Just Out of UX Bootcamp, What’s Next? Essential Tips for a Successful Start
Hello, everyone! My name is Shannon, and I recently graduated from Mento Design Academy. Today, I want to share some important lessons I’ve learned about what you can expect after completing your UX bootcamp. In this article, we’ll explore key areas that can help you kickstart your UX career on the right foot. So, let’s dive in!
Portfolio Writing
You may think that once you are done with your bootcamp, you are ready to go. But don’t get too excited. Both me and some fellow bootcamp graduates expressed that they ended up spending a lot of time crafting their portfolio and case studies before they were actually ready to start applying. I myself spent about a month to 6 weeks before I felt that my portfolio was ready to be shown to the world — and even now I keep working on improving my portfolio all the time.
To create an impactful portfolio, focus on showcasing a range of your skills, including research, ideation, wireframing, and visual design. Highlight projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and the impact of your design decisions, and don’t forget to show different iterations you went through. Remember to provide context, describe your design process, and clearly articulate your role and contributions. Visualize your work effectively and consider adding case studies to provide a deeper understanding of your projects.
Asking for Feedback
Learning doesn’t end when you finish your bootcamp — it may as well just have started! Now it’s time to reach out and learn from how others perceive you and your work so far. Since I graduated my bootcamp I have had numerous calls with APDlist mentors, people I met through UX groups and LinkedIn, and I have learned valuable lessons from their feedback!
Receiving feedback from mentors, peers, and industry professionals is invaluable. Seek guidance from your bootcamp mentors or reach out to professionals from organizations like the ADP list for portfolio and CV reviews. Embrace constructive criticism to refine your work. Remember, feedback isn’t just about pointing out flaws but also highlighting areas of strength. Be open to different perspectives and iterate on your designs based on the insights you gather.
Networking
I cannot emphasize the importance of this point enough. Did you know that over 50% of positions are filled before they are even posted on a job board, all through professional networks and referrals. The best thing about it is that you do not have to compete against hundreds of other candidates.
The most important lesson of networking that many often tend to get wrong, is that networking needs to happen before you are even considering to apply for the job. You may even want to start networking while you are still in the final stages of your bootcamp. Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders, to reach out to people at companies you are interested in, and join relevant UX communities. When you build a relationship with people in companies you are interested in, this can can lead to job referrals, mentorship, and valuable insights about companies and their culture.
Networking is such an important, but big topic, I’ll write a separate article on that one day!
Job Searching
After going through all these steps, you may feel ready to hit the job market, good job! But where to start, and how to stand out from the crowd? If you followed the previous steps, you may have already positioned yourself well to do a great job here.
When searching for entry-level UX positions, be proactive and leverage various resources (the network that you have been building!). Keep an eye on job boards and company websites for openings. Join UX-related Slack communities or online forums where job postings are shared.
It is very important to tailor your application materials, including your CV and cover letter, to each position you apply for, and do not send generic letters or a one-CV-fits-all version of your resume. Highlight relevant skills and experiences from your bootcamp projects and previous professional and educational experiences.
Additionally, consider internships, freelance work, or volunteering opportunities to gain practical experience and expand your portfolio.
In summary, transitioning from a UX bootcamp to the professional world can be both exciting and challenging. Remember to focus on building a compelling portfolio, seeking feedback from mentors and peers, nurturing your network, and actively pursuing job opportunities. With dedication, continuous learning, and perseverance, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in UX design.
To recap
Congratulations on completing your UX bootcamp! After completing a UX bootcamp, it’s essential to create a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and problem-solving abilities. Seek feedback from mentors and industry professionals to refine your work and gain valuable insights. Invest time in networking to build connections and open doors to potential opportunities. Finally, be proactive in your job search by customizing your application materials and considering various entry-level avenues. Remember, this is just the beginning of your UX journey, and with persistence, you can achieve great things in the field. Good luck!
My name is Shannon and I am a Mento Design Academy Bootcamp graduate. Are you interested in starting a UX bootcamp? Feel free to shoot me a message if you have any questions, or to use this link to sign up if you are already sure!
