For some reason at Prime-resume, we didn't pay much attention to articles on how to write a resume for the designer type of positions. Maybe because this type of job isn't very common today among job seekers since more and more people pursue sales or business management type of positions. But despite this fact, we believe it is not fair to leave this field ignored. Without a doubt, people who are aiming for a designer job in a reputable company should focus on preparing a professional digital portfolio which is supposed to showcase one's work and provide some glimpses into one's career. A resume is an important part of such portfolio and, therefore, plays a great role in the entire job search campaign.
7 Must-Include Design Skills on a Resume
1. Marketing. Understanding effective marketing principles and the ability to use this knowledge should be very helpful in selling design projects. Even though a designer is not the same as a marketing specialist, professional designers understand the main concepts of advertising and even SEO and how companies reach prospective customers.
2. Software. Employers always want to know what design tools you are proficient at. Most postings would include information about the required software tools but even if a job ad doesn't have that section, make sure you include software tools you are experienced at. You can also include management or financial tools that have nothing to do with design - it can be an advantage if the software can be useful in your everyday job.
3. Print Knowledge. Although most of the designer's responsibilities center around digital kind of concepts, we still recommend learning printed design. This skill can sometimes make a difference between you and another candidate. If you have any printer projects, don't hesitate to include them in your portfolio.
4. Digital Design Skills. It is very good if you've got some printed design knowledge but today for the most part designers work in digital format. Make sure prospective employers understand that you are well versed in digital design.
5. HTML. Even if you have a very basic understanding of HTML and code, it is highly preferable that you add the skills onto your resume. It is important though to make sure your employers understand what your HTML knowledge level is. But even a very basic level is way better than nothing. That is something every hiring manager can confirm.
6. Time Management. This is the skill that most job seekers add on their resume regardless of the position they are after. If you are a designer, employers want to know that you can be flexible and manage your time well to complete projects. We highly recommend proving you have time management skills by mentioning some time frames for the projects you have completed in the past.
7. Social Media. Usually, hiring managers check social network profiles of the candidates for a designer job to see how well they can use different social media platforms. Even without putting social media skills on the list, you can simply clean up your profiles in social networks and provide links in your resume.