How I Landed a Design Job in 2024 (Luck)
As a fresh graduate and a junior UX designer navigating the challenging landscape of 2024, I’ve had my fair share of struggles and frustrations. This past year, I’ve written countless articles about the hardships of breaking into the design and tech industries.(Why 2024 suck for Junior UX Designers?, Why 2024 sucks for junior UX designers? (Part 2), and Why The UX Gold Rush is Over?) Despite my passion and effort, rejections became routine, and hearing from prospective employer “We’d love to have you, but we just can’t afford to hire right now.” that they couldn’t hire me due to budget cuts was disheartening. Even when I demonstrated my value, it seemed like an uphill battle to secure a position.
However, after countless back-and-forth discussions between my boss, his boss, and the higher-ups, I finally landed the most elusive resource of all this year: a job. Considering the scarcity of junior-level positions, this felt like a miracle. But miracles do happen, and here’s how I made mine.
A Miracle in the Making
You might be thinking, “Good for you, you’re just lucky.” But let me share how this luck was crafted through everyday small interactions and persistent efforts. As an intern with some prior experience but no full-time job background, I focused on demonstrating dedication in the smallest of ways. Arriving 30 minutes early, asking if anyone needed coffee, being proactive in meetings, and consistently delivering high-quality work quickly — all these actions built a foundation of reliability and commitment.
Sure, the early arrivals might sound intimidating, but you don’t have to mimic my exact steps. Find what works for you, but always approach your job with dedication and confidence. I wasn’t even considering the possibility of securing a full-time role until the end of my internship. By then, I had proven my value to the company, and the opportunity became tangible.
Of course, many talented individuals, despite their best efforts, won’t get such chances. I’ve seen friends at agencies or other companies struggle. Yet, my story isn’t an isolated one. A close friend of mine also got lucky when a Senior UX designer left his company. His dedication, experience, and having completed multiple internships there demonstrated his loyalty, ultimately landing him a full-time job even before graduation.
Breaking into UX from Other Fields
You might wonder, “What if I’m a violinist wanting to switch to UX?” A valid concern, as transitioning from a different career is indeed challenging. However, positioning yourself uniquely and engaging in real-world projects instead of the typical concept projects can set you apart. I recommend volunteering through platforms like Catchafire(#notsponsored) or at local NGOs and events. Who knows? Your passion and dedication might lead to unexpected opportunities.
Steps to Success
Always remember, you might be only a few steps away from your greatest success. Whether it’s arriving early, volunteering, or demonstrating consistent high-quality work, small actions can create the luck you need. Remember, you’re just a few steps away from success — don’t stop, adapt, and stay passionate about your journey.
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