“I am very detail-oriented”
Yes, everyone is. Thank you for applying. When you start creating your graphic design resume, some “resume rules” stay the same, while some of those rules no longer apply. This is the time to be “detail-oriented.” Your graphic design resume is just as important, perhaps more important, than your portfolio, so make it count. This is a great opportunity to grab the HR director by the throat. ** Note: do not do this literally during the interview. Graphic Design resumes should be creative, somewhat artistic. This is a great test of your design ability if you can create a graphic design resume that contains the necessary information, and is still creative and unique enough to catch the eye of the employer or design firm that is interviewing.
We are usually taught that most resumes should be professional, and the style or design is really not all that important. Download a template and go with it. The information on the resume is the important part. This is usually true until you start your graphic design resume. This is a tremendous selling opportunity of your design skills and abilities.
“I work well with others”
Well, you are not going to be working with anyone if you don’t have the right resume. Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind when creating your Graphic Design Resume:
Don’t Use a Word Template
You are a graphic designer for goodness sake! Design a resume that suits you, highlights your talents and strengths, and will coordinate best with the company you are applying with.
Font for your Graphic Design Resume
Choose a font that is not overused (Times New Roman) and be sure it is large enough. Don’t get obnoxious and do it in 16 pt font, but make your graphic design resume easy to read for the prospective employer.
Paper and Design
As stated below, don’t use a Word Template, but create your layout in a clean, organized manner. You can get creative with this (which I assume is a strength of yours, if not-you are probably creating the wrong kind of resume.) Be careful and don’t go overboard. Your goal is to highlight your design skills, get their attention, but don’t create an over-the-top graphic design resume. The content still matters, and it should be seen. Be sure to choose a good resume paper. Please don’t use white copy paper. Please.
Graphic Design Resume Content
Your graphic design resume, (and most resumes) should include a few pieces of basic information. First, list your contact information. This is important when someone needs to reach you. I once tried to sell some things on a classified ad, and could not figure out for the life of me why I wasn’t getting any interest. No phone number or email- classic. Education, work experience and software programs are going to be the most cornerstone pieces of your resume. Additional information such as corny work objectives, references, and irrelevant clubs or interests is not necessary. Clean, easy to read resumes with quality information- not quantity will win every time. And don’t forget to showcase your design work!