Freelance Journalist Resume

Resume Writing: Examples and Tips

Freelance Journalist

Freelance Journalist Resume Example

John Doe
Freelance Journalist
Phone: (123)456-7890 | Email: [email protected]
New York, NY

Profile:

A seasoned freelance journalist with 15 years of experience in the media industry. Proven track record of delivering high-quality, engaging content for various publications. Strong research, writing, and editing skills. Dedicated to staying up-to-date on current events and industry trends.

Professional Experience:
The New York Times

Sr. Freelance Journalist | New York, NY | Jan 2015 – Present
  • Collaborated with editors to pitch and develop compelling story ideas for the front page of the newspaper.
  • Researched and conducted interviews to gather information for articles on a variety of topics, including politics, business, and entertainment.
  • Wrote in-depth features and breaking news stories with strict deadlines.
  • Utilized social media platforms to share and promote published articles, resulting in increased website traffic and readership.

CNN

Sr. Freelance Correspondent | New York, NY | Jun 2009 – Dec 2014
  • Reported live from the field for breaking news events and contributed to news programs and documentaries.
  • Covered a wide range of topics, including international affairs, politics, and human interest stories.
  • Conducted extensive research and fact-checking to ensure accuracy of information presented in articles and on-air.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with sources and contacts to secure exclusive stories and interviews.

Huffington Post

Sr. Freelance Writer | New York, NY | Jan 2006 – May 2009
  • Produced daily articles on various topics, including lifestyle, health, and culture.
  • Utilized SEO techniques to increase website traffic and improve online visibility.
  • Collaborated with editors and other writers to develop and edit engaging content.
  • Maintained a strong social media presence to promote published articles and engage with readers.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Journalism | New York University | New York, NY | 2005

Professional Skills:

  • Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading abilities
  • Strong research and investigative skills
  • Proficient in AP style
  • Knowledge of SEO and social media marketing
  • Ability to work under tight deadlines
  • Familiarity with various media platforms, including print, online, and broadcast

Personal Qualities:

Detail-oriented | Strong communication and interpersonal skills | Curiosity and passion for storytelling | Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Languages:

  • English (fluent)
  • Spanish (basic)

Interests:

Writing | Traveling | Photography | Reading | Yoga

John Smith
Freelance Journalist

Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected] | Location: New York, NY

Resume Summary:

Highly skilled and passionate junior journalist with strong writing skills and a keen eye for detail. Proven experience in researching and crafting compelling stories, and delivering accurate and engaging content. Possess excellent communication and time management skills. Eager to contribute to a dynamic media company as a freelance journalist.

Professional Experience:

The New York Times, New York, NY
Freelance Journalist | January 2020 – Present

  • Conduct thorough research for news articles, interviews, and opinion pieces
  • Create engaging and well-written articles while adhering to strict deadlines
  • Pitch story ideas and collaborate with editors to ensure high-quality content
  • Developed strong relationships with sources to obtain insider information and exclusive stories

CNN, Atlanta, GA
Freelance Writer | June 2019 – December 2019

  • Covered breaking news events and reported on current affairs
  • Crafted informative and engaging articles for online and print platforms
  • Conducted interviews with sources, including experts and stakeholders
  • Team player in a fast-paced newsroom environment

BuzzFeed, New York, NY
Freelance Contributor | September 2018 – May 2019

  • Created trending and viral content for a variety of topics
  • Researched and fact-checked articles to ensure accuracy and credibility
  • Cultivated a strong presence on social media to promote articles and engage with readers
  • Collaborated with other writers and editors for brainstorming and feedback

Education:

New York University, New York, NY
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism | September 2014 – May 2018

Relevant coursework: News Writing, Investigative Journalism, Multimedia Reporting, Media Ethics

Professional Skills:

  • News writing and reporting
  • Research and fact-checking
  • Interviewing and source development
  • Digital and social media savvy
  • AP style and grammar proficiency
  • Adobe Creative Suite

Personal Qualities:

  • Strong attention to detail
  • Creative and adaptable thinker
  • Time management and organization
  • Ability to work independently and in a team
  • Passionate about storytelling and current events

Languages:

Fluent in English and Spanish

Interests:

Reading, traveling, photography, and discovering new coffee shops around the city.

 

How to Write a Freelance Journalist Resume: Introduction

Welcome, job seekers! Are you ready to create a winning CV that will land you your dream freelance journalist gig? We bet you are! Crafting the perfect CV can be tough, but fear not, because we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll provide you with practical examples, tips, and key skills to help you craft an outstanding CV that will catch the eye of any hiring manager. So, buckle up and get ready to learn how to present yourself as a top-notch freelance journalist!

Resume Title

In this section, you’ll find powerful resume title examples tailored to different professions and experience levels. Use these samples for inspiration to optimize your application and stand out.

Award-Winning Journalist with Extensive Experience in Investigative Reporting

Multimedia Specialist with Strong Writing Skills and a Passion for Storytelling

Versatile Freelance Journalist with Expertise in Political and Social Issues

Experienced Reporter with a Background in Data Journalism and Visual Storytelling

Digital Content Creator and Social Media Strategist with a Track Record of Building Engaging Narratives

Resume Sumary / Profile

The resume summary — or ‘About Me’ section — is your chance to make a strong first impression in just a few lines. Discover powerful examples that grab recruiters’ attention and showcase your top skills and strengths.

I am an experienced freelance journalist with a passion for storytelling and a detail-oriented approach to research and reporting. With over 5 years of experience writing for various publications and platforms, I have honed my skills in conducting interviews, developing compelling narratives, and meeting deadlines. My versatile background in news, features, and opinion pieces allows me to adapt to any subject matter and deliver high-quality content that engages and informs readers.

As a freelance journalist, I have a proven track record of producing impactful content that resonates with diverse audiences. My extensive background in investigative reporting and data analysis has allowed me to uncover compelling stories and provide in-depth coverage on complex issues. With excellent communication and collaboration skills, I am able to work independently or in a team to deliver thought-provoking and well-researched articles.

I am a deadline-driven freelance journalist with a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering untold stories. With a background in multimedia journalism, I bring a unique perspective to my writing and am skilled in delivering multimedia packages that incorporate video, audio, and graphics. I thrive in fast-paced environments and am able to produce high-quality content under tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy and journalistic integrity.

A creative and experienced freelance journalist, I have a knack for capturing the human element in all my stories. With a background in feature writing and long-form storytelling, I am skilled in crafting engaging narratives that touch upon social issues, culture, and personal experiences. I pride myself on my ability to connect with diverse individuals and bring their stories to life in a meaningful and thought-provoking way.

Key & Personal Skills

“Recruiters highly value both technical skills and personal strengths. Discover the most relevant ones for this job and select those that best showcase your profile.”

10 Key Skills 10 Most Sought-After Qualities
1. Strong writing and reporting abilities 1. Excellent communication skills
2. Knowledge of AP style and grammar 2. Attention to detail
3. Ability to meet deadlines 3. Time management skills
4. Familiarity with journalistic ethics and standards 4. Integrity and honesty
5. Experience with conducting interviews and research 5. Curiosity and thirst for knowledge
6. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills 6. Creativity and adaptability
7. Ability to work independently and as part of a team 7. Collaboration and teamwork
8. Proficiency in multimedia and digital storytelling 8. Tech-savviness and willingness to learn new tools
9. Knowledge of current events and news trends 9. Keen observation and awareness
10. Strong interpersonal and networking skills 10. Professionalism and relationship-building abilities

Resume Tips

Proofread for Errors and Consistency

It may seem obvious, but make sure your resume is free of typos, grammar mistakes, and formatting errors. Also, check for consistency in verb tenses and formatting throughout your resume.

Quantify Your Accomplishments

Instead of just listing your job duties, include numbers and metrics to showcase the impact of your work. This will make your accomplishments more tangible and impressive to the hiring manager.

Include Relevant Writing Samples

As a freelance journalist, your writing skills are crucial. Include links or attachments to your best published work, showcasing a variety of writing styles and topics. This will give the hiring manager a better understanding of your abilities.

Put Your Best Work Experience First

When listing your past work experience, prioritize the most relevant positions to the freelance journalism role. This will grab the attention of the recruiter and make your application stand out.

Tailor Your Skills and Experience Sections

Make sure to include specific skills and experience that align with the job description and the company’s needs. This will show the recruiter that you are a perfect fit for the role and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Organize Your Resume Effectively

Keep your resume organized by using bullet points, subheadings, and whitespace. This will make it easier for the recruiter to read and understand your qualifications and experience.

Interview Questions

1) What is the scope of work for Freelance Journalists?
The scope of work for Freelance Journalists can encompass a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. Generally, freelance journalists are responsible for researching, conducting interviews, and writing articles or other pieces of content for various publications. They may also take on additional tasks such as pitching story ideas, fact-checking, and meeting deadlines. The specific scope of work may vary depending on the publication or client the freelancer is working with.

2) What are the necessary skills for a Freelance Journalist?
Some necessary skills for a Freelance Journalist include excellent writing and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently. A Freelance Journalist should also have strong research skills, be able to conduct interviews, and have a good understanding of journalistic ethics. Additionally, having a strong knowledge of social media and digital media platforms can be beneficial in today’s media landscape.

3) How do you find and pitch stories as a Freelance Journalist?
Freelance Journalists often have to be proactive in finding and pitching story ideas to potential clients or publications. This can involve researching current events, trends, or topics that may be of interest to a particular publication. Freelance Journalists can also reach out to editors or other industry professionals to inquire about potential story ideas or collaborations. When pitching a story, it is important to tailor it to the specific publication and explain why it would be a good fit for their audience.

4) What is the average pay rate for Freelance Journalists?
The average pay rate for Freelance Journalists can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, expertise, and the publication or client they are working with. Freelance Journalists may be paid per word, per hour, or per project. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for freelance writers and authors in 2019 was $63,200 per year.

5) What are the expectations for meeting deadlines and managing time as a Freelance Journalist?
Meeting deadlines and managing time effectively are essential skills for a Freelance Journalist. As a freelancer, one must be able to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines for each one. It is important to communicate with clients or editors about timelines and set realistic expectations for when work will be completed. Freelancers must also manage their time efficiently to ensure they are able to meet deadlines while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This may involve creating a schedule, setting aside specific work hours, and prioritizing tasks.

A Freelance Journalist is a self-employed journalist who works on a contract or project basis for various media outlets. Their main mission is to research, write, and report on news and current events for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcast media.

This position allows for a great deal of flexibility and autonomy, as freelance journalists can choose their own assignments and work schedule. They may also have the opportunity to work on a variety of topics and projects, allowing for career growth and development.

The salary for a junior freelance journalist can range from $30,000 to $50,000 USD per year. However, as they gain more experience and establish a strong portfolio, senior freelance journalists can make anywhere from $60,000 to $100,000 USD per year.

  1. What experience should I include on my resume as a freelance journalist?
    When writing a resume for a freelance journalist position, it is important to include all relevant experience in the journalism field. This can include previous freelance work, internships, or even school projects. Be sure to highlight any published work, as well as any specialized skills such as video production, social media management, or data analysis that can set you apart from other applicants.
  2. Should I list my education on my freelance journalist resume?
    Yes, including your education on your resume is important, especially if you have a degree or certification related to journalism. Make sure to list the name of the institution, your degree or concentration, and any relevant coursework or achievements. If you do not have a degree in journalism, consider including any relevant writing or communications courses you have taken.
  3. What skills should I highlight on my resume for a freelance journalist position?
    In addition to any specialized skills mentioned above, there are a few essential skills that freelance journalists should highlight on their resume. These include strong writing and editing skills, the ability to work independently and meet deadlines, as well as strong research and communication skills. It may also be beneficial to mention any specific beat or subject matter expertise you have, such as politics, technology, or fashion.
  4. How important is it to tailor my resume for each freelance journalist job I apply for?
    It is crucial to tailor your resume for each job application. As a freelance journalist, you are competing with many other candidates, so it is important to make your resume stand out. Carefully review the job description and requirements, and make sure to highlight the skills and experience that align with the position. Additionally, customize your objective or summary statement to show your interest and fit for the specific job.
  5. Do I need to include references on my freelance journalist resume?
    No, it is not necessary to include references on your resume. Instead, have a separate list of references ready to provide to potential clients upon request. Make sure to choose references who can speak to your skills and work ethic in the journalism field, such as previous editors or colleagues you have worked with.
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