Finished a UX Bootcamp? Here’s How to Get Hired Next!

Awesome! You’ve wrapped up your UX bootcamp, and now you’re ready to dive into the job market. Here’s how to get noticed and land that job.

1. Create an Portfolio

Your portfolio is your ticket in. Show off your best projects and focus on your thought process, not just the end result. Employers want to see how you tackle problems. Include real-world examples and detail your role in each project. No pro experience? Use your bootcamp projects or personal ones as case studies.

2. Network Like Crazy

Networking is huge in UX. Hit up industry meetups, join online groups, and connect with pros on LinkedIn. Jump into conversations, ask for informational interviews, and show genuine interest in others’ work. It can open up a ton of opportunities and give you great insights.

3. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter

Generic resumes don’t cut it. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job you apply for. Highlight skills and experiences that match the job description. Use keywords from the listing to get past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

4. Get Ready for Interviews

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but prepping helps. Research the company, practice common UX interview questions, and have some questions ready for them. Be ready to dive deep into your projects, focusing on your design decisions and their impact. Showcase your problem-solving skills and teamwork.

5. Keep Learning and Stay Current

UX is always evolving. Stay on top of things by following industry blogs, taking online courses, and going to workshops. Continuous learning shows employers you’re dedicated and keeps your skills fresh.

6. Ask for Feedback and Improve

Feedback is gold. Ask for it on your portfolio, resume, and interview performance. Use it to make improvements. Sometimes a small tweak can make a big difference.

7. Consider Freelancing or Internships

If a full-time gig is hard to find, freelancing or internships can be great options. They give you experience and help build your portfolio. Plus, they show you’re willing to work and grow in the field.

8. Stay Positive and Persistent

Job hunting can be tough. Stay positive and keep at it. Rejections are part of the process. Each one gets you closer to the right fit. Keep refining your approach and don’t give up.

9. Use Online Platforms

Platforms like LinkedIn, Behance, and Dribbble are great for showcasing your work and connecting with employers. Keep your profiles updated and engage with relevant content. These platforms can be powerful tools in your job search.

10. Show Your Passion

Employers love passionate candidates. Let your enthusiasm for UX design shine in your applications and interviews. Talk about why you love the field and what excites you. Your passion can help you stand out.

Conclusion

Getting your first UX job after bootcamp can seem tough, but with the right approach, it’s totally doable. Build a strong portfolio, network effectively, tailor your applications, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Remember, persistence and a positive attitude are key. Good luck, and happy job hunting!

Carl is a Talent Sourcer Building Design, Product & Engineering Teams at Meta. Carl is also a Mentor at Mento Design Academy. Before recruiting, he was a product designer working with many tech startups to design mobile apps. Carl is also the co-founder of a Meetup called Global UXD where he helps connect designers with each other and create new opportunities. Having completed Thinkful and DesignLab bootcamps before becoming a recruiter, he’s an expert at helping designers land their first design roles. Find Carl on carlwheatly.com and LinkedIn.