12 Designer Skills: Definition and Examples

By ResumeCat Editorial Team
Updated June 7, 2023

In order to be a successful designer, there are 12 skills that you must master. These skills range from being able to define the problem to being able to communicate your designs. By mastering these skills, you will be able to create designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional.

Photoshop

Photoshop is a software program for editing images. It is used to create, edit, and manipulate digital photos. Photoshop is a widely used program in the graphic design industry.

Illustrator

Illustrator is a vector graphic design program that allows you to create complex graphics and illustrations. You need it because it gives you the ability to create high-quality graphics that can be scaled up or down without losing any quality.

InDesign

InDesign is a desktop publishing software application produced by Adobe Systems. It is often used by graphic designers to create posters, flyers, and magazines.

Dreamweaver

Dreamweaver is a web development tool from Adobe that enables designers to create and manage websites. It can be used to create both static and dynamic websites, and provides a variety of features to help with website development, including code editing, site management, and publishing tools.

HTML

HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the standard markup language for creating web pages and web applications. With HTML you can create your own website.

CSS

CSS is a style sheet language used for describing the presentation of a document written in a markup language. A style sheet is a collection of rules that tells a web browser how to display a document written in HTML or XML.

CSS is used to style all HTML tags, including the document's body, headings, paragraphs, and other pieces of text. CSS can also be used to style the display of table elements, grid elements, and images.

JavaScript

JavaScript is a programming language that is used to create interactive web pages. It is one of the three main technologies used in web development, along with HTML and CSS. JavaScript is typically used to add interactivity to web pages, such as responding to user input, creating animations, and more.

JQuery

JQuery is a fast, small, and feature-rich JavaScript library. It makes things like HTML document traversal and manipulation, event handling, animation, and Ajax much simpler with an easy-to-use API that works across a multitude of browsers. With a combination of versatility and extensibility, jQuery has changed the way that millions of people write JavaScript.

PHP

PHP is a programming language that is commonly used for web development. It is a server-side scripting language that can be used to create dynamic web pages. PHP is a widely-used, free, and efficient alternative to competitors such as Microsoft's ASP.

MySQL

MySQL is a database management system that allows you to store, organize, and retrieve data. You need it in order to store data for your website or application.

User Experience (UX)

User experience (UX) is the process of designing and developing products that are easy to use and enjoyable for the people who use them. A good UX can make a big difference in how successful a product is, and it’s becoming increasingly important as more and more products are designed with digital users in mind.

As a designer, you need to be aware of UX principles and how to apply them to your work. This skill will help you create products that are not only visually appealing but also user-friendly and enjoyable to use.

User Interface (UI)

User interface (UI) design is the process of designing user interfaces for software applications. It involves creating user interface elements such as menus, buttons, forms, and other graphical elements that users can interact with to use the software. UI design is important because it makes the software easy to use and helps users to achieve their goals.

How to improve designer skills

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to improve designer skills depends on the individual and their specific goals. However, there are a few general tips that can help any designer sharpen their skills.

First and foremost, designers should always be learning. Whether it’s keeping up with the latest design trends, reading design books and blogs, or taking online courses, designers need to continuously educate themselves to stay ahead of the curve. Additionally, designers should also be constantly practicing their craft. This could mean working on personal projects, participating in design challenges, or simply experimenting with new techniques and software. The more practice a designer has, the better they will become at problem solving and creating beautiful designs.

Finally, one of the best ways for designers to improve their skills is by getting feedback from others. Showing work to peers, mentors, or even clients can provide valuable insight into areas that need improvement. Receiving constructive criticism can be difficult, but it’s essential for growth as a designer.

By following these tips, designers can start down the path to becoming better at their craft. However, ultimately it’s up to the individual to put in the hard work and dedication required to reach their full potential.

How to highlight designer skills

As a designer, you want to be able to highlight your skills in a way that is both professional and appealing to potential employers. To do this, you should focus on creating a portfolio that showcases your best work. When putting together your portfolio, be sure to include a variety of projects that demonstrate your range as a designer. In addition to your portfolio, you should also make sure to list any relevant skills and experience on your resume. When applying for jobs, be sure to tailor your application to each individual job, highlighting the skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the position.

On a resume

As a designer, you should highlight your skills in creativity, problem solving, and communication on your resume. You can showcase your creativity by including a link to your online portfolio or sharing samples of your work. To demonstrate your problem-solving skills, describe how you approached a difficult design challenge and what steps you took to find a solution. And finally, highlight any relevant communication experience you have, whether it’s working with clients or presenting your work to colleagues.

In a cover letter

When writing a cover letter as a Designer, be sure to highlight your skills in the field. Mention your experience with various design software programs, as well as your ability to create innovative and eye-catching designs. If you have a strong portfolio, be sure to include a link to it in your cover letter so that the employer can see your work. Finally, emphasize your passion for design and explain why you would be the perfect candidate for the position.

During an interview

When you are interviewing for a design position, be sure to highlight your skills as a designer. You will want to discuss your experience in the field, your training, and your portfolio. Be sure to emphasize your creative problem-solving abilities, as well as your ability to work within constraints. Be prepared to discuss specific design challenges you have faced and how you addressed them.