Tips to Transform Your UX Portfolio & Land Your Dream Job

Are you truly representing your best work? If you're aiming to make a mark in UX, or stand out among thousands vying for top roles, then settling for "good enough" is a recipe for disappointment.

Stop wondering "Why me?" and start implementing these game-changing tips to transform your portfolio into a magnet for recruiters!

? Don't: Be Generic & Uninspired

• Ditch the templates! Your portfolio is an extension of your unique design voice, not a mass-produced resume.
• *Don't just display, tell a story! Each project should showcase your process, challenges, and solutions in a captivating narrative.
• First impressions matter! Craft a clear, concise landing page that highlights your value proposition and key skills.

? Do: ? Showcase Your Value & Impact

• Focus on quality, not quantity. Choose projects that showcase your best work and relevant skills for your target roles.
• Quantify your impact! Did your design increase user engagement by 20%? Showcase data and metrics to tell a compelling story.
• Embrace diversity! Show your ability to tackle different project types, scales, and industries.

Example: Instead of just presenting a redesign of a popular app, consider showcasing a project where you tackled a unique user challenge for a niche industry. Highlight how your design went beyond the expected and delivered measurable results.

? Don't: Be Static & Silent

• Interactive prototypes are your secret weapon! Let viewers actively engage with your designs and experience their functionality.
• Case studies go beyond visuals. Explain your design thinking process, user research findings, and key decision points.
• Silence is LOUD! Include a clear call to action, whether it's inviting contact, showcasing case studies, or directing viewers to your social media.

? Do: ? Communicate Effectively & Continuously

• Tailor your portfolio to each application. Highlight skills and experiences relevant to the specific role and company.
• Get feedback! Ask peers, mentors, or even potential employers to give you honest, constructive criticism.
• Keep it fresh! Update your portfolio regularly with new projects, skills, and achievements.

Example: As the UX Job Markets Are Changing in Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the UK article by Kathryn Brookshier on Medium highlights, research trends indicate a growing demand for UX research specialists across these regions. If you focus on UX research, consider including relevant projects and showcasing your proficiency in user research methodologies in your portfolio.

Continue reading…

Bonus Tip:

• Move beyond aesthetics and consider how your designs or research findings affect users. Think about inclusivity, accessibility, and usability for everyone.
• Showcase your understanding of real-world issues and design solutions or research insights that positively impact users and communities. This shows recruiters you're a mindful, responsible designer or researcher.

Upcoming Skillshop:

Join us for the "How to Recruit Participants for Your Research: A Hands-On UX Research Workshop!" on March 6th, 12 PM EST. ?

In this action-packed workshop, you'll learn how to:

• Craft invitations that attract the perfect research subjects. ?
• Design screening questions to ensure you get the right fit. ?
• Master retention tips to keep participants engaged.

Limited seats available……

Save your seat!