Graphic Designer Resume Keywords for ATS
ATS systems screening Graphic Designer CVs prioritise software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite especially), design specialisms (e.g. branding, digital, print), and demonstrable project outcomes. Recruiters search for specific tool names, design terminology, and evidence of both creative and commercial impact, so mirror the language used in the job advert whilst showcasing measurable results.
ATS keywords for a Graphic Designer Resume
Use these as a checklist — include the ones that genuinely apply to you, matched to the wording of the job you are targeting.
Core skills
Tools & software
Soft skills
Certifications & qualifications
How to get a Graphic Designer Resume past the ATS
- List Adobe Creative Suite applications individually (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) rather than only writing 'Adobe Creative Suite', as ATS often searches for specific software names.
- Include both 'digital design' and 'print design' if you have experience in both, as many job descriptions distinguish between these specialisms explicitly.
- Use design terminology exactly as it appears in the job advert—e.g. if they write 'brand identity' rather than 'branding', mirror that phrasing in your CV.
- Mention file formats you work with (PDF, EPS, SVG, PNG) and pre-press or artworking experience if applying for print-focused roles, as these are common ATS search terms.
- Quantify design outcomes where possible (e.g. 'increased engagement by 40%' or 'delivered 25+ assets') as ATS systems increasingly parse for measurable impact alongside keywords.
- Include any relevant design awards, publications, or portfolio links in a dedicated section, as recruiters often filter for demonstrated recognition in the field.
Before & after: Graphic Designer Resume bullets
Before: Designed marketing materials for various campaigns.
After: Created 30+ digital and print marketing assets using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for integrated campaigns, increasing brand engagement by 35%.
Before: Worked on branding projects for clients.
After: Developed complete brand identity systems for 8 clients, including logo design, typography guidelines, and brand collateral, resulting in 100% client approval rate.
Before: Responsible for social media graphics.
After: Designed 150+ social media graphics monthly using Canva and Adobe Creative Suite, contributing to 50% growth in follower engagement across platforms.
Graphic Designer Resume keywords — FAQ
What keywords should a Graphic Designer put on their Resume?
A Graphic Designer Resume should include core skills such as Brand Identity Design, Typography, Layout Design, Digital Design, Print Design, UI/UX Design, and name specific tools like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe After Effects, Figma. Always match the exact terms used in the job description you are applying to.
How do I make my Graphic Designer Resume ATS-friendly?
Use a plain-text skills section, mirror the keywords from the job posting word-for-word, spell out acronyms once alongside their short form, and quantify your achievements. List Adobe Creative Suite applications individually (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) rather than only writing 'Adobe Creative Suite', as ATS often searches for specific software names.
What skills do employers look for in a Graphic Designer?
Beyond technical skills, employers screen for Creative Thinking, Attention to Detail, Time Management, Communication Skills. Relevant qualifications include Adobe Certified Professional (ACP), Adobe Certified Expert (ACE), BA (Hons) Graphic Design.