#112 What to look for in a UX Role?
Honest UX Talks
Deep Dive
Why is it important to consider your career stage when choosing a UX role?
Your career stage determines what factors matter most. For juniors, learning from a mature team is crucial, while seniors may prioritize specific projects or industries to fill portfolio gaps.
What are the three key factors to consider when choosing a UX role?
The three key factors are the mission or product you'll work on, the culture and people you'll collaborate with, and the leadership that shapes the work environment and performance criteria.
Why does the problem space matter in a UX role?
The problem space determines your motivation and growth. Working on interesting and challenging problems fosters enthusiasm, critical thinking, and sustained effort over time.
How can you assess team dynamics and company culture during interviews?
Look at who you report to, research mid-level management, and use tools like Glassdoor or LinkedIn to understand the organization's structure and values. Ask current employees about challenges and problems they face.
Why is design leadership important in a UX role?
Design leadership shapes the culture, mission, and performance criteria of the team. It influences who gets hired, how work is evaluated, and the overall direction of the design team.
How does personal motivation impact job satisfaction in UX roles?
Personal motivation is crucial for sustaining enthusiasm and effort. If you're passionate about the product or industry, you're more likely to stay engaged and push for good design decisions.
What advice do the hosts give for junior designers choosing their first UX roles?
Focus on joining a mature team that can teach you foundational skills rather than prioritizing the industry. The team's expertise is more important than the specific product or industry for early career growth.
Why is it important to research mid-level management during the job search?
Mid-level management directly impacts your day-to-day work, culture, and performance evaluation. Understanding their backgrounds and values helps predict how you'll be managed and what the work environment will be like.
How can you identify if a company prioritizes good design over efficiency?
Look at who you report to. If you report to tech or marketing, the company may prioritize efficiency over design quality. Strong design leadership is needed to push for thoughtful, user-centered design decisions.
What is the dynamic nature of career decision-making in UX roles?
Career priorities change over time. What matters at one stage, like a big company logo on your CV, may become less important as you grow and focus more on the work itself or the team you're working with.
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