CommonLounge Archive

Getting hired as a UI Designer

December 13, 2017

Congratulations for getting through the UI Design List! You’re almost done — you should now feel comfortable with most of the UI Design principles, as well as some tools to get you started.

If want to become a full time UI Designer, you may be wondering what the next steps look like. How do you break into the field with no work experience? Here are a few things we’d recommend you to do:

Build a portfolio

And since you’re building one, make sure it’s great. Your portfolio is your display of your work. It’s shows what you are capable of. It’s plays a very important role in the design teams you apply to getting back to start the interview process with you. To discover some ideas on what you should put in it, you should check out some great portfolios at http://www.bestfolios.com/portfolios

Get work experience

Since getting a full time role requires some real work experience, a lot of UI Designers build up this experience (and build up their portfolio) via freelance jobs and short internships. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer etc. are great for finding you a short-term gig in UI Design. Your personal network might be great for finding you short-term internships/contracts — which brings us to the next point.

Build your network

This part of the process cannot be overstated in importance. Your personal network will help you find your next job whenever you’re looking for one, and at times can even help you fill up your spare time by finding you good freelance opportunities. Some quick tips on building your network:

  • Build up your LinkedIn profile and make sure it’s fleshed out properly.
  • Get to know everyone who already works at your own company.
  • Reach out to experts in your field on Twitter or other networks for advice and critique on your work. Make sure you offer to help others wherever you can.
  • Attend meetups and events relevant to UI/UX Design so that you can run into other professionals like you. The UI/UX Design community is very warm and welcoming, and face-to-face introductions will go a long way.

Build your personal brand

Your personal brand is what others see when they look you up online. It’s the emotion you evoke when someone sees your online persona. Your personal brand starts with your social profiles — make sure they are public, consistent, and clean. Keep a consistent voice throughout and use similar writing style/tone for your personal website as well.

Conclusion

Finding a full-time job as a UI Designer without any prior work experience might get a little tiring and frustrating — but remember that you’ll have to go through this only once. Stay positive, motivated, and keep at it — a career in UI Design is extremely rewarding.


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