How Should I Include Contract Work on My Resume?

Greetings, job seekers and entrepreneurial minds!

Earlier, I received a message from someone with contract experience who wanted guidance on incorporating it into their resume. It struck me that so many other job seekers face a similar issue. Some may be seeking additional contract opportunities, while others aim for stable W-2 positions with accompanying benefits.

So today, I'm going to delve into the slightly nuanced world of contract and freelance work within resumes. (Is it really a world though, Chris?)

Yes. Join my world in this week's podcast episode by clicking the thumbnail below.

Today, I address a commonly asked question: "How do I include contract work on my resume?"

The joys of being a 1099, a freelancer, or even an unofficial-but-kinda-official employee are real. I've done plenty of this work myself, and the freedom and sense of ownership is real. But communicating those experiences are a different story. So, grab your preferred beverage, settle in, and let's embark on this informative journey together.

First and foremost, let's address why you should be proud of those contract experiences.

Contract work offers unique opportunities for highlighting your achievements on a resume.

When you operate your own business, work as a freelancer, or engage in contract positions, you are often hired to achieve specific goals. This demonstrates focus, determination, and a clear objective. Therefore, do not hesitate to include your freelance endeavors on your resume—embrace them and utilize them to your advantage.

Now, let's delve into a three-step process to conquer the challenge of incorporating contract work into your resume.

Step 1: The Objective Journey

Imagine this scenario: you are working on a project with your co-founder and sibling to enhance the customer experience. (I'm literally using a literal example of something that I worked on last week).

The project's goals, objectives, and ideas swirl in your mind, making it challenging to focus. However, when you sit down together, clarity and efficiency emerge as you pinpoint the project's specific goal.

The same principle applies to your resume. Before anything else, define your purpose.

What do you hope to achieve with your resume?

It's imperative to do your own "soul-searching" before diving into the resume writing process. For example, consider the following questions:

• Are you aiming to secure higher-paying contract jobs?
• Or are you trying to land a fulfilling position within a company culture that aligns with your values?

Take the time to define your resume's purpose, the positions you are targeting, and the impact you aspire to make. This introspective process will simplify the resume-writing endeavor.

Step 2: Showcase Value

Picture this scenario: you are the proud owner of Villanueva Marketing Agency. (Again: not really a thing, but I like making up scenarios in my head based on Chris' reality).

Over the past six months, you have acquired two clients in this hypothetical. Now, you are ready to apply for full-time marketing jobs. How do you effectively convey the value you have brought to your clients and ensure it resonates with future employers?

Include tangible accomplishments, results, and numerical data on your resume.

And with those tangible elements, you demonstrate how your experiences as a contractor can translate to the next phase of your career.

I have emphasized the significance of accomplishment-based resumes before (you know how I am), but trust me, do not skip these first two steps. They are the key differentiators that set you apart from other job seekers.

Step 3: Navigate the Nuances of Contract Work

Okay, admittedly this part is why you opened this piece of content. (Again, please make sure you didn't skip over steps one and two).

When it comes to contract work, resume writing can become a tad intricate. Allow us to share a few tricks of the trade:

1. Transparency Prevails: It is generally advisable to indicate that a specific job was a contract position. You need not go into extensive detail, but a simple mention of "contract" or "contract work" in parentheses next to your job title works wonders. This approach dispels concerns about job hopping and presents you as transparent. It will also make the interview go over smoother.
2. Two-Tier Resumes: I heard about this concept 15 years ago from a professor and mentor, and I'll never forget it. Consider dividing your resume into two tiers: professional experiences and contract work/freelance work. This clever design technique enables you to showcase what you want upfront while providing clarity regarding your career history. It is a tool that can work in your favor when distinguishing between contract and non-contract work.
3. Impressive Clients: If you have had the opportunity to work with renowned clients or notable companies that are relevant to your target positions, do not hesitate to showcase them! This adds an impressive touch to your resume and catches the eye of potential employers. Just ensure you have obtained permission to disclose such information.
4. Hyper Tailoring: Ah, the power of shaping your experiences to fit your desired role. No, we are not suggesting you morph into a resume chameleon. Rather, we propose fine-tuning your position titles and keywords to align with the job you are applying for. For example, if your previous position was "consultant," consider adding "marketing" in parentheses to highlight your expertise. This subtle yet effective approach makes your experience relevant and targeted.

Be Confident

And there you have it! The contract work puzzle solved in three simple steps. We hope these insights boost your confidence and help you craft a resume that showcases your freelance adventures in all their glory.

That wraps up today's newsletter, my resume revolutionaries. Stay determined, keep honing your skills, and do not be afraid to let your freelance spirit shine.

P.S. Have you visited our website yet?

Head over to letseatgrandma.com/podcast to discover a wealth of resources, whether you seek to craft your own resume or seek professional assistance. Do not miss out on the valuable materials we have prepared just for you!

Are You a Freelancer Who Needs More Help?

Here are some ways you can continue your journey and make your life even better.

→?Book a free call ?with us at Let's Eat, Grandma to discuss your resume.

→ Subscribe to the?Career Warrior Podcast?on your favorite platform to hear a real human voice behind the message.

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