You're a mid-career product designer. How do you find a job that aligns with your values?

As an experienced product designer, I meticulously align my design consulting endeavors with personal values and professional competencies. Through deep introspection, I delineate motivations, passions, and essential principles. Networking and market research aid in pinpointing clients that resonate with my values. I direct my focus towards projects that offer impactful solutions and growth avenues. During client collaborations, I highlight problem-solving prowess, user-centric approaches, and inquire about their fundamental values. This fosters mutual alignment, ensuring meaningful contributions. Continual learning sustains competitiveness and fosters innovation, amplifying higher value realization and industry impact.

I had previously uploaded my resume to a hiring website when I received a call from a company that had found me through that website. I looked up the company on LinkedIn and spoke with a few of my former colleagues who are familiar with it. I prepared myself carefully for the interview because the company was stable and produced high-end, distinctive products. After three to four interviews with several departments, I was chosen. And after working in that company I realized my decision was correct. As it is a good company that worked on very creative unique ideas that enhanced my learning capabilities and experiences. I appreciate LinkedIn for allowing me to share my experience here.

Simply put, ask yourself the question "What do I bring to the table"? This would help you identify your core strengths and weaknesses.

In my opinion, as a mid-career product designer seeking a job that aligns with your values, start by reflecting on what matters most to you professionally. Research companies known for their alignment with values like social responsibility or diversity. Network with professionals in your industry and evaluate job postings for cultural fit. Ask questions in interviews about company values and initiatives, and consider work-life balance policies. Seek feedback from current employees to gain insights. Ultimately, trust your instincts when assessing opportunities. By prioritizing alignment with your values throughout the job search process, you increase your chances of finding a fulfilling role.

For me is to stay open-minded and be willing to explore different avenues that might not initially align with your preconceived notions.

Finding a job that vibes with your values as a mid-career product designer? It's all about the detective work. Start by listing out what really matters to you, then dive into researching potential employers. Go beyond the basics like job descriptions and salaries. Check out their mission, vision, and values. Get a feel for their company culture and how they tackle product design challenges. Scope out how they treat their team, customers, and the world around them. There's a treasure trove of info out there - websites, social media, reviews, you name it. Get sleuthing and find that perfect fit!

Choose companies that are known for promoting from within and offering competitive salaries and benefits. Your values don't pay the bills or advance your career – ambition does.

You can get more insights about potential employers by following them and the employees of the company on social media. Most founders have a social platform they are more active on. You can also check reviews about the company and how they respond to them. Their language and manner of response can say a lot about the company culture and founder.

Networking so a good and fast way to put your "foot" in the company. I always tell people that "the reward for good work leads to more work", If you worked with someone in the past and delivered a good Job, they would always refer their network to you. That is one interesting thing about Networking.

In the realm of product design, expertise often lies in specific industry niches. A college professor once shared invaluable advice: to tailor personal projects to reflect the roles you aspire to. This is especially crucial if your current portfolio does not align with your desired industry. By focusing on projects that demonstrate your skills and cater to your target job, you can create a portfolio that not only showcases your abilities but also increases your chances of landing the job you want.

You Portfolio speaks for you as a designer. It is always import to invest time to constantly update your portfolio showcasing your most recent experience and skills.

During interviews, the interviewer can easily perceive when the candidate lacks confidence and authenticity. It is always important to be at your best and present the best version of yourself.

Preparing for an interview requires confidence, so you should only put projects you can confidently discuss on your portfolio. Reading up about the industry, the company and its competitors will also help. Going through their social media page will help too.

I have been in an interview where the interviewer asked "What do you know about this company" It is important to always research about the company you are applying for and be ready to ask questions during the interview.

it's all right to not know everything, when you don't you could say "I don't have an answer to this question, but I'm happy to look into or learn more about it" or "oh wow this is a new angle or something I know much on, I will most definitely look at it after this interview" Be confident about what you know and be honest about your process.

Research: Look for companies whose mission, culture, and products resonate with your values. Network: Connect with professionals in your field and express your values to attract opportunities. Evaluate: Assess potential employers during interviews to ensure alignment with your values. Prioritize: Prioritize opportunities that offer meaningful work and align with your personal and professional values.