Resume Format for Graphic Designers

Graphic designers face a unique challenge: their CV is a portfolio piece as well as a professional document. It needs to show visual skill while remaining readable, scannable, and often ATS-compatible for agencies and studios that use applicant tracking.

Always Lead With Your Portfolio

Before anything else, make your portfolio link impossible to miss. Include it next to your name at the top of your CV. It is the single most important thing a design recruiter will click on. Make sure it loads quickly and shows your best 5–8 pieces.

CV Structure for Designers

• Name + portfolio URL + contact details
• Professional summary (what type of design work you specialise in)
• Key skills (software proficiency, design disciplines)
• Work experience (agency, in-house, or freelance)
• Notable projects or campaigns
• Education (degree or design foundation)
• Awards and recognition (if any)

Software Skills Matter — Be Specific

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro
• UI/UX tools: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD
• Motion and 3D: Cinema 4D, Blender, Lottie
• Print: Knowledge of print production, colour profiles, file prep for press
• Web: Basic HTML/CSS if applicable

Describe Projects With Context

Do not just list where you worked. Describe what you designed, for whom, and what happened. Example: 'Designed a full brand identity for a Series A fintech startup — logo, typography system, colour palette, and marketing collateral — which was deployed across product, social, and investor materials used to raise £4.2M.'

Creative vs ATS Template

If applying directly to studios or creative agencies, use a Creative or Sidebar template that shows visual flair. If applying through a recruiter or an ATS-heavy company, use a cleaner Modern or Classic template and let your portfolio do the creative talking.