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Resume Templates: Create a Resume in Minutes

Over 30+ resume templates with custom design options to help you get the job.

All Resume Templates

View our list of resume templates for every profession and career.

A customizable banner image and convenient navigation bar make About the ideal online resume template. This template makes a great resume, website, or online portfolio.

With subtle colouring and a timeline-like appearance, the Air template is the perfect blend of the traditional and the modern.

This modern resume template is colorful yet elegant. Professional and easy to read, Arya is sure to capture employers’ attention.

Simple and direct, the ATS template looks great to both human hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.

Avant features customizable color, an optional round profile picture, and a bold two-column design. With the Avant resume template on your side, your resume is sure to impress.

With clear organization, two columns, and a splash of colour, the Baker template is a great way to give your resume a spark of personality.

The Bravo resume template will suit recent graduates and experienced professionals alike. Its subdued presentation and elegant lettering make it the right fit for any industry.

This striking resume template is perfect for demonstrating your skill and ambition. With a bold header and uncomplicated design, the Brooklyn template is an ideal choice for the modern job seeker.

With two elegant columns and customizable color, the Chloe template is both eye-catching and tasteful.

Scroll-like job titles, customizable color, and a simple design make the Clair template ideal for job-seekers looking to make an impression.

The Corporate template uses clear design and a classic structure to showcase your skills and experience. This template is an excellent choice for both new job seekers and experienced professionals.

Eye-catching colours and a timeline-like Work Experience section make the Denali template a powerful resume choice for ambitious job-seekers.

With two columns and customizable color, the Elegant template is striking and professional. This resume template is ideal for job seekers looking to leave an impression.

With two even columns, subtle colours, and a background picture, the Fuji resume template is a great way to showcase your qualifications and work experience.

With bold coloring and a sleek design, the Gallant template is a great way to create a resume that catches the eye - and gets you the job!

The Lingo resume template works great for new job seekers and experienced professionals alike. Its simple design allows for easy reading, and its modifiable background image allows for personalization.

The Marketing template’s customizable header image and distinct two-color design make it the perfect tool for creating a robust online presence.

The Modern template stands out with two distinct columns and a prominent profile image. Personalize the color of this template to give it your unique spin.

This resume template is traditional in its design, but the customizable color of the headings give it a unique modern flourish.

Simple and professional, the Monte resume template is perfect for job-seekers looking for a traditional resume format. No matter your industry, this classic template won’t fail to impress.

Nevis offers two columns, clear organization, and a splash of colour. This template is a great way to make sure your resume is both professional and personal.

Like its namesake tree, the Oak template is bold and uncompromising. With two columns, customizable colors, and a convenient navigation bar, this resume template works great both online and off.

The Onyx template looks great as both a PDF and as a personal website. To give this resume template a personal spin, pick a banner image that suits your industry.

Like its namesake mineral, the Quartz resume template is striking and strong. With two columns, clear headings, and customizable colours, this template is great for making a bold statement.

Rainier’s customizable background image, two-column format, and distinct Work History section make it a great resume for job-seekers in any industry.

The Rosa template’s tasteful colours, clear design, and customizable background image make it a versatile resume template for the modern job-seeker.

With a prominent background image and clear, readable design, the Signal resume template is an ideal choice for people looking to host their resume online.

With two columns, clear headings, and tidy organization, the Slate template is perfect for job-seekers looking for a modern resume with a classic feel.

This classic resume template will suit your resume needs, no matter where you are in your career journey. Its simple presentation and elegant lettering make it the right fit for new graduates and experienced professionals alike.

This website template is perfect for job-seekers looking to leave an impression. With a fullscreen image and dynamic text, the Verge template makes for an unforgettable resume template.

Your resume can be both personal and professional with the Vida template. Its clear headings and elegant margins make for an eminently professional resume, while the customizable color and double-column format allow for a personal twist.

With tasteful margins, elegant fonts, and customizable colors, Vienna is a resume template that is guaranteed to impress.

Clean design, subtle colouring, and a prominent logo field make the Zenith template a great choice for entry-level job-seekers and experienced professionals alike.

Resume Templates for Every Career

Everything you need to make your next career move.

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Build the perfect resume in minutes with VisualCV’s easy to use online editor. Simply edit your favorite template, and you'll be ready to apply in no time.

PDF resume templates

Create a standout PDF Resume to catch your next employer’s eye. VisualCV’s PDF resume templates are perfect for both printing and applying online.

What members love about VisualCV

“ Love it. Simple and elegant templates have never presented me better. ”

“ I used VisualCV for about 2 or 3 months and was very pleased with all of the templates. I got loads of compliments from recruiters. The templates make it so simple. I highly recommend. ”

“ An amazing app. Their templates are easy to use for an elegant and creative resume. Their support staff are so kind and friendly, I highly recommend it. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would give more than 1000! ”

What is a Good Professional Resume Template

A good professional resume template is clean, well-organized, and easy to read, effectively showcasing an individual's qualifications, experience, and skills . It should feature a clear structure with distinct sections for contact information, a professional summary , work experience, education, skills, and any relevant certifications or achievements.

How to Select the Right Resume Template

Selecting the perfect resume template depends on the following factors:

• Are you an experienced candidate or an entry level candidate? - If you are applying for entry level roles, pick a resume template that helps you highlight your objectives, skills and past projects/internships. If you are an experienced or senior candidate, choosing a template that allows you to build a reverse chronological resume that highlights your job experience and companies is important.
• How many years of experience do you have? (e.g. 5 years vs 15+ years) - Most non-entry level resume templates fit well with 5-10 years of experience. But if you have 15+ years of experience, you need a resume that is capable of quantifying your many years of experience while being short and concise. After all, you don’t want a resume that’s 4+ pages long. With the right resume template, you can fit 20+ years of experience in 1-3 pages.
• Do certifications and skills sections play a huge role in your job application? - If that’s important, pick a resume template that highlights these sections.
• Do you feel reflecting your personality in your resume is important? - Do you listen to podcasts, have favorite books, hobbies that you wish to reflect on your resume? - there’s a resume template for that!
• Is reflecting creativity within your resume important? - If you are looking to make a creative resume, you should definitely consider leveraging a creative and visually appealing resume template.
• Is the resume template ATS-compatible? - Unless you are emailing your resume to a recruiter, our suggestion would be to choose a resume template that is ATS-compatible .
• Finally, is that resume template really ‘you’? - In the end, the resume template you pick has to be the perfect reflection of who you are and should allow you to reflect that in the design and layout of your information.

Need some inspiration to write your resume? Browse your resume

Is it OK to Use a Resume Template?

Yes! Using a resume template is more than “OK”. A resume template allows you to do a lot more than simply create a resume. Resume templates (such as ours) have been crafted with care, feedback from HR professionals, and with precision to help you place the right information at the right place.

Adjusting margins and paddings on a Google doc or Word document isn’t fun, right? We don’t like it either. The ease of use of these templates will save you a lot of time during your job search.

What Makes These Creative Resume Templates Different?

These key elements truly set these resume templates apart:

• Visual hierarchy of resume sections that allow recruiters to find relevant information quickly.
• Creative resume formats that allow you to add everything you want without compromising on the important information.
• Customizable margins, paddings, and fonts allow you to highlight the right information without the risk of creating something that looks unappealing to a hiring manager.
• A collection of 30+ creative resume templates that you can use to write a resume and land your dream role!

Simple Resume Templates

Looking to craft a simple resume? You’re in the right place! Our broad selection of resume templates has many simple templates for you to select the right one to apply for your dream role!

Here’s why our simple resume templates might just be perfect for you:

• You work in a field that encourages a more traditional look and visual aesthetics are less important.
• You love templates that are simple, but you find it hard to format your resume in the right way.
• Filling out our resume templates is extremely simple. You will find the resume builder very intuitive and easy to work through.

Modern Resume Templates

Looking to create a modern resume? You’re in the right place! Our variety of resume templates offers many modern designs to help you get your dream job.

Here’s why our modern resume templates might be perfect for you:

• You work in a field that likes fresh and stylish designs, making how it looks more important.
• You like templates that mix current style with professionalism, but find it hard to format your resume in a modern way.
• Filling out our resume templates is very easy. You will find the resume builder simple and user-friendly.

Creative Resume Templates

Creative professions require creative resume templates . Whether you work in graphic design, brand marketing, or you are simply looking for ways to stand out from the crowd - creative templates can go a long way.

VisualCV’s creative resume templates are designed with care to help you provide a creative touch while being able to highlight all relevant information that a hiring manager wants to see. When hiring managers are going through hundreds of ordinary resumes each day, VisualCV’s creative resume templates will help you stand out.

Are our Resume Templates ATS Friendly?

Yes, our resume templates are ATS friendly and can be scanned by any ATS/resume parser. Our team has worked hard to ensure that the resumes you create using our ATS friendly resume templates are easy to scan, allows ATS systems to find the right keywords and not let formatting get in the way of your dream role.

How to Use these Free Resume Templates?

To use our free resume templates, you have two options:

• Go to the resume templates listed above and click the “View template” button. It will take you to the template’s page. Once there, you can click the “Get this template” button and it’ll straightaway take you to the resume template.
• Alternatively, if you are logged into VisualCV - you can browse through the library and locate the template you like.

How do I write a resume?

If you are looking for tips on writing your resume, you may want to check out our resume guide . There, we discuss what to include in your template, how to lay out the content, and how to write your template so that it really makes an impact.

Do I need a resume template?

In today’s competitive market, every job application you submit will face stiff competition. A professional and eye-catching resume template is the best way to draw the attention of an employer flipping through a stack of nearly identical applications. Even if the content of your resume is perfect, the strong, clear presentation of a great resume template can be what gives you the edge over the other candidates.

A great template can be the difference between the shortlist and the recycling bin. What do you want your future to be like?

Are these templates downloadable?

Yes, by signing up for VisualCV Pro you will be able to download your resume template to both PDF and Word.

What is important in a resume template?

Employers spend very little time looking at each resume they receive, so it is important that your template is simultaneously eye-catching and easy to read. A good resume template will clearly present the information that an employer needs while showcasing how you are the best candidate for the role.

With VisualCV you will have access to multiple stylish, simple, and professional online resume templates that will get your future employers’ attention.

Do you have any resume samples?

Yes, we do! We have inspired more than 3 million professionals around the world with our resume samples , professionally designed to suit all kinds of professions.

Why are there photos on some templates?

There are reasons to include a photo on your resume and reasons not to. We discuss this in detail in our guide to adding a resume photo . In short, you should include a photo if you plan to host your template online, are working to build your personal brand and increase your online visibility, or if you are in an industry that accepts photos. You should not include a photo if you work in a more conservative field and will be applying for jobs in the traditional way. Please note that this advice only applies to American job seekers. In many parts of the world, a template photo is not only recommended but required.

How do I choose a resume template?

It is important thing to keep position you are applying for in mind when choosing a resume template. Make sure the template you pick suits both your field of work and the company you are applying to.

For example, recruiters in more traditional and technical companies and industries would rather receive a simple, elegant and professional template. For more modern companies a more colourful, expressive template will give you the edge.

How do I use one of these templates?

Each of VisualCV’s templates is available to our members. In order to use a VisualCV template all you have to do is to sign up for VisualCV, create a new resume, and start writing about your work history.

By using VisualCV’s resume editor you can easily switch from one template to another, so you can easily use the best template for the job every time you apply.

Do you offer one page resume templates?

Yes, we offer one page resume templates. We have a total of 20 one page resume templates that you can select from and use.

Create the perfect resume today

Land your dream job with a Resume that will get you hired.

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Modern Resume Templates

The easiest way to bring your resume into the 21st century - with these contemporary and timeless resume designs that won't need to be updated for years to come.

Browse templates by resume style

Mix & match unlimited theme, font and color combination..

Use our suggestions to complete your resume 5x faster.

‍ what is a modern resume.

Modern resumes have sleek designs that convey a sense of calm collectedness. These resumes are fresh and bold with elegant fonts and clean lines. Colors are incorporated in tasteful moderation, boasting creativity while still maintaining a high degree of professionalism.  

Modern resumes help you appear contemporary and trendy. This is great if you’re applying to a relatively new company or one that has a contemporary culture. 

Tip: Use colors in a way that highlights important parts of the resume without making it hard to read. For example, the body of the resume should always be black, but use blues, greens, purples, or even reds to color the titles of your sections. For more information on when to use colors — and which colors are appropriate — read our advice for choosing colors for your resume.

  When to use a modern template?

As mentioned above, individuals applying to new companies, such as startups, or to companies with a young audience or product should use modern resumes. Similarly, professionals in the tech, IT, marketing, design and media fields can benefit from modern resumes. 

Modern resumes are also ideal if you’re looking to present yourself as fresh and innovative. The bold, stylish designs will capture a recruiter’s attention and may even buy your resume a few more precious seconds of their attention. 

Tip: A modern resume template can pique a recruiter’s interest, but keeping it there can prove tricky. Use strong action verbs to detail your work experiences and skills. For ideas, check out our list of action-packed verbs .

10 key points of a modern resume format

• Color. Modern resumes rely on striking colors such as blue, green, and purple to highlight important pieces. This keeps the recruiter organized and attentive while reading. 
• White Space. The resume body is evenly balanced by the white space. Since modern resume templates employ bold design elements, standard margins and clean space keep the sections clear and legible. 
• Stylish Fonts. The fonts are tastefully fashionable, helping the resume glitter amidst its duller brethren. These fonts also provide an air of freshness while still maintaining professionalism.  
• Strong Header . Modern resumes make your name and contact information the center of the resume. This bolded or flashy header demonstrates your confidence and reminds the reader of your credentials (i.e., doctor or CPA). 
• Headshot or Logo. Many modern resumes include a headshot or logo in order to develop personal branding. This also reminds the recruiter that you are indeed a real-life person, which can help you feel more relatable.
• Room for Experiences. The modern resume strategically uses design elements in order to amplify the body of the resume itself. This means your work experiences become the focal point, and you should list all relevant certifications and education experiences. 
• Strong Verbs . Since the main focus is on what you’re saying, you need to use strong verbs that convey your abilities. Check out our list of 350+ action verbs to make your resume more effective .  
• Clean Lines. The modern resume template incorporates lines and other design features in order to organize the resume. These elements break the resume sections into chunks, which improves readability and saves the recruiter from feeling overwhelmed.  
• Hobbies. Modern companies claim to be interested in who “you” are as a person in order to see if you fit their culture. This means you can list a few relevant hobbies on your resume. For example, if you work in the marketing industry, note that you enjoy art or reading. For more information, check out How to Include Hobbies on Your Resume . 
• Profile Summary. Write a concise summary about your qualifications and how it relates to the position you’re seeking. The modern resume template places this summary at the top so as to catch the attention of the recruiter and entice them into reading the rest of your resume. So, it’s imperative that your summary sparkles!

Where to download a modern resume template?

Easy Resume offers a variety of modern resume templates suited to all industries and levels of experience.

For more help writing a resume, look no further than our guide on How to Write the Perfect Resume in 2020 . 

Get a head start with one of our resume examples

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In this article, we will discuss the three most popular professional resume formats and how to use each of these resume formats to put forth a competitive job application. During your research and brainstorming process, make sure to look at resume templates and resume format examples, as well as resume templates for word, resume templates for google docs, and resume templates for free. 

Depending on the nature of your career and professional background, you may prioritize finding professional resume templates or simple resume templates. Use whatever works best for you!

Professional resume formats and resume templates

There are lots of factors to consider when putting together your ideal resume . Your resume is your one chance to make a good first impression and land an interview. In order to create a solid, professional resume that is reflective of your skills and qualifications is tailored to the specific job listing, is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) technology, and brings you the attention you need to land an interview in a competitive job market, you’ll need to do your research! Look at sample resume formats to get a better idea of what will work best for you.

Perhaps the most efficient way to write a competitive, professional resume, is to use a professional resume builder or one of the best resume templates in 2022, easily available online. You may even consider using a resume template with a cover letter included. 

Chronological resumes

The best, most popular resume format is the chronological resume . This professional resume format is written in reverse chronological order — listing your most recent employment history first and ending with your most-dated employment history. 

This resume format for jobs is considered standard and is most favored by job recruiters and hiring managers. This is because these resumes are clear, concise, easy to read, and follow an overall narrative. The other benefit of writing a chronological resume is that this type of resume is readily interpreted by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), a popular hiring tool used by the majority of companies. 

Functional resumes

Another professional resume format is the functional resume . A functional resume is a more innovative resume format that focuses on job skills instead of on employment history. This can be helpful for young professionals, people changing careers, as well as for workers with gaps in their employment history. A functional resume allows job seekers to craft a compelling narrative as to why they would be a unique asset to the company by focusing on their passion, initiative, and overall professional job skills.

The potential downside to a functional resume is that a job recruiter or hiring manager may be suspicious of this format. They may wonder if the applicant is trying to hide something, such as potential gaps in employment or a lack of industry-related work experience. Overall, functional resumes are a bit more creative and rare. They certainly have their time and place; just be aware that they are not as standard and as a result, are not as immediately accessible to hiring managers and job recruiters. 

Hybrid resumes

The final professional resume format is the hybrid resume . There is no one correct way to write a hybrid resume. A hybrid resume combines elements of chronological and functional resumes. For many job seekers, chronological resumes hold a lot of appeals, but still, something is appealing about the innovative functional resume format. Due to this, many job seekers alter their resumes to further highlight job skills and other more creative, project-based credentials. This resume format is referred to as a hybrid resume.

What format should I write my resume in? The different types of resume formats

What format should I write my resume in? Click here to read more

What is an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)?

Find out more about the inner workings of an Applicant Tracking System. Click here to read more

Applicant tracking systems​

Something else to consider about functional and hybrid resumes is that Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) cannot interpret the data as efficiently. Therefore, your credentials, job skills, and work experience may be categorized and stored incorrectly. With the rise of Applicant Tracking Systems technology and online job listings , it is crucial to submit a resume that is compatible with these technologies. Otherwise, you risk having your resume overlooked, despite your overall qualifications. 

Using professional resume builders and resume templates

Resume templates are an invaluable resource for job seekers because they ensure that you will follow professional resume formatting standards. By choosing a job resume template that is well-suited to your needs, you will be able to demonstrate your unique qualifications in a way that is clear and concise, while simultaneously ranking well in the company’s hiring database (created by its Applicant Tracking System) and impressing your future employers. 

Tips for writing a professional resume

While you put together your ideal resume, make sure you follow professional resume standards. Here’s a checklist to keep in mind as you get started:

While it is important to always be mindful of these tips, especially as they relate to your overall formatting, professional resume templates will help give you a jump-start. With the help of a professional resume template, you will have a streamlined, professional resume. 

Popular job trends in 2022

The job market in 2022 has continued to evolve since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. Not only have industries been forced to adapt to these unprecedented times, but workers’ standards and priorities have shifted significantly. There have been more job openings than job seekers in recent years. Effectively, this has increased workers’ collective bargaining power. Overall, workers are increasing their workplace standards, especially in regards to healthcare coverage, benefits, pay, and the option for more flexible hours.

Remote or hybrid work​

Since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, workers have begun to favor remote or hybrid work environments. These environments eliminate many workplace stressors, such as long commutes and transportation factors, as well as interpersonal office dynamics. In fact, according to studies, workers tend to be more efficient and productive outside of an office setting. 

Many workers favor the freedom and flexibility that accompanies remote or hybrid work and are motivated to complete their work on time. In terms of overall job trends of 2022, many anticipate the rising popularity of the 4-day workweek. This is largely due to the increased efficiency of remote and hybrid work environments.

Hybrid Remote Work Models: What Are They & How They Differ

Each of these work-styles have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Click here to read more

Self-employment and “gig work”

Workers are also increasingly gravitating towards self-employment, with the “gig work” economy currently on the rise. Through gig work, workers are realizing the true monetary value of their time, effort, and skill set. Professionals are learning to ask for, and expect to be paid for, their true monetary worth. Gig work has also presented itself as a powerful possibility for supplemental income. 

What to keep in mind about 2022 job trends

Remote and hybrid work environments are an important 2022 job trend to keep in mind for recruiters and job seekers alike. This is because companies are able to hire from a more diverse applicant pool. Physical location no longer plays such a crucial role in the hiring process. Now companies and workers can enjoy more options and overall flexibility. This also means, however, that workplace competition is also on the rise. Overall, this is why it is becoming increasingly important to learn how to write a professional resume and cover letter and to make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date .

Consider using a professional resume builder or resume template when applying for jobs. You may also choose to hire a career coach. Reach out to learn more about our resources as you move forward with your job search and job applications.

• May 6, 2022

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The Muse’s Free Resume Template Takes Stress Out of Job Applications

We get it: No one sits around dreaming about when they'll get a chance to  write their next resume . But a lot of us do daydream about a new job we wish we could land. And for that you need a resume…

Still though, staring at a blank page and trying to recall everything you’ve done in your past jobs, tailoring it to each job you apply to, and ugh, making it stand out from every other candidate you’re competing against? It’s stressful.

But we want to help! Which is why we’ve created our very own free resume template that’ll give you a road map (and shortcut!) for writing your own resume. Plus, it’s formatted in a way that applicant tracking systems (ATSs )—the software that most companies use to scan and organize candidate resumes—can easily parse.

Just click “File” > “Download as” > whatever file type you’d like (though we suggest .docx) or click “File” > “Make a copy” to get started.

Download our free resume template.

How to fill in our resume template

1. add all your relevant contact info..

Make sure your contact information is clear so the hiring manager knows how to reach you. This means making your name big and bold and including a professional email address as well as your LinkedIn profile URL and/or a personal website .

2. Copy and paste to swap the order of the sections if needed.

The way your resume is organized (a.k.a., which sections come first) really depends on who you are and where you want to go, so yours may look different than your friends’.

3. Decide if you need a resume summary.

If you’re not sure if you need this section (or how to write a resume summary ), ask yourself, “Is my career path clear from just my experiences, or do I need to explain myself further?” If it’s the former, go ahead and delete this section of the template. If it’s the latter, here are some resume summary examples to inspire you.

4. Write strong, achievement-oriented bullet points under each experience.

The real meat of your resume is in your bullet points. So spend time on them. This means:

• Focus on your achievements, not just your responsibilities. Hiring managers love bullet points that lead with what’s most important, add context, and explain the impact you made.
• Use strong, active verbs. Here are 185+ action verbs to get you started. Use numbers as much as possible to quantify the scale of your past responsibilities and achievements . Yes, even if you’re not in a “numbers” role.
• Tailor your bullet points for every job application. Focus on the past achievements that are most relevant to this job opening and use keywords from the job description.

Read More: The Right Way to Include Your Work Experience on a Resume (With Examples)

5. Write a skills section that shows you’re qualified.

First, yes, you should definitely include a skills section : It’s an easy way for the hiring manager to see your value.

If you’re not sure what to include, start with the hard skills mentioned in the job description . However, make sure you’re sticking to skills you’re confident in—just because you opened Photoshop once doesn’t mean it’s something you’re proficient at. When in doubt, if you couldn’t teach someone else to do it, leave it off.

6. Put your most recent and relevant education first.

When listing your education , put the most impressive information first (like an advanced degree or honors) and ditch dates (unless you’re a new grad ). If you’ve taken any online classes or received any certifications that are relevant to the job you’re applying to, be sure to include them as well.

Once you’re done, use this five-minute resume checklist to make sure you covered all your bases (Hint, hint: Run spell check.)

And that’s it! I’ve just turned your most dreaded task into something that’s not so painful after all.

You’re welcome.

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How to Write a Resume: The Only Resume Guide You’ll Need in 2024

• Kaja Jurcisinova , 
• Updated January 16, 2024 16 min read

Your resume is arguably the most important document you'll create during a job search. So taking the time to learn how to write a resume properly can make a job hunt much quicker and easier.  

What would otherwise take you hours of hard work and research can be done in a few minutes. All you have to do is follow our simple step-by-step guide on how to write the perfect resume. 

In the end, a good resume gives you a chance to make a great first impression and ultimately decide if you'll be invited for an interview. 

What makes a great resume?

• Clear division of resume sections
• Prioritizing relevant information
• Tailored for a specific position
• Typo-free and well-written
• Usage of bullet points

There's more to it, though.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a resume?

Before you start writing your resume, how to write a resume, step 1: choose the right resume format, step 2: add contact information and personal details, step 3: begin with your professional summary, step 4: list relevant work experience, step 5: summarize your education , step 6: highlight your soft and hard skills , step 7: add optional resume sections.

• Step 8: Wrap it up with a cover letter 

Final tips before you click “Send”

Let's cover the basics first. Before we learn how to write a good resume, we should know what a resume even is. 

The word resume comes from French, meaning “summary” . This is the perfect word because that’s exactly what a resume is: a short, straight-to-the-point summary that details your professional achievements, skills, qualifications, education, work experience, and past employers. It's also known as a curriculum vitae (CV) .

The aim of a resume is to get invited to a job interview . It should aim to convince an employer that you're a good fit for the job. 

Because of that, your resume should be adjusted and tailored to each job vacancy.

TL;DR Here's a step-by-step video guide on how to write a professional resume in 2024

If you’re already familiar with what should be on your resume and just want a quick and informative recap, or if your time is limited, just check out our 5-minute step-by-step video guide .

Before we move on to how to write a resume, we recommend setting a few minutes aside for research. These few minutes can save you hours of frustration and ultimately make your job search that much easier.

Here’s what we recommend to research before you write your resume: 

• Research the company, specifically the “About Us” page. This is a great place to search for keywords you can use in your resume or cover letter. What are their mission statement and their values?
• Research the position you’ll be applying for. Great resumes are tailored to a specific job opening. You can do this by asking these three questions as you go through the job post: “ What are the essential keywords? What adjectives, nouns, and phrases occur repeatedly? What language does the company use?”
• Discover your strong points , as this will make it easier to pinpoint the qualities you want to highlight in your resume. Ask people around you: “What are my skills and abilities, and what are my weaknesses?” Also, look at your past accomplishments. What were the skills and abilities that helped you succeed in the past?

Another way of preparing for writing your resume is by looking at these well-researched, specifically tailored, and properly formatted resume examples in our database. You can even filter them by your job title.

Not enough time?

Let your resume write itself. All you’ll have left to do is edit the draft.

We'll walk you through nine essential steps to help you create a standout resume.

Different resume formats cater to different types of job seekers, depending on the experience level and career goals. The  three most commonly used  resume formats are chronological, functional, and combination (hybrid).

Your resume should include your contact/personal information right at the top, in a so-called resume header. A resume header is  more than just your name and contact details . Depending on your career path, there's a lot more that can (and should) be included in this section. To find out what to include, what to skip, and how to format it keep on reading.

A professional summary (also called resume profile or resume summary) is a short paragraph that summarizes your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Think of it as a teaser for the rest of your resume.

This is the most important section of your resume. You need to include key information like : names of companies, locations, job titles, positions held, dates of employment, responsibilities you've had. Then: - list the jobs in reverse-chronological order - write in bullet points - include your quantifiable achievements - avoid buzzwords - use action verbs and keywords from the job description

The education summary section, though important, varies in significance based on your career stage . As an experienced professional, prioritize work history and skills, placing education after. Keep it concise, including university, degree, and graduation year.

Skills fall into two categories: hard and soft. 1. Hard skills are teachable and measurable, acquired through training, and include computer proficiency, language abilities, project management, etc. 2. Soft skills , linked to personality traits, can enhance both work and personal life, encompassing communication, leadership, and time management, among others.

These can include: achievements and awards, certifications and licences, language skills, publications, references, hobbies, social media, volunteering, or custom sections.

A good cover letter should answer the following questions: 1. Who are you?  2. Why are you interested in working for their company? 3. Why are you the best fit for the job opening? 4. How can you enrich their company?

In the following chapters, we look at each step in more detail and give you helpful tips and examples.

Once you know what the company and job require and you’ve identified your strengths and weaknesses, you should be ready to pick the right resume format.  

Make this choice depending on the stage of your career: 

• Are you a seasoned professional ? Then you should pick a resume format that emphasizes your experience.
• Are you a fresh graduate? Then your resume should highlight any transferable skills you’ve acquired during your studies.
• Are you changing careers? Then a combination of the two will produce the best results.

Pick the best option for your career from the three dominant resume formats that are in use today:

• Chronological resume format. Probably the best choice for experienced professionals. Lists the candidate’s jobs and accomplishments in chronological order. Main resume section : Work Experience.
• Functional resume format. Great for fresh graduates, IT professionals, or other skill-based professions. Emphasizes skills instead of experience. Main resume section: Skills.
• Combined resume format . A combination of the previous two.

Let's take a look at what these resume formats look like in practice:

Chronological resume format

Functional resume format, combined resume format.

The resume format you choose will determine how you organize the information on your resume. It will also attract attention to some things and away from others. 

Take time to understand your strengths and weaknesses and choose accordingly.

You want the recruiter to read the strongest and most relevant parts of your resume at the start. For more, check out a guide on how to choose the right resume format .

Your contact/personal information should always be at the top of your resume in a so-called resume header .

Compared to the other resume sections, filling in the contact information section may seem super easy. That's until you start asking more questions.

Should you put your address on the resume? How to include social media , and should you? And what about the date of birth? 

Well, let’s see: 

• Name. Absolutely necessary. Put your first name first and surname last. Middle name is optional.
• Title. Optional. If you’re applying for a position in a traditional or specialized field, it's good to add your Ph.D., MBA, or other titles to it.
• Email address. Absolutely necessary, even when you’re sending your application by email. Your email address should look professional (e.g. [email protected] , NOT [email protected] ). Always use your personal email address, not the email address with the domain of your current employer. 
• Home address. Somewhat problematic. Your neighborhood can say a lot about you in some cases, disclosing living in a certain area can lead to discrimination. On the other hand, if you’re located in the same city as the company, it may help you to get the job, as it saves the company that they'd have to spend on a relocation package (of course, only if the job isn't remote).
• Phone number. Necessary. Many employers will call you by phone to arrange an interview, instead of doing it by email.
• LinkedIn. Recommended. And if you don’t have a LinkedIn profile yet, consider creating one. Make sure your profile is complete and up-to-date.
• Social media. Optional. Include it only if it’s related to your job. GitHub, Behance, and even your Facebook or Instagram profile will do (if you regularly post content that has to do with your profession). Here are a few tips on how to include your social media . 
• Blog/website. Optional. Similar to social media. If you have a blog , website, or digital portfolio related to your chosen profession, don’t be afraid to show it off.
• Photo. Problematic. It depends on the country. In most English-speaking countries, they don’t add a photo. See this guide to know if you should put a picture on your resume .

Your professional summary should be a list of about 4-5 bullet points or a short paragraph that summarizes your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements.

You can think of it as a teaser for the rest of your resume. Make sure it’s interesting enough to hook the hiring manager right in.

But how do you write a good professional summary?

• Write your professional summary last. It’s surprisingly easy to do if you’ve already finished other sections of your resume.
• The first bullet point should describe your professional title. Don’t forget to add the number of years of experience. Write it in bold if the number is especially impressive.
• Pick the most impressive parts of your resume and rewrite them into snappy bullet points. Tease your potential employer into reading further.
• Pack your professional summary with relevant keywords. Think of ATS. This will help you get through automated pre-screenings.
• Quantify every achievement if possible. This will make you look even more professional. 
• Tie every bullet point to the requirements introduced in the job offer.

If you do everything right, you should end up with something like this:

The work experience section is what most people picture when they think “resume” .

The trick is to focus on your past achievements , not your responsibilities. 

Hiring managers are likely to know what your responsibilities were supposed to be. In most cases, your job title says it all.

If you want to stand out, you should tell them how you excelled in your previous job instead. 

And there’s hardly a more effective way to do that than by mentioning your achievements.

But how do you list your work experience on a resume?

• Put your work experience section in the right spot. If you can boast a lot of professional experience, put your work experience section right under your resume summary. If you don’t have enough experience yet, put it just below your education section. Finally, if you prefer to highlight your skills instead of experience, put your skills section first.
• Give it a proper heading. Keep it simple and stick to “Work Experience” or “Employment History” as other headings might not be understood by applicant tracking systems (ATS) .
• List your jobs in reverse-chronological order. Start with your most recent experience and work your way back from there. Based on your level of experience, decide how far back should your resume go .
• Don’t include the job description. Instead of listing what you were supposed to do, try to tell your potential employers what positive results you had.
• Write in past tense. This will help you focus on your past achievements instead of responsibilities. It also sounds better.
• Show your problem-solving skills. In the end, hiring managers want to know how effective you’re going to be in solving real problems. There’s no better way to show your problem-solving ability than to briefly describe how you solved difficult problems in the past. Follow the PAR scheme: What was the (P)roblem? What (A)ction did you take? What was the (R)esult?
• Quantify results. Hiring managers love measurable results. Because of that, a single number often speaks more than a thousand words. Don’t say that you “increased the company’s revenue significantly.” Instead, don’t be afraid to brag about “increasing the company’s revenue by 20%.”
• Use bullet points. Bullet points help you structure each subsection. Try to limit yourself to about 5 bullets per job.
• Avoid buzzwords. People used some phrases in their resumes so much, these words have become meaningless. Everybody seems to be an out-of-the-box creative thinker with a knack for innovation nowadays. But in reality, only very few people really are those things. See what other 10 buzzwords you should stop using on your resume
• Use action verbs . Unlike buzzwords, action verbs carry the weight you need to persuade an employer to hire you. Just to mention a few, these are words like “developed” , “increased” , “facilitated” and others. For more action verbs, check out our resume cheat sheet .
• Keywords. Reread the job description and carefully pick the most important keywords. These are the words that best describe the position you’re applying for, and that will attract the attention of the ATS system. 

In the end, your work experience section should look a bit like this:

The education summary section is where you list your degrees and relevant academic accomplishments.

Based on your degree and where you're in your career, it can be either the least or the most important part of your resume.

Are you an experienced professional?

Once you become more experienced, the education section takes a back seat to your work history and hard skills.

In other words, your education section should come after your work experience section, not the other way around. It also shouldn't be too long. For instance, your grades are no longer relevant.  

It’s enough if you include the name of your university, the name of your degree, and the year you graduated.

Here’s an example:

Are you a fresh graduate?

Then your degree is still one of the strongest cards you have to play.

In practical terms, it means that you should place your education section at the top of your resume — right between your professional summary and work experience section.

It should also be a bit longer. 

These are the things you should add to your education section if you’re a student or a fresh graduate:

• Academic awards. AP scholar, Duke of Edinburgh award, National Merit Award, President’s Award, school subject-based awards, dean’s list, etc.
• Scholarships. Athletic scholarships, scholarships for women, creative scholarships, etc.
• Academic conferences and symposia. Don’t forget to mention the scope and name of the paper you presented at a conference.
• Relevant student societies. Debating or programming clubs. If you were on a student committee of any kind, mention that too.
• GPA. Only include your GPA if it was higher than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If your overall GPA was lower, mention your overall GPA. Alternatively, mention your summa cum laude or magna cum laude .
• Academic publications. Producing an academic work worth publishing is impressive no matter the context.

In the end, your education section can look like this:

Before you start writing, you should know there are two types of skills : hard skills and soft skills.

1. Hard skills can be learned, taught, and most importantly — measured. Acquiring them requires deliberate effort, training, and time.

Hard skills can be, for instance: computer skills, language skills, manual skills, mathematics, project management, etc.

2. Soft skills are tied to your personality traits. These skills can come as part of your upbringing, or you can acquire some later in life through self-improvement. These skills can bring value to any job, as well as your private life.

Examples of soft skills include: communication, leadership, time management , creativity, decision-making, etc.

But how to make your skills stand out?

• Focus on what’s most relevant. Do you have any of the skills mentioned in the advertisement for your desired job? Good. Make sure to include them in your resume’s skills section.
• Organize your skills into subcategories. Divide your skills section into several subsections like computer skills, soft skills, languages, and others.
• Don’t underestimate soft skills. 67 percent of HR managers said they’d hire a candidate with strong soft skills even if their technical abilities were lacking. On the contrary, only 9 percent would hire someone with strong technical credentials but weak soft skills.
• There are skills you shouldn’t include. Never include any skills you don’t have, skills that have nothing to do with the job, skills everybody should have, or skills that have become obsolete.

Apart from the standard resume sections we just mentioned above, are also optional sections. 

A good rule of thumb is to add an optional section only if it's relevant to the job you're applying for. If done properly, these sections can help you:

• Fill the gap when lacking experience
• Highlight additional skills and expertise 
• Let an employer know more about who you are

Pro tip: Optional resume sections can be especially important to companies that prioritize hiring candidates who fit their workplace culture. 

Here are some of the most common optional sections: 

Technical skills

This section can be a nice addition when applying for (surprise!) technical jobs. 

Some examples of technical skills are: programming languages, software proficiency, project management, and data analysis.

Technical skills are usually measurable, so if you decide to include them in your resume, use a graph or a scale to illustrate how strong they are. Adding visual elements to your resume not only looks nice but also shows your ability to be precise and analytical.

Achievements and awards

Scholarships, competitions, work-related awards, or even promotions to leadership positions in your job — all of these can be considered important professional achievements. 

Either distribute them across other parts of your resume or put them in a dedicated section. The latter allows you to truly highlighted them. 

And if you choose to include them in a separate resume section, don't forget to mention the dates and the name of the company/institution at which you've accomplished the achievement. 

Professional references

In today's competitive job market, strong professional references can be a game-changer. Consider including a ' Professional References ' section in your resume to provide potential employers with easy access to these valuable resources.

How to format references on resume? Here's what you should list for each reference:

• Their full name
• Their current job title and organization
• Their contact details (email and phone number will do)
• Your relationship with them (e.g., Former Supervisor)

Ensure you have their permission and inform them when actively job searching.

Once you decide who you want your references to be, it's time to ask them if they agree. Here's how to ask someone to be a reference via email .

Certifications and licenses

Listing the certificates and courses that you've successfully completed on your resume is never a mistake.

However, keep in mind that they should be related to the role that you're applying for. 

If you'd like to add a certificate to your CV but you're unsure about where to find the best course for you, check out this carefully curated list of the best online courses that will help you to get a job. 

Publications

In this section, you can mention all the relevant conferences, presentations, and written publications. 

This section is most useful if you're working in academia, marketing, or journalism. 

However, include it in your resume also if you're applying for a position that requires you to be an expert on the topic that you've written about.

Volunteering

This section lists your volunteer work . It should be treated similarly to a work experience section. The reason is that whether your work was paid or not, it still translates to real-life experience. 

This is true especially if you find yourself at the beginning of your career. In that case, feel free to place the volunteering section towards the start of your resume. 

On the other hand, if you're a seasoned professional, locate this section more toward the end of your document. 

This is the part of your resume that's the most personal. Here, let a little loose and let your personality shine through. List you hobbies and interests, even the quirky or unique ones.

Hobbies serve as a great way for a hiring manager to see you more as a person and less as just a name written on a paper. They can also break the ice during the interview stage.

Christy's word of advice

Really, it sounds so simple, but one of the best ways to stand out with your resume is to apply for jobs you’re a close fit for. So many people apply ‘just in case they’ll consider me if even I only meet some of the requirements’, then feel deflated when they’re rejected. The company has spent time figuring out exactly what they need and are paying their staff or a recruiter to find that. Look closely at the minimum/essential requirements, apply for jobs you’re a great fit for, and you’ll have much better luck!

Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

Step 8: Wrap it up with a cover letter  

Phew! Almost done with how to write a resume. Just a little bit of editing and proofreading, picking the right resume template , and you should be able to click send, right? 

Well, not quite. At least we wouldn’t recommend you sending it —  yet. 

The truth is that resumes are often put aside when not accompanied by a cover letter. It would be a shame if this happened to you, especially after all the time you’ve spent creating it. 

A good cover letter is a way to stand apart from the competition. It’s where you can show your hiring manager you mean business. 

And, if you're fresh out of college or changing career this step-by-step guide on  how to write a cover letter with no experience  will show you what to focus on instead. 

Here are 4 questions to guide you while writing your cover letter: 

• Who are you (professionally)? 
• Why are you interested in working for their company?
• Why are you the best fit for the job opening?
• How can you enrich their company?

When all it’s said and done, your cover letter should look something like this:

Cover letter example

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

Want more inspo? Browse another 1,250+ cover letter examples by your profession.

And if you really want a memorable cover letter, we’ve got you covered. In fact, we’re certain it will be the only cover letter guide you’ll ever need . 

• The older the job, the fewer the details. In other words, don’t have 13 bullet points on a job from 5 years ago.
• Use off-peak hours for maximum attention , especially if you’re reaching out to an employer directly. Hiring managers are busy people and you want them to receive your resume when they have enough time to carefully read through it.
• Check your resume for typos. If English isn't your first language, employers might be inclined to overlook any grammatical mistakes that you make in your resume. Typos, on the other hand, are unforgivable. Your computer’s spell-check feature can help you fix that.
• Customize your resume for each job application. Every employer is different. And any hiring manager can tell if you’ve just sent them the same generic resume as to everyone else. So make sure you tailor your resume to each individual employer to increase your chances of getting hired.
• Get the introductory email right. It doesn’t matter that you have the best resume ever if nobody gets to read it. Attach it to an email that catches the employer’s attention from the get-go. Pay particular attention to the subject line that will make them read the full email, including the attachments.

FAQ: How to write a resume

One to two pages is the ideal. If you're at the junior stage of your career, one page is more than enough. Similarly, make sure that your resume isn't longer than three pages (and this may be stretching it already), even if you're a CEO.

Generally speaking, content is superior to form when it comes to resumes. However, a nice design is the first thing that catches the recruiter's attention — and that's precisely what you want. Moreover, if you're looking for a job in marketing, art, or design, the design of your resume naturally becomes your selling point, too.

Typos, being too general and not specific enough, not including relevant information, not using action verbs, and writing about duties instead of accomplishments.

The best format for sending a resume is PDF, as it keeps the visuals of the resume unchanged once the document is opened by the recruiter.

1.  Include standard resume sections.  Contact information, resume summary, work experience, education, skills. 2.  Include optional resume sections.  Awards, references, certifications, publications, projects, etc. 3.  Choose a resume format.  The three standard are: chronological, functional, combination.  4.  Use bullet points.  Use bullet points to make your resume easier to scan and highlight important information quickly.  6.  Think about the  margins .  Strike a good balance between not leaving too much white space and making your resume seem cluttered.  7.  Keep it to  one-two pages .  Unless you have extensive work experience, you should generally aim to keep your resume to one page.  8.  Consistency is key.  In all aspects of your resume, including the spacing, font, margins, etc. 9.  Use a professional resume   template  or layout which helps to structure the information effectively and makes it easy to read. 

Good job, you made it! If you still need more information on how to write a resume. You can go further in-depth in our section-by-section resume guide .

This article was recently updated. The original article was written by Noel Rojo in 2019.

Kaja Jurcisinova is a junior copywriter at Kickresume. Kaja completed her undergraduate degree in Art History at the University of St Andrews in 2018 and graduated with a Master’s in Arts and Culture from the University of Groningen in 2021. She was an intern at multiple cultural institutions across Europe, including the Dutch Museum Association in Amsterdam, the Matter of Art Biennale in Prague, and the European Cultural Centre in Venice. At the moment, she resides in Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland.

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Even you've written a resume before, the job market is constantly changing and it can be hard to keep up. Having a fresh resume ready when you aren't searching can make a huge difference if you need it in a pinch. New formats, new terms, factoring in keywords and making sure your experience is not only up to date but relevant to the job you're applying for can be stressful. Take the pressure off with the best resume writing services.

Some of what you'll need to include in your resume will depend on the industry you want to work in. While it can vary, employers will likely look at your education, work history and skills. We’ve combed through dozens of resume services looking at the most helpful features across a variety of needs. We looked especially closely at the number of custom templates, the amount of guidance the service offered, the ease of navigation and the robustness of the service's privacy policy. Each of these templates and professional writing services will help you create a complete resume that best reflects your skills and experience at an affordable price.

What’s the best resume builder website?

The best resume template and builder should give you a variety of options to customize your resume. Resume.com has many options and customization features that make it a useful tool for almost any candidate applying to any job. You can upload and edit an existing resume, customize an available template from its collection or let the service guide you through creating one from scratch. Resume.com also offers helpful guidance throughout your resume creation process, making sure you include and optimize all your content. Once you’re happy with your resume, you can download it for free in multiple formats.

Depending on where you’re at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. These services include more personalized coaching and features, but they tend to be more expensive. We’ve collected a range of options for your budget and needs. Because your resume likely includes your contact information and some personal information, we've also included information about each service's privacy policy.

Best resume templates and builders of 2024

A well-constructed resume can help you stand out during a job search.

• Can create new resume or customize templates
• Many free features, guidance while writing
• Integrated with Indeed job search site
• Difficulty unsubscribing from paid services

Best free resume builder

Resume.com is a free resume writer offering dozens of templates for creating your resume or cover letter, as well as job boards and career advice. You have the option to upload and edit an existing resume, create a new one, or customize one of the sample resumes offered on the site. It's intuitive and easy to use, and it creates a professional-looking final product.

When starting from scratch, you'll go section by section, entering your education, employment history, hobbies and interests, professional skills, languages and references. Resume.com provides question prompts and tips for guidance, as well as career-specific examples you can add if you're struggling to find the right words. You can also choose to forgo any of these sections, rearrange sections and add custom ones depending on what you need. As you update and save each section, you can see how it will appear on the page on your resume preview to the right. You can also change the template, font style and size, or spacing at any time and see it update in real-time in the preview. 

Once you're done, you can download your new resume (in PDF, DocX, RTF or TXT format), create a custom URL or print it out. You also have the option to upload it to Indeed, a job search site that partners with Resume.com . The account you make will work with both Indeed and Resume.com . On the privacy side, the site does collect user information. If you want to delete your account, simply click your profile icon and then Account . Clicking Close My Account deletes your account and your data. If you didn't make an account, you can still choose Delete Guest Data . You can also request your data, and the company will send you an email with what it has collected. 

On the review site Trustpilot , Resume.com only has 38 reviews, but of those, 53% of them awarded the site four or five stars. Some negative reviews speak of difficulty unsubscribing from paid services, so read carefully as you use the free aspects of this service . 

• Guided help writing work experience descriptions
• Cover letter and CV help
• Easy to change layout and color styles
• Must pay to download resume

Best option for your first resume

Resume genius.

The website Resume Genius says you can "make a professional resume in 12 minutes." We tested it out and indeed had a solid first draft of an easy resume completed in about 10 minutes. Resume Genius takes you step-by-step through the process, prompting you with questions about your education and work experience to help you fill out the applicable sections. Resume Genius is particularly helpful because you can search for a job and see prewritten text for the description that you can add or edit. When finished, you can easily toggle between different templates to see what looks best for the final product. You also have the option to directly share your resume with Indeed or Resume Library. 

The site can also help you build cover letters and curriculum vitae. After you input all your information, you can choose different layout styles and colors. It's easy to move through, but you have to do it in order and fill in all the information before continuing. Resume Genius also offers examples of resumes, CVs and cover letters for specific jobs, as well as recommended jobs near you. You can download the resume you create for $3 (which starts a 14-day trial for Resume Genius Pro), or $8 (which kicks off a monthly subscription plan). If you fail to cancel your trial before the 14 days are up, you'll be billed $24 every four weeks, according to the site. 

On Trustpilot at the time of this publication, the site has 4.6 out of 5 stars based on more than 38,000 reviews. Note that if you register on the site, Resume Genius does collect personally identifiable information and may share it with third parties for advertising and other purposes, according to its privacy policy. The account deletion process is buried in the Terms of Service . According to Resume Genius, complete data erasure can take up to 30 days, but they may retain "certain information in accordance with privacy laws."

• Easy to customize
• Free downloads
• Optional paid extra assistance with Indeed professionals
• Unclear how to delete personal information

Easiest resume builder to use

Indeed resume builder.

It's free to create a resume or post your current resume on Indeed. If you're building a new one, you can choose between eight templates. The resume sections are highlighted and when you click, each section expands specific text fields. You can swap templates at any time without losing your work, as well. There are also options for toggling sections on and off, in addition to rearranging them. When you're finished, you can download a free PDF of your work history.

Indeed Resume Builder also offers optional professional advice for your new resume. After you download the resume you created, you'll get a prompt and can click Get Resume Help From a Real Person. Fill out a short questionnaire about what type of help you want and upload your resume (it's OK if you haven't built one). This service usually costs $89 unless you've applied to at least 10 jobs using your Indeed resume. According to Indeed, if you haven't received an interview request within 60 days of receiving your new resume, you can request a one-time rewrite. 

For $19, you can take a quiz and get feedback from a professional to get you started. You can also use Indeed's automated instant report system for free. The system returns quick tips to improve your resume. 

Indeed's privacy policy says that it does collect and share user data with third-party providers to connect job seekers with employers and improve services. According to Indeed's privacy policy, you can request an account or personal data deletion and request that your data not be shared while your account is active. CNET reached out to Indeed for more information and we'll update when we hear back.

• Guides resume creation
• Free resume downloads
• Paid tier offers interview advice and cover letter builder
• Have to pay for additional downloads

Most affordable paid resume builder

Cv engineer.

CV Engineer is an easy-to-use smartphone app that creates a professional-looking resume. With 16 templates to choose from, you can tap to enter information into all of the usual sections and add custom ones. When you tap on each section, you can tap through the bottom toolbar to get advice on what type of information to add, as well as view resume examples to show you how the section could look. 

CV Engineer lets you send or download your first completed resume for free, but upgrading to CV Engineer Pro for a one-time payment of $6 gives you access to unlimited downloads. A Scan My CV feature is also included, which can detect common mistakes and suggest improvements, such as places where you can add more information. The Pro version also offers interview advice and a cover letter builder. 

You can download CV Engineer from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store . CV Engineer does collect personal information and can share it with Google Play Services and Firebase Analytics, according to its privacy policy. The app is free to download and ad-free.

• Strong privacy policy
• Example resumes available
• Only one layout available
• Little guidance during creation

Best free iOS resume builder

Resume star 2: pro cv designer.

Resume Star 2 isn't the most visually stunning resume design app for iOS, but it gets the job done. To use, tap each section of the resume, fill in your information and it will fill in a traditional template (you only get one layout). The app offers some example resumes you can start with and edit as needed, including job-specific ones for a: cashier, dental hygienist, receptionist, waitress, mechanic and senior manager.

You can add or delete any sections you like without needing to hit save every time you add information, and you can see your resume update as you go. The autosave feature makes it easy to toggle quickly between the different sections as well. At the end, you'll have a basic resume ready to go. The app's interface doesn't offer as much guidance about how to write your resume or what types of information to include. If you need extra help, tap the information icon in the bottom left and choose the Resume Writing Guide. This will open up a crash course on resume writing in your mobile browser. It also includes a job search feature. 

The app collects payment via donations after you use the service -- you don’t have to pay if you don’t want to. The app connects to iCloud, and you can export your resume as a PDF to any location on your device(s). If you are happy with the service, you can choose the $6 "helped a bit" tier, a standard donation of $10, or the "really helped me" tier for $25. 

Resume Star 2 has a 4.8 out of 5 rating, and more than 1,800 ratings in the App Store . The first version, Resume Star: Pro CV Maker, which is the same except for the iCloud connection, had a 4.9-star rating and more than 16,000 reviews. The site does not collect personally identifiable information without user consent, which seems to make it one of the more secure options available.

• 42 templates to choose from
• Easily customizable
• Little to no guidance during creation

Best free Android resume writing service

Intelligentcv resume builder app.

Intelligent CV's Resume Builder App offers 42 resume templates and allows you to change font colors. Each resume section appears on a list, and you can move through sections in whichever order you choose, save and go on to another. You also have the option to add, delete or rearrange sections such as education, experience and skills. There’s a Help icon in each section for a little bit of extra guidance. Once you're finished, you can download your document for free as a PDF, which you can then save on your device or send via email or text. 

On the downside, the app is ad-supported and ads for other resume creators do pop up, which can get confusing. The app also offers less guidance than some of the other services, which means it's not a great option if you're new to resumes.

Resume Builder App has one of the strongest privacy policies of the bunch. The app does not collect personally identifiable information , though third-party services (including Google Play services and analytics firms) may collect information. The app has 4.6 out of 5 stars and more than 424,000 Google Play Store ratings and is free to download.

• Easy-to-use interface
• Inclusive premium package

Best range of professional tools

VisualCV has an easy-to-use interface that lets you build your resume in the way that works best for you. After signing up, you can upload an existing resume, begin with a prewritten sample or start entirely from scratch. You can use the basic editor to input information in a list form, the visual editor to edit directly on the resume and preview mode to see changes made on either version in real time. Revision history is also available. 

The free basic edition allows you to select from over a dozen professional templates to create, edit and download one resume as a PDF. You can also create one free cover letter and apply to jobs through its job search feature.

To download or share additional resumes, you’ll need to buy VisualCV Pro for $15 a month quarterly or $24 a month monthly. Upgrading unlocks more templates, unlimited creations, downloading, career tracking and the ability to build a personal resume website. The website URL goes through VisualCV but can be shared online. 

In terms of privacy, VisualCV's policy says that it does not sell, trade, rent or license personal information to third parties. As of publication, VisualCV has 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot but only 131 reviews.

Best professional resume writing services of 2024

Depending on where you’re at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. 

As these services include more personalized coaching and features, they tend to be more expensive. We’ve collected a range of options depending on your budget and needs. Best professional resume writing services of 2024.

• Resume writing and career coaching
• Builds your resume from the ground up
• Quick turnaround
• More expensive options

A premium option for a tailored resume

Resumespice.

Suppose you're totally lost and are willing to invest several hundred dollars into your job search. In that case, ResumeSpice is a resume writing and career coach service created by recruiters that connects you with a "resume expert" to build your CV from scratch. 

Once you choose, you'll fill out a short questionnaire and schedule a phone consultation with a resume expert to discuss your experience, job search and career goals. The expert will take that information and turn around a personalized resume draft within two business days. You can review the draft and request any changes, and you'll get the final version in PDF and Word formats. 

An entry-level resume costs $479, a professional resume costs $589 and an executive resume costs $699. In addition to these packages, you can also add a cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview coaching or other services to help you be more competitive in the job market.

• 60 day interview guarantee
• Industry-specific advice
• Variety of packages
• Limited non-resume add-ons

A 60-day interview guarantee

Resumewriters.com.

ResumeWriters.com offers a guarantee: If you don't get a job interview with a potential employer within two months of getting your new resume, they'll rewrite it for free. The service claims that in the 20 years and tens of thousands of resumes completed under this guarantee, it averages fewer than five requests for rewrites per year. 

To use the resume writing service, submit your current resume or career information on the site, and an experienced resume writer will contact you to assess your materials and plan out what you need. You'll get a first draft back within 72 hours and can work with the writer on revisions until you're satisfied with the result. 

ResumeWriters offers student, professional, executive and career-change resume services, as well as CV services for those conducting their job search in fields specific to the military, IT and research. The resume services cost $170 for students and $200 for the professional level, with a cover letter, one-on-one consultation and LinkedIn profile. The career change level ($250) is a comprehensive package that includes everything plus a post-interview follow-up letter, and the highest tier is the executive package that guarantees applicants its most experienced writers for $300.

• ATS screening
• Unlimited revisions
• Longer turnaround time (3-7 business days)

A fast pass through HR screening software

Zipjob’s professional resume writers optimize your resume to get through the applicant tracking system (ATS) software used by the majority of employers to automatically scan and sort resumes. An expert writes your resume and scans it through the ATS to ensure it will make it through to the hiring manager's desk. 

To use the service, upload your resume or fill out a form to start from scratch. You'll be matched with a professional resume writer who will work with you to improve it and will then scan the final product to make sure it passes through the screening algorithms. Depending on which package you choose, your resume will be ready in three to seven days. 

You can choose from three packages: Launch (resume writing and unlimited revisions for $139), Fast Track (adds a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee for $189) or Premium (adds a top resume writer, LinkedIn profile optimization, future resume updates and expedited delivery for $299).

• Career coaching
• Industry-specific feedback
• Ability to customize packages
• Longer turnaround time (3-5 business days)

An executive resume solution

Find my profession.

Find My Profession offers professional resume writing services as well as career coaching. Every resume gets reviewed by two different consultants. 

You'll find packages that include entry-level, professional, C-level and executive resume writer services, as well as federal. In each, you can choose a base, premium or VIP package depending on your needs. For example, the professional resume package starts at $595 for a resume compatible with automated systems. You can also add help with a cover letter for an additional $119 or a LinkedIn profile for $399. 

You'll get the first draft of your resume within three to five business days after you consult with a writer. Or, upgrade to a priority service for another $149 to get it within 48 hours.

How we tested resume sites and services

When we evaluated the different resume templates and builders, we looked at how each site or app allowed you to create new resumes, browse templates or upload and edit existing resumes. We also looked at how easy or hard it would be to customize different templates and sections, how much guidance was available, how user-friendly it was to navigate, plus reading and understanding each company’s privacy policies.

Some of our picks are free, some enlist the help of professional writers and some require a subscription or one-time payment. When it comes to premium or paid services, we evaluated how inclusive its packages were compared to basic or free versions. In many cases for the professional writing services, these paid tiers included more guidance and additional job search support like a cover letter and LinkedIn editing, suggested jobs to apply to and interview coaching.

Factors to consider when choosing a resume writing service

This was a key factor when compiling this list. Whether you’re looking for a free service to boost your current resume or interested in professional editing services, there’s something for everyone’s price range.

Ease of use

When looking at each website, we looked at how easy it was to navigate, browse templates and add, edit or remove different sections. We also considered whether you can download and share your resume for free and in what format.

Customization options

Customization options were essential, as everyone’s resume is going to look different. Having easy user control over your resume helps you create a resume that meets your industry’s standards and showcases your professional experiences.

Privacy policies

Privacy policies were the final important factor to consider, as many of these are websites and apps that can collect and store your personal information. All of the services and websites included on this list have decent privacy settings, and we noted which ones have exceptionally clear use cases and account deletion policies.

Resume writing FAQs

What is a resume builder.

A resume builder is a company that has a website or app that helps you create and customize your resume. You can use pre-existing templates or create your own from scratch.

What is a resume writing service?

A resume writing service is a company that pairs you with a coach or writer to work with you to create, perfect and tailor your resume, cover letters and other job application materials. These tend to be more inclusive packages and therefore more expensive than simple resume template websites.

What is the best resume format to use?

The best format for your resume is going to depend on the job you are applying to, along with your work experience. Resume templates can help you format and include all the necessary information like your education, work experience, skills and contact information.

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ATS Resume Templates

Download an ATS-friendly resume template for free. These templates can be edited in Microsoft Word and can be accurately scanned by an applicant tracking system.

If you’ve made it to this page, then you probably already know more about applicant tracking systems (ATS) than the average job seeker. That gives you an advantage! Why?

Many companies use ATS to manage resumes and applications. In fact, Jobscan research shows that over 97% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS.

If an ATS can’t read or understand the information on your resume, then your application might not be seen when a recruiter searches for candidates with specific skills or experience – even if you have those skills or the experience!

Your resume needs to be ATS-friendly in order to give you the best chance of getting a job interview. That means that you need an ATS resume template.

We’ve designed 15 ATS resume templates that can be downloaded as Microsoft Word files and easily edited. Download one for free or use our free resume builder to get a customized ATS-friendly resume in minutes.

Free ATS Resume Templates

Executive and Management ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

As a leader, you want your experience and accomplishments to shine. These resume templates give you opportunities to show the measurable results you’ve achieved, as well as your hard and soft skills .

Using correct formatting is critical here. The ATS needs to be able to parse all of that vital information and categorize it correctly. You also need your resume to be searchable by an ATS so that when a recruiter filters candidates by skills, your application stays on the list.

Entry-Level ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

You might not think you have a lot to show on your resume, but you do! These templates provide sections where you can highlight your education, internships, volunteer experience , personal accomplishments, and more.

An ATS-friendly resume will help you get found by recruiters and hiring managers. This is important because an entry-level position could have hundreds of applicants! Use these templates to make sure the ATS picks up your skills and experience.

Make your resume faster with our free resume builder

Write your resume the free and easy way with the only resume builder designed specifically with ATS-compliant resume templates.

Jobscan users have been hired by:

ATS Resume Templates - What You Need to Know

How to make the perfect ats resume.

Remember, an ATS is just a computer filing system. It needs to be able to scan and understand the text on your resume in order to correctly parse the information and sort it properly.

An ATS will never auto-reject a resume, but an ATS optimized resume does make it easier for a recruiter to find you among the sea of applicants.

Even more importantly, an ATS-friendly resume naturally follows expert-recommended resume writing standards as well. That means that when the recruiter personally views your resume, it will include the relevant information they’re looking for and will be formatted in a way that makes it easier to read

Follow these tips for making the perfect ATS resume :

1. Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for

Focus on quality over quantity. Each job you apply for is unique, even if they all have the same title. Every company has different needs for that role. The job description will make it clear which hard skills, soft skills, experience, and education the company is looking for. So tailor your resume to show them that you are the perfect candidate.

Tailoring each and every resume can be time consuming, but it’s worth the effort!

You can speed up this process by using a tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . Powered by AI-technology , this tool analyzes your resume against the job description and provides you with a resume score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job description. It also tells you exactly what you need to do to increase your score.

2. Match your resume keywords to skills found in the job description

Recruiters might use an ATS’ search function to find applicants with specific skills. How do you know what skills they will search for? By examining the job listing. Use a resume scanner to automatically pick out the hard and soft skills the recruiter might search for, and then include those on your resume.

Even if the recruiter doesn’t search applications for those skills, they’ll definitely be looking for mentions of them on each resume they review.

3. Use long-form and acronym versions of keywords

Some ATS will only return resumes with the exact keywords the recruiters would search for. For example, if you included “Search Engine Optimization” in your resume but the recruiter searched for “SEO,” your profile may not appear in the results. Try to include both the acronym and the unabbreviated form of the term.

Use a tool like Jobscan’s resume fixer to make sure your resume doesn’t contain mistakes that will eliminate you from consideration.

4. Use Chronological or Hybrid resume format to write your resume .

Recruiters do not like the functional resume format . Unless you’re making a career change, a functional resume is going to work against you. (And even then, we recommend you steer clear of the format for a career change resume .)

The best format for the ATS is traditional reverse chronological. You can also use chronological and hybrid resume formats as these are familiar to most recruiters.

5. Use an easy-to-read, traditional font

For readability, use a traditional serif or sans serif font. Untraditional or “fancy” fonts can cause parsing errors, which means the full text of your resume won’t be searchable.

6. Use standard resume section headings

Section headers like “Where I’ve Been” in place of “Work Experience” will confuse applicant tracking systems, causing them to organize information incorrectly.

7. Save your file as a .docx if possible

A docx file is most compatible with ATS.

What is the best resume format for ATS?

There are three standard resume formats to choose from in your job search. They shape your first impression and determine the way recruiters and hiring managers view your fit as an applicant.

Your resume formatting can also determine how well your resume is parsed within an applicant tracking system (ATS) and how likely you are to be noticed as a result.

Regardless of the format you use, the most important thing is to use standard section headings like Experience, Skills, and Education. That will make it easier for the ATS to categorize the text.

How to tailor your ATS-friendly resume to a job

Tailoring your resume proves to recruiters that you’re an experienced professional. Most importantly, it shows them that you’re the perfect fit for this role.

Follow these three steps for tailoring your resume to a job description:

1. Examine the specific job description of the position

Go line by line through the job description and ask yourself these questions:

• “Does my resume experience section clearly state that I can do what’s required of this role?”
• “Am I using the same language found in the job description or job posting?”

You might find several different or missing skills and keywords in your generic resume.

2. Match skills and keywords from the job description

Mirroring the language, keywords, and buzzwords found within the job description is the easiest way to demonstrate you’re a better match than the competition.

The best way to show you’re the best fit for the position is to take words from the job posting and strategically put them in your job descriptions and other resume sections. A resume scanner will automatically pull out these keywords in seconds and speed up this process.

3. Write your job title clearly

Recruiters might search for people who have done the job they’re hiring, so list your job titles clearly and match the titles to the one in the job posting when possible. If you haven’t held the job before, list it under your name at the top or as part of your summary section.

What is Applicant Tracking Software (ATS)?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used to assist with human resources, recruitment, and hiring. While each system offers a different package of features, applicant tracking systems are primarily used to help hiring companies organize and navigate large numbers of applicants.

For example, an ATS stores job candidate information like resumes, cover letters, references, and other recruitment and hiring data that HR teams can easily access and organize. It will also track job candidates and their application status throughout the hiring pipeline.

Ultimately, an ATS automates time-consuming administrative tasks such as manually screening applicants, reading resumes, scheduling interviews, and sending notifications and emails to job candidates and employees.

Can you add graphics to your resume?

When it comes to creating an ATS-friendly resume , the rule is: The simpler, the better. ATS are improving at scanning different formatting features, but not all of them are good at this.

Adding graphics and images could cause ATS parsing errors , which means the text on your resume won’t be fully searchable or accurately categorized by an ATS. We recommend that job seekers err on the side of caution. Avoid graphics, images, and photos.

Are Google Docs or Microsoft resume templates ATS-friendly?

They can be. We talked about some formatting features to avoid on your resume – fancy graphics and non-traditional fonts. Those features can trip up an ATS, even if they’re on a Word document or Google Docs file.

However, as long as you follow the guidelines on this page, or use one of these ATS resume templates, you’ll be fine.

How to get your cover letter past the ATS?

To increase your cover letter’s chances of passing an ATS, focus on using a clean format without complex formatting, incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description, and ensure that your content is easy for the ATS to parse.

Consider using a tool like Jobscan’s cover letter generator to help you create an ATS-friendly cover letter. If you already have a cover letter, run it through our cover letter checker tool to get personalized feedback on how to improve your cover letter and make it more compelling to employers.

More Resume Resources

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Professional Resume Templates

Resume Builder

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Score your resume and start optimizing it to get more job interviews

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• Design Resumes

14 Graphic Designer Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Graphic designers are more in demand than ever, which makes now the perfect time to apply for that graphic design role. this guide will teach you the most important steps for writing an effective graphic designer resume, including templates for you to use and industry-specific tips..

Graphic designers create customer-focused designs, frequently working on projects like websites, games, product packaging, and advertising campaigns. Most graphic design work is based around marketing and visual branding, but employment opportunities can include everything from creating logos for multinational corporations to working with local governments and schools. As a graphic designer, you’ll work account managers and creative directors to create a brief, develop concepts, and finalize a design that meets the client’s objectives. You’ll need excellent time management, the ability to collaborate well and work under pressure, and of course a hefty dose of creativity. Traditionally, graphic designer jobs ask for an undergraduate graphic design degree, but recent trends have seen the industry move away from requiring formal qualifications and toward online short courses. Either way, you’ll need hard skills with a variety of design software including Acrobat, Dreamweaver, Illustrator, and InDesign, along with an impressive portfolio to showcase your skills.

Graphic Designer Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Graphic Designer
• Junior Graphic Designer
• Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design
• Graphic Design Manager
• Freelance Graphic Designer
• Creative Graphic Designer
• Minimalist Graphic Designer
• Motion Graphic Designer

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Graphic Designer Resumes

Graphic Designer Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Bullet Points on Graphic Designer Resumes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Design Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 14: Graphic Designer Resume Example

A graphic designer communicates ideas through visual concepts. Their role is to conceptualize and develop a layout that communicates what stakeholders need to show. Graphic design can be used for many purposes, including captivating, informing, or inspiring consumers. That’s why their work is often used in advertising, social media channels, or reports. To become a graphic designer you should ideally have a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field. However, it’ll depend on your potential employer’s requirements. There are many high-talented graphic designers out there with non-traditional training. Yet, you should consider one thing; highlight your technical and creative skills on your resume.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   mention your user experience skills..

User experience (UX) is the way users interact with a particular product or design. This design should be accessible, usable, and appealing. This is particularly important when you’re working or trying to get a job in tech: recruiters want to know whether you can apply your offline skills to the online world. Even though both developers and graphic designers are not related, they can work together on integrating a design into web/software development.

   Emphasize projects where you crafted a brand or identity.

Branding and identity play a huge role in graphic design. It’s a combination of visual elements that represent a company’s identity. It is the way they want to portray themselves to the consumers.

Skills you can include on your Graphic Designer resume

Template 2 of 14: graphic designer resume example.

As a graphic designer, you’ll be working closely with clients to develop their brands and ensure the success of their advertising and marketing campaigns. Put your best foot forward with a resume that emphasizes your hard skills, proficiency with graphic design software, and experience contributing to the success of client projects.

   Bullet points feature strong action verbs highlighting graphic design skills

Structuring your bullet points to lead with strong action verbs like “conceptualized,” “designed,” and “developed” emphasizes your role in the projects you’ve worked on. By focusing on accomplishments rather than simply listing job duties, you’re telling potential employers what they want to know and highlighting the skills you’ll need on the job.

   Good use of skills section to highlight graphic design skills

You don’t need a long list of skills to impress a recruiter — in fact, the more concise you can be, the better. Keep your list of skills down to the ones most relevant for a graphic designer role, like design software, advertising, social media, and branding.

Template 3 of 14: Junior Graphic Designer Resume Example

The role of a junior graphic designer is to assist senior colleagues in crafting designs based on their specifications. They should also report to the senior graphic designer. In this role, you should demonstrate initiative and creativity, so it’s essential to demonstrate that in your resume. You can talk about previous projects in which you came up with innovative ideas. This way, your resume will not go unnoticed.

Tips to help you write your Junior Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   include relevant art-related experience..

It’s ok if you don’t have extensive experience in graphic design. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t showcase your expertise. You can also include other art-related experiences, such as photography or art assistance. This is an opportunity to showcase your transferable skills.

   Highlight your collaborative skills.

As a junior graphic designer, you will be constantly working with team members. This is a role that requires excellent collaborative skills. That’s why it is important to highlight them in your resume. You can mention previous experiences in which you coordinated with a varied team.

Skills you can include on your Junior Graphic Designer resume

Template 4 of 14: junior graphic designer resume example.

Landing a role as a junior graphic designer isn’t as hard as you might think. Most employers are looking for graphic design ability — as evidenced by your portfolio and qualifications — over extensive experience, which means emphasizing your hard skills and any relevant educational background. If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget about university projects and internships, which can go a long way toward making up for minimal work experience.

   Strong Education section highlighting graphic design interest

As a recent graduate — or even if you’re a few years out and still applying for junior roles — your education section is a lot more important than it is for someone with more experience. You can use your education section to your advantage by listing any awards you’ve won, professional memberships, or specific qualifications that stress hard graphic design skills.

   Internships and university projects relevant to graphic design

If you’re applying for an entry-level graphic design role, don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of experience. You can list any internships in the same way as you would regular work experience, using action verbs to emphasize what you accomplished. If you’ve completed any relevant university projects, make sure you highlight those, too.

Template 5 of 14: Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design Resume Example

A Senior Graphic Designer or Director of Graphic Design is no small gig. You're responsible for shaping the visual aspects of a brand and ensuring it remains consistent across all platforms. Lately, many companies require not just proficiency in design software, but also a solid understanding of digital and interactive design. When writing your resume, remember that while showcasing your design prowess is fundamental, so is demonstrating leadership skills and strategic thinking as they're crucial in steering the design team and efforts. In today's job market, employers are looking for Senior Designers who can balance the art and science of design. That means being able to back up your design choices with data and understanding how your work fits into the bigger marketing strategy. So, as you craft your resume, think about how your design work has directly contributed to business results.

Tips to help you write your Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design resume in 2024

   highlight leadership experience.

Mention instances where you've led a team or a project. This could involve coordinating with other departments, managing timelines, or mentoring junior designers. A Senior Graphic Designer or Director role often involves more responsibility and managerial tasks, so showing that you've got experience in leadership is key.

   Showcase Data-Driven Design Results

If you were instrumental in a design that led to improved website traffic or conversion rates, include this on your resume. Quantify your results where possible. This adds credibility to your work and shows you understand the link between design and business outcomes.

Skills you can include on your Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design resume

Template 6 of 14: senior graphic designer / director of graphic design resume example.

As a senior graphic designer or graphic design director, you’ll be taking on high-level responsibilities and overseeing an entire department. Your resume needs to show significant experience as a graphic designer, as well as the capacity to lead a team to success. Make sure you’re emphasizing past leadership roles you’ve held as well as a commitment to ensuring the overall success of a company.

   Shows growth in promotions

If you want to land a senior role, you’ll need to show a steady pattern of career growth. If you’ve landed a promotion that represents a significant increase in responsibilities, you can list the positions separately under the same company heading. If the job title alone doesn’t make it clear that this was a promotion, your bullet points will.

   Lists the exact graphic design job title

It’s always a good idea to use the exact title of the job you’re applying for on your resume. If you’ve held a position with the same responsibilities but under a different name, or if the titles are often used interchangeably, you can list both job titles at the start of your resume.

Template 7 of 14: Graphic Design Manager Resume Example

As a Graphic Design Manager, you're a bridge between the creative and strategic sides of a company, bringing visual concepts to life while ensuring they align with the company's goals. In recent years, companies seek individuals who have a strong understanding of digital marketing and UI/UX design, as these components are crucial in the current market. When crafting your resume, it's important to strike a balance between showcasing your artistic capabilities and your managerial skills. Highlight your understanding of branding and digital trends, but also emphasize how well you manage team dynamics and project deadlines.

Tips to help you write your Graphic Design Manager resume in 2024

   highlight digital design skills.

The industry is increasingly going digital, so make sure your resume reflects your skills in digital design, UX/UI, and even coding. This would be a game-changer for many hiring managers as it showcases your ability to adapt to the digital focus of modern graphic design.

   Emphasize team management and leadership

As a manager, you should include instances where you led a team to success, handled challenging projects, or improved team performance. These could be under 'achievements' or 'responsibilities' in your work history section. Show hiring managers that you are not just a good designer, but also a great leader.

Skills you can include on your Graphic Design Manager resume

Template 8 of 14: graphic design manager resume example.

Graphic design managers have to juggle a lot of different roles. As well as the usual design skills, you’ll need an ability to manage a team, develop strategies, work collaboratively with other departments, and evaluate the performance of other employees. To land the role, make sure your resume reflects soft skills like leadership and conflict management on top of your graphic design experience.

   Uses hard numbers and metrics relevant to graphic design achievements

When it comes to listing your achievement in bullet points, the more specific you can be, the better. If you’ve led a team, mention how many people were on it. Explain exactly how many projects you’ve created, what type of graphic design work you’ve done, and the concrete impact that had on your company’s success.

   Emphasis on transferable communication and management skills

To lead a team, you’ll need a lot of soft skills as well as hard skills. The best way to emphasize these is through your accomplishments. Mentioning the size of the teams you’ve worked with shows your leadership and teamwork skills, while creating social media strategies, marketing content, or publications is a great way to highlight communication skills.

Template 9 of 14: Freelance Graphic Designer Resume Example

A Freelance Graphic Designer's job is a blend of creativity and technical skills, with a dash of entrepreneurial business savvy. You're not only illustrating, designing logos, and manipulating images; you're also managing your business, building client relationships, and working remotely. It's essential to keep your finger on the pulse of the industry, as design trends ebb and flow rapidly. For example, minimalist design is currently all the rage, which means your portfolio should showcase your proficiency in this field. When writing your resume, ensure it reflects the breadth of your skills and experience, as well as your ability to manage your own business.

Tips to help you write your Freelance Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   highlight relevant software proficiency.

As a Freelance Graphic Designer, your familiarity with software tools is crucial. Therefore, don’t just list them, but give context on how you’ve utilized tools like Adobe Creative Suite and Sketch to create standout designs for various clients.

   Showcase business skills

You’re not just a designer, but a business owner, too. Highlight any experience you have managing client relationships, scheduling, invoicing, and marketing your services. Any evidence of your entrepreneurial spirit can make you stand out from other designers.

Skills you can include on your Freelance Graphic Designer resume

Template 10 of 14: freelance graphic designer resume example.

Freelance graphic designers work on the same kinds of projects as any other graphic designer, but as self-employed contractors. If you’re looking to pick up more freelance work, or to transition from freelance to regular employment, you’ll need a resume that emphasizes your ability to take initiative, work to a deadline, and understand your clients’ needs.

   Freelance graphic design projects

If you’ve been freelancing for a while, it might make sense to structure your work experience section according to different projects rather than clients. This lets you highlight your most impressive accomplishments in a way that is easy to follow and is clear about your specific role and achievements.

   Specific use of metrics

Not all employers fully understand the nature of freelance work, so the more specific you can be about your accomplishments, the better. Listing the number of projects, designs, and proposals you completed makes it clear how you were spending your time and helps emphasize soft skills like time management and work ethic.

Template 11 of 14: Creative Graphic Designer Resume Example

A creative graphic designer has a strong background in art and visual design. They create visual concepts to communicate a brand’s message to its consumers. They usually work in advertising agencies, marketing companies, or independently as freelance designers. If you want to reflect your expertise in your resume, it’s a good idea to showcase some certifications. These provide a better idea of your abilities and experience in the graphic design industry.

Tips to help you write your Creative Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   mention the illustration software you use for graphic design..

Creative graphic designers use multiple tools like Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, etc. It is a good idea to mention those programs you use for developing your projects in your skills section, or intertwined into your work experiences (e.g. Designed prototypes using Figma...). It’ll give recruiters a practical view of what your tool stack looks like and if it aligns with that of their product/graphic design teams.

   Talk about products or experiences you've prototyped.

Prototyping is an experimental process in which graphic designers propose a design idea to evaluate how end users would react to the final result. It is essentially a 'testing' phase, which helps reduce a company's risk of spending several weeks developing something that isn't usable or doesn't achieve the company's goals. Creative graphic designers should put experimentation at the heart of their work, and it's often useful to emphasize it in your resume. You could use the action verb, "Prototyped", in an example like "Prototyped 25+ designs by rapidly iterating with the client over 8 weeks...".

Skills you can include on your Creative Graphic Designer resume

Template 12 of 14: creative graphic designer resume example.

The role of a creative designer can be broader than just graphic design. Creative designers need an excellent understanding of branding, marketing, and social media as well as proficiency with graphic design software. To land a role as a creative graphic designer, make sure your resume highlights your understanding of brand awareness and experience guiding products through the entire creative process.

   Tailored to the creative design job

Tailoring your resume to the exact job you’re applying for doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort. Including job-specific keywords in your resume title and skills section are two of the easiest ways to target your resume. Make sure you’re including keywords like product design, social media marketing, and specific graphic design programs that ATS are likely to scan for.

   Strong resume summary to tell hiring managers about graphic design focus

Including a resume summary is a great way of tailoring your resume and providing additional information about your background and accomplishments. They’re especially useful for career changers or people without a lot of experience in graphic design, but can be used to great effect to highlight your particular strengths and contextualize the achievements in your bullet points.

Template 13 of 14: Minimalist Graphic Designer Resume Example

As the name suggests, minimalist design uses only the most basic elements. These designers use limited color palettes and basic shapes to create stunning designs. Recruiters will be looking to see a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or other equally rigorous qualifications. Beyond that, previous experience and your skill set will be of great importance. Take a look at this successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Minimalist Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   have a minimalist portfolio..

For any graphic designer, you need to attach your portfolio to your resume when applying for a job. Recruiters need to see your designs. For this position compile your most successful and impactful minimalist designs into a portfolio.

   Create a minimalist-looking resume.

Let recruiters see your style and abilities by the look of your resume before they even read it. Show your minimalist skills by designing a resume with a minimalist aesthetic.

Skills you can include on your Minimalist Graphic Designer resume

Template 14 of 14: motion graphic designer resume example.

From animations to credit sequences, moving logos, and websites, motion graphic designers create designs that can move. These designers work largely in industries like film, TV, advertising, and many other industries. Your qualifications and your tools lists will be of great importance for this position. Here is a recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Motion Graphic Designer resume in 2024

   show the types of motion graphic design you have experience doing..

Recruiters need to know what you can do so they can gauge if you are the right person for them. So mention the different kinds of graphic design that you are experienced with. This applicant has mentioned that they have done animated logos, title sequences, and video edits, among others. If you know the kind of graphic design they want you to do, make sure to emphasize that experience.

   List the types of motion graphic design you are skilled in.

Use your skills section to list the types of motion graphic design you are skilled in. This applicant has lister 3-D modeling, stretch and squash, and staging as some of their skills.

Skills you can include on your Motion Graphic Designer resume

As a hiring manager, I've reviewed countless graphic designer resumes. I've seen applications from candidates vying for roles at top companies like Apple, Google, and Adobe. While the specific skills and experience required may vary depending on the company and role, there are certain elements that consistently make a graphic designer resume stand out. In this article, I'll share some tips to help you craft a compelling resume that showcases your strengths as a graphic designer.

   Showcase your versatility as a designer

Employers want to see that you have a diverse skill set and can handle various aspects of graphic design. Highlight your proficiency in different areas, such as:

• Branding and logo design
• Web and mobile app design
• Print design (brochures, posters, packaging)
• Illustrations and infographics

By demonstrating your versatility, you show that you can adapt to different projects and contribute to the company in multiple ways. Remember to provide specific examples of your work in each area to give the employer a clear picture of your capabilities.

   Emphasize your software proficiency

As a graphic designer, your software skills are crucial. Employers want to know that you're proficient in industry-standard tools. Instead of simply listing the software you know, provide context to showcase your expertise:

• Adobe Creative Suite

A more effective way to highlight your skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, with 5+ years of experience creating print and digital designs
• Skilled in using Sketch and InVision to create and prototype mobile app interfaces, collaborating closely with development teams

By providing specific examples and context, you demonstrate the depth of your knowledge and how you apply these skills in your work.

   Quantify your impact and achievements

When describing your work experience, use metrics to quantify your impact and achievements. This helps employers understand the scale and significance of your contributions. For example:

• Designed logos for various clients
• Created social media graphics

Instead, try:

• Designed logos for 20+ clients across industries, resulting in an average 30% increase in brand recognition
• Created engaging social media graphics that contributed to a 25% increase in follower count and 40% higher engagement rates

By using numbers and percentages, you provide concrete evidence of your success and make your resume more impactful.

   Include non-traditional design experience

Don't limit your resume to just your professional experience. Include relevant projects, even if they weren't part of a paid role. This could be:

• Freelance work
• Personal projects or side hustles
• Pro bono work for non-profits or community organizations
• Design competitions or hackathons

These experiences demonstrate your passion, initiative, and ability to apply your skills in different contexts. They can also help fill gaps in your work history and showcase your continuous learning and growth as a designer.

   Tailor your resume to the job description

One common mistake graphic designers make is sending a generic resume to every job application. Instead, take the time to tailor your resume to each specific role and company. Here's how:

• Read the job description carefully and identify the key skills and requirements
• Highlight the experiences and projects that are most relevant to the role
• Use similar language and terminology as the job description to show your fit
• Research the company and incorporate your knowledge into your resume summary or objective

By customizing your resume, you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and make it easier for the employer to see how you can contribute to their team.

   Showcase your unique design style

As a graphic designer, your unique style and creative approach are what set you apart. While it's important to demonstrate your versatility, don't be afraid to showcase your signature style in your resume. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Include a link to your online portfolio or website that showcases your best work
• Incorporate design elements or branding that reflect your personal style (while still keeping the overall resume design clean and professional)
• In your resume summary or objective, mention your unique design philosophy or approach

Passionate graphic designer with a bold, minimalist style and a focus on creating impactful, user-centric designs.

By infusing your resume with your unique design perspective, you give employers a taste of what makes you stand out as a creative professional.

Writing Your Graphic Designer Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. decide on the best name format.

Your name is the most important element in your resume header. It should be the largest text on the page and easy to read at a glance. Decide on the best format for your name, such as:

• First Middle Initial Last
• First M. Last

Avoid nicknames or abbreviations that could be confusing. Use your full name as it appears on your professional documents and online profiles for consistency.

2. Include essential contact details

After your name, include your key contact details so hiring managers can easily get in touch with you. Essential details to include are:

• Phone number
• Professional email address
• Location (City, State)
• LinkedIn profile URL

Keep your email address professional, ideally [email protected] . Avoid outdated email providers like Hotmail or AOL. You can omit your full mailing address, but including your city and state lets employers know your general location.

John Doe, Graphic Designer [email protected]

John Doe Graphic Designer [email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/johndoe

3. Showcase your specialty as a graphic designer

As a graphic designer, you likely have a specialty or niche you focus on. Highlighting this in your resume header can help you stand out to employers looking for those specific skills. For example:

• John Doe Product Packaging Graphic Designer
• Jane Smith Graphic Designer specializing in Branding & Logo Design
• Bob Johnson UI/UX Graphic Designer

Keep your specialty concise and targeted. Avoid listing multiple unrelated specialties, which can come across as unfocused. By clearly conveying your niche in the header, you'll position yourself as the go-to candidate for those specific needs.

  Summary

A resume summary is an optional section that highlights your most relevant experiences and skills in a few sentences. It's best used by graphic designers with several years of experience, are changing careers, or have a diverse background that needs context. Keep it concise and avoid repeating information already in your resume.

In contrast, resume objectives are outdated and should not be used, as they focus on your goals rather than how you can benefit the company. Instead, tailor your summary to the specific graphic designer position you're applying for, and consider including your target job title and relevant keywords to help your resume perform better in applicant tracking systems (ATS).

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Graphic Designer resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Graphic Designer Resume Summary Examples , or Graphic Designer Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your graphic design expertise

When writing your summary, emphasize your core graphic design skills and expertise that align with the job description. Mention your proficiency in industry-standard software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, and showcase your ability to create visually compelling designs across various media.

Avoid generic statements that could apply to any graphic designer, like:

• Proficient in graphic design software
• Creative and detail-oriented designer

Instead, provide specific examples of your skills and the impact of your work:

• Expert in Adobe Creative Suite, with a focus on creating engaging web and mobile interfaces
• Skilled in developing brand identity systems that drive increased brand recognition and customer loyalty

Ensure your resume showcases your proficiency in the latest graphic design tools and trends. Our Score My Resume tool can provide instant feedback on your resume's content, helping you optimize it for the graphic designer role you're targeting.

2. Demonstrate your impact and achievements

Use your summary to highlight your most impressive achievements and the impact your work has had on your previous employers or clients. Quantify your results whenever possible to give the hiring manager a clear understanding of your value.

Graphic designer with 5+ years of experience creating digital and print designs. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

While this summary touches on the candidate's experience and skills, it doesn't provide any context on their achievements or the impact of their work. A more effective summary would be:

Results-driven graphic designer with 5+ years of experience creating digital and print designs that engage users and drive business growth. Skilled in leveraging Adobe Creative Suite to develop innovative brand campaigns, resulting in a 30% increase in brand recognition and a 20% boost in sales for key clients.

When tailoring your resume summary to a specific graphic designer role, consider using Targeted Resume to ensure you're including the most relevant keywords and skills from the job description.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your graphic designer resume. It's where you showcase your relevant skills, accomplishments, and impact through previous roles. Hiring managers and recruiters look to this section to understand your career trajectory and assess if you're a good fit for the role.

Let's break down the key elements you should focus on when writing an effective work experience section:

1. Highlight your design skills and tools

Throughout your work experience, emphasize the specific design skills and tools you've used to succeed in your roles. Graphic design jobs require proficiency in industry-standard tools, so showcase your expertise.

Less effective work experience statements:

• Designed marketing collateral for product launches
• Created social media graphics and email designs

More effective, tools-focused statements:

• Designed marketing collateral for 5+ product launches using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
• Created engaging social media graphics and email designs in Canva and Adobe Spark, contributing to a 20% increase in click-through rates

2. Quantify your impact with metrics

When describing your achievements in each role, use hard numbers and metrics to quantify your impact whenever possible. This helps hiring managers understand the scope and results of your work.

Weak, unquantified bullets:

• Collaborated with marketing team to design digital ads
• Developed visual brand guidelines for company

Strong, quantified bullets:

• Partnered with marketing team to design 10+ high-performing digital ad campaigns, resulting in a 25% increase in conversions
• Developed comprehensive visual brand guidelines and logo redesign, which were implemented company-wide across 50+ employees

If you don't have access to precise metrics, you can still provide numerical context for your work. For example, mention the size of the team you collaborated with, number of assets designed per month, or number of stakeholders managed.

3. Showcase promotions and career growth

If you've been promoted or taken on increasing responsibilities throughout your career, make sure to highlight that progression in your work experience section. This demonstrates your ability to succeed and grow within an organization.

Junior Graphic Designer, ABC Agency, June 2018 - Dec 2019 • Designed social media graphics and infographics for 5 clients • Assisted senior designers in brainstorming and concept development Senior Graphic Designer, ABC Agency, Jan 2020 - Present • Lead designer for 8 key client accounts, overseeing all visual branding • Mentored and trained 2 junior designers on design best practices and agency processes

By showing the progression from Junior to Senior Graphic Designer, with increasing ownership and leadership, this resume paints a clear picture of the candidate's career growth and impact.

4. Trim details from older or irrelevant roles

As a graphic designer gains experience, their older roles may not need as much detail on the resume. The work experience section should focus primarily on the most recent and relevant positions.

For example, if a senior designer had a past role as a Marketing Intern early in their career, they don't need to provide as much detail:

• Marketing Intern, XYZ Startup, Summer 2015
• Assisted in designing marketing materials for new product launch

The focus remains on the candidate's more recent roles as a Graphic Designer, where they can elaborate on their relevant skills, specialties, and achievements.

To get expert feedback on every section of your graphic design resume, try our free Score My Resume tool. It checks your resume on 30+ key criteria recruiters and hiring managers look for, so you can ensure your work experience section and overall resume are well-optimized.

  Education

The education section on your graphic designer resume should be concise and highlight your most relevant qualifications. You want to show the hiring manager that you have the necessary educational background and training to excel in the role. Here are some tips to help you write an effective education section:

1. List your degrees in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent degree and work backwards. If you have a bachelor's degree or higher, you can leave out your high school information. For each degree, include:

• Name of the institution
• Location of the institution
• Degree earned
• Graduation date (month and year)
• Major and minor (if applicable)

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA Graduated: May 2020

2. Include relevant coursework and projects

If you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience, you can highlight relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities in your education section. This shows the hiring manager that you have hands-on experience and skills related to graphic design.

However, avoid listing every course you've taken. Instead, focus on:

• Advanced or specialized courses in graphic design software, web design, or typography
• Capstone projects or thesis work
• Relevant electives or workshops

3. Showcase your design education and training

Graphic design is a field that values both creativity and technical skills. Use your education section to showcase your training in design principles, software, and tools.

If you attended a prestigious design school or program, make sure to highlight that. You can also mention any specialized training or certifications you've completed, such as:

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• UX/UI design
• Web design and development
• Print production and pre-press

4. Keep it brief if you are a senior-level designer

If you have several years of experience as a graphic designer, your education section should be short and sweet. Hiring managers are more interested in your professional accomplishments and portfolio than your degrees from many years ago.

Here's an example of what not to include:

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Rhode Island School of Design Providence, RI Graduated: May 1995 Relevant Coursework: Typography I, II, and III, Web Design, Printmaking, Photography, Art History Survey

Instead, keep it concise:

BFA, Graphic Design, Rhode Island School of Design

Action Verbs For Graphic Designer Resumes

Graphic designers need to be able to conceptualize visuals, create compelling and on-brand designs, and present their ideas to clients. Use action verbs in your resume to highlight those skills — for example, using Illustrated or Fashioned shows your ability to create and finalize a design, while Revitalized and Customized demonstrate an awareness of branding and client needs. Always structure your work experience bullet points with the action verb first. This puts the emphasis on what you actually accomplished, rather than simply listing job duties. For even more ideas to kickstart your graphic designer resume, check out our full list of resume action verbs .

• Conceptualized
• Illustrated
• Streamlined
• Revitalized
• Established

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Graphic Designer Resumes

How to write a graphic designer resume – step by step.

Writing a resume to apply for a graphic designer role is easy if you keep a few things in mind. Let's dive in — these steps are relevant across a range of design role, including graphic design, creative leadership and web design roles.

Getting the Basics right for writing a Graphic Designer resume

1.1: structure your resume to list the most recent sections first (reverse chronological order).

When creating or editing any resume, putting your most recent experiences first makes it easier for recruiters to see your current skill level. They can skim the list and see which one is your most recent role (i.e. the one they are most interested in). This is often called the reverse chronological order.

1.2: Include any Portfolio links in the Resume Header

As a graphic designer, you need to have a portfolio of your samples from different past work and projects. Including a portfolio link — whether that's on Behance, Dribbble, or even just LinkedIn — will make it easier for recruiters to see what you can do in a semi-professional environment and strengthens your overall resume. If you don't have a portfolio, don't feel the need to include a link at all — it's an optional part of your resume header.

1.3: Highlight your growth in the industry

To land a mid- to senior-level roles like a Senior Graphic Designer or Creative Head, you need to show leadership and initiative. Pointing out promotions at past jobs shows that you are a leader as well as an exemplary employee who is committed to their professional growth. If you have held promotions in the design field, mention them. Bold your job titles so your promotion is more prominent.

Expressing your Design Experience

2.1: highlight your creativity and design-related knowledge in your bullet points.

Keeping your work experience section organised in bullet points is always the right option. Recruiters can skim your resume and find the information they need quickly. Here's an example bullet point for design experience: Collaborated with Lead Engineer to develop a cohesive style guide to standardize 50+ design components for Android and web app

2.2: Stick to the [Action Verb] + [Task] + [Impact of Work] structure

Your bullet points need to be structured by using an action verb. Using an action verb related to graphic design helps emphasize your practical experience and keeps it relevant to the job. Common action verbs graphic designers use are Designed, Conceptualized, Illustrated and Revised. Mentioning the impact of the work is beneficial to showing your success. This can be hard data (e.g. 'created reusable components that saved 25+ hours a week of designer time') or the general outcome such as "improved efficiency".

2.3: Keep your skills section concise and relevant to the job; emphasize the job's skills, whether that's app design, web design or physical designs.

Limit the skill list to only relevant ones for the type of design job you want. Definitely don't include more than 12 hard skills in your skills section. In saying that, only include those specific to the graphic designer role you want and the kind of job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying to a graphic design role that has a focus on website development, you might want to include, "Web design", "Figma" or "CSS" on your resume's skills section. If you're applying to a role that focuses on branding and physical designs, you might want to include, "Illustrator", "Branding" or "Canva" on your resume.

2.4: Include the graphic design software through your use of bullet points

Always remember to list the software you're experienced using for your graphic design processes, especially ones you currently use. The Adobe Creative Cloud suite, Sketch, Figma and general web development languages like CSS are big ones that recruiters often look for.

Getting past the resume screeners and Applicant Tracking Systems

3.1: ensure the resume scanning software can read your resume template.

Applicant tracking system software scan your resume to identify if you'd be a good fit, essentially by checking if you have the essential skills the job needs. If the software can't read your resume, it might just think you don't have the right skills and immediately reject you by default. Word of warning: Don't create your resume in design software like Photoshop or Canva! These tools will convert your resume into an image which will make it impossible to be read by these ATS tools. Instead, just use Google Docs or Word.

3.2: Don’t include skills you’re not comfortable with in a professional setting

Please don't claim knowledge of a tool or design framework on your resume, but not be able to answer questions about it in an interview. It's much better to have deep expertise in one or two design methodologies or software, than to say you know everything (which also shows a lack of focus, something you shouldn't anyway do if you're tailoring your resume).

3.3: Submit the resume as a PDF

Using word processing software to write a resume is a must. However, if it's opened in different software, the layout, formatting, and font might change. Saving the resume as a PDF once you're happy with it ensures there's no chance of it being altered to work with other software.

Putting the final touches on your Graphic Designer resume

4.1: add a resume summary if you're changing careers.

A resume summary is optional and not essential but is helpful if you're changing careers into the creative field. It needs to highlight your previous achievements not included in the rest of the resume. Use this to highlight achievements and mention transferable skills that are relevant to across industries, whether that's communicating with stakeholders or leading a design project.

4.2: The Education section doesn't need to be long

If you're a mid or senior level job seeker, the education section isn't the most important thing on the resume to a recruiter. Just include the degree name, the school, graduation date (if under ten years ago) and any accomplishments relating to the job.

Skills For Graphic Designer Resumes

Unsurprisingly, the most important hard skills for graphic designers are design software skills. Developing proficiency with a few key design programs — whether that’s self-taught or through formal qualifications — is essential to landing a role as a graphic designer. Make sure to list these skills somewhere in your resume, either in your bullet points or a separate skills section, to bypass any Applicant Tracking Systems and impress recruiters. The exact skills you need may depend on the exact job you’re applying for, so always read the job description thoroughly to find out which skills are the most important and tailor your resume accordingly. Our Targeted Resume tool will point out any important skills or keywords you’re missing and give you personalized advice on how to improve your resume.

• Logo Design
• Graphic Design
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Page Layout
• Video Editing
• Adobe Photoshop
• Illustration
• Art Direction
• Visual Communication
• After Effects
• Photography
• Digital Photography

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Graphic Designer Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Graphic Designer Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Graphic Designer job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Resume bullet points from graphic designer resumes.

You should use bullet points to describe your achievements in your Graphic Designer resume. Here are sample bullet points to help you get started:

Conducted 25+ user-testing focus groups leading to 3 new product features in 6 months

Redesigned company's homepage and lead generation forms using only existing site components; reduced bounce rates by 40% and increased leads by 15%

Analyzed impact and effectiveness of in-app UI changes on customer retention; identified features of customer behavior and recommended additional menu modifications [R, MySQL, Chart JS]

Led application design sessions with client teams on 20+ projects to develop functional and technical requirements

Decreased uninstallation rate by 40% by introducing an interactive tutorial at app launch

For more sample bullet points and details on how to write effective bullet points, see our articles on resume bullet points , how to quantify your resume and resume accomplishments .

Frequently Asked Questions on Graphic Designer Resumes

What should a graphic designer put on a resume.

• A link to your portfolio in the header section: Alongside your name and address in the header, it is a good idea to include a link to a portfolio that demonstrates samples of your design work. The portfolio should contain three to five examples that display your skillset. Including a job title such as 'Graphic Designer’ or ‘User Interface Graphic Designer’ will help tailor your resume to a specific role. You can also include a link to your LinkedIn profile.
• Professional experience: Graphic design hiring managers prefer that you use bullet points for this section as they are easy to skim. In your bullet points, highlight specific experience with common graphic design tasks like creating logos, developing mockups, and creating infographics.
• Education: Where did you learn your craft? List your degree, online courses, or graphic design certifications here. For recent graduates, you can include design projects you did at university. Experienced designers should just list the certification name, school, and graduation date.
• A Skills section

What skills should you put on a graphic designer resume?

How to improve graphic design resume.

Designed logos for 40 companies in the first six months (against a target of 25) thus growing the division’s revenue by 30%.

Other Design Resumes

Game design.

Instructional Design

Interior Design

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Graphic Designer Resume Guide

• 3D Artist Resume Guide
• Game Design Resume Guide
• Interior Design Resume Guide
• Production Assistant Resume Guide
• Instructional Design Resume Guide
• Art Director Resume Guide
• Design Director Resume Guide
• Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Junior Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Senior Graphic Designer / Director of Graphic Design Resume Example
• Graphic Design Manager Resume Example
• Freelance Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Creative Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Minimalist Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Motion Graphic Designer Resume Example
• Tips for Graphic Designer Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• Sample Bullet Points from Top Resumes
• All Resume Examples
• Graphic Designer CV Examples
• Graphic Designer Cover Letter
• Graphic Designer Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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These professional templates are optimized to beat resume screeners (i.e. the Applicant Tracking System). You can download the templates in Word, Google Docs, or PDF. For free (limited time).

   access samples from top resumes, get inspired by real bullet points that helped candidates get into top companies.,    get a resume score., find out how effective your resume really is. you'll get access to our confidential resume review tool which will tell you how recruiters see your resume..

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I had a clear uptick in responses after using your template. I got many compliments on it from senior hiring staff, and my resume scored way higher when I ran it through ATS resume scanners because it was more readable. Thank you!

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