and content frameworks for 25+ clients, resulting in 160% average increase in website engagement
- Industry Specialisation: Deep expertise in fintech and healthcare writing, producing compliance-conscious content that meets regulatory requirements while engaging target audiences
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Freelance Writer Resume?
Additional sections can significantly strengthen your freelance writer resume by demonstrating your professional recognition, ongoing development, and commitment to the writing craft. These sections are particularly valuable for freelance writers where portfolio quality, industry recognition, and specialised expertise are highly regarded by potential clients.
Valuable Additional Sections Include:
Published Work & Portfolio: Links to published articles, notable client projects, or writing samples that showcase your range and quality. Include performance metrics where possible.
Client Testimonials: Brief quotes from satisfied clients that speak to your writing quality, professionalism, and results delivery. These provide social proof of your capabilities.
Awards & Recognition: Writing awards, industry recognition, or professional achievements that demonstrate excellence and peer acknowledgment of your work.
Speaking & Teaching: Conference presentations, workshop facilitation, or mentoring activities that show your expertise and thought leadership in writing or content marketing.
Professional Memberships: Memberships in writing organisations, industry associations, or professional groups that demonstrate your commitment to ongoing development.
Volunteer Writing: Pro bono work for non-profits or community organisations that demonstrates your values and community involvement while showcasing additional writing samples.
Freelance Writer Resume Examples [Other Sections]
PUBLISHED WORK & PORTFOLIO
- Featured Writer – Australian Marketing Magazine: 12 published articles on content strategy (2022-2023)
- Regular Contributor – SME Business Guide: Monthly column on digital marketing for small business (2021-Present)
- Guest Author – HubSpot Blog: “Content Marketing for Australian B2B Companies” (50,000+ views, 2023)
- Portfolio: sophiaandersonwriter.com/portfolio (25+ case studies with results)
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
- “Sophia increased our blog traffic by 250% and generated 40 qualified leads per month” – Tech Startup Founder
- “Her content strategy transformed our brand voice and doubled our email engagement” – E-commerce Director
- “Professional, reliable, and delivers exceptional results every time” – Marketing Agency CEO
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Workshop Facilitator – “Freelance Writing Business Essentials” – Australian Writers’ Centre (2023)
- Panelist – Content Marketing Summit Sydney: “Building Client Relationships” (2022)
- Mentor – Emerging Writers Program, Melbourne Writers’ Festival (2021-Present)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
- Member – Australian Writers’ Guild
- Associate Member – Content Marketing Institute
- Member – Australian Society of Authors
PERSONAL INTERESTS
- Enjoys reading books and magazines
- Likes travelling and experiencing new places
- Interested in photography and creative arts
- Spends time writing personal blog posts
Tip: Focus on professional activities that demonstrate your writing expertise, business acumen, or industry involvement. Avoid generic hobbies unless they directly relate to your writing specialisations or demonstrate relevant skills like research, cultural awareness, or subject matter expertise.
How to Write a Freelance Writer Resume Objective or Resume Summary
A compelling professional summary immediately communicates your writing expertise, client focus, and track record of delivering content that achieves business results. This 3-4 line summary should highlight your years of experience, content types you create, industries you serve, and quantifiable outcomes you’ve achieved for clients. Focus on your unique value proposition and what differentiates you from other freelance writers.
Include specific metrics such as projects completed, client results achieved, traffic increases generated, or conversion rates improved. Your summary should convey both your writing talent and your business understanding, showing potential clients that you can create content that drives their success.
Freelance Writer Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Results-driven freelance writer with 8+ years experience creating high-converting content for B2B technology and healthcare clients. Successfully completed 600+ projects generating measurable results including 200% average increase in client website traffic and $2M+ in trackable revenue attribution. Specialise in SEO content strategy, thought leadership development, and conversion copywriting with deep expertise in SaaS, fintech, and digital health sectors. Proven ability to translate complex technical concepts into engaging content that drives lead generation and supports client business objectives.
Incorrect Example:
Experienced freelance writer with passion for creating great content. Good at writing different types of articles and working with various clients. Strong communication skills and ability to meet deadlines. Looking to help businesses with their content needs and grow my writing career further.
For entry-level freelance writers, focus on your writing education, any relevant experience, passion for content creation, and eagerness to help clients achieve their content objectives through quality writing and reliable service delivery.
Entry-Level Freelance Writer Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Emerging freelance writer with strong foundation in digital content creation and 2+ years experience writing for university publications and local businesses. Recent Communications graduate with expertise in SEO writing, social media content, and brand storytelling. Completed 30+ writing projects with 100% client satisfaction, contributing to average 90% increase in social media engagement for small business clients. Eager to leverage writing skills and digital marketing knowledge to help growing businesses achieve their content objectives and audience engagement goals.
Incorrect Example:
New freelance writer with writing degree and some experience. Interested in working with different types of clients and projects. Good writing skills and willing to learn. Looking for opportunities to build portfolio and gain more experience in the writing industry.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Freelance Writer Resume
Maintaining alignment between your resume and LinkedIn profile is essential for freelance writers, as potential clients extensively use LinkedIn to research and vet writing professionals. Your LinkedIn profile should expand on your resume while showcasing your personality, writing philosophy, and thought leadership within the content marketing community.
Key considerations include sharing writing samples through posts and articles, demonstrating your expertise through regular content publishing, and building a network of clients, fellow writers, and industry professionals who can provide recommendations and refer potential opportunities.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Freelance Writers
Your LinkedIn headline should clearly communicate your writing specialisations, target clients, and unique value proposition while incorporating keywords that potential clients might search for when looking for freelance writing services.
Effective LinkedIn Headlines:
- “Freelance Content Writer | B2B SaaS Specialist | SEO & Conversion Copy | Helping Tech Companies Drive Growth Through Strategic Content”
- “Healthcare Content Writer | Medical Device Marketing | Regulatory-Compliant Copy | 6+ Years Driving Patient Engagement”
- “Freelance Copywriter & Content Strategist | E-commerce & Retail | Conversion-Focused Copy | Melbourne”
Ineffective LinkedIn Headlines:
- “Freelance Writer available for projects”
- “Professional Writer seeking clients”
- “Content Creator with experience”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
Your LinkedIn summary can be more conversational and personal than your resume summary, allowing you to share your writing journey, philosophy, and passion for helping businesses succeed through compelling content. Use first person and explain what motivates your writing and how you approach client relationships.
Include stories about successful client projects, your approach to understanding client needs, and your vision for creating content that drives business results. Your LinkedIn summary should position you as both a skilled writer and trusted business partner while remaining authentic and approachable to potential clients.
Showcasing Freelance Writer Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s experience section allows for richer descriptions of your writing projects and client relationships. Include context about challenges solved, creative approaches taken, and business results achieved while maintaining appropriate confidentiality about client-sensitive information.
Use LinkedIn’s publishing platform to regularly share writing samples, industry insights, or behind-the-scenes content about your writing process. This demonstrates your expertise while keeping you visible to your network and potential clients searching for writing services.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Freelance Writers
Prioritise skills that reflect both your writing expertise and business understanding such as “Content Writing,” “SEO Writing,” “Content Strategy,” and “Copywriting.” Encourage clients, colleagues, and fellow writers to endorse your key competencies and provide specific recommendations.
Consider taking LinkedIn skill assessments for relevant areas to earn skill badges that enhance your profile’s credibility. Focus on skills that are commonly searched by potential clients when looking for freelance writing services.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Freelance Writers
Build a strategic network by connecting with potential clients, fellow writers, content marketers, and industry professionals across Australia’s business community. Join relevant LinkedIn groups such as content marketing communities, industry-specific groups, or local business networks.
Share insights about writing trends, content marketing strategies, or industry developments to establish thought leadership and increase visibility among your target client base. Comment thoughtfully on posts from potential clients or industry leaders to build relationships and demonstrate your expertise.
Follow Australian businesses, marketing agencies, and industry publications to stay informed about market trends and identify potential client opportunities. Regular engagement with business content helps maintain your professional visibility and demonstrates your understanding of current business challenges and content needs.
Creating an effective freelance writer resume requires demonstrating both your writing excellence and business acumen, showing potential clients that you can create content that achieves their objectives while building long-term professional relationships. By following this guide’s proven examples and strategies, you’ll be well-positioned to attract higher-quality clients and build a sustainable freelance writing career across Australia’s diverse content landscape.
Remember that freelance writing success depends on both creative talent and business professionalism, so ensure your resume showcases quantifiable results, client satisfaction, and your ability to understand and address business challenges through strategic content creation. For freelance writing opportunities across Australia, explore platforms like SEEK, Upwork, and connect with potential clients through LinkedIn. Consider joining professional associations like the Australian Writers’ Guild or local writing communities to stay informed about industry developments and expand your network within Australia’s creative and business communities.
