When it comes to creating a resume, effectively highlighting your writing skills can significantly boost your chances of landing a job or securing that important interview. Whether you possess strong creative writing abilities or excel at crafting professional and persuasive content, this guide will provide you with valuable tips and examples to help you showcase your writing skills on your resume. From formal to informal approaches, we’ve got you covered!
Table of Contents
Formal Approaches
If you are applying for a position that requires a more formal writing style, consider the following tips:
1. Tailor Your Objective Statement
Your resume’s objective statement is an excellent opportunity to highlight your writing skills. Craft a concise, well-written statement that clearly communicates your career aspirations and emphasizes your ability to write persuasively and professionally. For example:
Dynamic and detail-oriented professional with exceptional writing skills seeking a position in content creation, where I can leverage my expertise to produce engaging and well-crafted articles.
2. Emphasize Achievements with Descriptive Action Words
When detailing your professional experience, utilize strong action words to demonstrate your accomplishments. Focus on tasks or achievements that required exceptional writing skills, such as “composed,” “composed,” “edited,” “collaborated,” or “proofread.” Here’s an example:
Produced well-researched blog posts, averaging 10,000 monthly views and receiving positive feedback from readers, resulting in a 25% increase in website traffic.
3. Showcase Writing-Related Certifications and Courses
If you have completed any writing-related certifications or courses, ensure they are prominently displayed on your resume. This demonstrates both your commitment to improving your writing skills and your willingness to invest in your professional growth. Here’s an example:
Completed an intensive online course in professional business writing, enhancing skills in producing concise and effective written communication.
4. Include a Strong Writing Skills Section
Create a dedicated section on your resume titled “Writing Skills” or “Written Communication Skills.” Bullet point specific writing skills you possess, such as technical writing, creative writing, proofreading, or editing. Here’s an example:
Writing Skills:
- Strong copywriting for marketing materials and social media campaigns
- Professional business writing for reports, proposals, and presentations
- Effective technical writing for user manuals and documentation
Informal Approaches
If you are applying for a creative or more relaxed work environment, consider these methods to showcase your writing skills:
1. Craft a Unique and Engaging Professional Summary
Instead of a traditional objective statement, consider a professional summary that showcases your creativity and writing abilities. Use an engaging tone to captivate the reader while still highlighting your skills and experience. For example:
A versatile wordsmith with a passion for storytelling, dedicated to creating compelling content that connects with audiences on an emotional level. Combines impeccable grammar and attention to detail with a fresh and engaging writing style.
2. Highlight Relevant Writing Samples
If you have published articles, blog posts, or other written work that aligns with the position you are applying for, include links or attachments to these samples. Showcase your ability to engage readers, whether through humor, storytelling, or informative content.
3. Mention Writing-Related Community Involvement
If you actively participate in writing-related communities, mention your involvement on your resume. This could include membership in writing groups, regular contributions to online forums, or even organizing or hosting writing workshops or events.
4. Personal Blog or Writing Portfolio
If you maintain a personal blog or writing portfolio, provide a link on your resume. This allows potential employers to explore your writing style and assess your ability to consistently produce engaging content.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of the writing style or work environment, honing your resume to highlight your writing skills is essential. Remember to use strong action words, include relevant writing samples or certifications, and tailor your resume to each specific job application. By presenting your writing skills effectively, you increase the chances of capturing the attention of potential employers and landing your dream job. Good luck in your writing and job search endeavors!