What is the Best Way to Highlight Ghostwriting or Freelance Content Writing Work on Your LinkedIn Profile?

The rule for ghostwriting is that you can't claim the work you've done. However, over time I've negotiated a few ways to showcase this work on my LinkedIn profile without breaking this rule. For example, some clients have allowed me to share the files and use screenshots of the ghostwritten content, provided specific names are omitted. Additionally, some clients have given me permission to share live links to the content, even if it's published under their name or another identity, as long as I secure their consent first.

For instance, last year I outlined a detailed contract with a client that would allow me to showcase my freelance work whenever required, provided the client agreed to it. This clause has proven to be a valuable addition to my profile, helping potential clients understand the breadth and depth of my versatility and expertise.

Incorporate the Work into Your Summary and Experience

The key is to incorporate this work effectively into your LinkedIn summary and experience section. Here’s how you can do it:

Add a relevant experience entry explaining your role in the project, your approach, and the successes or challenges you faced. Link to the published content, allowing potential clients to see your work firsthand. Discuss the challenges you faced and the lessons you learned from such work. Success stories can be just as valuable as stories about overcoming difficulties.

Approaching Ghostwriting and Freelance Writing Differently on LinkedIn

Ghostwriting and freelance content writing are both great skills to highlight on LinkedIn, but you’ll need to approach it a bit differently than you would with a traditional job. Since you’re not being hired by a company, you can’t list the work under a typical job category. Instead, you can use the Summary and Experience sections to your advantage:

Summary: Here, you can summarize your experience in ghostwriting and freelance writing, mentioning key projects and your unique approach to these roles. Experience: List detailed entries that explain your specific contributions to each project, such as the client, the type of content, and the results achieved.

Utilize Examples and Success Stories

One of the most effective ways to highlight your ghostwriting and freelance content writing skills is by including examples and success stories. Each success story should:

Describe the project and the client. Elaborate on your roles and responsibilities. Highlight the results and any impact your work had. Include links to the published content where possible.

Additional Tips for Effective LinkedIn Profile Management

To further enhance your LinkedIn profile, consider the following tips:

Consistency: Ensure your profile is consistent across all sections, reflecting the same professional image. Keywords: Make sure to include relevant keywords in your summary and experience descriptions to help search engines and recruiters find you more easily. Engagement: Engage with your network by participating in discussions, sharing valuable content, and connecting with other professionals in your field.

By following these strategies, you can effectively showcase your ghostwriting and freelance content writing skills on LinkedIn, attracting the attention of potential clients and becoming a more attractive candidate in your field.