How can you address gaps in your UX research resume?

1 Highlight your transferable skills

One way to address gaps in your UX research resume is to highlight your transferable skills that are relevant to UX research, such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and empathy. You can use examples from your previous or current roles, volunteer work, hobbies, or personal projects to show how you have applied these skills in different contexts and situations. For instance, if you have a background in journalism, you can emphasize how you have conducted interviews, analyzed data, and written compelling stories. If you have a hobby in photography, you can showcase how you have used visual design principles, user feedback, and editing tools.

2 Showcase your learning journey

Another way to address gaps in your UX research resume is to showcase your learning journey and how you have acquired the knowledge and skills needed for UX research. You can include any formal or informal education, such as courses, certificates, workshops, books, podcasts, or blogs, that you have completed or are currently pursuing. You can also mention any mentors, communities, or networks that you have learned from or contributed to. For example, if you have taken an online course on UX research methods, you can highlight the key concepts, tools, and techniques that you have learned and practiced. If you have joined a UX research group on LinkedIn, you can share how you have participated in discussions, events, or challenges.

4 Ask for referrals or testimonials

A fourth way to address gaps in your UX research resume is to ask for referrals or testimonials from people who can vouch for your UX research skills and abilities. These can be your former or current colleagues, managers, clients, or instructors, who have worked with you or seen your work. You can ask them to write a brief recommendation letter, a LinkedIn endorsement, or a video testimonial that highlights your strengths, achievements, and impact as a UX researcher. You can also ask them to introduce you to their contacts or networks in the UX research field, or to recommend you for any UX research opportunities that they know of.

5 Be honest and confident

A fifth and final way to address gaps in your UX research resume is to be honest and confident about your background, skills, and goals. You don't have to hide or apologize for your gaps, but rather explain them in a positive and constructive way. You can emphasize what you have learned, how you have improved, and what you can offer as a UX researcher. You can also express your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn more and grow in the field. You can show your potential employers that you are not afraid of challenges, but rather see them as opportunities to learn and innovate.

6 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?