When I’m sourcing for a Product Designer, I see a lot of portfolios.
Like, a lot a lot.
And today, it takes so long to judge if you are aesthetically a good fit for us.
In the last five years, there’s been a trend for product designers to tell more about their process. How they’ve been more helpful in other parts than just the aesthetic.
I understand why it’s like this.
Product Designers are becoming more and more product-focused (as opposed to design focused). Which is great. I LOVE a Product Designer who will be my partner in crime, not just my pixel buddy.
What I usually see on these portfolio sites, in order:
- Overview of the project
- Paragraphs about the research process
- Pictures of sticky notes, and other assets from brainstorming
- Early wireframes
- The final design
Problem is, when I’m searching for a Product Designer, I need to start at the final result.
Right now, I’m looking for someone who can extend our app and our brand. Not start it from scratch, not overhaul it.
And for that, I just need to see what your general style is.
Then I want to go deep on your process to see how you’d fit with us.
I also want you to talk about results. Talk about the impact your design had on the goals. Show me that you understand the spreadsheet side of your role, too.
What I want to see on a product designer portfolio site:
- Overview of the project
- The final design
- Research process
- Wireframes
- Results