Vol. 009 - How to Build Personal Connection with Interviewer?

Hi designers,

Welcome to Vol. 009 of the UX Jetpack Newsletter, where I share job searching tips weekly. This week we are talking about:

1. How to Build a Personal Connection with Interviewer?
2. How to Add Personality to Your Portfolio?
3. How to Improve Your Taste in Design?
4. Web Interface Guidelines

If you enjoy those tips, please consider sharing them with your friends. They can sign up at https://uxjetpack.com/newsletter

How to Build a Personal Connection with Interviewer

Acing the Interview isn't about impressing the interviewer but building a genuine connection. Here are some ways to demonstrate your interest in the company and make a personal connection.

1. Do your research about the company and industry. If you can share insights based on your knowledge, it's a big plus. It shows your passion and dedication, qualities employers value.

2. If you have any relevant past experiences unrelated to work, mention them. It leaves a positive impression. People remember you when you share a bit of personality.

3. If you feel nervous before the Interview, tell yourself that you are excited to learn about the opportunity. Remember to smile during the Interview. Consider jotting down key points on sticky notes on your screen, so you don't forget what you want to say.

How to Add Personality to Your Portfolio?

Can your portfolio stand out in the sea of designers looking for jobs now?

Recruiters and hiring managers review hundreds of portfolios for each position; if you can't find ways to catch their eyes, your portfolio will be dismissed in seconds.

Here are some tips to help you stand out:

1. Recreate your visuals: While people like to see messy sketches and sticky notes, it doesn't mean you can't design your visuals to provide a cohesive personal brand identity, even if it's just a simple background.
2. Shake up your layout: Add visual interest to your page by making it more dynamic. Use different sizes of images and various layouts for your text. Although you don't want to overdo this, keeping a good rhythm is essential.
3. Add a personal touch: This can be anything: a nice illustration, cute custom icons, or even a simple way for people to copy your email. These small details leave a big impression.

Oh, and here's a cool bonus for you: check out this awesome bingo card by Beccah Erickson, and see how many cliches you have in your portfolio.

twitter.com/beccaherickson/status/1055166628881727488

How to Improve Your Taste in Design?

As designers, we have tons of skills to learn. Developing good taste in design is something every designer should prioritize as well. Here are some ways you can develop an eye for design:

1. Seek inspiration beyond your niche

Expand your sources of inspiration beyond websites and apps. Explore photography, architecture, magazines, or even music videos. Design can be found in every part of the world.

2. Break down the great designs

When you come across a well-designed piece, break it down and try to understand the elements that make it exceptional. Put yourself in the shoes of the great designers who created it, and ask yourself why this design is great.

3. Observe your surroundings

Sometimes, the best inspiration comes from everyday life. Look around and observe the world around you, paying attention to why things are how they are.

4. Watch videos on how things are made

I enjoy watching videos on YouTube about how things are done or made, whether a pair of shoes or a transit system. Understanding the intention behind all the decisions can also bring clarity to your design.

Web Interface Guidelines

A list of details that make a good web interface. This is an excellent refresher for anyone who's designing for the web.

Maintained by Rauno Freiberg

interfaces.rauno.me