Here's how you can tackle technical design questions in an interview.

1 Understand Basics

To confidently handle technical design questions, you must have a solid grasp of the fundamental principles of industrial design. This includes knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, ergonomics, and aesthetics. When you're asked a technical question, relate it back to these core concepts. For example, if the question pertains to material selection, discuss the trade-offs between different materials in terms of cost, durability, and sustainability. Demonstrating a deep understanding of these basics shows that you can make informed design decisions.

2 Analyze Briefly

When presented with a technical question, take a moment to analyze it before diving into your answer. Consider what the interviewer is looking for: Is it your thought process, creativity, or specific knowledge? For instance, if you're asked to design a product for an unfamiliar industry, outline your approach to research and learning about the new sector. Explain how you would apply your design skills to meet the unique challenges of that industry. This shows that you can think strategically and adapt your skills to various contexts.

3 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is critical when answering technical questions. Avoid jargon unless it's absolutely necessary and always explain your reasoning. If you must use technical terms, define them briefly to ensure the interviewer follows your thought process. When explaining a design choice, articulate the benefits and potential drawbacks, and how it aligns with the project goals. This not only demonstrates your technical knowledge but also your ability to convey complex ideas succinctly.

4 Showcase Creativity

Industrial design is as much about innovation as it is about technical proficiency. When tackling design questions, showcase your creativity by offering unique solutions or perspectives. If asked how you would improve an existing product, suggest a novel feature or a design tweak that enhances user experience or functionality. Your ability to think outside the box can set you apart from other candidates and prove that you're a forward-thinking designer.

6 Reflect Experience

Lastly, leverage your past experiences when answering technical questions. Draw parallels between the question and a previous project or challenge you've faced. Discuss the lessons learned and how they apply to the current scenario. This not only provides concrete examples of your skills in action but also gives the interviewer insight into your professional growth and how you've applied your knowledge in real-world situations.

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?