Should you be a UX Designer 2024? | Everything you need to know

[@shrutichavan21]

Thankyou Sharon!!! You literally feel like sunshine in this video, almost 7 months done in the UX journey, done with my first case study! Would seriously love to meet you on ADP List! I hope you become a mentor there, it will be a blessing! Your vibe is absolutely optimistic!

[@sharonyeunkim]

Hey!!! Aww that’s so SO sweet of you your comment made my day 🥲 congrats on finishing your first case study! And I’m not on ADP list at the moment but I am on mentorcruise.com/mentor/sharonkim/ where I can do regular calls or one time sessions. Nonetheless let me know if you have suggestions bc I keep it in my video queue for what to put next. Hope you have a great day! 😆

[@shrutichavan21]

@@sharonyeunkim Suggestions: I think many students are freshers like me, entering new in the field…maybe you can cover about resume and things to include in resume as a fresher! As we have no prior job experience too (the ones who have just completed their bachelors) and also people with job experience but a fresher in UX field, both the categories!

[@riobrasilsambashowssambist1453]

​@@sharonyeunkim don't ever feel like you are free of tech layoffs bcz it is a constant for various reasons, not just recessions.

[@RoBoda6402]

I’m overwhelmed by the fact that I feel like I’m doing a lot but also feel like I’m not doing enough at the same time.

[@juliakubiak8386]

I feel you, not getting any interviews while doing another project, voluntary work makes you feel lime you didn't do shit.

[@shailylakhani5516]

I know exactly how that feels :(( hope you’re doing better now

[@RoBoda6402]

@@shailylakhani5516 Thank you 🥹 honestly I think the tough time for me is yet to come. I'm entering the last year of my masters degree, and as an international student, Neither can I go back home till I pay off my student loan, nor am I sure that I'll get a job in other countries that pay much more to designers :/

[@Just_PureContent]

I started my UX journey in Feb 2024. June 2024 I got my first job as Product Designer. The journey is not the same for everyone but it’s possible

[@sharonyeunkim]

Congratulations!!! What’s your story?

[@zauriellcarrier7556]

I am wanting to start, what program did you go through? also needed any additional degrees?

[@Alib365]

No filler content, just everything I needed to know! Thank you for the time you took to put this information together!

[@RoBoda6402]

My best friend is one year ahead in a masters in IXD at Pratt Institute. She’s graduating this may and is struggling to find a job. Seeing her, i was really worried too considering I’m in the same trajectory as her, just one year behind. I’m feeling much better watch this (for her and for me). Thank you Sharon!

[@Raiseituppoker]

I was part of a company wide lay off last March and have yet to land my next opportunity. The market is roooooough. On Reddit people put it in this words "its a lottery" on who gets a job, and w/o a big tech name on your resume its really rough... Not saying its impossible but its by far not what it was prior to this. Staying realistic is definitely important.

[@hndsmdvl]

A lot of truth spoken in this video. You have to commit or else you'll never break through. Coming from someone who was on the other end of taking 2 years before I finally broke into UX Design. Along with everything else you mentioned, I would add that finding a mentor helped a lot in the beginning as well to really refine my thinking and approach in pursuit of this career post boot camp.

[@Aliena92]

How to find a mentor?

[@sharonyeunkim]

Absolutely!! Having a great mentor is such an easy way to improve your skills so much. It’s why I started mentoring on Mentorcruise recently.

[@chirobiii]

I've been coming across your videos as I'm nearing the end of my UX course. I've never thought I'd be working in the tech industry and I'm nervous to jump from my unsatisfying stable career. I love that you base your views with thorough research and reliable sources. You also deliver the information with such empathy! Thank you

[@Tschoii90]

Yea don't do it bro. I also did the google course. I worked with like 10 clients and at an agency to get portfolio projects. I am quite knowledgable in the field of UX I would say, nobody can know everything of course. ...but it is im-fucking-possible to get into UX with a certificate regardless of your portfolio and work experience. There are next to no jobs for junior positions. Keep your mental health and maybe do it as a side-gig. Don't quite your job.

[@seansiegler]

Thanks so much for the honest and thorough take on UX and getting into it! I'm contemplating a jump into UI (so not exactly UX) and really appreciate this perspective. Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge!

[@victoriahiromi2256]

I graduated school last year with a degree in psych and am finishing up my gap year. I struggle with chronic illness (lyme) and have been committing myself to getting better, and around halfway through the year I realized that I don't think pursuing a masters or job in psych was for me anymore... now I'm looking to UX/UI. I'm fascinated by the field and the remote working possibilities, it sounds ideal for my situation. I might take a bit longer to transition into this field given my very little experience with professional work and my health situation, but I'm determined to do it. This video contributed to solidifying my decision... wish me luck!

[@victormanuelramirez2502]

Good luck!

[@checreates]

Proud of you for doing this for yourself. I know people who have considered psychology but went into UX / UI, because it is the study of how people behave online. Your background and interest will get you far! Keep on going, you will inspire so many!

[@rendred5442]

Your psychology background will help for ux, goodluck!

[@tayothedesigner]

I've lost that fire in me. I can't switch. You portfolio work is amazing!

[@tayothedesigner]

But I want to have your drive again. Your videos are so inspiring.

[@relative_vie]

I take certifications just to learn and build out my own products and projects. You can only gain from what create or you eat from what you grow. Good luck out there to anyone waiting for miracle.

[@Rafael-dj-c]

I am glad the tech recession is close to being over, this year has been very dry in terms of jobs available. Leading into the new year I am hoping to see a lot more roles like in 2022 and previously.

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yes me too!!

[@danny9405]

I’m so conflicted. I’m on the opposite side of your journey. I’m in my mid 30’s with a family and a mortage and considering a career change into something new. That in its self is difficult but more so hearing what UX designers have to say about the industry. I see videos discouraging people from even trying to pursue UX, if people in the industry are having trouble, I can’t imagine it would be remotely possible for an inexperienced, career changing, 30+ year old, to find any success. Your video is no doubt encouraging and gives hope but I’m still rightfully hesitant especially with a bootcamp sponsoring.

[@darkot7266]

You are right at it. I have 2.5 years of exp as a UI/UX, changed 3 jobs, and every one was easy to get with my skills and portfolio, but now I am searching for a job for around 3 months, and nothing, countless meetings and tests, but then they dont hire... Only the best stand chance now, as there were many lay offs, so i would not suggest to start ux now, as I am strugling with almost 3 years to just keep going...

[@Garnishes]

what are u working as right now if i may ask?@@darkot7266

[@frecklesnfrolics]

thank you for your honesty. i feel like people who weren't impacted by a layoff don't understand the struggles of trying to land a job in recent years@@darkot7266

[@beizy4557]

Hi Sharon, I usually don't comment much on KZbin, but your "Should you become a UX designer" video was so inspiring that I had to comment. I appreciated how you broke down the stereotypes of a slow death in the IT community with all the job layoffs. I am about to start my first UX/UI boot camp and wonder if it would be worth the cost, but you gave me a different perspective on the future of UX not going anywhere because of the AI movement. I am heading into my fourth career move, as I started in college (finished it), joined the military (completed it), and got hired by the federal government (doing it). I may be one of the older learners in the UX program, but I still consider myself young, so I was searching for a stable career field to excel in as I cruise into retirement age. Thanks again for the video!!😊

[@sharonyeunkim]

🥹🥹 I’m glad you were able to find a path that you better resonate with. I’m more than happy to help. I wish you all the best of luck!

[@Anonymous-gu5ch]

Look people, EVERYBODY'S job is probably at stake. EVERYBODY'S getting laid off in EVERY field. I've been in a constant state of anxiety because no matter what path I tried to take, it seemed like the career was going to plummet. Sure, a healthy dose of reality is important for any career seeker. But you know what else is saturated? The amount of people online discouraging everyone from going into any field. I'm so sick of it. Pick a path and move! Don't let people online discourage and dishearten you. I let that happen to me and I've been miserable every since.

[@AugustDavinDeepson]

Speak for yourself😂

[@oluwafemisundayegbebode1661]

I agree with you. I personally want to start a career in UI UX next month and I'll learn all I can about it, fall in love with it and when the oppurtunity present itself, I'll be ready.

[@alfiyanoori1246]

Same situation here...I really enjoy learning UIUX and want to build a career in it..but wherever I search about this field it just discourage me

[@candlemanFX]

I needed to hear this

[@scottandersen508]

I’m about to start a ux/ui bootcamp in January. I have no IT background of any kind but am determined to make a change. You get out what you put in, it has to be an obsession I think. Great video!

[@sharonyeunkim]

Also, I'm now offering private UX mentorship (regular calls or Portfolio Review Sessions) on Mentorcruise! Apply here: mentorcruise.com/mentor/sharonkim/

[@buttercup9700]

Seeing this right after my graduation from Designlab :P

[@sharonyeunkim]

Aww~ congratulations ☺️

[@ItsMilica8]

Mentroships sound great, sign me up!🫡

[@IshmaelBennett]

I gave up on UX and am now focusing on UI and learning code. Plus I'm feeling that it maybe better to go it along and try and push your own company. Ive had years of UX experience but I see UX design as now UX writing which I didn't and have never wanted to do I design, I don't write. Good luck to those who try and get into UX. Maybe the whole thing is a sham, and I think companies don't get it either.

[@robert_2866]

Just switch to UX... I will said... learn some javascript code... design something really cool~ then... you are hired... AI still got time to catch up for new creative product...

[@sharonyeunkim]

yess definitely learning code- even just basics is a major plus.

[@urallnutz5294]

You should move that flashing light, it makes it look like the video script is being downloaded into your head in real time haha

[@djashawe88923]

Thanks for the great content. I can see you put a lot of effort into researching before making this video. I resonate with many points you raised, especially the idea that determination and hard work, rather than a specific bootcamp or school, can land you a job, recession or not. Despite the UX market being quite saturated, I assumed that by now, many people know about UX or UX design. However, I was surprised to find out that there are still many people who don't know about UX or haven't heard of UX design. This was interesting and eye-opening for me, suggesting that this field still has some evolving to do.

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yes, 10 hours!! Also agree- UX definitely rose a lot in popularity but can always have more reach = more growth 😉. It’ll always be an evolving story.

[@OKnows954]

Thank you for this awesome video! I have an Associates in CS and Bachelors in Media, and I've really been looking for a profession that would intertwine the two. I'm starting to do tons of research on a career path for UI/UX and what could be the most professional way to pursue this, and upon watching your video I will definitely take Designlab into consideration! Best of luck on your journey as well!

[@jennyshufutinskaya6873]

This was such a well made video and I'm so glad you shared this. I've been struggling to transition from finance to UX for 2 years now. Right as I finished my cert, things started to get wonky with the market and I've been so discourage that I've almost given up multiple times. That being said, I'm just too stubborn and am obsessed with UX. I cannot imagine doing anything else in the future. So, i have persisted despite rather low morale ,but seeing this was a breath of fresh air.

[@qwertyuiopasdfghj001]

what finance job did you have before?

[@apeachaa9847]

I’m so excited to be a UX designer next year🎉

[@sharonyeunkim]

I’m excited for you!! 😆

[@by_phuong]

omg this is so insightful since i'm about to make a career switch right after my graduation from a complete different major 😂 but for the first time in my life i'm so thrilled to start on something career-wise like this so even though i know it's hard given all the situations in the tech industry right now, i still want to pursue it. anw, tysm for this video 🎉🎉🎉

[@sharonyeunkim]

That’s literally so common- 3 of my friends are doing the exact same thing (say from fashion, PR, etc) so you’re not alone. Industry will readjust. And you’re welcome!! What else would you like to see next?

[@riobrasilsambashowssambist1453]

Don't be naive. Tech layoffs are normal and constant for various reasons, not just a general recession. It doesn't matter what recessions come and go. The way to be resilient is use your skills in varying industries.

[@yamatotsu]

I loved working on UX/UI projects, it was very fun. I would say that if you are still interested in getting into a UX/UI design job, do it. However i would also look into gaining skills in AI and how to work with it and also learn coding while you're at it, especially Javascript, Probably HTML and CSS along with it. Its not that its necessary but the amount of advantage you would have over other people would be tremendous. Dont limit yourself on what you're capable of doing. Build up your worth as an employee, they will see it and most likely take you in and keep you over other workers. Knowledge, certifications or degress arent always enough, what you know is always valuable, but what you can do will always be more valuable.

[@jerryGolddd]

haha great video. but i kept waiting for a lightbulb on the top of your head because the light in the corner of the room keeps point up! :D

[@sleepysounds8340]

Great video. I don't know how to connect and talk with people just randomly! I struggle with that.

[@Opeth221]

It's even hard for Senior designers to get a role. In most job sites, there are 100+ applicants for each role.

[@Nicole-eu2pv]

I really needed it right now, thank you so much! I got significantly discouraged by all the videos saying not to pursue this career bc of the downfall of the job market but I guess it has smth to do with some designers trying to gatekeep bc of the competition, I really hope this field will recover and I'll be able to land a job once I feel confident with my skills and have a good portfolio, thanks xx

[@sharonyeunkim]

I believe in you Nicole!!

[@prathyushasharma9637]

Hi, even I am trying to learn and get into UI UX , would you like to connect and discuss about any sample projects and portfolios?

[@Soupisgood883]

It’s not even about gatekeeping, it’s the reality. I genuinely think it’s silly to waste your time and energy and especially money on a bootcamp nowadays. My advice would be to go for something more stable (coming from a recent bootcamp grad without work, no need to gatekeep) you can be passionate about wanting to find a job and still not find one. It’s all luck at the end of the day. Right place right time and who you know

[@PaoloSbaraglini]

​@@Soupisgood883and if someone wants to do the job? He just gives up because it's as hard to find as any other job?

[@psychogothkitty]

​@Soupisgood883 what's a better alternative for study?

[@riomorder]

😂😂😂 I totally disagree in my company (San Francisco tech) they fired every ux designer. In a meeting we had last week they told us that ux designers will be replace with AI and a little cheap agency from India. I am not saying is the end of the world but definitely from now on this kind of jobs will be a regular job not more a dream job

[@Decembersown21]

Spotify announced a third round of layoffs (~1500) employees. This is going to get ever darker up until the Fed starts cutting rates at the very least.

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yeah, job market overall is difficult and I wouldn’t be surprised if there are more layoffs as companies try to adjust for profits, etc. at least based on the graph trends there will still be layoffs but it is def not as it was before and if I had to take an estimation I think another year or so could give market more time to recover or whatnot.

[@TieraOwens]

I think UX will always be necessary because I've seen some apps and sites and they are still not designed well even in 2024. So it's obvious that even if a lot of people want to do it, not everyone will be good at it. I think it still takes a certain level of skill to design well and I guess that "bust" kinda helped sift some not-so-good designers out. 😬😳

[@Exotixa]

I've been following you for a bit, since I began my UX/UI design journey. You are always incredibly informative, and I love you work you put into your videos. I will say that I am not convinced that UX/UI job openings will be secure in the future. AI is expanding rapidly and I think it will remove a lot of entry-level roles and make it more competitive overall. I forsee the importance of being an engineer alongside being a UX/UI designer if you want to secure a job. This is just me though haha

[@blazevanguard]

What do you mean in the engineer part? If you want to touch the life of someone on the other side of the world, please give some advice. I will screenshot your comment and paste it on my wall 😂. Can UX/UI be destroyed by AI in 10 years?

[@lindsaykatz9517]

Not even one minute in but liking and commenting to say your video is extremely sharp and well done.

[@thomaswang2712]

Thanks for giving us hope! Let's get that bag!!

[@sharonyeunkim]

🫡 let’s goooo

[@fjaced]

hi sharon, i'm currently enrolled in the UX Academy Designlabs Bootcamp! watching your videos was a huge influence to me starting the foundations course way back when :) this video just cleared all of the discouraging noise in my head. thank u for continuing to make good content, keep doing u! :')

[@sharonyeunkim]

Hi!!! Omg thank you for the kind words 😭😭 I hope your bootcamp experience was good? Yess my pleasure I hope to stay in touch- lmk if there’s anything you’d like to see next :)

[@Akirameowxp]

That’s exciting! Hope your bootcamp is going well. I’ll be starting one in mid December 💪🏽

[@fjaced]

Working on my first project has been really exciting :) I'd love to hear about your experience with your mentors throughout your bootcamp! It's such an integral part of the program and I think can make a huge difference in your experience. @@sharonyeunkim

[@fjaced]

Congratulations on making the decision to start! Big step in the right direction :) @@Akirameowxp

[@psychogothkitty]

I just started UX Academy and although I did my research about the challenges, my mentor recently put the noise back in my head and now I'm kinda freaking out about it. I would love to chat on Discord sometime if you're open to it.

[@klejnotnilu5181]

6:42 Don't have YET imagine that someone tells you about gpt-4o 5 years ago, and nowadays AI is growing insanely fast.

[@andybeck7615]

My firm requires a MBA with full-stack development web coding along with a UX/UI design certificate. You are required to code in Python, Javascript, Node JS, React, Kotrin, SQL, JAVA, HTML. Ruby and LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP), and database technologies and frameworks (JSON, NGINX, Angular, and React).

[@finnj3976]

I hope this will get better. Soon regretting doing a bachelor in computer science/design after my other two bachelor degrees (nursing and social science). Doing a master degree in business from a top B school while I wait for the market to get better

[@Mooks689]

Thanks Sharon for sharing this information ❤❤

[@PaoloSbaraglini]

"It's garanteed to have the job now" it's a very confident statement. I hope it's true cuz I'm starting my studies rn

[@sharonyeunkim]

Work hard!!! As they say, if there’s a will, there’s a way. Best of luck 🤝

[@sshrekster]

Be careful what advice you take from someone sponsored by a bootcamp

[@prakashsuryavanshi8275]

This is kind of yearly video that many designer make. 😃

[@DarkSphinxx]

AI IS MAKING ME ANXIOUS

[@azraanvar]

just wanted to mention this video really benefited , short and very direct facts . Thank you so much .. your research did really pay off

[@salmank3131]

That continuous heavenly energy on your head from sky shows how determined you were and are.😄

[@x24140]

Great research and really have a full view of the career. Thank you, Sharon!

[@sharonyeunkim]

Thanks for watching! Is there anything you’d like to see next?

[@johncliffalvarez6513]

Absolutely thrilled to catch up with your latest, Sharon! Since our last chat, I successfully wrapped up the Google UX Design Certificate and ventured into additional certifications, particularly delving into the realm of AI. Joining the ranks as the 30,001st graduate, quite the journey, right? 😄 Yet, on the job front, it's been a bit of a climb. If you foresee another surge coming our way, I'm crossing my fingers for the perfect opportunity! By the way, looping back to my previous question about feedback on my portfolio-I'd love to hear your thoughts whenever it fits into your schedule. Looking forward to your reply to my earlier email!

[@sharonyeunkim]

Hi John :) yes, crossing my fingers too! Been busy with emails but yes got your email! Will reply asap ~~ thanks for your patience:)

[@johncliffalvarez6513]

@@sharonyeunkim Hey, Sharon! I saw! Thank you so much! You're the best!

[@destinyschild5768]

I’m not in UX field (I’m in marketing) and I personally wouldn’t put all my time and energy into taking certificates. It’s better to have a portfolio set up and if you can’t get a full-time role at least find freelance work to do. Work experience is king in this job market. Employers don’t care about certificates…

[@myworldmytravels]

@@destinyschild5768 As someone in learning and development & marketing at a Fortune 100, I can say credentials and ongoing learning are important in a changing workplace. Like you said companies want to see what you can do and if certificates can help someone get there that's great leverage.

[@chloe-ev3qk]

@@destinyschild5768 im a college student interested in marketing... what sort of things should we do for our portfolio? what type of marketing do you do?

[@AugustDavinDeepson]

I have zero competition. I love it. Thank you and stay awesome.

[@nataliaflores4933]

I loved designlab!!

[@oanhnguyen7385]

Such a helpful and motivated video. Thank you for your sharing!

[@saisathya6274]

I am just late by a month watching this video in December lol algorithm really needed some time to catch up I guess. This video along with some other ones has actually convinced me to go full-on to become a UX designer in 2024 starting right away! Thanks a lot for posting such an insightful video and boosting my confidence Sharon, I am really looking forward to connecting with you on LinkedIn and learning from you.

[@artdawggy]

I've been a UX designer for 21 years. If you have consistently worked in UK gov then you should switch to service design as quickly as possible as many gov departments no longer employ UX designers only service designers. Becoming a product designer is also a good path. In the UK at least pure UX designers are feeling a painful pinch when it comes to finding work and that is only going to increase. Employers are starting to look for unicorns more and more seeking individuals who can be both a full on user researcher and and a UX/UI designer. Some even want development included in the mix. I mentor young designers often and I always recommend they expand into product or service design rather than sticking with pure Ux. IMHO it is a dying field.

[@TheEliseRae]

Hi! are you taking on any more mentees?

[@Pavan-735]

In the middle of the video you said "AI going to take this job....no it's not happen" then i took a long breath 😊 By the way i subscribed you

[@m3vm3]

Can you make a video on networking? Also your ideas on how AI and UX can be used

[@nimainpatra5412]

It's just another tool. The thing I came here to listen.😌

[@mahimaarora2340]

thanku for this video ,, this was helpful. I am hunting for the UI/UX Internship also and currently did boot camp program

[@sharonyeunkim]

good luck 🫡

[@michaelriccelli8483]

I am an experienced designer and one thing that wasn’t addressed here is, companies are only hiring UX Designers as contractors. Six month contracts are the norm. High hour wage but no salary long term jobs in this field.

[@valery-meraki2534]

Yes, most of the jobs that you can get on contract jobs. It's the same with Web Development jobs

[@neongirll_]

This video was so helpful! Thanks Sharon ❤

[@annakhashchyna5373]

Thank you for the useful content! I really enjoy watching your videos and I use you recommendations in my portfolio preparation! All the best to you!

[@Akirameowxp]

Thank you for sharing your journey and tips with us! Truly inspiring! 👏🏽☺️ Looking forward to the future of UI/UX 🤞🏼

[@sharonyeunkim]

It’s my pleasure :) Doing what I can to help! And me too 😆

[@WinnerKenu]

I really love watching your videos! It really inspires me!😊

[@enriquemazariegos3748]

i subscribe because i had an epifany wathching your video, i left my art carrer because i wasnt able to do any money haha, so i studied html, css and javaScript, but now, i feel like i just found meaning... thanks!

[@bhanuprakash6305]

Determination and work ethic.

[@sharonyeunkim]

🤝

[@etherean369]

Thanks so much for this! I have two questions though: 1. Do professional certificates from Udemy etc and certs from courses by Industry Leads that include mentorship still count as 'simple certificates'? 2. How do you make sure a coffee chat does not seem like a 'bribe' or purely transactional? Apart from keeping it casual, what should you discuss... and in a case where maybe the person may get the wrong idea about your intentions...esp as a young female.

[@Lilloo]

The reality is that companies want that who have high skill in UI. UX is good, but in the real world, day-to-day, in 90% of the jobs this skill doesn't help much, just big companies manage use UX skills, the small ones can't work following all steps. So, be careful if you want change your field, acquires a good design skills is need years, you can't attain this only doing bootcamps.

[@sharonyeunkim]

I agree that you should have good UI skills. It's not like your work can look like 💩. Having great UI skills is a benefit and you should still stand out by having that. Having a good impression via beautiful imagery will help you stand out and get your foot in the door- but if your design thinking is lacking there's no point in stressing so much over UI. Having both is ideal, but to "get a job" good UI is useless without good UX.

[@Lilloo]

@@sharonyeunkim The ideal world is for you to know how to do both, of course, that will make you stand out as a professional above average, but small companies cannot work with large deadlines where you will have months to do a project, for 90% of the professionals in the field it's a week to deliver something, sometimes you work on more than one project at the same time, the research is just to know the objective of the product and the audience, maybe a benchmark of competitors, interviews and tests probably will not be done. That is why most of the market is now looking for professionals with strong UI skills, they want someone with good ideas and knows how to execute. The use of AI will greatly help professionals working under these conditions. And let's be honest, UX is not a seven-headed monster; with a few weeks of study and effort, anyone in the world can understand the processes and apply them. It was not for nothing that there was a boom of people entering this area when they realized this. However, to develop the ability to empathize and to have good ideas and execute them into a good UI, you need a few years to get there.

[@sharonyeunkim]

@@Lilloo yup! Execution is most important and UI will def help drive it forward on top of thinking- although learning UI takes more time. Thanks for your comment :)

[@_rael__]

Awesome video as usual. I remember watching your videos earlier this year while I was on the hunt for a summer internship. Your videos totally played a part in helping me bag a UX Design internship at Amazon!. Now, with graduation on the horizon, the job hunt is getting real, and I won't lie, it's very overwhelming. This video, though, is like a calm in the storm. Seriously, thank you for that! By the way, how about connecting on LinkedIn? I'd love to follow your work and maybe have a chat sometime. Keep those awesome videos coming!

[@sharonyeunkim]

wow congratulations on the Amazon internship!! We’re twinning, haha. I understand- layoffs were rough this year but slowed down a lot. I think you’ll be fine. If you had a return offer on the table that would be great but if not, having amazon on your resume is a HUGE advantage. You deserve it, use your network and you will find a job no problem. Is there anything else you’d like a video on? And sure, send me a message on LinkedIn :)

[@themountainmove]

thank you! very nice video that actually motivates and gives me hope.

[@sharonyeunkim]

✨💖

[@PanCk-x3m]

I’m a new graduated from Thailand I need to be UXUI designer you are my inspiration to to better I a little bit understand in English

[@sharonyeunkim]

Best of luck!!

[@steamerSama]

Right now, AI is just another tool. There is already some people working on turning Figma into UI code in multiple languages. The advantage with UX designers is the fact that even the clients do not know what they want. They can explain in vague terms what they need, but the "creativity" comes from the designer. However, that is set to change in the next couple of years. AI could learn what the client expects and deliver them designs within a fraction of the time and cost of traditional designers

[@KatherineSaje]

Oooo yessss spill all the tea

[@sharonyeunkim]

Tea spilled 😮‍💨💅

[@RichRightMedia]

Thanks for the encouragement 🙏

[@remekster]

Thanks for the in depth information, i really trust your channel 👍🏼

[@sharonyeunkim]

Thanks for watching- what would you like to see next?

[@remekster]

maybe something about showing case studies or ux/ui work on resume and how to structure it, i know this probably wont be a whole video. Also something about non linear processes of ux. Thanks again

[@AmandaVQM]

There's a lot of valuable information on this video, Thank you Sharon! Also, I have a question. Last year I tried to do a bootcamp but it was full UX/UI, and the beginning of it it was full UI. Didn't like and quit. I'm currently a Tech Recruiter (I have seen a lot of techie roles) and now, I realized that like UX Research and I strongly believe I'll do well in that area. Any advice?

[@Coffee-With-Mahin]

I found this video quite insightful. I am currently in a similar position where I graduated from my UX boot camp as one of the youngest students by far. I am now completing my final year of university (economics) purely to finish what I started but intend on applying for UX jobs as soon as I am finished in a year's time. What would you recommend for someone like me to do during this year, to increase my chances of getting a UX job as soon as possible while I am still at university?

[@sharonyeunkim]

Network ASAP!!! Offer to buy lunch, coffee, pay for people’s time. Meet as many people as possible.

[@sugaudacity]

@@sharonyeunkimHi Sharon, could you please talk more about the networking process? Like how you approach cold messaging people from LinkedIn, how often you reached out, etc. Any advice on this would be extremely helpful, thanks so much

[@breezedeep]

Hi Sharon, Thanks for your video! It's definitely great to hear of the positive outlook on the field. I'm currently in the Google UX Design certificate program, and also simultaneously enrolled in a Masters program in Human Centered Design (2 courses down, 8 to go). I'm trying to decide whether to continue with the masters or not, and would love to get your opinion for someone brand new to the field? The masters has been great for slowly sitting with material whereas the Google UX Design cert has been more on the go, and very straight forward. From what you've discovered of the field, is the masters even worth it? Is the Google certificate enough along with working on the portfolio?

[@jarredbusbee4381]

Amazing video thank you!

[@sharonyeunkim]

You got it 😆😆 what would you like to see next?

[@MuskanSanjayAsudani]

i am a junior in college studying electronics and comp sci and it has been so overwhelming having to decide what field to go in and two years have already gone by and i still do not know and it feels like i have wasted so much time. I am fascinated by ux design a lot but don't know how to go about it. If someone can help, I would greatly appreciate it. This video was really good and informative !

[@estebansanchezrojas7417]

I'm trying to get into the UX world, taking a course, learning other stuff on my own... And your thumbnail gave me anxiety. Thank you for the video tho.

[@AaronMilesHowell]

Thank you Sharon. I am on the Google UX Course atm, and I have decided that I will take that into my switch to being an XR Designer - thank you in particular for your advice on managing expectations with timeframes. I feel much better about that now

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yes glad I could be of help Aaron! Don’t rush, quality takes time :)

[@nehalpradhan2229]

Is that the one from Coursera?? if it is would you recommend that course for starting out??

[@AaronMilesHowell]

Hello - yes it is the one from Coursera. Maybe for starting out it's okay, but I would also check out others like DesignLab@@nehalpradhan2229

[@JeffreyJohnson-p2g]

Cool Video. Neilson Norman makes money off UX Education. So I don't know if it's a good source for data, as they are highly incentivized to bolster numbers to encourage course admissions and would bet a lot of my money that they absolutely do that. Otherwise really good stuff thanks for posting

[@RobiulIslam-l9r]

I am excited ui ux designer

[@AndyRamosDesign]

thank you for taking the time to create this helpful & informative video. im looking forward to watching more of your videos in the future. wanted to give you some user feedback. the light behind you was distracting for me and took away from your incredible presentation. anyway thanks again and keep it up!!

[@TazBo-wd2ig]

I feel UX specific role will soon be obsolete, a graphic designer can easily learn Figma and also learn the basics of research to create websites and apps for small to medium sized companies. I know a lot of graphic designers falling into this space and their portfolios are stunning compared to anybody coming from a boot camp or showing clients the typical webflow portfolio websites.

[@Simrankaur12.]

This was a great video, I’m from the UK and have a Masters Degree in UX Design and I’m struggling to so much to get a job. It’s tough but I won’t give up!

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

I'm in a similar situation. I've only got a bachelor's but have done an internship at a top tech company. Honestly, with that experience I thought it would be easy to find something... It's really not 🤪

[@Simrankaur12.]

That’s insane well done! I can’t even get an internship the competition is super high, I wish I became one 2 years ago when it was in high demand but I guess we can only try our best now, I wish you all the luck!

[@sharonyeunkim]

Hello! That’s so cool- where did you get your masters? Yeah, the first job is always the hardest, literally😅….but every job after that is going to be much easier to secure. I think it’s like pushing a boulder up a hill, so much effort at first but once you get your first opportunity you gain momentum :) What else would you like to see from me?

[@sharonyeunkim]

things always takes more work/time than we expect 🫠

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

@@sharonyeunkim I agree I think it will get a lot easier once you have your first year or two of experience. Definitely worth the effort of trying to break in.

[@unisangalaxystudio]

Am thinking of getting my BA in UX I have a associates in graphic design but the 2nd great depression and pandemic killed that path, ux is my last chace if not i have to start over

[@ChocolateAsian9000]

I’ve been waffling on joining the Dribble UI/UX design program. I’m a graphic designer and thinking of expanding my skill set. Has anyone tried their program? This video and the comments makes me second guess all of it

[@NidhiShukla-o8b]

Can you please make a video about how someone can become UX Researcher and courses for the same?

[@tracyhagler2146]

Hi Sharon! Thank you so much for your videos! Do most employers require a bachelors degree to be a UX Designer?

[@kickstartttt]

Can u prepare a video regarding roadmap to UX/UI design for a complete beginner to advanced to proficient? That would be Helpful. ❤ Thanks in advance.

[@dcarter_ux]

There’s lots of roadmaps already on YT

[@sharonyeunkim]

That’s a good idea. I’ll do my best!

[@lilypanda5287]

I would love to be a ux designer but you know AI can do almost everything nowadays. So, I'm afraid that if ux design field got dead by AI or the salary is lower than other tech field. I'm so confused that should I choose this field or not.

[@IamVel]

There is a huge lays off in tech now in January all over the world. All will be affected.

[@TeenyWeeny]

I thought, from my research, UX Design can be done in non-digital products too? No?

[@sage-kim]

Such an informative video, Sharon! Keep up the great work :)

[@sharonyeunkim]

Appreciate you :,)

[@vsdy1990]

Some Misinformation here. In fact there are more layoffs. Avarage companies has 1-2 designers for 20 developer

[@Ianmundo]

AI may replace bootcamp designers. If you don’t have a strong education in design and ethnography, the foundations of UX, your Figma skills may not cut it. Research is the foundation of UX, as a UX’er you must have more tools than the techniques taught in bootcamps.

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yeah I think bootcamps are a very compact way to get up to the latest tools and etc. but yeah you cannot risk the idea that getting by on UI skills alone will save you. Bootcamps usually aim to teach you both and if a bootcamp only teaches UI I don’t think it’s wise to choose that.

[@vincentnnyc]

Sharon: can you be transparent. are you currently employed as a full time ux designer with a company in November 2023? if no, why not?

[@sharonyeunkim]

Yes I’ve been working full time since July! I got my offer back in May though. A few videos ago I posted a Vlog which you can see of me getting the offer😆

[@EarthCasterr]

this video was so informative and relatable oh! Thank you so so much I feel motivated and learned a lot!

[@lucygilbertson3746]

Since 2023 and now 2024, it is almost impossible without a lot of luck! I know many talented, hardworking, qualified designers with incredible portfolios that would have been hired in a heartbeat just 3 years ago, who are not even getting interviews, and then I also know designers who are untalented/lazy who are flying. Its all bullsh*t and probably about 90% luck. I saw a bog standard crappy junior UX job for £25k a year advertised recently, and it had 800 applicants in 4 hours! Unfortunately, unless you know someone who can definitely give you a job after your degree/bootcamp etc, its probably not worth it right now. Job market is completely f*cked.. and as depressing as it is, that's the truth of it. People need to stop blaming the candidates and start looking at the reality of the market. Hard work no longer gets you hired! Getting a job right now is preparation meets opportunity, and only a small percentage actually get that opportunity.