Should I put content creation on my resume?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, including your content creation experience on your resume could be a strategic move, but it depends on how you frame it and the relevance to the roles you're targeting. Here's what you need to consider:

Why It Could Help:

1. Demonstrates Entrepreneurial Skills: Running a social media brand with six-figure followers and monetizing it shows initiative, creativity, and business acumen. These are transferable skills that can be valuable in finance, especially in roles requiring client interaction, marketing, or understanding consumer behavior.
2. Time Management and Execution: Balancing school, internships, and a successful side business highlights your ability to manage multiple priorities effectively—something highly valued in banking.
3. Quantifiable Achievements: If you can include metrics (e.g., follower growth, revenue generated, or successful brand partnerships), it adds credibility and impact to your resume.

Why It Could Hurt:

1. Social Media Policies: Banks often have strict social media policies, and some firms may view this as a potential conflict of interest or distraction. While cases of rescinded offers due to social media activity are rare, they do exist.
2. Perception Risk: If not framed professionally, it could be seen as unrelated or even frivolous by conservative recruiters who may not value non-traditional experiences.

How to Include It (If You Decide To):

• Professional Framing: Present it as a business venture rather than a hobby. For example:
  • "Founder and Manager of a Social Media Brand: Built and managed a social media presence with 100,000+ followers across platforms, generating $XX,XXX in revenue through brand partnerships with [specific industries]."
  • "Developed and executed content strategies, negotiated contracts with brands, and analyzed audience engagement metrics to optimize growth and monetization."
• Relevance to Finance: Highlight skills like marketing, analytics, negotiation, and business development that align with finance roles.
• Placement: Include it under a "Leadership & Entrepreneurship" or "Additional Experience" section, rather than your primary work experience.

When to Leave It Off:

• If you're concerned about potential conflicts with social media policies or if you feel it might distract from your core finance experience, it’s safer to leave it off. Instead, you can prepare to discuss it in interviews if it comes up.

Final Recommendation:

If framed professionally and tied to relevant skills, this experience could set you apart as a candidate with unique entrepreneurial experience. However, be mindful of the firm's culture and policies. If you're unsure, consider consulting with a mentor or recruiter familiar with the specific banks you're targeting.

Sources: ANSWERED: Most Common Resume Questions, Edgy Resume? Yes or No?, Resume Guidelines from a WSO Drop Reviewer, Investment Banking Resume Template - Official WSO CV Example