What makes this resume great
This resume stands out due to its clear progression in the screenwriting field, showcasing both staff and freelance experience. The candidate highlights a strong educational background from a top film school and lists relevant, industry-standard skills and software. The work history demonstrates growth from script coordination to staff screenwriting, indicating increasing responsibility. The inclusion of both technical and creative skills, as well as collaboration and research, shows versatility. The resume is concise, well-organized, and tailored to the screenwriting profession.
Resume summary examples for Screenwriter
Example #1
Strong Summary
Award-winning screenwriter with 8+ years of experience crafting compelling scripts for television and film, specializing in character-driven stories and dynamic dialogue. Proven track record of collaborating with production teams to deliver high-quality screenplays on tight deadlines.
Weak Summary
I am a screenwriter who has written scripts for TV and film. I like working with others and am good at writing dialogue.
Example #2
Strong Summary
Creative and detail-oriented screenwriter with a BFA from USC and extensive experience in story development, script editing, and industry-standard software. Adept at transforming ideas into engaging narratives for diverse audiences.
Weak Summary
I studied screenwriting in college and have worked on some scripts. I know how to use Final Draft and Celtx.
Example #3
Strong Summary
Versatile screenwriter with a strong background in both freelance and staff roles, skilled in developing original concepts and refining scripts for production. Recognized for strong research abilities and collaborative approach.
Weak Summary
I have worked as a screenwriter in different jobs and can do research. I like working with teams.
Resume achievement examples for Screenwriter
Example #1
Strong Achievement
Wrote and developed 12+ original scripts for Silverline Studios, 5 of which were produced and aired on national television, contributing to a 20% increase in viewership ratings.
Weak Achievement
Wrote scripts for Silverline Studios that were used in TV shows.
Example #2
Strong Achievement
Collaborated with a team of 8 writers to deliver a feature-length screenplay under a 3-month deadline, resulting in a successful film festival premiere and positive critical reviews.
Weak Achievement
Worked with other writers to finish a screenplay that was shown at a festival.
Example #3
Strong Achievement
Edited and formatted over 30 scripts for Brightlight Productions, ensuring 100% compliance with industry standards and streamlining the production process by 15%.
Weak Achievement
Helped edit and format scripts at Brightlight Productions.
Essential skills for a Screenwriter
- Screenwriting
- Script Editing
- Story Development
- Dialogue Writing
- Character Development
- Final Draft
- Celtx
- Collaboration
- Research
- Script Formatting
Resume best practices
Tailor Your Resume for a Screenwriter
Customize your resume for the specific position you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight the most relevant experience.
Keep It Concise and Focused
Ideally, your resume should be one page (two if you have extensive experience). Focus on achievements and essential information and avoid fluff.
Use a Clean, Professional Format
Stick to a simple layout with consistent font, spacing, and section headings. Use bullet points for readability. Avoid overly decorative fonts or colors.
Start with a Strong Summary
Write a compelling summary or objective at the top that briefly outlines your background, key skills, and what you bring to being a Screenwriter.
Emphasize Achievements Over Duties
Use bullet points to describe what you accomplished as a Screenwriter, not just what you were responsible for. Include measurable results when possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 25% in six months").
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "Led," "Developed," "Improved," "Streamlined," to convey impact and ownership.
Highlight Skills and Tools
Create a dedicated skills section that includes technical tools, software, or soft skills relevant to being a Screenwriter (e.g., Excel, Python, CRM systems, leadership, communication).
Include Education and Certifications
List your educational background and any relevant certifications or ongoing courses. Mention GPA if it’s strong (generally above 3.5) and you're early in your career.
Proofread Carefully
Avoid spelling or grammatical errors since they can be deal-breakers. Ask someone else to review your resume or use tools like Grammarly.