Insights from the hiring frontlines to craft a stellar UX portfolio

In the competitive world of UX design, your portfolio is often the first impression you make on potential employers. It’s a showcase of your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

But what makes a portfolio truly stand out?
What do hiring managers really look for when reviewing your work?

Let’s explore some valuable insights from someone who’s been on the other side of the table — reviewing hundreds of portfolios for big tech companies.

The power of a strong first impression

Your portfolio’s first case study is like the cover of a book — it’s what draws people in.

A single, well-crafted case study can be more impactful than a dozen half-finished projects. This is your chance to grab the hiring manager’s attention and show them what you’re made of. If it’s good enough, it might be the only one they need to see.

A strong first case study demonstrates your ability to think critically, solve problems, and deliver results. It’s about quality, not quantity.

Show how you incorporated feedback and improved your design over time. This is a critical skill for any designer, and it’s often missing in portfolios. Tailor your portfolio to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re going for a product design role, keep it focused and avoid mixing in branding or graphic design work.

Telling a story: The anatomy of a great case study

A great case study tells a story. It’s not just about showcasing your final design—it’s about walking the viewer through your process.

Start with a clear problem statement. Use a "How Might We" (HMW) statement to frame your approach. This shows you understand how to define a problem and think creatively about solutions.

Next, show how you understood the problem through user research, competitive analysis, or other methods. This demonstrates your ability to dig deep and gather insights.

Highlight how you incorporated feedback from stakeholders or users. This shows you can collaborate and refine your work.

Include high-quality visuals and prototypes. Make sure your final design clearly addresses the problem you set out to solve.

Finally, share the outcomes of your work, whether it’s user feedback, metrics, or lessons learned. Reflecting on what you learned shows growth and a willingness to improve.

The basics every portfolio needs

While creativity is important, there are some non-negotiables that every portfolio should have. Basic visual design skills are essential. Make sure your work demonstrates consistent padding, color contrast, and semantic color usage. These are foundational skills that are hard to train, so they’re critical to showcase.

Error-free writing is also crucial.

Double-check for typos and grammatical errors. While they might not be deal-breakers, they can leave a negative impression. Ensure your portfolio is easy to access. If it’s a PDF, make sure it’s properly formatted. If it’s a website, test the link to confirm it works.

What sets your portfolio apart

While the basics are essential, there are a few things that can elevate your portfolio from good to great.

A portfolio that shows attention to detail and a level of polish can make a big difference. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should demonstrate your commitment to your craft.

Highlight your ability to work with cross-functional teams, including non-designers. This is a critical skill for any designer in a large organization. If you worked on a project with limited resources or challenging stakeholders, don’t shy away from discussing it. These experiences show your ability to navigate real-world complexities.

Avoiding common mistakes

There are a few pitfalls to watch out for when crafting your portfolio.
Don’t overcomplicate the format.

Whether you use a PDF, website, or Figma file, the format matters less than the content. Just make sure it’s executed well. Avoid template letters. If you’re including a cover letter, make sure it’s personalized to the company. Avoid generic templates that don’t show you’ve done your homework.

Finally, don’t neglect the reflection. A case study without a reflection feels incomplete. It’s your chance to show what you learned and how you grew as a designer.

Salary insights and industry outlook

For new grads, the average total compensation (base + bonus + stock) for UX roles in big tech is around $155-165k. This reflects the high demand for skilled designers.

The future of UX design looks bright, but the bar is getting higher. To succeed, focus on shipping high-quality design work, learning to manage stakeholders and complex organizations, and seeking out mentorship and continuous learning opportunities.

Final tips for standing out

Be authentic.
Don’t try to create a “textbook perfect” portfolio.
Show your unique perspective and the challenges you’ve overcome.

Leverage your experiences.

Even if your internship or project didn’t result in perfect designs, use it as an opportunity to showcase your ability to navigate difficult situations. Keep it simple. Avoid overloading your portfolio with too many projects. Focus on quality and depth.

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Conclusion

Your portfolio is more than just a collection of your work—it’s a story about who you are as a designer. It’s a chance to show your creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for your craft. 

When you’re focusing on quality, iteration, and authenticity, you can create a portfolio that stands out and helps you land your dream job.

Remember, the job market is competitive, but with persistence and hard work, you’ll get there. Keep refining your portfolio, stay open to feedback, and don’t be afraid to showcase your unique voice. Good luck!