Navigating your UX Career with Meltem Naz & Marvin Olukayode Hassan

Welcome again to the show! For this episode, we got this with Meltem and Marvin - two seasoned UX career coaches - who share insights and game-changing tips to navigate your UX career. A powerful episode for both seasoned professionals as well as for those starting out.

The Unexpected Face of Career Stagnation

Let's challenge a common misconception. When we talk about feeling "stuck" in a career, most people imagine unhappy employees in toxic workplaces or individuals struggling with burnout. But my conversation revealed a much more nuanced reality.

I was particularly struck by a revelation that might surprise many: some of the most stuck professionals are actually those who look most successful on paper. These are talented designers working in prestigious organizations, drawing impressive salaries, yet feeling completely unmotivated. They've achieved what society tells them is success, but something critical is missing.

A Deeper Look at Professional Fulfillment

Meltem shared a fascinating insight that resonated deeply with me. Career growth isn't about external validation or climbing a predetermined ladder. It's about understanding your inner motivations, identifying your unique strengths, and creating a path that genuinely excites you.

The Journey of a UX Professional: Multiple Paths, Infinite Possibilities

For Career Transitioners and Newcomers

If you're considering a move into UX or are just starting out, here's some hard-earned wisdom from our conversation:

1. Embrace the Learning Curve: There's a dangerous trend of rushing through bootcamps and expecting immediate market readiness. UX is a complex, interdisciplinary field that requires time and patience to master.
2. Leverage Your Transferable Skills: Your previous professional experiences aren't irrelevant. Every role you've had has equipped you with skills that can translate into UX. The key is identifying and articulating these skills strategically.
3. Continuous Learning is Non-Negotiable: Don't stop learning after completing a course or landing your first job. The UX landscape is constantly evolving, and your growth depends on your willingness to adapt and explore.

Mid-Career Professionals: Growing Beyond the Obvious

For those who have been in the field for a few years, the path to growth is rarely straightforward. Our conversation highlighted several critical strategies:

1. Know Your True Motivation: Are you seeking a promotion for more money, or are you looking for greater impact and influence? Understanding your underlying drive is crucial.
2. Build Strategic Relationships: Your manager isn't just an evaluator - they can be a partner in your growth. Communicate your aspirations, seek feedback, and demonstrate how your goals align with organizational objectives.
3. Network Intentionally: Networking isn't about collecting business cards. It's about providing value, sharing your unique perspective, and building genuine connections within the design community.

The Soft Skills Revolution

In an era of AI and rapidly advancing technology, here's a game-changing insight: hard skills are becoming commoditized. What truly differentiates you are your soft skills:

• Communication
• Storytelling
• Empathy
• Leadership
• Collaboration

Marvin made an excellent point that stuck with me: the skills that got you to a senior position might not be the same skills needed for management. Each career transition requires a different skill set and mindset.

Challenging Traditional Career Narratives

One of the most liberating parts of our conversation was dismantling the linear career progression myth. Career growth isn't always about moving up. Sometimes, it's about:

• Specializing in a niche area
• Stepping back to a more hands-on role
• Exploring lateral moves
• Becoming a mentor or community leader

The Healing Power of Community

An unexpected but profound insight emerged about the importance of professional community. By connecting with peers, you realize you're not alone in your struggles. Every UX professional, regardless of their experience level, faces challenges in making design matter within their organizations.

Personal Reflection: My Takeaway

As someone who's been deeply embedded in the design world, I was humbled by the depth of wisdom Meltem and Marvin shared. Our careers are deeply personal journeys of continuous learning, self-discovery, and intentional growth.

A Message to Every UX Professional Feeling Stuck

Your career is not a predetermined path. It's a canvas waiting for you to paint your unique story. Embrace your individuality, invest in your growth, and remember that the most important metric of success is your personal fulfillment.

To those feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or stuck - you're not alone. Your unique perspective is your greatest strength. Keep learning, stay curious, and don't be afraid to rewrite the rules of your professional journey.

Check out the full episode here: