[Get Hired in UX Guide] Step 2. Narrow Your Focus on the Right Companies.
[Get Hired in UX Guide] Step 2. Narrow Your Focus on the Right Companies.
Understand what's really important to you and be strategic about adding companies to your list of "prospects" 🪐
Narrow Your Focus
Identify your priorities
When looking for the right job, you can't just focus on the job itself. The company you work for is just as important. That's why it's crucial to know what you want to get out of a workplace before you start your search. Think about what's most important to you.
Do you value work-life balance? Do you want to work for a company that values diversity and inclusion? Or do you want a workplace that offers many opportunities for growth and development? Whatever it is, you should take the time to figure out what you really want in a workplace. After all, you'll be spending a good chunk of your life at work, so make sure it's a place you'll be happy to be!
Choose potential employers
After you define the list of "requirements" of a workplace, it's time to start thinking about potential employers. Use job search websites, LinkedIn, and other professional networks to identify companies that align with your values and priorities. Look for reviews from other employees and customers. Try reaching out to ex-employees on Linkedin. Why ex? Current employees will likely be very cautious about sharing negative aspects.
And remember, don't just settle for any job. You deserve to work for a company that will help you grow and achieve your goals. After all, life's too short to spend it at a job you don't love. So choose wisely!
Action items
Create a list of your ideal employer's requirements. Take some time to reflect and make a detailed list of what you value in a workplace and what your ideal work environment would look like. I usually break it down into 2 categories: "must have" and "nice to have". Tip: at the beginning of your career, it's better to have lower expectations 😉
Create a list of 10-15 companies. Use the online search and professional networks to find those companies that align with your list of requirements. Split them into 3 equal-ish groups: Top tier, Middle tier, and Low tier. If you are just starting out, focusing on the Low and Middle tier companies will be more effective. But it doesn't mean you should completely ignore the Top tier.
Additional resources
Why Your Work Values Are Essential To Career Satisfaction (Forbes)
How to identify your work values: a step-by-step guide (Indeed)
PS you can find my list of curated resources about UX career, including tips on job search, resume, portfolio, interviewing tips, and a lot more topics in my UX Career Resources Library.