Earlier this week we posted about why you should put your blog on your resume. We had a lot of questions after that post so I thought why not do a follow up? For a little background, I’ve seen and designed many resumes and have also helped with the hiring process. But I by no means know everything! You should always do what’s best for you and your unique situation, but I hope this answers a few lingering Qs.
Should I add my blog to my resume if I’m not applying to be a professional blogger?
Most people probably aren’t applying to professional blogging jobs. When I shared my story, I noted that I did want to land a job as an editor, but it took me awhile to realize how that related to my fun side project, my (at the time) DIY blog. Even if you’re not looking for a writing career, it’s still a great piece of experience to have on your resume. Some careers you should definitely mention it, like editorial, social media, digital media, publishing, marketing, etc. But some of you asked, what about totally different fields, like business or healthcare?
Unless you blog about topics that are obviously off-putting to some employers, I don’t think it ever hurts to put it on. The only reason not to would be if your resume is packed with tons of experience that more directly shows why you’re a great candidate for X. (Exactly why you should personalize it for EACH job you apply to!) However, if you don’t think blogging skills such as writing, photography, working with advertisers, managing a calendar, social media, content management systems, etc, don’t apply whatsoever, then feel free to focus on other experience!
How should I add my blog to my resume?
One reason I wanted to follow up was that I didn’t want people to think they should push down other relevant experience + skills to prioritize blogging. Like I said, if you want to work in digital media, a blog is nothing to leave out. But you can show how great you are at establishing community, your creativity, attention to detail, and other skills gained blogging without making it seem like it’s your entire world—especially if it’s a side project or a work in progress. As proud as I am of my blog and The Blog Market, I still would place that lower on the resume than my freelance jobs, for example.
You can also sneak it in under your skills section, as blogging is an acquired skill. Even if you’re not a veteran blogger or pulling in $$$, the very fact that you’re learning as you go is very telling. Blogging will fit right in as a skill. And lastly, if you have a qualifications section that shows personal attributes that make you a good candidate, blogging can totally go there too. The fact that you’re updating a website regularly with fresh new content shows you’re a self starter, ambitious, and willing to work hard for something. This is often a much bigger deal than the blog itself, especially if you’re not vying for a job in digital media.
Are there other ways to bring up my status as a blogger?
If the above doesn’t quite fit or you’re still testing the waters, there are plenty of other ways to bring up the blog off the resume. In cover letters, for example, I think it’s important to show a little personality. It doesn’t matter what field you’re in, there are always more applicants than job openings. Writing a quick sentence about you that says, “In addition to these professional skills, I am also passionate about blogging, photography, and connecting with other people,” is only going to make you sound more well rounded! This is something you can also bring up at an interview if relevant, or when a job application asks if you have a website.
It’s easy to think, because we’re wrapped up in this world, that keeping a blog isn’t something that makes us unique. But how many people do you really know in person that regularly blog? That means employers aren’t seeing it as much as you think. :)
Erin says
I love this!! I always have such a hard time deciding what and where to put everything on my resume. I think blogging can be helpful for anyone because it is a writing medium and the dos of sending professional emails at work is pretty high, or at least, that’s probably what I’ll be doing. Haha, thanks!
Erin | http://www.erinelizabethmiller.com
julia-tagandtibby says
Completely agree! My blog has been a big part of my resume (sort of an on-line portfolio). Photography, content development, marketing…so many skills can be listed with it.
Emily says
Nice! I actually applied for a job the other day and used my blog as a reference for my passion for traveling (the job involves planning travel for groups). And what do you know, they checked out my blog and loved it! It also shows how creative you are too.
Anastasia says
Mentioning my blog in my cover letter and CV is what helped me to get my current internship I’m enjoying. Even though I don’t have regular readers yet and am in process of learning, blogging is what I’m interested in. Plus, I know Blogger and WordPress quite well.
Even if you’re not looking for a writing or any creative jobs, blogging is something worth mentioning. It also shows that even working a full time job or as a uni/college student, you still find time to blog = time management, dedication, passion.
Cheers, xx
Angela says
Definitely!!! Thanks for sharing!
Rachel says
I think including a blog on your resume and discussing it in interviews is really helpful! I was skeptical about it at first but I think it really helped me land my current job!
Kyah says
Love this. I just recently added my blog to my resume as I have very little experience but it shows I am getting to know the industry. Since then it has generated more interest in me when applying for internships than ever before so it’s been great so far considering my lack of experience.
Kyah / http://www.weekendtempo.com