Act as an experienced text editor to review the following text and make it better. Consider second and third options:
A text on the wall of the Contemporary Art Center in Vilnius reads, “Everyone is an artist, but only artists know it.” I believe this can be adapted to say, “Everyone is a user experience professional, but only user experience professionals know it.” While anyone can enter the field of user experience, not everyone should.
So if you thought this book would easily guide you into user experience (UX) design, think again. First, let me say UX design is NOT for you.
Yes, you read that correctly. But before you close this book, let me explain.
This statement isn’t a dismissal – it’s a challenge. I’ve crafted this provocative opening to stir your curiosity, question your commitment, and encourage introspection. Becoming a UX professional takes more than skills. It requires resilience, dedication, passion, and, importantly, the right mindset. Are you prepared for it?
As you may recall from your research, the field of UX finds itself in a paradoxical situation. On one hand, we’re witnessing what many consider a golden age for UX. Businesses worldwide are finally realising that user-centred design is essential, not optional. Companies prioritising UX aren’t just doing well; they’re transforming entire industries. This trend paints a bright future for UX professionals, with opportunities to make significant impacts through design.
On the other hand, the UX landscape is in flux. The industry faces major challenges, including a saturated market, economic pressures, and changing job requirements. While the demand for UX expertise is high, the supply of UX professionals has also increased dramatically. Recent trends show an increase in UX job postings. However, the number of applicants per position is rising even faster, making the job market highly competitive. This dynamic particularly challenges newcomers.
This paradox creates a unique dynamic. There’s never been a better time for UX to make an impact. Yet, breaking into the field has never been more challenging. Contrary to what well-advertised boot camps may claim, you won’t find the path to becoming a UX professional paved with roses. It requires significant personal growth, adaptability, and a realistic understanding of market conditions.
As newcomers begin their professional journey in UX, whether fresh graduates, those seeking a career shift, or returning to the workforce after a gap (e.g., parental leave, travel, gap year), they face a landscape where opportunities and challenges coexist. The job market demands UX specialists, but the industry doesn’t always do enough to support beginners. This situation leads to natural selection – only the most resilient, adaptable, and skilled candidates secure jobs. In contrast, others may need to look for work in adjacent fields or continue upskilling.
What does the market need in this paradoxical environment? Over the past few years, I’ve spoken with hundreds of novice product designers and other UX professionals who have asked me similar questions about breaking into the UX field. During these conversations, a structure has crystallised in how I answer these questions. I will share these answers in this book.