5 answers
Jackie
Student
Canton, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
410 views
How should I build a resume and portfolio for work I didn't get a degree in??
I am about to graduate with a Business Admin degree, but took on a part-time Content Coordinator role for a print magazine. I really enjoy being a part of the magazine, but I don't want to restart my degree for journalism. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start freelancing themselves as a business writer/in publications to build a resume and portfolio, and how do I go about marketing myself to new clients?
5 answers
Felicia Tatum
Writer
1
Answer
Sparta, Tennessee
Updated
Felicia’s Answer
Hello, Jackie!
Congrats on your successes! As a certified professional resume writer, I have a few tips on how to present this experience on your resume. Experience is experience, paid or not, and whether it is full- or part-time. When you create your resume, you will put this experience in the professional experience like your other roles. Do not list that it was part-time or anything like that because it's not relevant to the reader.
When crafting the content for this section, you'll want to ensure you include all aspects of what you did and use the most common keywords. These include: content coordination, content development, writing and editing, grammar, style guide adherence, and deadline management. Be sure to list a few of the projects you worked on!
As for your portfolio, you could create a website to house that information along with your pricing/packages. You can also create a PDF of samples to send to potential clients. Whichever you create, I recommend you include the URL in the heading of your resume and cover letter so it is easily accessible.
As for marketing your services, LinkedIn is a fantastic resource. You can actually write and publish content on the platform to gain interest! (and add to your portfolio) Networking is important. I have found LI to be the best platform for finding clients. A possible internship with a marketing agency is another route to gain experience and a potential job.
I wish you the best of luck! Writing professionally is truly a gift.
~Felicia Tatum
Congrats on your successes! As a certified professional resume writer, I have a few tips on how to present this experience on your resume. Experience is experience, paid or not, and whether it is full- or part-time. When you create your resume, you will put this experience in the professional experience like your other roles. Do not list that it was part-time or anything like that because it's not relevant to the reader.
When crafting the content for this section, you'll want to ensure you include all aspects of what you did and use the most common keywords. These include: content coordination, content development, writing and editing, grammar, style guide adherence, and deadline management. Be sure to list a few of the projects you worked on!
As for your portfolio, you could create a website to house that information along with your pricing/packages. You can also create a PDF of samples to send to potential clients. Whichever you create, I recommend you include the URL in the heading of your resume and cover letter so it is easily accessible.
As for marketing your services, LinkedIn is a fantastic resource. You can actually write and publish content on the platform to gain interest! (and add to your portfolio) Networking is important. I have found LI to be the best platform for finding clients. A possible internship with a marketing agency is another route to gain experience and a potential job.
I wish you the best of luck! Writing professionally is truly a gift.
~Felicia Tatum
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
561
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Jackie, it's important to understand that crafting a resume and portfolio for a career unrelated to your degree might be tough, but it's completely doable with the right plan and tactics. As a soon-to-be Business Administration graduate with experience in content coordination for a print magazine, you possess valuable skills and experiences that can be utilized to forge a career as a business writer or contribute to publications. Here are some practical tips on how to construct a persuasive resume, build a portfolio, and effectively promote yourself to prospective clients:
* In your resume, concentrate on showcasing the skills and experiences that align with the field of business writing and content creation. Highlight your writing abilities, meticulousness, punctuality, and your experience in content coordination for the magazine. Even though your degree is in Business Administration, these adaptable skills are beneficial in the writing and content creation field.
* Build a professional portfolio that displays your writing samples, articles, blog posts, or any other content you have developed for the magazine or other projects. If you have published articles or contributed to publications, include them in your portfolio. If your published work is limited, consider creating sample pieces that exhibit your writing style, adaptability, and proficiency in business-related subjects.
* Seek out freelance opportunities in business writing, content creation, or similar fields. Freelance jobs can be found on job boards, freelance websites, or through networking with professionals in your industry. Begin by providing your services to small businesses, startups, or online publications that might require content creation assistance. Constructing a portfolio of freelance work will not only boost your experience but also display your abilities to prospective clients.
* Networking is crucial for discovering freelance opportunities and forming connections with potential clients. Participate in industry events, become a member of professional organizations, and network with other writers, editors, and content creators in your field. Networking can result in referrals, partnerships, and chances to present your work to a larger audience.
* Establish a robust online presence to advertise yourself as a business writer and content creator. Develop a professional website or blog where you can display your portfolio, share thoughts on business-related subjects, and exhibit your expertise. Utilize social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to publicize your services, interact with potential clients, and distribute your content to a broader audience.
* Continually refine your writing skills and stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging topics in business and content creation. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, and read books on writing, journalism, and business to broaden your knowledge and improve your abilities as a freelance writer.
In summary, Jackie, by adhering to these steps and remaining proactive in hunting for freelance opportunities, constructing your portfolio, and effectively promoting yourself, you can carve out a successful career as a business writer and content creator, even without a journalism degree. Concentrate on utilizing your skills, experiences, and love for writing to exhibit your unique value to potential clients and create opportunities for yourself in the field of business writing and content creation.
* In your resume, concentrate on showcasing the skills and experiences that align with the field of business writing and content creation. Highlight your writing abilities, meticulousness, punctuality, and your experience in content coordination for the magazine. Even though your degree is in Business Administration, these adaptable skills are beneficial in the writing and content creation field.
* Build a professional portfolio that displays your writing samples, articles, blog posts, or any other content you have developed for the magazine or other projects. If you have published articles or contributed to publications, include them in your portfolio. If your published work is limited, consider creating sample pieces that exhibit your writing style, adaptability, and proficiency in business-related subjects.
* Seek out freelance opportunities in business writing, content creation, or similar fields. Freelance jobs can be found on job boards, freelance websites, or through networking with professionals in your industry. Begin by providing your services to small businesses, startups, or online publications that might require content creation assistance. Constructing a portfolio of freelance work will not only boost your experience but also display your abilities to prospective clients.
* Networking is crucial for discovering freelance opportunities and forming connections with potential clients. Participate in industry events, become a member of professional organizations, and network with other writers, editors, and content creators in your field. Networking can result in referrals, partnerships, and chances to present your work to a larger audience.
* Establish a robust online presence to advertise yourself as a business writer and content creator. Develop a professional website or blog where you can display your portfolio, share thoughts on business-related subjects, and exhibit your expertise. Utilize social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to publicize your services, interact with potential clients, and distribute your content to a broader audience.
* Continually refine your writing skills and stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging topics in business and content creation. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, and read books on writing, journalism, and business to broaden your knowledge and improve your abilities as a freelance writer.
In summary, Jackie, by adhering to these steps and remaining proactive in hunting for freelance opportunities, constructing your portfolio, and effectively promoting yourself, you can carve out a successful career as a business writer and content creator, even without a journalism degree. Concentrate on utilizing your skills, experiences, and love for writing to exhibit your unique value to potential clients and create opportunities for yourself in the field of business writing and content creation.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3767
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Jackie,
Crafting a Resume and Portfolio for a Career Shift
When you're aiming to shift careers without a specific degree in that field, it's crucial to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that prove your competence. Here's a guide to creating a resume and portfolio for a field you don't hold a degree in:
1. Emphasize Transferable Skills: Pinpoint the skills you've acquired from your Business Administration degree and your position as a Content Coordinator. Skills like communication, writing, project management, and attention to detail are highly valued across different sectors.
2. Build a Skills-Based Resume: Rather than focusing on your educational history, opt for a skills-based resume format that underscores your skills and experiences. Customize your resume to spotlight achievements related to writing, content creation, editing, and other pertinent tasks from your current role.
3. Assemble a Robust Portfolio: Collect examples of your writing work from the magazine, such as articles, blog posts, or any other content you've produced or contributed to. If possible, display a range of writing styles and topics to show your adaptability as a writer.
4. Pursue More Writing Opportunities: Search for freelance writing gigs to broaden your portfolio. You can submit articles to online platforms, blogs, or industry publications to display your expertise and establish credibility as a business writer.
5. Connect with Industry Professionals: Participate in networking events, join online groups related to business writing or journalism, and link up with professionals in the field. Building connections can lead to potential freelance gigs and recommendations.
Promoting Yourself as a Business Writer
Once you've assembled a solid resume and portfolio, it's vital to market yourself effectively to attract new clients as a business writer. Here are some tactics to think about:
1. Establish an Online Presence: Create a professional website or blog to display your portfolio, share thoughts on industry topics, and exhibit your expertise as a writer. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to link with potential clients and promote your work.
2. Offer Your Services: Actively contact businesses, publications, or agencies that might need business writing services. Design personalized pitches emphasizing how your skills can benefit their organization and provide samples of your previous work.
3. Use Testimonials and Referrals: Ask for testimonials from past clients or colleagues who can attest to your writing skills. Positive feedback and referrals can boost your reputation as a freelance writer and draw in new clients.
By adhering to these steps and actively advertising yourself as a proficient business writer with relevant experience, you can set yourself up for success in freelancing within the publishing field, even without a specific journalism degree.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review offers insights on career development strategies, including advice on crafting resumes for career changes.
Forbes: Forbes provides guidance on freelancing, marketing tactics for independent professionals, and methods to build credibility in the gig economy.
Content Marketing Institute: The Content Marketing Institute presents resources on content creation best practices, freelance writing advice, and industry trends relevant to budding business writers.
These sources were used to gather credible information on crafting resumes for career changes and effectively promoting oneself as a freelance business writer in publications.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Crafting a Resume and Portfolio for a Career Shift
When you're aiming to shift careers without a specific degree in that field, it's crucial to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that prove your competence. Here's a guide to creating a resume and portfolio for a field you don't hold a degree in:
1. Emphasize Transferable Skills: Pinpoint the skills you've acquired from your Business Administration degree and your position as a Content Coordinator. Skills like communication, writing, project management, and attention to detail are highly valued across different sectors.
2. Build a Skills-Based Resume: Rather than focusing on your educational history, opt for a skills-based resume format that underscores your skills and experiences. Customize your resume to spotlight achievements related to writing, content creation, editing, and other pertinent tasks from your current role.
3. Assemble a Robust Portfolio: Collect examples of your writing work from the magazine, such as articles, blog posts, or any other content you've produced or contributed to. If possible, display a range of writing styles and topics to show your adaptability as a writer.
4. Pursue More Writing Opportunities: Search for freelance writing gigs to broaden your portfolio. You can submit articles to online platforms, blogs, or industry publications to display your expertise and establish credibility as a business writer.
5. Connect with Industry Professionals: Participate in networking events, join online groups related to business writing or journalism, and link up with professionals in the field. Building connections can lead to potential freelance gigs and recommendations.
Promoting Yourself as a Business Writer
Once you've assembled a solid resume and portfolio, it's vital to market yourself effectively to attract new clients as a business writer. Here are some tactics to think about:
1. Establish an Online Presence: Create a professional website or blog to display your portfolio, share thoughts on industry topics, and exhibit your expertise as a writer. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to link with potential clients and promote your work.
2. Offer Your Services: Actively contact businesses, publications, or agencies that might need business writing services. Design personalized pitches emphasizing how your skills can benefit their organization and provide samples of your previous work.
3. Use Testimonials and Referrals: Ask for testimonials from past clients or colleagues who can attest to your writing skills. Positive feedback and referrals can boost your reputation as a freelance writer and draw in new clients.
By adhering to these steps and actively advertising yourself as a proficient business writer with relevant experience, you can set yourself up for success in freelancing within the publishing field, even without a specific journalism degree.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review offers insights on career development strategies, including advice on crafting resumes for career changes.
Forbes: Forbes provides guidance on freelancing, marketing tactics for independent professionals, and methods to build credibility in the gig economy.
Content Marketing Institute: The Content Marketing Institute presents resources on content creation best practices, freelance writing advice, and industry trends relevant to budding business writers.
These sources were used to gather credible information on crafting resumes for career changes and effectively promoting oneself as a freelance business writer in publications.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Joanne Williams
Associate Professor
7
Answers
Olivet, Michigan
Updated
Joanne’s Answer
Hello, Jackie - Well done. Often, our degree and training open our minds and talents to more than we ever imagined. Bravo.
Writing is communicating. So, you have already proven yourself in one way by getting and enjoying this skill and career.
Now, network - get to know your co-workers, join professional organizations (see if you can still get a student fee as a recent grad), read well researched and helpful blogs - ask your contacts for advice and suggestions. (Keep using LInkedIn to find folks - like me!)
Now, read. Get to know your audience, your subject, your "peeps" as well as you can. Learn the jargon, the lingo, the codes of the business, find your niche as well - is there a specialized area you like and would like to become a professional in? Do so, and you will be valued for your expertise.
Sell your skills and interest and enthusiasm. and on your research, highlight your skills and projects as well as your training.
Now, yes, get certificates in skills and information that will support your growth.
You have now discovered that learning is lifelong, engaging and rewarding.
Now, link to your projects, list them on your pages, polish everything about yourself on the web.
Now, look for some community service organizations that appeal to you and offer your time and talents. People will begin to support you and your career as well.
I can't wait to see what the future holds for you.
All the best, Joanne Williams
Writing is communicating. So, you have already proven yourself in one way by getting and enjoying this skill and career.
Now, network - get to know your co-workers, join professional organizations (see if you can still get a student fee as a recent grad), read well researched and helpful blogs - ask your contacts for advice and suggestions. (Keep using LInkedIn to find folks - like me!)
Now, read. Get to know your audience, your subject, your "peeps" as well as you can. Learn the jargon, the lingo, the codes of the business, find your niche as well - is there a specialized area you like and would like to become a professional in? Do so, and you will be valued for your expertise.
Sell your skills and interest and enthusiasm. and on your research, highlight your skills and projects as well as your training.
Now, yes, get certificates in skills and information that will support your growth.
You have now discovered that learning is lifelong, engaging and rewarding.
Now, link to your projects, list them on your pages, polish everything about yourself on the web.
Now, look for some community service organizations that appeal to you and offer your time and talents. People will begin to support you and your career as well.
I can't wait to see what the future holds for you.
All the best, Joanne Williams
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
202
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Jackie and congratulations on being close to graduating. If you want to have your own editing business, you will put your degree to good use.
Without formal education in writing and much experience in content coordination, it may be difficult to strike out on your own. So I would suggest addressing one or both parts of that equation. Specifically:
- You could gain more experience in your current part-time role (start your portfolio with that) and see if you could be hired full-time after graduation.
- If it stays part-time, you could try applying to other content jobs emphasizing your marketing coursework and using work from your part-time role for your portfolio.
- Maybe take another role at the same employer with the intention of moving into content full-time later. Full-time work would also help you confirm that you want this as a profession.
If you can't get full-time work in content coordination, I would suggest at least writing copy as a volunteer for a non-profit to build up your portfolio. That, too, potentially could be turned into a full-time role.
Depending upon the type of writing you want to do, you could take an online or community college course in that area to gain a credential. If you took a lot of marketing courses for degree, that may not be necessary, but it would not hurt. Once you have at least one full year of experience, a varied portfolio, and relevant credentials, you will be ready to market yourself.
See the links below for more information. Good luck!
Read about content coordination - https://www.ziprecruiter.com/career/Content-Coordinator/What-Is-How-to-Become#:~:text=As%20a%20content%20coordinator%2C%20your,on%20content%20updates%20and%20campaigns.
Read more about content coordination - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-does-content-coordinator-do
Without formal education in writing and much experience in content coordination, it may be difficult to strike out on your own. So I would suggest addressing one or both parts of that equation. Specifically:
- You could gain more experience in your current part-time role (start your portfolio with that) and see if you could be hired full-time after graduation.
- If it stays part-time, you could try applying to other content jobs emphasizing your marketing coursework and using work from your part-time role for your portfolio.
- Maybe take another role at the same employer with the intention of moving into content full-time later. Full-time work would also help you confirm that you want this as a profession.
If you can't get full-time work in content coordination, I would suggest at least writing copy as a volunteer for a non-profit to build up your portfolio. That, too, potentially could be turned into a full-time role.
Depending upon the type of writing you want to do, you could take an online or community college course in that area to gain a credential. If you took a lot of marketing courses for degree, that may not be necessary, but it would not hurt. Once you have at least one full year of experience, a varied portfolio, and relevant credentials, you will be ready to market yourself.
See the links below for more information. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
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