How to put freelance work on your resume (with examples)

Freelance work is real work and it deserves a place on your resume. It’s a sign you can manage projects, meet deadlines, and solve problems — skills employers appreciate. Whether you’ve freelanced full-time or taken on side projects, showcasing your experience the right way can help you stand out. 

A well-crafted resume highlights what you’ve done and the value you’ve brought to clients and businesses. Let’s explore how you can structure and present your freelance work to make a lasting impression.

1. Should you list freelance work on your resume?

Absolutely! Freelance work demonstrates skills like time management, self-motivation, and expertise in your field. Whether you work independently or with clients, this experience counts just as much as traditional employment.

2. Choosing the right resume format for freelance work

The right format can greatly affect how your freelance experience is perceived. Consider these three common formats:

• Chronological format: Best if you have consistent freelance work and want to show career progression.

• Functional format: Ideal if you want to emphasize skills rather than specific job titles.

• Combination format: A hybrid approach that highlights both skills and work history.

Once you've chosen a format, properly structuring your freelance experience will ensure it stands out.

3. How to format freelance work on a resume

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Here are three common ways to list your freelance experience:

A. As a standalone job

If freelancing is (or was) your main source of income, treat it as a regular job entry.

Example: Freelance Graphic Designer Self-Employed | Jan 2020 – Present

• Designed client marketing materials, including logos, social media graphics, and websites.

• Collaborated with small businesses to create brand identities, increasing client engagement by 30%.

• Managed multiple projects and deadlines, demonstrating strong organizational skills.

B. Under a company name (if you have one)

If you operate under a business name, list it as your employer.

Example: Founder & Lead Copywriter Smith Creative Solutions | June 2018 – Present

• Provided content writing services for tech startups, improving website traffic by 40%.

• Developed SEO-optimized articles and email campaigns for B2B clients.

• Managed client relationships, proposals, and project timelines.

C. As part of a broader job role

If freelancing was a side gig, include it under relevant experience or in an “Additional Experience” section.

Example: Marketing Manager XYZ Agency | 2019 – Present

• Oversaw digital marketing strategies, including content creation and ad campaigns.

• Freelanced as a content strategist, writing blog posts and social media copy for small businesses.

4. Highlighting key projects and achievements

Freelance work often involves a variety of projects, so emphasizing your most impactful work can make a strong impression. Consider adding a "Key Projects" or "Notable Achievements" section to showcase your best work.

Key projects example:

Website Redesign for Local Business

• Revamped website layout and improved navigation, leading to a 50% increase in user engagement.

• Integrated SEO best practices, resulting in a 30% boost in organic traffic.

Notable achievements example:

Freelance Marketing Consultant

• Developed a social media strategy that increased client engagement by 60%.

• Wrote and optimized blog content that boosted search rankings, leading to a 40% increase in website traffic.

• Secured and managed a $20,000 advertising budget, achieving a 4x return on investment.

5. Tailoring your freelance experience for different roles

Customizing your resume for each job application increases your chances of success. Here’s how:

• For creative fields: Highlight portfolio pieces, software proficiency, and project outcomes.

• For tech roles: Emphasize coding projects, freelance app development, or consulting work.

• For business or consulting: Showcase problem-solving skills, project management, and client results.

6. Optimizing for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)

Many companies use ATS to screen resumes. To ensure your freelance experience is recognized:

• Use industry-relevant keywords found in job descriptions.

• Clearly label your role (e.g., "Freelance Web Developer").

• List measurable results, such as revenue growth, engagement increases, or completed projects.

7. Linking to your portfolio and online presence

A strong portfolio can add credibility to your freelance experience. Include a link to your portfolio, personal website, or LinkedIn profile in your resume if possible. This allows hiring managers to see tangible examples of your work and better understand your skills.

Example:

• Portfolio: yourportfolio.com

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yourname

8. Addressing gaps in employment with freelance work

If you have employment gaps, listing freelance work can help fill them. Even short-term projects show continued skill development and initiative.

Example: Freelance Writer & Editor Various Clients | 2021 – 2022

• Provided blog content and website copywriting services.

• Edited and proofread marketing materials for clarity and engagement.

Turning freelance success into career gold

An effectively crafted resume can transform freelance work from side projects to front-and-center experience. Employers value candidates who can take initiative, manage projects, and drive results independently. By structuring your resume strategically, showcasing key achievements, and linking to your portfolio, you can turn your freelance experience into a powerful asset that opens doors to new opportunities. 

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.