Feb 10A tool to give small words a big voiceThroughout my career, I have worked on many different types of projects and across multiple industries. I began my career as a graphic designer, focusing on printed media. After nearly 20 years, I’m now exclusively dedicated to digital products. …Ux Writing2 min readUx Writing2 min read
Mar 7, 2022UI in Flames? 24 Easy Design Tips for Software Engineers.You’re a top notch back-end engineer. You can develop almost any server-side and client-side application. But, when it comes to design, you’re completely lost. Maybe you’re working on an app or website right now that’s going up in smoke. Or, perhaps you’re looking to collect some simple tips to keep…UI Design10 min readUI Design10 min read
Feb 7, 2022Why Product Designers Must WriteIs writing part of a product designer’s job? Let’s answer that question with another question: How many of us live within the limits of our job title? Sure, our expertise is designing products with engaging experiences — whether it’s researching, understanding audiences or creating wireframes. Our work also includes providing…UX Design10 min readUX Design10 min read
Dec 10, 2021There’s only one wrong response—do you see a pattern here?—and it’s this: “I don’t have any questions, but thanks for asking.” I’ll prod a bit if I think the candidate may be shy; nonethelss, many designers insist they have n…The three questions I ask every designer I interview2.9K27Michael McWattersPro tip: if the interview is more of a conversation your questions may have been answered along the…Pro tip: if the interview is more of a conversation your questions may have been answered along the way. When that happens, here are a couple personal favorites to keep in your back pocket: "What is a typical day like working here?" Or "How is working here different than you expected?"1 min read1 min read
Jun 2, 2021How to Make a Product Design Portfolio that Gets You HiredWhat are today’s companies looking for when hiring a product designer? Yes, your ability to create bespoke experiences and interfaces is one portion. But there’s another level to the portfolios that make it in front of large technology firms like Google or the hiring managers and heads of product at…User Experience10 min readUser Experience10 min read
May 4, 2021Want to Transition to Freelance Product Design? Here’s How.If you’re anything like me, you’ve got strong ideas, opinions, and preferences on the types of projects you like to work on. But when you’re employed by someone else, they call all the shots. That can be frustrating. Also frustrating? The limited earning potential (odds are, you’re worth more than…Freelance12 min readFreelance12 min read
Apr 1, 2021A Decade of Lessons from a Freelance Product DesignerYou want your design work to be fulfilling. You want your projects to be successful. And to win the best jobs, you want to know your strengths and gain the competitive advantage. I know, because I’ve been in your shoes. These were missions I wrestled with as I launched my…Product Design9 min readProduct Design9 min read
