Mar 31, 2024
I have seen 1000s of job applications from designers for product design roles. Sometimes they are good designers but do not focus on their resume and portfolio, and don't end up getting the interview call.
These are the common/ basic mistakes designers do while applying.
No portfolio link in resume - The recruiter will have to ask for it separately in their busy schedule.
Portfolio link is not clickable in the resume - As a designer, we have to think about the usability of our resume too. It's easier to click than copy and paste on the browser.
Bad readability of resume - This gives the signal that information presentation skill is missing from the designer. Sometimes designers cramp a lot of information in 1 page resume. They should prioritize what and how much information to give so that it remains readable in 1 page resume.
Password not working for portfolio project - Frequently do UAT of your website
No https in portfolio link - Sometimes the link does not open if it's not secure because of the laptop configurations provided by the company. It occurs majorly for big companies than startups.
Only high fidelity screens in portfolio and no process documentation - This does not give any signal to the recruiter about the thinking and user-centricity of the designer.
Only process and till wireframes in portfolio and no high fidelity screens - This does not give any signal to the recruiter about the core skill of the designer.
Too many unnecessary projects not aligned with the role in lookout - For ex. - too many graphic design projects but the role in lookout for is product design. This gives mixed signal to the recruiter and no strong signal that he/she is good in product design or graphic design. If the candidate is looking for both product and graphic design roles, the resume and portfolio of both should be separate.
Only 1 project in portfolio and others coming soon - Many experienced designers also do this mistake. Should have at least 2.
Bad UI designs in portfolio projects - Process mistakes may be missed while shortlisting but bad UI gets attention quickly like spacing, typography, boldness, etc.
No company projects in portfolio and only concept case studies - This is especially for people with experience. The recruiter wants to see how he/she brought a great design to life by collaborating with stakeholders in real-world constraints.
High fidelity screens are not clearly visible - We see 100s of Figma screens in Figma zoomed-out screenshot or many diagonal screens. It is of no use. Better if it has 10-20 screens with appropriate size for viewing it.