{"id":23684,"date":"2019-02-05T22:58:02","date_gmt":"2019-02-05T22:58:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/codewebbarcelona.com\/claves-ser-contratado-disenador\/"},"modified":"2026-04-20T23:32:28","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T23:32:28","slug":"keys-get-hired-designer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/codewebbarcelona.com\/en\/blog\/keys-get-hired-designer\/","title":{"rendered":"The 6 Keys to Getting Hired as a Graphic Designer or Programmer"},"content":{"rendered":"

In this post, I want to share the essential keys to help you stand out when applying for jobs as a graphic designer or even as a web developer\u2014so you can truly be the best of the best.<\/p>\n

After reviewing hundreds of resumes and portfolios from graphic designers and web developers, I can honestly say I\u2019ve seen it all. And I mean all!<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re curious about how a design studio views the countless applications we receive, this post is for you.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s why I\u2019m dedicating this article to giving you a few tips to ensure that, when you apply for a job as a graphic designer, you\u2019re among the top candidates.<\/p>\n

My goal here is to motivate every reader to improve\u2014because ultimately, it\u2019s up to you to grow both professionally and personally.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n

The 6 keys to getting hired as a graphic designer or developer\u2014pro tip of the day<\/h2>\n

1. Craft an outstanding resume<\/h3>\n

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The first and most important key: your resume.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a graphic designer, your resume needs to be exceptional.<\/p>\n

A Word document just won\u2019t cut it. As surprising as it may sound, we\u2019ve received more than a few resumes created in Word and exported to PDF.<\/p>\n

That might be fine if you\u2019re applying for an office job, a legal position, or a financial advisor role.<\/p>\n

But if you\u2019re applying as a graphic designer, it\u2019s a dealbreaker. So if this is you, don\u2019t take it personally\u2014just start working on a new, standout resume right now.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s an inspiration post where you\u2019ll find amazing resume ideas<\/a>.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m sure, as a designer, you\u2019re more than capable of creating a great resume using Adobe Illustrator or InDesign. Open it up, take your time, and don\u2019t send out another resume until it\u2019s truly exceptional.<\/p>\n

Seriously\u2014don\u2019t keep reading until you\u2019ve done this. Done? Great, let\u2019s move on!<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a web developer without much design experience, I recommend learning the basics of the most common design tools and creating a resume that stands out.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s true that design isn\u2019t your main job as a developer, but this is a competition to see who\u2019s the best. If you can show some design skills, you\u2019ll have a big advantage over other developers who don\u2019t.<\/p>\n

P.S. This is a bit off-topic, but make sure the most important information is at the top of your resume.<\/p>\n

2. An online portfolio is a must<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

While most people manage to put together a resume, far fewer have an online portfolio.<\/p>\n

There are plenty of excuses for not having one:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. I already have a resume\u2014why do I need a portfolio?<\/li>\n
  2. I can\u2019t afford hosting and a domain<\/li>\n
  3. I don\u2019t have any work to show<\/li>\n
  4. It\u2019s not that important<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Since these are just excuses, let\u2019s break them down one by one.<\/p>\n

    I already have a resume\u2014why do I need a portfolio?<\/h4>\n

    You need a portfolio because a design studio looking to hire you wants to see real examples of your work.<\/p>\n

    You need a portfolio because your competition has one.<\/p>\n

    And sometimes, your portfolio is even more important than your resume!<\/p>\n

    I can\u2019t afford hosting and a domain<\/h4>\n

    I get it. But in today\u2019s world, you have thousands of free options.<\/p>\n

    Set up a Behance profile, learn a bit of WordPress\u2014whatever it takes, just get your portfolio online.<\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re a developer, this is even more important. In your case, I\u2019d seriously consider investing in a cheap hosting plan and domain so you can showcase your programming and front-end skills.<\/p>\n

    I don\u2019t have any work to show<\/h4>\n

    If you don\u2019t have client work to display, use projects you created while studying graphic design or web development.<\/p>\n

    Sure, they\u2019re not real client projects, but at least they show your potential.<\/p>\n

    Other ways to boost your portfolio:<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Create a semi-real project\u2014design a logo for your aunt, use a mockup for business cards and make them look as realistic as possible. Some might say, \u201cBut that\u2019s not a real project, it\u2019s fake!\u201d If you feel uncomfortable, just add a small note saying, \u201cThis is a simulated project.\u201d<\/li>\n
    2. Find a nonprofit to collaborate with. You\u2019ll build your portfolio and support a good cause. Win-win.<\/li>\n
    3. If you have friends in design or development, offer to help them out. Some might say, \u201cI\u2019m not a slave!\u201d No, you\u2019re someone who needs work and a bigger portfolio\u2014remember, you said you didn\u2019t have anything to show.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      It\u2019s not that important<\/h4>\n

      Yes, it is.<\/p>\n

      3. Practice creativity every day<\/h3>\n

      \"\"<\/p>\n

      Browse blogs, join design communities, visit programming websites, and stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies.<\/p>\n

      Check out sites that curate cutting-edge web designs, logos, business cards, and more.<\/p>\n

      Here are a few posts you might find useful:<\/p>\n