7 answers
Sona
Student
Yerevan, Armenia
1
Question
Asked
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How have you found your first UX/UI projects?
I am a UX/UI designer at the start of my career and would love to hear some advice.
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7 answers
Kathy Liu
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Kathy’s Answer
Taking the initiative to volunteer is always a brilliant starting point. I once saw that my beloved local Thai restaurant had a website in need of some sprucing up, so I offered my services to revamp it. I believe that volunteering not only broadens your connections but also aids in creating a valuable portfolio. This portfolio can be your golden ticket when presenting your skills to future clients or employers. It's truly a win-win situation!
Thanks for your encouragement!
Sona
Maya Gao
Product Designer
2
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Maya’s Answer
I think personal projects could be a great start if you are just trying to learn and don't have much experience. You could try to build something just for yourself or collaborate with friends/classmates. Volunteering for local businesses or government is a great idea too!
Pamela Heiligenthal
Experience Design Director
6
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Pamela’s Answer
Finding your first UX/UI projects can be an exciting but challenging endeavor. Here are some steps you can take to kickstart your journey:
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your skills, including any personal projects, school assignments, or freelance work you've done. Make sure your portfolio demonstrates your understanding of UX/UI principles and your ability to solve design problems effectively.
Networking: Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who might need UX/UI help for their projects. Attend local meetups, conferences, or online events related to design to meet professionals in the field. Networking can often lead to opportunities for projects or referrals.
Freelancing Platforms: Join freelancing websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. These platforms often have projects suitable for beginners, and they can be a great way to gain experience and build your portfolio.
Internships or Apprenticeships: Look for internship or apprenticeship opportunities at design agencies, startups, or companies with design teams. These positions may not always pay much, but they offer valuable experience and mentorship.
Volunteer Work: Offer your services for free or at a discounted rate to nonprofit organizations, community groups, or small businesses. Not only does this help you gain experience, but it also allows you to give back to your community.
Online Communities: Join online communities and forums like Reddit's r/UserExperience or Designer Hangout Slack group. Engage with other designers, ask for feedback on your work, and keep an eye out for project opportunities or collaborations.
Personal Projects: Start your own passion projects or redesign existing websites or apps to improve their user experience. This not only demonstrates your skills but also allows you to explore different design challenges and solutions.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques in UX/UI design. Take online courses, read books and blogs, and participate in design challenges to sharpen your skills and expand your knowledge.
Remember, getting your first UX/UI projects may take some time and persistence, but with dedication and effort, you'll eventually land your first gig. Keep refining your skills, building your portfolio, and networking with others in the industry.
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your skills, including any personal projects, school assignments, or freelance work you've done. Make sure your portfolio demonstrates your understanding of UX/UI principles and your ability to solve design problems effectively.
Networking: Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who might need UX/UI help for their projects. Attend local meetups, conferences, or online events related to design to meet professionals in the field. Networking can often lead to opportunities for projects or referrals.
Freelancing Platforms: Join freelancing websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. These platforms often have projects suitable for beginners, and they can be a great way to gain experience and build your portfolio.
Internships or Apprenticeships: Look for internship or apprenticeship opportunities at design agencies, startups, or companies with design teams. These positions may not always pay much, but they offer valuable experience and mentorship.
Volunteer Work: Offer your services for free or at a discounted rate to nonprofit organizations, community groups, or small businesses. Not only does this help you gain experience, but it also allows you to give back to your community.
Online Communities: Join online communities and forums like Reddit's r/UserExperience or Designer Hangout Slack group. Engage with other designers, ask for feedback on your work, and keep an eye out for project opportunities or collaborations.
Personal Projects: Start your own passion projects or redesign existing websites or apps to improve their user experience. This not only demonstrates your skills but also allows you to explore different design challenges and solutions.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques in UX/UI design. Take online courses, read books and blogs, and participate in design challenges to sharpen your skills and expand your knowledge.
Remember, getting your first UX/UI projects may take some time and persistence, but with dedication and effort, you'll eventually land your first gig. Keep refining your skills, building your portfolio, and networking with others in the industry.
Iffa Nurlatifah
Graphic Designer
2
Answers
Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
Updated
Iffa’s Answer
Hello!
Starting with digital job simulations like the one available at https://www.theforage.com/simulations/bp/digital-design-ux-busf can be an excellent way to begin learning about UI/UX. These simulations provide hands-on experience and practical insights that can greatly benefit your portfolio. Additionally, seeking out online courses and tutorials specific to UX/UI design can further enhance your skills and prepare you for your first projects.
Remember to also explore real-world projects, such as freelance opportunities or internships, to gain practical experience and apply your newly acquired knowledge. Best of luck on your journey into the world of UX/UI design!
Starting with digital job simulations like the one available at https://www.theforage.com/simulations/bp/digital-design-ux-busf can be an excellent way to begin learning about UI/UX. These simulations provide hands-on experience and practical insights that can greatly benefit your portfolio. Additionally, seeking out online courses and tutorials specific to UX/UI design can further enhance your skills and prepare you for your first projects.
Remember to also explore real-world projects, such as freelance opportunities or internships, to gain practical experience and apply your newly acquired knowledge. Best of luck on your journey into the world of UX/UI design!
Gregory Rodriguez
Copywriter
7
Answers
Coral Springs, Florida
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Google offers a certification in that, that also provides projects that can help you spruce up your portfolio! Other websites like fiverr allow you to broadcast your services for a set price. If you really have a passion for this and have a few mockups and wireframes already completed, i suggest trying to intern, keeping a website to post all of your projects to!
I appreciate your support, Gregory
Sona
JOHN German
90
Answers
Bluffton, South Carolina
Updated
JOHN’s Answer
Hello:
Top-notch response by Kathy.
Looking at this URL in your area: http://nagepic.com/gallery/. The design would welcome a user-friendly gift - but a more in-depth present of the setting, ambiance, and pulse could beautify their attraction via the online depths. Like the initial photo in the google maps of the restaurant welcomes a priceless lens into the organization.
Thankful for your steps.
God Bless,
John German
Top-notch response by Kathy.
Looking at this URL in your area: http://nagepic.com/gallery/. The design would welcome a user-friendly gift - but a more in-depth present of the setting, ambiance, and pulse could beautify their attraction via the online depths. Like the initial photo in the google maps of the restaurant welcomes a priceless lens into the organization.
Thankful for your steps.
God Bless,
John German
Alexa B.
Marketing and Graphic Design
12
Answers
Mexico
Updated
Alexa’s Answer
Hello Sona,
Congratulations on embarking on this exciting specialization journey! Here are some practical steps to help you make the most of it:
1. Engage in projects that spark your interest and show potential. Not only will these enrich your portfolio, but they could also lead to opportunities with local or regional businesses. Consider presenting them with a proposal, but remember not to undersell your work.
2. The internet is filled with numerous case studies. Reach out to those who have shared them and offer your insights. You might be surprised to discover that many people can see your potential and may offer you opportunities.
3. Lastly, consider seeking internships at companies that offer them. This could provide a fantastic opportunity to learn from professionals and possibly lead to job openings where you can apply directly and with preference.
Remember, every step you take is a step closer to your goals. Keep learning and keep growing!
Congratulations on embarking on this exciting specialization journey! Here are some practical steps to help you make the most of it:
1. Engage in projects that spark your interest and show potential. Not only will these enrich your portfolio, but they could also lead to opportunities with local or regional businesses. Consider presenting them with a proposal, but remember not to undersell your work.
2. The internet is filled with numerous case studies. Reach out to those who have shared them and offer your insights. You might be surprised to discover that many people can see your potential and may offer you opportunities.
3. Lastly, consider seeking internships at companies that offer them. This could provide a fantastic opportunity to learn from professionals and possibly lead to job openings where you can apply directly and with preference.
Remember, every step you take is a step closer to your goals. Keep learning and keep growing!