Welcome to this comprehensive guide on effectively presenting your excellent writing skills on a resume. Whether you are an aspiring wordsmith or an experienced writer, highlighting your ability to communicate effectively and persuasively can significantly boost your chances of landing the job you desire. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal approaches to showcasing your writing prowess on a resume, providing you with numerous tips and examples to craft an impressive document that truly stands out.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Express Exceptional Writing Skills:
When aiming for a formal tone on your resume, it’s essential to use language that accurately and professionally conveys your talents as a writer. Here are some phrases and techniques to help you emphasize your outstanding writing abilities:
1. Utilize Action Verbs:
Begin bullet points or sentences with strong action verbs to demonstrate your writing skills. Examples include:
- Authored: Wrote content for a variety of publications.
- Edited: Ensured accuracy and clarity in written materials.
- Developed: Crafted compelling narratives and engaging content.
- Researched: Conducted in-depth research to support written pieces.
- Proofread: Meticulously reviewed and edited documents for accuracy.
2. Quantify Your Results:
When possible, use specific numbers or percentages to quantify your achievements. This adds credibility and provides potential employers with a clear understanding of your impact as a writer. For instance:
Increased website traffic: Wrote SEO-optimized articles resulting in a 30% increase in organic search traffic.
Generated leads: Crafted persuasive email campaigns resulting in a 20% increase in lead conversion rates.
3. Highlight Published Work:
If you have published articles, blog posts, or other written works, make sure to include them on your resume. This demonstrates your ability to produce engaging content that others find valuable. Use the following format:
Article Title: “Publication Name,” Year
4. Showcase Specialized Skills:
If you possess any specialized writing skills, such as technical writing, copywriting, or grant writing, explicitly mention them on your resume to showcase your versatility. For example:
- Proficient in Technical Writing: Created user manuals and instructional guides for software products.
- Skilled in Copywriting: Developed engaging advertising copy resulting in a significant increase in sales.
- Experienced in Grant Writing: Successfully secured $100,000 in funding through grant proposals.
Informal Ways to Highlight Your Writing Skills:
In some cases, you may want to infuse a touch of informality into your resume, particularly if you are applying for a creative position or a company known for its relaxed culture. Here are some informal approaches to showcasing your writing abilities:
1. Add a Personal Statement:
Incorporate a brief personal statement at the beginning of your resume to give potential employers a glimpse into your writing style. This statement should be concise and engaging, expressing your passion for writing. For instance:
Aspiring Wordsmith: A creative and versatile writer with a love for storytelling and a keen eye for detail.
2. Creative Job Titles:
Sprinkle some creativity into your resume by using unique job titles that highlight your writing skills. Consider titles such as:
- Word Wizard: Sharpening narratives with captivating prose
- Story Architect: Crafting imaginative and compelling tales
- Grammar Guru: Ensuring precision and clarity in every sentence
3. Showcase Writing Samples:
If applicable, attach writing samples or provide links to an online portfolio or blog where potential employers can assess your writing ability. This demonstrates your confidence in your work and allows recruiters to explore your writing samples at their convenience.
4. Highlight Social Media Presence:
If you actively engage in a writing community or maintain a writing-focused social media account, mention it on your resume. This showcases your passion for writing and your commitment to enhancing your skills. For example:
Active Writing Blogger: Regularly publish articles and tips on writing through a personal blog with over 10k monthly readers.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with numerous tips, techniques, and examples to confidently highlight your exceptional writing skills on a resume. Remember to balance formality and creativity based on the position and company you are applying to while maintaining a warm and professional tone throughout your document. By showcasing your writing prowess effectively, you significantly increase your chances of standing out from the competition and capturing the attention of potential employers. Best of luck in your future endeavors!
