The FAQs that got me more UX interviews (and ultimately my dream job)

Last November, I decided to transition out of freelance user experience design. During my job hunt, I found myself needing to answer the same questions again and again.

I collected my favorite questions and wrote thoughtful and exhaustive answers, creating a list of frequently asked questions.

They served me in two ways:

1. I linked to my FAQs in my cover letter (a template of which exists here). This provided a speedy, unencumbered avenue for hiring managers to assess me more thoroughly.
2. The practice of writing and refining with the intention of sharing forced me to think about my true answers for each question. Because I spent time on this exercise, during interviews, I was able to rattle off my perspective much more confidently.

I’ve shared all of my FAQs below. Although some of the answers are tailored to my unique experiences, my hope is that this tactic can be a spark of inspiration for other UXers seeking bigger and better roles!

At the top of my FAQs I added links to my email, portfolio, Medium, and LinkedIn for convenience.

What does design mean to you?

Design is strategic problem solving that improves people’s lives. Empathy, pragmatism and creativity are applied to the adventure of hunting and validating ideas — a process that leads to intentional solutions. The results are intuitive, delightful and beautiful experiences. Good design benefits users without users ever having to think about it. Design is iterative, never giving up on the mission to guide people through life in a more effortless and more enjoyable way.

I have spent my whole life pursuing design professionally and personally. I love that my natural talents have led me to sharpening my skills as a successful designer. The future of design is inspiring and broad. It keeps me motivated as I continue to grow as a designer.

What’s the difference between a good and…