Many job openings in UX have specific roles and skills listed. Product designers need Figma proficiency, researchers must conduct surveys, and UX writers should communicate brand values.
This article is part of our ongoing series on UX. Dive into Smart Interface Design Patterns 🍣 and check out the upcoming live UX training with code BIRDIE for a 15% discount.
The Many Roles In UX
Successful candidates often align with established roles in UX, focusing on best practices in user needs, business needs, problem spaces, and solution spaces.
Many companies struggle to identify the exact expertise they need until they find the right candidate who has it. Job openings often lack flexibility unless candidates strictly meet all requirements.
UX roles typically fit into predefined boxes that limit exploration:
“V”-Shaped Designers Don’t Fit Into Boxes
Job openings often focus on T-shaped designers, but the value lies in V-shaped designers who cross disciplines and excel at connecting dots.
Experts like Brad Frost highlight that talent doesn’t neatly fit into specific roles; their strength lies in crossing boundaries. V-shaped designers possess expertise in multiple areas with a deep understanding of related fields.
V-shaped designers excel at bridging gaps and driving innovation. They establish KPIs, drive accessibility efforts, and streamline design systems with the support of T-shaped specialists.
Shaping Your Own Boxes
Encouraging employees to carve their unique roles can be more beneficial than confining them to predefined boxes. Let employees define their roles based on their strengths and interests.
🏔️ Hiring? → Encourage diverse applications instead of rigid requirements.
🎢 Seek a challenge? → Explore where you make an impact and suggest new roles.
✅ Job hunting? → Apply even if you don’t meet all requirements. Explain your unique value.
Best of luck in shaping your own path!
Meet Smart Interface Design Patterns
If you’re into UX and design patterns, check out Smart Interface Design Patterns, a comprehensive video course with live UX training. Access 100 design patterns with real-life examples.
100 design patterns & real-life examples.
10h video course + live UX training. Free preview.
(yk, il)