Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software that scan resumes for keywords and structure. They rank and filter submissions before a human sees them, so getting past ATS matters for a Print Designer.

ATS read plain text, so fancy layouts can confuse them. If your file uses tables, images, or headers, the ATS might miss your skills or contact details.

Use clear section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills". List tools and tasks that match Print Designer roles, such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, prepress, color separations, CMYK, Pantone, dielines, bleeds, trim, trapping, RIP workflows, PDF/X-1a, preflight, proofing, press checks, file prep, and print production.

• Use plain fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Save as a clean PDF or a .docx file without complex layout elements.
• Put keywords into your experience bullets naturally, not stuffed in a keyword list.

Avoid using fancy synonyms for core skills. If a job asks for "prepress" don't replace it with only "print prep". Keep terms consistent with the job posting.

Don't hide important info in headers or footers. ATS sometimes skip those areas and lose contact details or dates. Always put dates and employer names in the main text under Work Experience.

Common mistakes include heavy graphics, multi-column layouts, and embedded text in images. Also avoid long, styled section headers and unusual file types. Follow these simple rules and your resume will reach a hiring manager who cares about your print craft.

Pick a clean, grid-based template for a Print Designer resume. Use a reverse-chronological layout unless you need to highlight projects over dates. This keeps your portfolio flow clear for hiring managers and ATS.

Keep length tight. One page works if you have under 10 years of print design experience. Use two pages only when you have many highly relevant roles and publications to list.

Use simple, readable fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Maintain consistent line spacing and 0.5–0.75 inch margins for white space.

For Print Designer work, show projects with short bullets. Lead with the outcome, then mention tools and print specs. Add links to PDFs or a portfolio, labeled clearly.

Avoid ornate layouts with lots of columns or heavy graphics. Those often break ATS parsing and distract reviewers. Use subtle color for headings only, and keep icons minimal.

Use clear section headings such as Contact, Summary, Experience, Projects, Skills, Education. Order sections by what proves your fit fastest. Put most relevant work near the top.

Common mistakes include tiny fonts, cluttered spacing, and inconsistent date formats. Also avoid packing lengthy paragraphs under roles. Bullets make achievements scannable.

Finally, proof a printed copy. Your resume reflects your print sensibility. If spacing or alignment looks off on paper, fix it before you send.

Why a targeted cover letter matters

A tailored cover letter explains why you fit the Print Designer role. It complements your resume and shows real interest in the studio and its projects.

Key sections

• Header: Include your contact details, the company's name, and the date.
• Opening paragraph: Say you are applying for Print Designer, show enthusiasm, and name one strong qualification or where you found the role.
• Body paragraphs: Connect your experience to the job. Mention projects, tools, and measurable results. Name technical skills like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and prepress checks. Show soft skills like collaboration, problem solving, and time management. Use keywords from the job posting.
• Closing paragraph: Restate your interest in the Print Designer role, show confidence in your contribution, ask for an interview, and thank the reader.

Tone and tailoring

Keep the tone professional, confident, and friendly. Write like you speak to a colleague. Use short sentences and clear verbs. Edit each letter for the company and role. Swap generic phrases for specific examples tied to the studio's work.

Practical tips

Mention a relevant project and one measurable result. Name the print tools you use. Reference the company or a recent campaign. Keep the letter to one page. Proofread for layout and spelling.

If you're targeting Print Designer roles, small resume mistakes can cost you interviews. Recruiters want clear proof you know print processes, typography, and prepress. Spend time removing vague wording and showing concrete results.

Fixing these common errors makes your resume easier to read and shows you care about detail.

If you design for print, this FAQ and tips set helps you craft a resume that shows your layout sense, technical skills, and production experience. Use these pointers to make your work and process clear to hiring managers and art directors.