Graphic Designer Resume Tips: What Hiring Managers Look For
Resume advice specific to Graphic Designer roles — which metrics to include, which keywords pass ATS screening, and how to stand out in a competitive applicant pool.
5 Resume Tips for Graphic Designers
Your portfolio URL is more important than everything else on your resume — make it prominent and current
Specify industries you've designed for: healthcare, SaaS, CPG, retail — each has different aesthetic and regulatory norms
Include motion design or video skills if you have them — premium skill in the current market
Note project scales: "Designed brand identity system for 200-location retail chain"
Behance and Dribbble profiles are worth linking alongside a personal portfolio site
ATS Keywords to Include
Use these exact terms from your skills and experience — ATS systems scan for specific keyword matches, not paraphrases.
Universal Resume Rules
- One page for under 5 years of experience; two pages for senior roles
- PDF format unless the posting specifically requests Word (.docx)
- Quantify every achievement possible — numbers create credibility
- Standard section headers (Experience, Education, Skills) for ATS compatibility
- Tailor keywords from each specific job description before applying