Your top-notch portfolio is a testament to your skills and abilities. However, your resume is also critical in complementing your portfolio and showcasing your professional achievements. Ensure your resume highlights your unique strengths and talents to land your dream job. A strong accomplishment-driven resume helps prospective employers better understand you as a candidate and learn why you’re the right fit for the position. We’ll provide expert tips to help you translate your graphic design experience into a professional resume.
Most Popular Graphic Designer Resumes
Graphic Design - Entry-Level Resume Example
Why this entry-level graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume is strong because it highlights the candidate's ability to deliver engaging visual solutions for client websites, social media, and packaging, showcasing hands-on experience with well-known design tools like Adobe Creative Suite. The profile demonstrates solid internship and junior-level experience, particularly with rebranding a client valued at $80,000, showing early-stage career growth potential. The educational background in graphic design further strengthens this entry-level resume.
Graphic Design - Mid-Level Resume Example
Why this mid-career graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume stands out because it emphasizes both the creative and strategic aspects of the candidate’s experience, such as delivering custom design solutions and reducing bounce rates by 20%. The candidate’s ability to collaborate on high-value projects ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 adds credibility, while the UX Design Professional Certificate reflects ongoing professional development. Their involvement in web design, UX, and brand identity work for a wide range of clients demonstrates versatility and growth.
Graphic Design - Senior-Level Resume Example
Why this senior-level graphic designer resume is strong:
This senior-level resume is compelling because it combines leadership with hands-on design work, highlighting the candidate’s ability to manage a team of 15 designers on high-value projects up to $500,000. The 150% sales increase achieved through a digital marketing initiative showcases measurable impact. The breadth of experience, from managing large teams to collaborating with executives and delivering custom visuals, underscores strong strategic thinking and project management skills.
Freelance Graphic Designer Resume Example
Why this freelance graphic designer resume is strong:
This freelance resume excels due to its focus on the candidate’s ability to manage multiple projects independently while maintaining client satisfaction. The 15% improvement in web traffic for a major tech client demonstrates results-driven performance. Highlighting the candidate’s success in managing projects from concept to completion, combined with their experience across diverse industries, paints a picture of a versatile and efficient freelance professional.
Senior Graphic Designer Resume Example
Why this senior graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume stands out by showcasing the candidate’s leadership in managing design projects and mentoring junior designers, leading to a 30% increase in client satisfaction. The candidate’s ability to streamline project turnaround times by 20% and collaborate on promotional materials that increase sales by 15% highlights their strategic approach to design and team management. With advanced certifications in Adobe software and extensive experience, this resume positions the candidate as an expert in the field.
Entry-Level Graphic Designer Resume Example
Why this entry-level graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume shines by demonstrating the candidate’s capacity to deliver tangible results in terms of online engagement (10%-30% increase) through print and digital marketing. By showcasing experience in both freelance and in-house roles, the candidate illustrates flexibility and the ability to meet deadlines. Their hands-on experience in UX, website design, and collaboration with cross-functional teams further emphasizes their potential to grow as a well-rounded designer.
Motion Graphic Designer Resume Example
Why this motion graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume is powerful because it highlights the candidate’s expertise in motion graphics and character animation, two highly sought-after skills in the digital marketing space. Leading 50 projects that improved audience engagement by 20% shows clear, measurable success. The candidate’s extensive use of Adobe After Effects and ability to manage multiple projects while meeting strict deadlines emphasizes technical proficiency and time management.
Website Graphic Designer Resume Example
Why this website graphic designer resume is strong:
This resume is strong because it showcases the candidate’s success in creating visually engaging websites that directly boost user engagement by 20% and enhance site performance by 10%. The ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and reduce site loading times by 15% reflects both technical and creative skills. The focus on user engagement, project management, and web design establishes the candidate as a dynamic and results-driven web graphic designer.
Artist Resume Example
Illustrator Resume Example
User Experience (UX) Designer Resume Example
Graphic Designer Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
How To Write a Graphic Designer Resume
1. Summarize your graphic design qualifications in a dynamic profile
The professional profile is one of the most important sections to focus on as you build your resume. This is often the first thing the hiring manager sees when evaluating your application, so make a strong first impression. In your opening sentence, include your title, years of experience, and three to four specializations that align with the job description. Then create a brief snapshot of your career to help hiring managers better understand your industry expertise.
Senior-Level Profile Example
A graphic design specialist with seven years of experience specializing in web design, CSS, creative thinking, and InDesign. A proven track record of delivering innovative visual solutions and user experience (UX) designs.
Entry-Level Profile Example
A creative graphic designer with entry-level experience specializing in web design, motion graphics, brand messaging, and illustration. Adept at developing engaging visual solutions to establish cohesive brand identities for clients.
2. Add a compelling section featuring your graphic design experience
Your professional experience section should primarily establish context for your graphic design projects and achievements. For instance, if you provide graphic design solutions for digital marketing campaigns, consider incorporating monetary figures or metrics to establish a sense of scope for the hiring manager. Although the end result of your graphic design work will always be the primary factor in whether or not you receive an interview, providing additional information for prospective employers can help strengthen your application.
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Professional Experience
Senior Graphic Designer, Cadence Marketing Solutions Inc., Boston, MA
October 2017 – present
- Manage and lead a team of over 15 designers to produce high-quality marketing materials for web development projects and rebranding initiatives valued at up to $500,000, including graphic design, photography, custom logos, and website design
- Collaborate with clients, senior executives, copywriters, and marketers to define strategic direction for designs based on market indicators and brand identity
- Identify visual solutions for an underperforming retail brand, develop digital marketing materials, and contribute to a 150% increase in sales revenue
Entry-Level Professional Experience Example
Professional Experience
Junior Graphic Designer, Lorenna Designs, Seattle, WA
December 2021 – present
- Design and develop engaging graphic elements for client websites, social media platforms, and product packaging, including custom logos and illustrations
- Collaborate with clients to develop engaging graphic design solutions based on market trends, brand identity, and target demographics
- Coordinate with two graphic designers to execute a rebranding initiative for a client account valued at $80,000, including creating custom graphics and web layouts
3. Outline your education and graphic design-related certifications
Once you’ve completed a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or digital arts, consider pursuing additional certifications to add to your resume. This is especially important if you’re interested in web development positions. In this instance, you might want to obtain a UX Design Professional certification to show prospective employers you’ve cultivated expertise in the technical side of graphic design.
Education
Template
- [Degree Name]
- [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
Example
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Graphic Design
- Temple University, Philadelphia, PA September 2012 – June 2016
Certifications
Template
- [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
Example
- UX Design Professional Certificate, Coursera, 2018
- Adobe Certified Expert – Adobe InDesign, 2015
4. List key skills and proficiencies for graphic design
To ensure compliance with applicant tracking systems (ATS), incorporate skills and key terms that align with the job description. Companies use ATS to identify qualified candidates using software algorithms based on specific keywords. However, it’s also important to feature appropriate skill sets to show hiring managers you have the ideal qualifications for the role. As you build your resume, showcase your usage of these various skills in your bullet points and professional profile in addition to your skills section:
| Key Skills and Proficiencies | |
|---|---|
| Adobe Creative Suite | Adobe Illustrator |
| Adobe Photoshop | Brand marketing |
| Brand messaging | Client relations |
| Communication | Creative thinking |
| Digital marketing | Graphic design |
| InDesign | Marketing |
| Motion graphics | Print design |
| Project management | Typography |
| UX design | Visual design |
| Visual solutions | Web design |
5. Include your graphic design portfolio at the top of your resume
Although your resume content is important, your portfolio of work will always be the determining factor in whether or not the hiring manager brings you in for the interview. Provide a hyperlink to your website in your contact information section or professional profile. This will ensure prospective employers can easily access and review your portfolio.
How To Pick the Best Graphic Designer Resume Template
Unlike typical resumes, presentation is a critical element of graphic designer job applications. If the hiring manager sees a bland, poorly designed template, this could make for a negative first impression. You may want to create your own resume template, as this could serve as an extension of your portfolio. Whether you select a pre-made template or design your own, be sure to use a top-down approach to keep your document organized even while refining the aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions: Graphic Design Resume Examples and Advice
What are common action verbs for graphic design resumes?-
It’s easy to run short on action verbs to accurately convey your professional experience. However, using the same verbs repeatedly may cause your bullet points to appear redundant. Differentiating your usage of action verbs will help to improve the reading experience and keep your content fresh. We’ve compiled a list of action verbs you can use during the resume-building process:
| Action Verbs | |
|---|---|
| Analyzed | Built |
| Collaborated | Conducted |
| Consulted | Coordinated |
| Created | Delivered |
| Designed | Developed |
| Drove | Enhanced |
| Generated | Identified |
| Illustrated | Implemented |
| Led | Managed |
| Performed | Presented |
| Supported | |
How do you align your resume with a job description?-
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for graphic designers will grow by 3% from 2021 to 2031, which amounts to over 24,800 new openings each year. Many companies need skilled graphic designers to help them define engaging visual assets for their brands. Although the number of positions is expected to grow, you’ll still need to align your resume with the job description to differentiate yourself from the competition.
For example, if a company is seeking a graphic designer who excels in web development, highlight your knowledge of UX design principles on your resume. Say an organization is seeking a candidate with a strong background in social media marketing. You’d emphasize specific examples of you creating visual solutions and graphics for digital marketing campaigns. By tailoring your resume to the job description, you’ll significantly increase your chances of landing your next job interview.
What is the best graphic design resume format?-
Utilize a reverse chronological format for graphic design resumes in most instances. This places your most recent experience at the top of the document for the hiring manager to review. There are exceptions to this rule, however. For example, if you’re graduating from college and are currently working outside of the industry, showcase graphic design projects you worked on as a student at the top of your document instead. It’s also best to avoid using a functional resume format even if you lack industry experience, as skill-based resumes are largely outdated in modern hiring practices.
How long should my graphic design resume be?-
A graphic design resume should typically be one page long, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. A two-page resume may be appropriate for seasoned professionals with extensive achievements, but only if every detail adds value to your candidacy. Focus on conciseness and relevance by tailoring your resume to the job you're applying for. Highlight your most impactful accomplishments, certifications, and key skills rather than listing every career detail.
Including work experience from the last 10 to 15 years is generally recommended. Older positions can be summarized briefly or omitted unless highly relevant. Remember, your resume is a snapshot of your qualifications, not an exhaustive career history. Prioritize clarity and impact to make a strong impression.
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If a prospective employer asks for a cover letter, carefully tailor it to that specific organization. In the middle paragraphs, mention something about the company’s reputation or its type of work and why this draws you to apply for the position. Not only will this show hiring managers you’ve done your research, but it will also send a clear message you’re genuinely interested in the position. For more information, you can view our graphic designer cover letter guide.
