Comments on: More Thoughts on Freelancers and Resumes

By: Jim Smoot

Jim Smoot — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:31:22 +0000

My writing “resume” is very different from the one I used when I was in the traditional job market. I use it to show potential clients what I bring to the table in terms of education and experience. I think when it is coupled with some writing samples it can help to show clients the range and the quality of work I can provide.

While I may not ask a service provider to show me their credentials, it is because I am hiring them from a reputable service, or on the recommendation of someone I trust. I would not hire an electrician off of Craigslist to rewire my house without some assurances that they are competent.

My resume shows people who I am, and that I can do what I claim to be able to do. It helps differentiate me from someone that is just getting started and may not have the experience and skill set that I have worked to build.

By: Deb

Deb — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:13:53 +0000

I’m not so sure I agree with this. A resume tells so much more about a writer than a cover letter and writing samples. In the internet age we don’t always talk with our clients on the phone and email doesn’t cover everything. For instance, if I see a resume that shows a writer bounces from client to client without any long term commitment it might tell me this is not a reliable writer. Writers with long term, happy clients are more likely to catch my eye. There are other reasons I like resumes as well.

Now, I can’t speak for others writers but I can say this. My business – and caliber of clients – picked up as soon as I had a writing resume drafted up several years ago. It really made all the difference, I think because potential clients saw me in a more professional light? I just updated my resume, and again, the results were positive.

Is it necessary? Probably not. Is it a bonus? Absolutely!

By: Dawn

Dawn — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:03:17 +0000

I agree in many cases that a resume shouldn’t be required. However, my specially-tailored writing resume shows a lot of editorial and writing experience. I believe this gives me an advantage over a lot of people when I apply for writing jobs. I’m always happy to include my resume, and sometimes will even if it’s not requested. (As long as it doesn’t specifically say not to).

My resume offers, at a glance, the scope and breadth of my editorial experience more so than a cover letter.

And as far as asking for a resume when hiring a doctor, plumber, etc… No, I don’t, but I MAY ask them questions such as, “How long have you been in business? Who else have you worked for? What degrees do you have? (in the case of doctors, etc.) Then again, I am a “problem patient” and I’m likely to put doctors under a very harsh microscope and if I don’t like what I hear, I’m leaving. I’ve already been through two pediatricians and 3 OBs. LOL

I didn’t do that legwork when I recently hired a lawyer — I ‘purchased’ on price alone — and I’m paying for it.