Chapter 1: Introduction to My UX Journey

It has been around two to three years since I embarked on my journey into UX Design, and it feels like a lifetime ago. In this piece, I’ll provide my insights on the current job market and share observations from the industry.

I want to start by apologizing for my recent absence. I've received numerous LinkedIn messages requesting mentorship, but the past year has been quite hectic for me.

After nearly a year of travel, I am back and eager to reconnect with the community.

Am I overworking?

I believe in maintaining a balance in life and ensuring that I make time for enjoyment, hobbies, and my youth. However, that’s not the focus of today’s discussion. The key takeaway is that life is the most precious asset, and while money is necessary, it can't buy time or health.

If financial stability is still a goal, you may need to invest time now to achieve balance later. This was the case when I began my transition into UX. Initially, I was unemployed, unwilling to continue in my previous role, and uncertain about how to re-enter the corporate world. I realized I had to dedicate time to learning something new—UX.

I committed myself to studying continuously, prioritizing my education over social activities until I could confidently identify as a UX Designer.

> My Career Transition in Brief

It took me six months to secure a position, which wasn’t a UX role but at a tech company. The salary was insufficient, so I began freelancing after hours to supplement my income and, importantly, to gain experience in the field.

What if I were starting my journey into UX Design today?

If you’re reading this, you deserve to know the essentials.

The Current Landscape

There are countless small companies seeking UX Designers, yet they often overlook graduates from BootCamp or Google UX Design programs for several reasons:

1. The Google UX Design Certificate lacks training in UI or graphic design.
2. Most candidates have little to no experience.
3. Some organizations prefer to hire individuals with a background in graphic design or technology.

Steps for Success in UX Design

1. Identify Your Learning Style

   Seek out a UX design course that matches your preferred learning method. Many peers have left the Google UX Certificate due to its extensive reading material, which they found challenging. Ensure that the course structure aligns with your learning preferences before committing.

2. Apply Your Knowledge Immediately

   While understanding UX design theory is vital, actual growth occurs when you put that knowledge into practice. Consider volunteering or taking on personal projects to gain hands-on experience and build your portfolio.

3. Learn Graphic Design Basics

   Familiarity with visual aesthetics is crucial. Learning Adobe tools for image and graphic editing can significantly differentiate you from others in the field. With AI tools, you can create appealing graphics quickly, making you more adaptable and valuable.

4. Seek Out a Mentor

   If feasible, find a mentor who can provide guidance and feedback. Experienced UX designers can help you navigate the industry’s challenges and opportunities, accelerating your learning curve. If mentorship isn’t an option, seek feedback from experienced peers in UX communities.

5. Build Your Network

   A robust professional network is key to career advancement. Attend industry events, conferences, and meetups to connect with designers, developers, and professionals from related fields. Networking can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and ongoing learning.

Staying Current

Keep in mind that UX design is a dynamic field. Stay informed about industry trends, tools, and technologies. Regularly seek feedback on your work and be open to constructive criticism, as this will foster your growth.

Lastly, remember that the effort you put in today will pay off in the future, allowing you to enjoy a balanced life. For those starting their UX journey, I highly recommend UXCEL—a gamified platform for learning UX! You can begin for free, and it’s designed to keep you motivated to practice daily.

Join today and enjoy a 25% discount on the Pro Uxcel Yearly subscription through my link. You can start for free, with no credit card required. If you subscribe via my link, I’ll earn a small commission, which supports my work.

Additional Resources

• If your UX Portfolio has this 20% Well Done, it Will Give You an 80% Result
• After Going Through 10 UX Interviews, Here is What I Learned
• I Got 15+ Interviews in My First Month as a UX Designer — Here is My Secret
• Don’t Go To Any UX Job Interview Before Knowing These 7 UX Terms

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The first video, "A Day in the Life of a UX Designer (2023)," offers an insightful glimpse into the daily responsibilities and experiences of a UX designer, showcasing the skills and mindset needed for success in this field.

The second video, "Blueprint to Getting into UX/UI Design in 2024!" serves as a valuable roadmap for aspiring designers, outlining steps to break into the industry and build a fulfilling career.

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