How to Effectively Present Freelance Work on Your Resume: Work Experience or Projects?
In today’s dynamic job market, many professionals supplement their regular employment with freelance projects, side gigs, or independent contracting. While freelancing can showcase your skills, versatility, and entrepreneurial spirit, many job seekers wonder: where should freelance work be listed on their resumes — under “Work Experience” or “Projects”?
Understanding the Placement Dilemma
The decision to categorize freelance work depends on several factors, including the nature of the work, its duration, and its relevance to the target role. Typically:
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Work Experience Section: If your freelance engagements were extensive, consistent, and involved responsibilities similar to a traditional role, placing them under “Work Experience” can demonstrate stability and professional capacity.
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Projects Section: For shorter-term, specific projects that highlight particular skills or accomplishments, listing them under a “Projects” or “Selected Projects” section allows you to focus on particular achievements without implying ongoing employment.
Addressing Recruiters’ Concerns
One common concern among hiring managers is whether freelance work indicates a potential lack of commitment to a full-time position. Some recruiters worry that candidates with extensive freelancing might prefer independent work over joining a team or can be less committed to long-term company goals.
Strategies for Presenting Freelance Experience Effectively
To reassure recruiters and position your freelance experience positively, consider these approaches:
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Highlight Relevance and Results: Frame your freelance projects to emphasize how they align with the role you’re applying for. Focus on measurable outcomes, skills gained, and value delivered.
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Position Freelance Work as a Strategic Choice: Clarify that freelancing was a deliberate career move to broaden your expertise or pursue entrepreneurial goals, demonstrating initiative and adaptability.
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Show Commitment and Growth: Include a brief narrative—either in your cover letter or resume summary—that explains your ongoing professional development and motivation to contribute to a full-time role.
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Use Clear Titles and Descriptions: Specify your role, the scope of work, and the client or company name. This provides context and credibility.
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Address Concerns Proactively in Interviews: Be prepared to discuss your freelancing experience confidently, emphasizing your reliability, teamwork skills, and enthusiasm for long-term roles.
In Summary
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for where to list freelance work on your resume. Whether as part of “Work Experience” or under “Projects,” the
