I recently transitioned from graphic design to UX design with zero experience. I have the basic skills required, but I’m not sure how to show that I’m capable. I also find myself comparing myself to other designers a lot.

Published on:

Do not index
Do not index

How to transition to UX Design with confidence

Identify skills, experience, accolades from your past experiences that are valuable in UX.
 
For example, before I had UX experience, I highlighted:
  • Problem-solving from my customer service job
 
More industry-based example:
  • Brand Ambassador — speaking to customer regularly and developed skills in XYZ
  • Sales Manager — results-driven, achieved XYZ and developed skills in XYZ
  • Flight Attendant — stakeholder management, and developed skills in XYZ
 
And don’t forget, it’s okay to be upfront and say:
"I haven’t done that exactly, but here’s an example from my past role, or here’s how I’d approach it."
 
The key is to be proactive and go after it yourself.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask someone for a chance
  • Don’t wait for someone to hand you an opportunity
 
How badly you want it is up to you—I designed my friend’s website on Wix when I was just starting out!
And remember, take your time. I got into UX at 27, so there’s no rush!
 

Here’s my design journey:

 
🍏
Break into UX industry stress-free with The Junior Designer Bundle — A full guide to help you build a kickass portfolio, crush job searching procrastination, nail upcoming interviews, and fundamental UX frameworks.

Get free UX resources

Get portfolio templates, list of job boards, UX step-by-step guides, and more.

Related questions

What’s your best advice for someone starting in the UI/UX industry?
How do you know when to keep pushing forward with the same design approach, and when it's time to switch gears entirely?
I'm struggling get my first remote UX Job. Can you help me?
I recently made the switch from graphic design and advertising to UX, what challenges or pitfalls should I watch out for as I transition?
I'm transitioning from banking to UX. What steps do people typically take when switching to a career in UX?
I’m a career switcher. How can I show that my previous experience brings value and will make me a stronger UX designer?
How do I master presenting to different stakeholders and selling my designs effectively?
Sometimes I feel completely lost in the design world, other times I feel like I know it all, and then there are moments when it feels like I don’t know anything at all.
I'm struggling with imposter syndrome. I often feel like I’m not the best at what I do, especially since I lead a talented team of designers. Sometimes, I feel unqualified to lead such an amazing group of talents. Can you give me some advice?
I struggle with defending my designs and speaking up in meetings. How do I overcome this?