Hey all - looking for advice on updating my resume. I was laid off last year like many in the industry and have been spending time networking, doing some freelance work, and helping chase deals with a senior partner (mostly modeling/prepping decks) for potential sweat equity and fees. Should I add the freelance and unpaid work to show I’ve stayed active? I’m mid career with experience in acquisitions and development so I'm not simply trying to fill space if not necessary. If so, how would one going about framing it? Listing each project/company specifically or combining it into a single section for freelance and deal work? Any tips/ help would be much appreciated
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My opinion only: this really shouldn't be listed unless you're entry level and it's your only experience. I personally do include mine on LinkedIn, but not on my resume. I will bring it up in interviews, etc, but I don't treat it like it's a job. If you're doing 30+ hrs per week and making an actual business out of it, that is worth listing, but I wouldn't if it's just a few hours here and there. Most interviews at this level will be via network anyways, so a gap on a resume shouldn't disqualify you from getting the interview. I guess I see more possible downside than upside.
Appreciate it. Yes this makes sense. I am treating this like a full time job and it is something to talk about in interviews so I may add it.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, including freelance and unpaid work on your resume is a smart move to demonstrate that you've stayed active and relevant in the industry. Here's how you can frame it effectively:
Create a Dedicated Section: Label it something like "Independent Consulting & Deal Work" or "Freelance Acquisitions & Development Projects." This keeps it professional and highlights the nature of the work.
Combine Projects: Instead of listing each project or company separately, group them under this section. Use bullet points to describe the key tasks and achievements, such as:
Highlight Relevance: Focus on skills and accomplishments that align with your target roles. Emphasize technical skills (e.g., financial modeling, market analysis) and strategic contributions.
Keep It Chronological: Place this section in the timeline of your professional experience, ensuring it flows naturally with your career progression.
Be Transparent: If asked in interviews, be honest about the nature of the work (freelance/unpaid) and frame it as a proactive way to stay engaged and sharpen your skills during a transitional period.
This approach ensures your resume reflects your continued involvement in the industry while maintaining a polished and professional presentation.
Sources: ANSWERED: Most Common Resume Questions, What should go on my resume and cover letter in my circumstance for internship applications (RE specific), Filtering resumes - what I looked for when screening 200+ resumes, Resume Guidelines from a WSO Drop Reviewer, How do I respond to people asking for my resume while networking?
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