The Significance of Real-World Projects

If you read my last article, you understand that companies prefer candidates with actual experience, even for entry-level UX positions. This leaves us with two choices:

1. Complain about the lack of opportunities for those with only Bootcamp projects.
2. Go out into the world and prove your worth.

Why Sending Countless Job Applications Is Ineffective

First and foremost, I want to emphasize that your time and energy are invaluable.

Consider how much time you've already spent sending CVs or attending interviews that led nowhere. It’s disheartening to see talented UX professionals wasting their precious time scouring LinkedIn job listings and websites, only to face rejections and burnout.

Today, we'll focus on how to channel that energy productively. It's time to stop squandering your efforts.

Recognize your value; you've worked hard to be where you are today. Transitioning careers or pursuing a passion that benefits society shouldn't be so challenging.

Your Role and Responsibility as a UX Designer

Here’s the hard truth about your skills in UX:

"Many businesses are shutting down and incurring losses simply because they didn’t have your expertise."

It’s a harsh reality, but many companies are unaware that they need your guidance to avoid failure. Your skills could help them find effective solutions that not only assist users but also create new job opportunities.

Your contributions can impact the economy at local, national, and even global levels. Yes, UX designers hold that kind of influence.

Yet, here you are, spending your valuable time applying to companies that may never even glance at your portfolio. This is a colossal waste of human potential, and it needs to change. There are opportunities for everyone; we just need to approach the situation differently.

You are knowledgeable about UX Design and aware of its significance for businesses. Don’t you believe companies often misunderstand our value? Many don’t even grasp what UX Design entails.

I’ve turned down several job offers that labeled the position as UX Designer, but what they really wanted was a graphic designer.

I’ve invested substantial resources into my education, and I refuse to trivialize that effort.

In addition to UX/UI Design, I've studied business, law, marketing, front-end development, data analysis, research, workshops, copywriting, SEO, and business strategies. I’m sure you have a similarly strong background that should be utilized.

Why Companies Struggle to Hire Newbies

Everyone must start somewhere, and I wholeheartedly agree with that principle. However, it’s frustrating that many new UX designers find it nearly impossible to secure their first position. This stems from companies’ inability to train numerous novices; they prefer hiring someone who can demonstrate their capabilities.

From the company's perspective, hiring a junior UX designer can be costly. They face expenses related to training and the need for senior designers to mentor and review your work. Do you know how expensive a senior designer's time can be?

I’m not suggesting that you stop applying for jobs, but I urge you not to waste endless hours scrolling through job listings if they yield no results.

When a business fails, we all feel the repercussions. Jobs are lost, resources are wasted, and user problems remain unresolved. This is a responsibility we share.

So, with all your expertise, will you continue to plead for established companies to take you in? They are unlikely to do so because you cannot prove your worth yet; however, not being able to demonstrate your skills doesn’t mean you lack them.

How to Secure a Real Project Without Prior Experience

I’ve been receiving better job offers lately, not because I waited for someone to provide an opportunity, but because I created one myself.

Three Proven Ways to Land Your First UX Project

Now that you have a fantastic portfolio showcasing your UX abilities through at least two projects—whether real-world or not—let's explore three effective strategies to land a project. Hold on tight; this kind of information is often kept under wraps, but you're welcome to buy me a coffee if you find it valuable. 😉

1. Offer a Money-Back Guarantee

Don’t charge your client until they’ve seen your work. This marketing tactic often encourages purchases, as it provides a sense of security.

Your initial client should feel confident in trying your services.

If you’ve ever purchased a product with a money-back guarantee, you know how effective this strategy can be. It typically boosts sales significantly.

You’re already dedicating time to unpaid projects, so if the client loves your design and pays, it’s a win-win.

How to Do It:

Find a freelance platform like Upwork, Workona, or Fiverr. Choose one and focus your efforts there. Create an eye-catching advertisement for your services, promising payment only upon delivery or no payment if the work isn’t satisfactory. Work quickly and exceed expectations for your first client, leading to recommendations and reviews.

My Experience:

This approach helped me land several jobs. I initially sent low-resolution versions of the final work, allowing clients to preview it before making a payment on the platform. They would often pay to receive the final project file.

2. Identify a Business on Social Media That Needs Your Help

Every business stepping into the digital realm engages in social media advertising. While they’re already investing in marketing, do they realize the value a skilled UX Designer can bring?

How to Do It:

Examine their business model to identify gaps or areas for improvement. Reach out, initiate a conversation, and provide them with valuable advice. Schedule a meeting to discuss how you can assist them further. They likely don’t understand what UX Design entails, and it’s your chance to enlighten them.

My Experience:

I reached out to a business, highlighting areas they were unaware of. I inquired about their website or app's effectiveness in simplifying customer interactions. I discussed UX's impact on their business, supported by data and examples, which eventually led to a scheduled meeting to explore what I could offer further.

3. Choose a Company You Admire

Another effective way to secure your first real project—or even a full-time job—is to select a company you wish to work with, including your current employer if applicable.

How to Do It:

Research the company, understanding its competitors, challenges, values, and goals. Afterward, devise a solution and publish it on LinkedIn to capture their attention. Ask if you can join their design meetings, and you might be surprised by the outcomes.

My Experience:

Currently, I’m freelancing while working for a software development firm, primarily focusing on research quality rather than direct product design. However, I frequently suggest adjustments based on UX principles and research, and they’ve been receptive so far.

You’re now equipped to start making your mark. If there’s something you’re unsure about, take the initiative to learn—information is readily available today. I’ll leave you with a powerful quote from a Brazilian author:

"Don't waste your time chasing butterflies. Mend your garden, and the butterflies will come."

— Mario Quintana

Feel free to reach out or leave comments on this article; I love hearing your feedback as it inspires me to continue sharing insights and experiences. I strive to respond to every message over time.

That’s it for today! If you need anything, you can find me on LinkedIn. If you found this article useful, please let me know by clapping. 😊

See you next time!

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