What do you do if your UX portfolio and resume need a post-layoff makeover?

2 Showcase Growth

Your portfolio should narrate your professional growth. Reflect on any new skills or methodologies you've adopted since your last job. Perhaps you've learned a new prototyping tool or delved deeper into user research techniques. Update your portfolio to include these advancements, emphasizing how they've enhanced your design process. In your resume, articulate how these new competencies have contributed to successful project outcomes or how they could add value to a prospective employer.

3 Tailor Content

Customization is key when it comes to UX job applications. Research the companies you're interested in and tailor your resume and portfolio to align with their values and needs. If a company emphasizes mobile design, for example, prominently feature your mobile projects. Use language that resonates with the company culture and addresses the specific requirements listed in the job descriptions. This personalized approach shows that you're not only skilled but also genuinely interested in what the company does.

4 Include Narratives

In UX design, storytelling is a powerful tool. Within your portfolio, don't just display the final product; include the narrative of how you got there. Describe the problem you were solving, your design process, the user feedback you incorporated, and the impact of the final design. This story should be concise yet comprehensive, giving prospective employers insight into your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. In your resume, use bullet points to briefly tell the story of each role's achievements.

5 Reflect Trends

The UX field is continuously evolving, so make sure your portfolio and resume reflect current trends and best practices. If there's a new design philosophy or technology that's gaining traction, show how you've engaged with it in your work. This could involve taking online courses or attending workshops—include these in your resume to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning. Employers are looking for candidates who stay up-to-date and are ready to adapt to new challenges.

6 Seek Feedback

Finally, don't overlook the importance of feedback. Reach out to former colleagues or mentors to review your updated portfolio and resume. They can provide valuable insights and may notice things you've missed. Additionally, consider joining UX communities or forums where you can get advice from other professionals. This feedback can help you refine your materials further and ensure that you're presenting yourself in the best possible light to potential employers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?