Smart Strategies for Listing Contract Work on a Resume

If you’ve ever hesitated about listing contract work on your resume, you’re not alone. It’s a common worry—how do you showcase your experience without looking like a series of short-term gigs? Maybe you’re afraid it would raise questions about your commitment or make your career path seem unfocused.

At Enhancv, we’ve guided countless professionals through these challenges, showing them how to write a resume that turns potential pitfalls into strengths. Contract work is a strength. It highlights your adaptability, diverse skills, and ability to deliver results. The secret is framing it with clarity and professionalism.

In this guide, you’ll find proven strategies to turn your contract experience into a standout feature. Let’s make your resume a story employers can’t ignore.

What is contract work?

In the US, contract work refers to jobs where you’re hired for a specific project or a set period, rather than as a permanent employee. It’s common in industries like IT, healthcare, and creative fields.

Contract workers might be freelancers, consultants, or temps placed by staffing agencies. While you’re not on the company’s payroll as a regular employee, you’re still bringing valuable expertise.

The key difference between contract work and full-time employment (FTE) lies in stability and structure. Full-timers work indefinitely for a single employer and usually receive benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

Contract workers, however, are hired for specific projects or set durations. Many need to manage their own insurance, savings, and taxes. This flexibility often comes with the trade-off of added self-reliance in financial and administrative matters.

Types of contractors

Contract work comes in many forms, each offering flexibility and opportunities tailored to specific industries and roles.

Here’s a breakdown of the main types of contractors, along with relatable examples to help you see where you fit.

Before we dive into the advantages of including contract work on your resume, see how your current one stacks up against applicant tracking systems (ATS) with our free resume checker.

Why listing contract jobs on your resume is better than leaving them out

Listing contract work on your resume is about owning your story and showing off the unique advantages that come with professional flexibility.

Here’s why it’s worth highlighting:

Shows ambition and ability to multitask

For many, contract work is a valuable side hustle that complements a full-time job, providing an extra stream of income. This dual approach demonstrates your ambition and ability to juggle multiple commitments, whether it’s freelancing on weekends or consulting part-time.

For example, a marketing manager might take on freelance writing projects, or a software engineer could develop apps for clients outside their primary role.

Builds credibility

Contract work allows you to leverage your specialized knowledge to strengthen your professional reputation. Entrepreneurs often use their expertise to secure consulting contracts—like a financial advisor helping startups with budgeting systems or a tech entrepreneur advising on app development for small businesses.

These roles enhance your resume while positioning you as a trusted authority in your field.

Demonstrates flexibility

Contract roles throw you into new environments where you have to adjust fast. Listing them shows you can thrive in different industries, work with new teams, and hit the ground running—all qualities employers appreciate.

Showcases diverse skill sets

Every contract role teaches you something new. Maybe you mastered a new software or collaborated across departments. These experiences align perfectly with the growing trend of skill-based hiring, where employers prioritize specific abilities over traditional job titles.

Every skill you’ve gained is a testament to your versatility and is easily transferable to your next contract—pure gold to employers.

Fills employment gaps

Freelance assignments are perfect for bridging time between full-time roles. They show you stayed active and embraced challenges during career transitions. Even better, these roles offer a chance to build a powerful portfolio that validates your expertise with real, tangible results.

Additionally, project-based work can diversify your LinkedIn profile. Instead of a blank timeline, it reflects a narrative of consistent effort and valuable experience. This proactive approach reassures hiring managers that you’ve been using your time productively, keeping your career moving forward.

Leverages versatility as a strength

Working with different companies gives you a fresh perspective and the ability to solve problems creatively. Employers want someone who can bring new ideas and adapt to any situation—and your contract roles show you can do just that.

How to list contract work on a resume—major principles

When presenting your contract work on a resume, there are a few rules of thumb to keep in mind to ensure it’s clear, professional, and impactful.

Now that you know the principles, let’s look at examples for different contracting situations. Whether you’re a freelancer, an agency contractor, or juggling multiple gigs, the following examples will show you how to position your experience effectively.

Show contract work with a single employer

If your contract work has been through one employer, like a staffing agency or your own consulting business, grouping it under a single heading is an efficient and professional way to present your experience. This method is especially beneficial for agency contractors, consultants, and freelancers with long-term clients.

Here’s how to do it step by step:

Example of contract work with one employer

The resume example below demonstrates how to structure your work experience if you’re an independent contractor, run your own consultancy, or take on engagements through a single employer.

Note how clients are listed in separate bullets to clearly distinguish between assignments and specific achievements for each.

The sample above was created using Enhancv’s AI resume builder, which offers endless personalization options. If you’re using Word and aren’t sure how to structure your resume, we’ve provided an experience section template below that you can easily adapt to your document.

Here’s how it looks in practice:

Next, let’s explore another common way to present contract work on a resume—showing assignments completed for multiple clients.

List multiple contract positions with different companies

When you’ve worked on contract assignments for various employers, there are two main approaches to listing them on your resume. Choosing the right one depends on your career history and how you want to frame your experience.

Approach 1: Separate entries for each job

This method involves listing each contract job as a standalone experience entry, just like you would for full-time positions. It’s ideal for individuals who have worked for multiple employers, frequently switching contracts but performing similar roles across assignments.

Here’s how to structure it:

Below is an example of how a graphic designer can list contract jobs using the traditional format, with each job detailed separately.

Now, let’s look at an alternative approach—organizing contract jobs by industry.

Approach 2: Group contracts by industry or expertise

This format is perfect for seasoned professionals who have provided services across diverse industries. By stacking contracts under categories like “Healthcare Projects” or “Technology Clients,” you can highlight the breadth of your experience while keeping your resume streamlined and easy to read.

If you’re an experienced contractor with a variety of assignments across different fields, or someone looking to emphasize their versatility, organize your experience as follows:

Take a look at the human resources consultant example below, which you can further customize by naming the experience section to suit your specific circumstances. If permitted by your NDA, be sure to reveal the company names to add credibility and context to your achievements.

Below is a simple template you can use if you’ve done gig work for more than one employer:

Now, let’s dive into some of the key aspects to keep in mind when writing a contractor resume.

More formatting tips for contract work on a resume

When listing contract jobs on your resume, clarity and readability are key.

Here are some quick tips to ensure your experience stands out for all the right reasons:

• Label experience strategically: Clearly label your contract roles and distinguish them from permanent positions. Specify the nature of your roles, whether freelance, consulting, or temporary, to build trust with potential employers.
• Use strong action verbs: Start each bullet point with a powerful action verb. Words like “designed,” “implemented,” or “streamlined” show initiative and impact. Avoid weak phrases like “responsible for” or “tasked with”—instead, focus on what you did and the results you achieved.
• Add quantifiable results: Put numbers on your resume to show increased sales, reduced project timelines, or improved customer satisfaction. Quantified accomplishments speak louder than general statements.
• Include relevant keywords: Use industry-specific terms and skills that match the job description. This boosts ATS compatibility and catches the hiring manager’s attention.
• Consider professional presentation: Keep your resume well-organized with clear headings, consistent fonts, and appropriate margins. Resume lines can also help separate sections and make your resume more readable.
• Proofread: Always proofread for typos and inconsistencies. Better yet, have someone review your resume to ensure it effectively conveys your career narrative and accomplishments.

Six mistakes to avoid when putting contract work on your resume

Worried that your short-term engagements might raise red flags for hiring managers? Don’t stress—here are some common concerns contractors face and tips to avoid them so your experience stands out.

1. Making contract work look like job-hopping: Listing every short-term role separately can make you seem like you’re bouncing around. Instead, group similar roles under one heading, like a staffing agency or industry, to show consistency.
2. Leaving gaps unaddressed: Gaps between contracts might raise eyebrows, but you can turn them into strengths. Highlight productive activities—like taking a course or consulting—that kept your skills sharp. A functional resume can also be a great option here, as it focuses on your abilities rather than a strict timeline, without drawing attention to gaps.
3. Not telling the story: Don’t leave employers guessing—your resume should clearly show how your contract work fits into your career path and aligns with your goals. Use the summary section to connect the dots, explaining how your contract roles have prepared you for today’s dynamic job market. Additionally, you can also provide more details in your cover letter.
4. Mixing formats: Confusing full-time and contract roles without labeling them clearly can make things messy. Instead, put consistent headings and titles, like “Contractor” or “Freelance [Role],” to keep it clean.
5. Missing the big picture: Contract work can look like side gigs unless you show growth. Emphasize bigger projects, increased responsibilities, or skills you’ve built over time.
6. Being too vague: A vague “Freelance Work” line won’t impress anyone. Add specifics—clients, industries, or key achievements—to make your work shine.

Frequently asked questions on contract work

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions to help you present your experience confidently and effectively.

What's the difference between freelance and contract?

Freelance and contract work are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are key differences.

Freelance work usually involves short-term projects for multiple clients, offering flexibility in how and when the work gets done. Contract work, however, typically means being hired for a specific role or project for a set period, with a formal agreement outlining the terms.

Self-employment often overlaps with both, as freelancers and contractors are generally responsible for managing their own taxes, benefits, and business operations. While both paths are excellent for showcasing skills, the distinction often lies in the level of structure and commitment involved.

Is contract management a skill?

Absolutely! Contract management requires a blend of technical and soft skills, such as negotiation, organization, attention to detail, and legal knowledge. It’s a valuable competency for roles in procurement and project management, showing that you can handle agreements and deliverables efficiently. If you’ve managed contracts as part of your role, it’s worth outlining on your resume.

Is it better to say freelance or self-employed on a resume?

It depends on the context. “Freelance” works well if you’ve completed multiple short-term projects in a creative or technical field. “Self-employed” can be more fitting if you’ve run your own business or provided long-term consulting services. Choose the term that aligns best with your work and makes your experience resonate with the job you’re applying for.

Should you put short-term jobs on your resume?

Yes, but be selective. Focus on roles that are relevant to the position you’re targeting or that highlight significant achievements. Grouping related short-term jobs under a single heading, like “Contract Engagements” or “Freelance Projects,” can help avoid the appearance of job-hopping.

I’m a general contractor—this page isn’t for me, right?

Not unless you’ve been moonlighting as a graphic designer or software developer! This page focuses on professional contract roles, like freelancers, consultants, and agency contractors. If you’re looking for advice tailored to building and construction roles, check out our general contractor resume guide.

Conclusion

Framing your contract work thoughtfully can transform contract-based engagements into a compelling career narrative. With the right approach, you’ll show employers the depth of your expertise and how your adaptability and achievements make you an asset in any role.