How to structure your CV to highlight freelance or gig work

1. Create a ‘Freelance Experience’ Section

• Instead of listing each gig separately, create a single section titled “Freelance Experience” or “Independent Contractor.” Under this section, group your freelance projects based on key skills or industries you’ve worked in. This gives your experience a cohesive structure and avoids clutter.

Example: Freelance Marketing Consultant | 2018–Present

• Created marketing strategies for clients in healthcare, retail, and tech sectors, improving brand visibility by 25%+.
• Designed and implemented digital marketing campaigns, leading to increased traffic and conversions.

2. Highlight Relevant Projects

• Choose projects that align with the type of work or industry you’re applying to. For each project, focus on your role, the results you delivered, and the impact you made. Keep the descriptions concise and results-driven.

Example: Digital Content Creator for XYZ Tech Startups

• Developed 10+ high-performing content pieces that increased website engagement by 40%.
• Managed client’s social media platforms, boosting follower count by 50% in 6 months.

3. Use a Skills-Based Format

• If you’ve worked in multiple industries, using a skills-based (functional) CV format can be useful. Organize your CV by key skills—such as project management, design, or client relations—rather than chronologically. Under each skill, list relevant freelance projects to demonstrate how you applied that skill in various contexts.

Example: Project Management

• Managed a team of 5 designers and developers for a client’s e-commerce platform redesign.
• Delivered project within 10% of the budget and on time, improving the user interface and increasing customer satisfaction by 30%.

4. Quantify Your Achievements

• Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to showcase the results of your freelance work. This adds credibility and demonstrates the tangible impact of your efforts.

Example:

• Increased client’s web traffic by 40% through a targeted SEO strategy.
• Managed a $50,000 annual marketing budget for a startup client, increasing ROI by 15%.

5. Include a Portfolio or Website

• Link to your professional portfolio, personal website, or LinkedIn profile. Having an easily accessible portfolio allows employers or clients to view the full scope of your work and see the quality firsthand.

Example: Portfolio: [yourwebsite.com] LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/yourprofile]

6. Leverage Testimonials or Client Feedback

• If you have testimonials from clients, include them on your CV (or link to your portfolio where they are featured). Testimonials add credibility and showcase your ability to deliver on client expectations.

Example: “Marvel delivered outstanding results, transforming our website’s user experience and increasing our sales by 20% within three months.” – XYZ Client

7. Showcase Your Flexibility and Adaptability

• Freelance and gig work often require you to adapt to new clients, industries, and tools quickly. Highlight your ability to manage diverse projects, juggle multiple clients, and quickly learn new systems or software.

Example:

• Successfully managed multiple clients in industries ranging from tech startups to nonprofits, demonstrating flexibility and strong organizational skills.

8. Address Any Gaps

• If you’ve had periods between gigs, don’t leave gaps unexplained. Use that space to mention skills development, certifications, or relevant volunteer work that enhanced your professional growth.

Example:

• During gaps, completed certification in Google Analytics and Facebook Ads, enhancing expertise in digital marketing tools.