Your Resume Is Being Ignored—Here’s How to Fix That

As a creative director, I’ve reviewed hundreds of resumes and portfolios from graphic designers, illustrators, UX/UI specialists, and other creative professionals. Some made an instant impression, and others barely lasted six seconds before I moved on.

And I’m not alone. Studies show employers spend six to seven seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to keep reading or move on (Indeed).

For designers, that means you don’t just need a well-designed resume—you need a strategically designed resume that quickly communicates your skills, experience, and creative impact.

After spending 13,000+ minutes mentoring designers on ADPList, I’ve seen firsthand how most creatives make the same mistakes.

So, what actually makes a design resume stand out—and what makes it an instant “no”?

What Creative Hiring Managers Look for in Those First Six Seconds

When hiring for creative roles, we’re not just looking for pretty resumes—we’re looking for clear, compelling, and relevant ones. Here’s what gets our attention:

• Portfolio link front and center – If I have to dig for it, I won’t.
• Clear, readable layout – Treat your resume like a design project—visual hierarchy matters.
• Relevant work experience – Highlight roles and projects that show problem-solving, creativity, and impact.
• Technical skills and tools – Showcase expertise in Adobe CC, Figma, or other industry tools.
• Strategic thinking and results – Show how your work improved UX, conversions, or branding.

If these elements aren’t immediately visible, your resume (or worse, your portfolio) won’t get a second look.

How to Make Your Resume and Portfolio Stand Out

If you want creative hiring managers to review your work more, make it easy to digest.

1. Treat Your Resume Like a Design Project

• Use clean typography, clear hierarchy, and consistent spacing.
• Avoid overdesigning—if readability suffers, no one will appreciate the aesthetics.
• Think UX—how fast can someone find your most important information?

2. Your Portfolio Link Should Be Unmissable

• Make it the first thing hiring managers see.
• Ensure it’s mobile-friendly and loads quickly.
• Curate, curate, curate—5 to 10 strong projects are better than 20 average ones.

3. Lead with Impact, Not Just Responsibilities

Instead of: “Designed website layouts”

Say: “Redesigned client website, increasing engagement by 35%.”

Show before-and-after comparisons if possible.

4. Prioritize Key Skills at the Top

• If a job requires motion graphics or UX design, put that front and center.
• List the tools you’re proficient in—hiring managers often scan for them.

5. Trim It Down

• Keep your resume to one page, unless you have 10+ years of experience.
• Showcase only the most relevant projects and skills.

6. Optimize for ATS (But Don’t Design for a Machine)

• Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes.
• Use keywords from the job description (without keyword stuffing).
• Ensure text is searchable—no image-based resumes unless you attach a plain-text version.

Why This Matters: The Reality of Creative Hiring

Hiring isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about setting employees up for long-term success. Companies that invest in mentorship and professional development create environments where employees grow, stay engaged, and thrive.

For example, Expedia Group integrates mentorship into its hiring and onboarding strategy. Their programs allow employees at all levels to mentor and be mentored, ensuring that new hires don’t just get the job—they get the support they need to advance their careers.

When choosing where to work, look beyond the job title. The best opportunities come from companies that invest in your growth, not just your output.

The Bottom Line

If creative hiring managers only spend six seconds on your resume, make those six seconds count.

• Keep it visually clear. Think about typography, spacing, and layout.
• Highlight impact, not just tasks. Use measurable results where possible.
• Make your portfolio link impossible to miss. Showcase only your best work.
• List relevant skills and software upfront. Give hiring managers what they’re looking for.

Your resume isn’t just a document—it’s part of your creative brand.

What’s the biggest mistake you’ve seen (or made) on a design resume? Let’s discuss.