Here's how you can identify essential qualities when hiring designers for a team.

1 Portfolio Review

When reviewing a designer's portfolio, look for diversity and depth in their work. A strong portfolio should showcase a range of projects with clear explanations of the designer's role and the outcomes achieved. It's important to assess the problem-solving capabilities demonstrated through their designs. Pay attention to the thought process and the ability to adapt designs to meet different objectives or user needs. This will give you insight into their creative and technical proficiency, which is crucial for delivering innovative solutions.

2 Team Fit

Assessing whether a designer will fit well with your existing team is paramount. You want someone who can collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and contribute to a positive team dynamic. Look for evidence of past teamwork and ask about their experience working with cross-functional teams. Observe their interpersonal skills during the interview process. A designer who is adaptable, open to feedback, and has a constructive approach to conflict resolution will likely be a valuable addition to your team.

3 Technical Skills

Technical skills are the foundation of a designer's capability. Ensure that the candidate is proficient in the design tools and software necessary for your projects. Depending on your team's focus, this might include expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, or other industry-standard tools. Additionally, understanding of design principles, typography, and color theory is essential. For digital design roles, knowledge of HTML, CSS, and basic front-end development can be highly beneficial.

4 Creative Process

Understanding a candidate's creative process can reveal a lot about their approach to design challenges. During the interview, ask them to walk you through a project from conception to completion. Listen for how they conduct research, generate ideas, prototype, and iterate on designs. The ability to think critically and apply design thinking methodologies is a sign of a mature designer who can deliver user-centered solutions.

5 Problem Solving

Design is fundamentally about solving problems. Look for candidates who demonstrate strong analytical thinking and an ability to approach issues methodically. Inquire about specific challenges they've faced in past projects and how they overcame them. A designer who can articulate their problem-solving process is likely to be resourceful and innovative, which are valuable traits in any design team.

6 Continuous Learning

The design industry is constantly evolving with new trends, tools, and methodologies. It's important to hire designers who are committed to continuous learning and professional growth. Ask about the ways they stay updated with industry developments and how they have applied new knowledge to their work. A designer with a growth mindset will not only improve their own skills but can also inspire and elevate the entire team.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?