UX Design: Most Juniors FAIL At This!

[@AJSmart]

Will you use 'The Canvas Strategy'?! Who do you want to reach out to and work for?! 🥳Let us know in the comments below! 👇 Also check out our video on how to get a UX Design job WITHOUT a portfolio here: 📺 kzbin.info/www/bejne/ap6so2l5q7xkpLs

[@sinelalita7159]

That video, /UX Design: How to get a job WITHOUT a portfolio/ a year ago, inspired me so much as a beginner It. helped me land my current job which been about a year now, AND AGAIN! this current video help boost me more! 🙆🏻‍♀️ Thank you so much for your insight! 🍑

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Sine! We are very happy to help and inspire!

[@sikandersingh286]

This is very good advice which will work in other fields too, very straightforward, Thank you

[@janieliu9713]

As a junior I would not mind doing free but delicate designs to fill up my portfolio, but I heard from a mentor that unsolicited designs can be dangerous and not welcomed. Part of the reason is we do not know the real context and constraint of the design we want to improve, and pointing out their design simply has flaws and needs improvement is just not thoughtful. So I am actually a bit skeptical about this canvas approach... I only did free designs for companies who would like applicants to take a design challenge and even invested several days for each one, to produce what I would call semi real-world projects. However after filling up my portfolio with these projects, finally I got my first ideal UX designer offer by throwing a cold email that said hey, please look at my resume, which AJ&Smart just criticized...

[@Favoxhille]

I think it's about the context.. in my opinion using the canvas strategy can be beneficial for a senior/middleweight designer who wants to approach a big brand and wants to hit the ground running showcasing his expertise in problem solving and design thinking, but otherwise I agree that doing redesigns as a first point contact can be a shot in the dark and there's basically no guarantee that it will be received positevely.

[@melissamarquez4333]

Yes, I think the scenario you just described is more realistic and common for individuals.

[@etmargallo]

The canvas strategy worked for me twice ... TWICE. The normal application and interview got me in the door, but I just got edged out each time at the very end. You are correct, this approach may not be welcome at all, but, I think if you do research and provide some sample free work on how to improve their product/service, I notice you suddenly turn the tables and your interview turns into a presentation instead. And then it becomes less of an interrogation, and more of a conversation piece.

[@janieliu9713]

@@etmargallo As earlier replies in this thread mentioned, the canvas strategy works for seniors who clearly know which direction the business goes and what the business wants. In my current UX role, people I am working with have little UX knowledge or experience with no clue about what to do, and I have to take the initiative to try to understand what is needed and deliver some samples of my work to the executives without being told to do so.

[@Huriel97]

@@janieliu9713 Yeah, seems good for people already with a lot of experience but for newcomers it seems super toxic ... He says that the "it's devaluating the UX work value" is bullshit but it's just how it is for any industry really. It's very naive to think big companies will come and offer you a job because you gave them stuff for free. This mechanism of devaluation of compensation when people themselves allow themselves to be hired at a cheaper price is just a fact, it happened to a lot of industries (like IT) and it's usually very hard to climb back unless there's a huge increase in demand. It's the main effect of outsourcing labor after all, getting cheaper labour even if lesser quality and drive the price down. The whole thing about hiring newcomers, in any industry, is also to train them and make the overall industry healthier by releasing experienced people on the market after they've finished working with you, but obviously no company wants to bear the cost of that hence all the junior positions already requiring 3 years experience and to already be a unicorn designer (or whatever other position), mainly because they all have a very short term vision nowadays. Maybe another angle to this canvas method would be to focus on using those free (side)projects as portfolio projects that you could then expose to other companies you apply for a job at, while you already have a job that can already secure your livelihood . Or maybe the Canvas method guy just didn't have to pay his rent or eat food when he came up with it.

[@sedimbisatyapramod5880]

Daaaaamnn! I used this strategy. 🔥 Made a report on "How I thought they could improve something in their application." Cold emailed them. Had an interview. SELECTED for an Entry-Level Designer role! 🥳 Thanks AJ&Smart! Forever indebted.

[@bretthopkins6385]

I find the fact that many people wont implement this kind of surprising, but then again I don't. In the military we were taught that we were below everyone until we earned our place and the only way to do that was to work hard, study, and go above and beyond. This also strikes me as the kind of mindset that an entrepreneurial venture has to undertake to be able to survive in a vast sea of competition. Great video! I am definitely going to subscribe.

[@peterdelaney1946]

As someone who is making a career move from the film industry to UX design I can honestly say your channel is a goldmine of information. I am well aware all I know is what I learned in my UX design course and I have so much to learn. Thank you for the videos.

[@AJSmart]

Amazing to hear Peter! Thanks so much we love that! Great, we guarantee very few people who watch this will actually implement it, so by doing the even rudimentary elements of this strategy you'll level up fast!

[@peterdelaney1946]

@@decibill2534 Hi there. I just saw your comment. For me, I've had enough of filming in bad weather, at unsociable hours, the freelance nature of the work. I want stability in my work and a routine. I still want to be involved in something creative and if I can help others that's a bonus. What I will miss most is the people. Film people are a social bunch. Why are you moving from UX into film?

[@lucidcannibal]

Exactly my words as of today.

[@Passive790]

This video really gave me some clarity. And honestly I’m only still working on my first project on Figma and I was stuck until I found your guys videos there is so much helpful information I have found through you. As well as networking with other UX designers on discord. But keep pumping out content your content is very very helpful. I find it funny that I’m using the canvas method to get into an inner circle of people that are very knowledgeable about real estate without me having ever heard of this concept. But I’m my head it made sense why I would try to start conversations with them and everytime I met them I’d offer something without any expectations of getting something in return. It’s been working great cause the more I see them the more they want to interact with me knowing that I’m offering services but lowkey asking questions to find out more about the real estate business side of things to hopefully eventually get to be mentored by one and take on that knowledge that they’ve gained over the years and implement that knowledge into building a real estate portfolio that will help me retire early. Definitely a plan that’s gonna take years to complete but that knowledge is what I’m essential after rather than a handout they may offer me. Which depending on contexts I would probably still do said service to them for free to gain more leverage in being to ask questions that normally they wouldn’t want to get into because if I’m not offering some form of value to them what is keeping them from giving me their time and knowledge. I found this video fascinating.

[@m.design]

1:20 "Lot of young designers are not humble! They think they know everything." ~ This is GOLD

[@lucasdenduyver5423]

I'm a Belgian digital design and development student and we learn everything about ux/ui but what you just told is something they don't teach us and is soooo important. So thanks for these great tips!

[@AJSmart]

They don't! We have another amazing video coming on this kinda of topic, please stay posted!

[@lucasdenduyver5423]

@@AJSmart will be there

[@andrewwoan]

wow, ive always been doing this but I never knew there was a term for it! Now I feel more confident doing it, thank you so much!

[@luciaziman3956]

Same here!

[@thalesagostino]

Hey guys! Im just starting in this ux/ui world. I can defnetly say that you have the best content here on youtube! Thanks for doing it.

[@SolakidisPanagiotis]

I am amazed by how willing are some seniors in the field to help Junior UX designers like me. That was a master class. Not promoting not saying anything related to his business just sharing advice. I loved it

[@AJSmart]

Thanks alot Solakidis! Great to hear! Thanks for the lovely feedback, and let us know how you get on with the strategy!

[@park_journey]

I studied Interior Design but recently, I decided to change my career for UX Design field. So, I definitely at the very low bottom line though I dream to be a UX Design along with AJ&Smart channel! When I build up some skill and/or projects I will do 'The Canvas Strategy' of course. Thanks for inspiring me!

[@mauriciovillarreal339]

It's weird because I kind of already knew this were the actions I needed to do indirectly, but is obviously better when someone points that out to you and remind you what you should be doing.

[@AJSmart]

Glad it was helpful Mauricio!

[@Edmundostudios]

Have to be careful though some people can take advantage of you.

[@AJSmart]

That's a fair point Edmundo! But it's more about just getting on the radar here!

[@aysecelen9239]

I graduated from the UX Career Supercharger Course today and last e-mail topic fits this video perfectly. I am watching it to understand more deeply. Thank you for everything

[@heipadegdingamlesei]

Wow, AJ&Smart is actually becoming a bible for UX/UI design. Can't stress enough how much I appreciate this solid advice and the honesty

[@hari3464]

I'm below the food chain, I accept that and I'm happy with that to learn more.

[@kevkimamira8894]

Thank you for the advice

[@Divyansh_07_09]

Absolutely Loved it Jonathan!! Thanks for sharing this. No bulls**t, to the point talking.

[@andreahuszar3540]

As I am now slowly shifting from being a junior to a mid-weight designer I totally understand where you are coming from. Juniors don’t ask questions because they think they should know everything and that’s the expectation for them so they act like they do know everything and this can come across as they have no clue but have a big big ego. Which is a paradox really. And unfortunately, I am amongst those who learned it in the hard way. That’s one thing. But saying that I am useless (also it sounds like you recruited an annoying intern) and I shouldn’t ask for money for my work is a message that can confuse budding designers and make them undervalue their skill set. I think this thought is relevant but should be approached from a different perspective. I think you should always price the time and the creativity you put in your work regardless of your level but to be successful and acknowledged by your clients and colleagues you should always give a little bit more. Especially at the time when you still have to prove that you are good. Always ‘bring the chocolate' as the CEO of Ueno advice it in his talk (here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/poWaXpykhLGNfZo) It can also be a good strategy for junior designers and for their self-esteem.

[@AJSmart]

Well said Andrea Huszár! There is nothing wrong with asking questions. You don't necessarily have to know everything specially when you're a junior. But you should know where are the weaknesses in your knowledge in order to be able to strengthen them.

[@savara6160]

Awesome video! These tips are really great. I totally agree that everyone should be open to working for free. However, I think you should only work for free if you are the one proposing the project, and if you feel that it adds value. Never accept when someone asks you to work for them for free because they are simply telling you that they don't value your time. If someone is going to ask you to help them to make money, they should pay your while they are at it. And no payment in "exposure" either.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Savara. That's a very nice way to put it.

[@ericnhodza1790]

I'm happy I found this video as I'm just starting out. Thanks so much for the great advice.

[@ChristineLosy]

Love this direct style of video! It helps me just focus on one clear message of your content. I’m not distracted by effects that I usually have to skip or ignore in my mind.

[@AJSmart]

Noted Christine and thanks for the feedback! More like this to come!

[@dineshjanapa]

I am a designer at heart with less than a year active (DJEI Graphics) thumbtack profile providing free lance design solutions to various customers. I thoroughly enjoyed your video and gives us aspiring full time designers hope. Thank you for introducing us to the Canvas strategy!

[@RickNassar]

Completely agree with it all! Been using this strategy for a while and it works. Just be aware many in many cases this can be hard work, so make sure to choose who you want to approach carefully. It will burn you out if you did this for every single possible job opportunity out there.

[@africaninternet2746]

Interesting vid. Some points I'd mention to anyone looking to work: 1. Invest in yourself. From a free .wordpress site to your name.com website just make a single page site about yourself. List who you are, what you can do and what you have done. Brand YOU as a company. 2. Know thyself. It's only free if someone does not pay...I agree that doing the work for free gets you ahead. Then, be astute and bill your company for that work. When you get the job or gig, deduct your pay and treat yourself to rule number one above. 3. Cycle and repeat the first two steps. In a month you will have a portfolio, in three months you will have more clients than you know what to do with

[@AJSmart]

Thanks for sharing African Internet! Those are some valid points. It's not quite the same approach as the Canvas Strategy, but they might be worth a try for some people.

[@GPinaffiRodrigues]

Hey Jonathan, first of all, great vi. I really like the straight foward format. One thing that young designers [myself included] tend to do and it's awful it's doing a work for free [in the same parameters that you specified] and getting angry if the person/company, doesn't care or just say thanks. I think the video just missed this little part because people should realise that you shouldn't get frustated if your work [which was not asked for] doesn't end up in a job offer/ promotion.

[@tomoworks5627]

Excellent video. Straight to the point, no jokes, no loud background music, and its real. You can hear it and see it in his conversation. “Free” needs to earn the public opinion of “investing”

[@rebjones1000]

Assessing a need and doing something for free unprompted and being asked to do something for free are very different things. Thank you for this video!

[@jshergill9158]

Great video Jonathan. Stick with this format - it’s perfect! I’ll certainly look into the canvas strategy some more to help me progress.

[@SolakidisPanagiotis]

I also find that look great

[@AJSmart]

Thanks a lot! Loads more like this to follow! Let us know how you progress with it, and if you have any questions!

[@AJSmart]

@@SolakidisPanagiotis Thanks Solakidis!

[@aliayubabbasi]

nice video!.... knowing and accepting where you are is always a good way of starting and progressing in the right direction. Working for free does work... some clients genuinely cant afford your services but do appreciate and give you work when they can but on other hand some people out there don't respect free services and keep exploiting... SO MUST KEEP EYES OPEN TO THAT!

[@AJSmart]

Spot on Ali Ayub! Thanks for sharing.

[@rebeccabrodkey]

All really good advice! As a new designer I can definitely confirm that I’m aware that I know nothing 😂

[@SolakidisPanagiotis]

We are on the same page :P

[@AJSmart]

Humility like that will take you a long way, honestly! Thanks for the feedback too! How would you use the canvas strategy? Anything you want us to clear up further around it?

[@AJSmart]

@@SolakidisPanagiotis We're allllllll on the same page!

[@SolakidisPanagiotis]

@@AJSmart 😂😂

[@rebeccabrodkey]

AJ&Smart I enjoyed hearing about strategy when reaching out to people / brands, my next question would be how to tactically make that happen? How to determine the best platform, how to make sure your message gets seen? A lot of advice I’ve heard is just that you have to make or find connections to leverage but that’s hard if you don’t have any way in

[@hvidkanin2298]

Thank you for the great video, I will defenitly try this!

[@AJSmart]

Thanks for watching - happy to see that you liked it! let us know how it goes!

[@thisisgunkel]

I love this approach, I've reached out to some people who I admired and have received responses, so I think asking and reaching out is good, but if you can provide value this is a lot more powerful. Thanks for continuing to produce content during quarantine!

[@AJSmart]

Thanks for sharing Gunkel! It's very cool that you have received responses. And you're right, you always have to try to provide value.

[@Osmo345]

I am in the middle of a career change and studying UX Design and I have major imposter syndrome. I know I don't know anything, but am continuing to work. Thank you for the really good advice!

[@k.m.imranhussein6873]

Pretty helpful. Thanks a lot!

[@Classicsydzilla]

I'm a Junior BA/UX Designer and honestly your videos are amazing. Implementing UX strategies has fallen on my shoulders at my company (Apparently I'm supposed to be the expert!), but I feel like I don't really know anything. Maybe I'll be good enough someday to join an awesome team like the one they have at AJ&Smart!

[@davekoehler4457]

I've been a UX designer longer so naturally I was holding out, but he's one-hundred percent correct. Even more-so he's right that this approach is applicable to almost any type of work. Good vid.

[@niraj807]

I m SR.Product and interaction designer and when I am started my career at current company I did the same that I don't know and started to learn and today I am at SR.position and I am aware that now the AR stuff will be the future and apply in the my company. So I am starting once again and start learning AR stuff like unity and unreal as well as 3d. Thanks for the strategy.

[@charlesabraham-ramirez-verdugo]

Thanks for making this video. I am truly humbled.

[@peterdelaney1946]

I can confirm the canvas strategy works. I sent in an application to a software company. I conducted an interview with two users of the software to add to my application. Adding this piece of research got me a video call with the front end guy doing the hiring the same day. However, it was a product design role and my visual design skills let me down. So I'm also working on my visual design at the moment.

[@shirley988]

Yes i agree , think like an entrepreneur instead of an employee. At the end of the day, what you had done or researched sharpen your experience and you got a story/case study to tell or to pitch to other people.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Shirleytin_2020! Very nicely said.

[@anhyunhee1545]

I appreciate your video! this really help me forming a positive and can do attitude towards career goals!

[@kamilwaszewski]

Wow, it was one of the best videos about getting a job I have ever watched. Really. Yeah, the tips might seem obvious but actually many people don't do it, they don't make good research, they don't show their effort to get to know the company's problems, etc. Thanks for those tips because I was making such mistakes as well and now I realized that you are right, it makes a lot of sense. Thanks!

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Kamil! Sometimes we don't think of the most obvious things! And sometimes we need to be reminded of even the simplest things in order to build them into our process.

[@mshz9795]

This is really helpful and the strategy will help me in my life forward... THANKS for the video...

[@danielpedersen1688]

I totally agree with your advice / tips to improve in UX Design. Fun fact i actually combined tip 1 & 2 and got a student job out of doing that, that was 4 years ago. So here's the story to how it happened: Back in 2018 i was studying Web Integrator at Roskilde Technical College and besides our programming classes we had Danish lessons once a week (for those that wanted it, i live in Denmark btw in case u were wondering). Their wasn't any specific teacher during that day, every week their would be a new teacher whoever was available at the time would be the one teaching, fun enough on this specific day the one teaching was our programming teacher called Mr. Brian for the next hour we talked about CV's, cover letters how to write them what kind of content needs to go in them, how to structure it etc etc... he then gave us this one really good piece of advice that will stick with me forever and he said "writing to a recruiter or someone higher up in a company is like writing a girl you really like / your crush, if she likes you she will respond if not then let it be and move on", so while the Brian kept talking in front of the whiteboard i opened my laptop and went on to google and searched along the lines of "web agency / design agency in Copenhagen", i came across this agency called Dwarf it was the first one i clicked on when the results on Google were showing a list of agencies not too far from where i live, clicked on it did my research read all about it what they do, which companies they do projects for, i then scrolled to the bottom and found the email of the company, i copied the email put it into my Gmail account and wrote along the lines of "hi my name is Daniel i currently study web integrator and will be graduating in a few months, in my school i work on xyz and have been working on projects in... (describing what type of projects i've worked on). I'm currently looking for a company that I can work at on the side of my degree as a student. If it's possible for me to work for you that would be great. Please let me know if theirs a possibility for that. I have attached my CV for your consideration. looking forward to hearing from your soon." About 2-3 hours later i get a reply back from the COO where he says "Hi Daniel thanks for your CV, i have CC'd the CTO of the company, would u like to come in for an interview on thursday? Best regards Lars" I replied "Hi Lars, yea that would be great, see you on Thursday" I then arrived on Thursday think it was around 3pm, during the interview i spoke to the CTO we spoke about technologies we use what they use what i use and then 20 minutes later the CEO walks in sits across me and we talk for a bit then at the end he says "i see a spark in your eyes can see your passionate about web development. Would u like to work here?" i say "yea that would be nice" he then says "what are u doing in 2 days on thursday?" I say "i'm at school, why?" he says "can u come by at like 3:30 pm" i say "yea sure, see u on thursday" i then get to the office we meet at the front door and we both go into the meeting room together he then slides the contract over and says "read this if it looks good then sign it" i then read the contract through from top to bottom and everything looks good i sign it and he says "welcome on board you start next thursday" and the rest is history i now never fill out application forms online i just find people higher up in the company and i get interviews just like that. My point is this, any idiot can fill out an application form attach their CV and click on a button that says "apply now" but not everyone has the guts to send a message to the person that's higher up in the company, it's about taking initiative, being proactive taking action and not sitting back while waiting for someone to give u a job!

[@meylon257]

I am not a junior, and i find that your tips are very important and helpful, well done for your work and help. I'm sure I'll look at the rest of your guides, and learn about your company. Thank you

[@manicatstudios4857]

This is amazing information thank you!

[@AJSmart]

Any time!

[@TiaVaghela]

The best video, concise and to the point with very valuable advice that people can use! Thank you so much!

[@cleliadorchies5680]

I think I've never commented on a video before but now, I HAVE TO ! I recently graduated and your videos are just a huge source of knowledge that I didn't realize I needed that much. I feel my school lacked your kind of insight and well, lacked a lot of things basically. I'm not one to stop where I am, I want to learn more and improve my skills. I definitely want to be an asset to companies that would decide to hire me and be able to show them I will continually improve myself. So I really just wanted to say thank you for your videos and the hardwork you put into them considering your giving away all that for free when there's a considerable amount of premium UX courses that wouldn't even come to that level !

[@AJSmart]

Thank you, Clélia! That's the greatest compliment! What other topics are you interested in?

[@rutababelyte7790]

Great advice! I have a question: let's say I take the advice and create something for someone else. How would I approach them? The least thing I want is to be misunderstood, even if I had the best of intentions. I would appreciate further insight about what to do and not to do.

[@AJSmart]

Great question Rūta! Depending on what you're aiming to help them with. A simple, straight up, close ended email is a good way to go about it, no expectation just generosity. Ran Segall has a great story piece achieved on his instagram about writing a cold email, check that out (it's aimed at getting an internship but is highly relatable: instagram.com/stories/highlights/18071878726084132/?hl=en

[@rutababelyte7790]

@@AJSmart thank you for the answer! I will check his story.

[@luisinadorsi6120]

Hi! I came across with this video today and I'm very new in the UX field. In a couple of hours I'm having an interview for start a new UX project for free. I really don't mind working that way because I know I don't nothing (like Jon Snow), I'm just starting and it's a long way to go. Watching this video made me realized that I'm going in the right way, so I honestly want to thank you for these approach and the canvas strategy :)

[@AJSmart]

Hey Luisina! Thanks for sharing. At the beginning we all know as much as Jon Snow! It's very good that you already have this mindset. How did it go with the UX project?

[@luisinadorsi6120]

@@AJSmart Hello there! So far so good! We are working on how to make people (who really don't care about sustainability) have more sustainable habits. Pretty hard task, right? Lot of research, research, research and iterating, iterating, iterating. But, I can't complain, I'm enjoying this ride :). Let's hope we can make this project grow soon!

[@Itsrichayo]

Live saving video. Thank you.

[@AJSmart]

Thank you Ayodeji Ojurongbe! Glad it helped.

[@sohamshirsat8729]

agree bro opened my mind thanks for this

[@blairadventure7460]

I’m very fortunate I work in a salon with a very open boss , she’s letting me do some UX projects solving some logistic booking issues so I can add them to my portfolio

[@AJSmart]

That’s great, Blair! That will be a great addition to your portfolio.

[@JennaCiela]

I’ve been studying and creating my port for over a year and I’ve recently began researching companies and sending in applications. This information is so helpful and is easing my anxiety over „not knowing enough“ as I go for a win. Of course I don’t and I’m not expected to. I’m just expected to put in the work and learn from the failures til I find a good fit.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks for sharing Jenna. Good luck with the job search and hope this strategy can help you with that.

[@iankelley7574]

This is great. As a student learning UX Design I've been thinking about this as I go through my program. I was doing what you're suggesting intuitively, but it is so nice to hear it from a professional. I've been working on a project spanning many classes and when I it is complete, my plan is to reach out to the company and show them my work.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Ian! Great that you took the initiative already with this! Amazing to hear! Which companies are you aiming for?!

[@iankelley7574]

@@AJSmart I've only aimed at one and it's Black Rifle Coffee Company. As a graduate student in UX I feel as if I should know more than I do, but I'm okay with admitting that and hopefully can join a team that is willing to teach, guide, and shape me into a competent UX Designer.

[@lilcleo001]

One of the best videos on this channel. I’m currently trying to transition my career into UI/UX... I didn’t know my next steps but I do now.🤘

[@AJSmart]

Wow high praise thanks so much Juan! Great to hear you have a clearer path now! Where are you looking to work? What would be your dream job?!

[@lilcleo001]

AJ&Smart “Where” is the one I need to figure out. Dream job would be creating products that help people and solve problems but also have a mission I believe in.

[@azi5660]

Thank you for a great advice !!! I will do my best !!! You are a great motivator❤❤❤

[@jovitaveckyte4389]

First just watched and noted it, yesterday remembered and read all Ryan blog about this strategy. It just blew my mind. Thank you, Jonathan, for sharing this, this is gold! 👏🏼

[@AJSmart]

Thank you Jovita Veckyte!

[@bunonregs913]

It's important to take into account your point of your not advocating free work. As a junior I had to do a lot of work on my own time to build portfolio, even up until mid-weight I was doing "tasks" for interviews. That can be argued as free work. It's just part of what needs to be done in our field. What Jonathan is saying (in my opinion) is that this is just something extra you should put in if you really want those amazing roles that people would kill for, which is totally understandable. It's not something encouraged for every role you are trying to get, you should have confidence in your own ability not to do "free" work unless it's beneficial to your goals. Im at a "senior" role now and thinking about moving roles soon. Would I do a week task for an interview at any old company? I doubt it. Would I spend a month doing a task (without being asked) to get into a great product design role I've been eyeing up for years? hell yes. As designers we should be constantly working on our craft, most of the time we just pick out random redesigns to do for portfolios. Work like you would in a real job or project and identify a problem, then present a solution. This canvas method allows you to actually do something with that final design rather than just put it in a portfolio and call it a day.

[@imperiaeternus]

Thanks for telling it to us straight, no filter! Very good to know before I start the job hunt

[@victor_joey]

I really wish I saw this last year. Thanks so so much for this now I know I can do better

[@LorettaBangBang]

Awesome! Thanks

[@AJSmart]

Thank YOU!

[@KSmashTheChamp]

Thank you for always wanting to help and sharing insight like this. I’m not going to lie it wasn’t what I wanted to hear but I know I need to hear it. I am going to apply this strategy so I can finally break into the field!

[@maxangenius]

I really enjoyed this video! This "lo-fi" type of content is great as well! I really like this strategy. It is along the lines of how I am planning to boost my workshop facilitation skills and career. Offer free problem-solving and decision-making workshops to for example startups and non-profit organizations in my city. I strongly believe it will help me practice and get experience faster in planning, creating, and facilitating workshops in comparison to trying to start a company and sell workshops directly. Maybe even make a name for myself that will make selling workshops easier down the line!

[@AJSmart]

Thanks a lot Max! What would you like us to cover career wise in this format? Exactly, offering up these services, particularly in this time will really catapult you forward in the long game. Great to hear that! What workshops are you going to run? Have you seen our LDJ video?! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWqwp4x6lqZkeM0

[@maxangenius]

@@AJSmart I have seen it several times, I have the booklet and I am ready to roll with it! Personally I think I am becoming very interested in workshop facilitation, product strategy and business strategy. Designing pixel perfect apps isn't really what I love. So for example one thing that would be interesting is Product/Business strategy for people not currently at the executive level as I am currently pretty low on that ladder in my career and organisation. Another thing I would be interested in is learning a bit about how you think about designing workshops. I have the Confident Facilitators guide, workshop encyclopedia, waiting on the book :D But how should I decide and design my workshop task in relation to the framework depending on for example if the workshop time is 2 hours, 4 hours, 1 day or 2 days etc. How do I rotate between the 4Cs and is it linear or circular for one workshop, what I mean is do we do collect only once or can I come back and do a full round of collect later if it is for example a 2 day workshop. These questions are in my mind when I am thinking about what workshops I could potentially do!

[@BaleaCalin]

This is a good strategy but be prepared to endure some heartache. Sometimes, even though you do great work that would be really helpful to the "target", they simply won't care and you won't get a response. I had this happen to me a couple of times... Even after establishing a dialog (they replied to a couple of messages) they stopped replying when I sent them some free design work with suggestions/food for thought... Radio silence. No reply. Not even a "Thanks for this. I'll think about it".

[@AJSmart]

Hey Calin, sorry to hear you've had that experience with it! Did they use the content though? Seems a little shady! A good example though is someone like Chris Do who features guest producers, he gets fresh content and you get a lot of traffic and eyeballs on your account!

[@BaleaCalin]

@@AJSmart Nope, they didn't use it. This is not about theft. The examples I mentioned were for a rebranding proposal and a homepage design refresh. I know they might not be interested in what I had to offer. That's a risk I take into account when I approach someone and eventually pitch an idea. What sucks is not getting any reply/feedback. But that's part of the game. It's just something I wanted to point out. I think too many advice videos are focusing on the great results a strategy can generate, and not enough on the effort and pain it takes for most people to achieve it.

[@poison321]

When you said tip number 2, ha sir! That comes natural for me. I’m so afraid of any human interaction that I will research as much as I can before I have to ultimately ask lol I’m looking forward to start my UX career 😊

[@AJSmart]

You got this!

[@andreivelicu606]

Johathan i agree and this is exactly what i am doing right now. I know you spoke about this in the past on a video with Ran Segall, and i always thought this is a great strategy to try out. Thanks for sharing 🙏🙏🙏

[@AJSmart]

Hey Andrei Velicu! Nice that you're applying this strategy. It's a very good advice, that's why Jonathan keeps explaining and implementing it. Cool that you follow Ran Segall as well.

[@justahumanwithamask4089]

This strategy is taught in the google ux design course.

[@AJSmart]

Amazing!

[@BuzzLiteBeer]

This technique is all about providing value to the people you are seeking value from. Canvasing is incredibly hard, which is why no one succeeds at this, not because young people are cocky and overconfident. Finding ways to provide value is extremely hard when you are new in a field. If you can somehow figure out what would actually be valuable to someone out of your league, then there's the hurdle of spending the time and energy to build that values (whether it's a small project or a fleshed out initial idea for a design), you still have no guarantee it will pay off. You might be ignored, or worse, they could take your idea and run with it without giving you anything in return.

[@sinduk]

Definately Agree.. This is just fantastic video..

[@jungkyookim]

To the point. Mind-blowing. Humanitarian.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Jungkyoo Kim!

[@frankvasquez4827]

Basically what I need to do! Thank you so much guy, I learned a lot today.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Frank, you won't look back! Let us know how it goes?!

[@aaronjamesnabita-welsh3447]

I totally agree with this! is how I managed to get some of my 1st clients at AJ Innova.

[@carlosalvarez8076]

"And they think that they know everything" Many juniors on the start of their carrers.

[@AJSmart]

It's a tale as old as time Carlos!

[@yoyoz333]

it's surprising that colleges never teach students to just shut up and be humble.

[@BornAndErrorOccur]

Maybe they do. Have you ever considered that as a possibility? The fact that you would assume that they dont know much... makes you look like ‘you know everything’..

[@vascoaching8590]

Even if you do work for free, you still build contacts, experience and connections. I see this as a win win situation.

[@AJSmart]

Yes, as long as you’re getting some value out of it. 🙌

[@maximilianjendrall9798]

Great video, I will try to use this approach. Thanks for summarizing. ;)

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Maximilian! Hope it comes in handy!

[@piycreates]

I'll give a shot. Thanks for sharing.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Piyush! Keep us in the loop!

[@dianacepsyte2860]

I only have 5 words for this video - WOW... Um, I meant 3 letters haha... This is incredible. LOVE this. You guys release some stupendous videos. Super, super helpful. I will definitely use canvas strategy one day, just focusing on really learning right now :). This is super awesome!!!

[@makotokino27]

Ive heard this golden nugget of advice from your podcast awhile ago, and this really resonated with me. Thank you for this

[@jackpainting7150]

This is a great video because the strategy is also relevant to someone like me who is outside the realm of UX, although I'm toying with making the switch hence watching the video. Best video I have come across so far on the topic. Interesting to see how the philosophy of free work differs between industries - coming from a music performance background, the notion of asking musicians to play for free would result in a serious backlash because so much of the industry is sadly rife with 'we can't pay you but the exposure and future opportunities could be great'. But in the case you outlined here, it made sense :) I am not even a junior designer yet, so I know nothing about the square root of nothing! Will check out the portfolio video in your pinned comment but I'm definitely going to get started on the software and design essentials. Subscribed, thanks.

[@khushboodhiman2245]

Totally agree that I am nothing in UX. I just completed a course on UX and looking for more knowledge.

[@mariepinheiro5663]

Hello :) I started studying UX Design and found your channel and I've seen a lot of videos and they are helping me a lot. I have a notebook where I point out all your tips to be successful in this area. :) This video was very important. Thank you for the incredible content.

[@AJSmart]

That's amazing to hear Marie! Thanks for letting us know! What are some of the main messages that you've taken from our content? Anything in particular you'd like to see us make too?

[@mariepinheiro5663]

AJ&Smart the main message I’ve taken is that it is vital to build a good foundation for the project by first understanding the needs and wants of the client/user. And this is only achievable by empathy and careful observation. I was not aware that this social skill would be so important. All of this is in order to achieve a more user friendly and logical product. I would love to see a more detailed creation of a sample project from beginning to end. This would be a nice addition to your incredible “bigger picture” vídeos. I am making my own portfolio and all this information is extremely valuable to me 🙂 Thank you 😊

[@Marie-hb9bm]

Hi Jonathan, Thank you for this video! I had never heard of the strategy before but makes so much sense and I do agree. I am just starting out in UX & Product Design, so trying to absorb as much knowledge as I can while practicing my skills.

[@AJSmart]

Thank you Marie! We hope this strategy helps you in your UX & Product Design career.

[@ToopidPonay]

I like this strategy better than taking on an unpaid internship. Yes, both essentially are working for free but in the scenario of completing a project on your own time it shows that you are dedicated enough to your craft that you’re willing to spend free time improving. On the other hand, an unpaid internship says, “I believe that working for free at a company is the only way I might get ahead.” When you do a passion project, like he’s explaining in the video, and then send it over to a company, you’re essentially communicating that you don’t expect anything in return and merely want to share your work with other professionals in the industry and maybe address a company’s paint points while you’re at it (though getting validation and a chance to work with them would be nice as well but understanding that nothing is guaranteed). Plus, when you take on a project on your own it can be as big or small as you want- it’s completely in your control whilst a unpaid internship could include a lot of low level work as it’s mostly up to the company what you work on at an internship. And at the end of the day, if the company you send your project to says, “Thank you, next,” you can still add it to your portfolio. This and having practiced your craft more makes it time well spent in my opinion.

[@designhuddlepodcast]

A lot of great tips in here. Thanks for all the effort making this ep happen!

[@ameereeo]

I've been following you since I changed my career path and you guys are so inspiring, each video is so full of insights. Thank you guys

[@artisticagi]

Know where you are in the food chain. Yes meaning what exactly. I would have loved an explanation before giving the example. 4:07 Basically it means knowing that there are people who have more experience or prominence than you and that you should be aware that you are below them and can’t just approach them anyhow. 12:20

[@durbinchristopher2294]

Thank you for the great inisght. I'm putting the canvas strategy to use henceforth, it's the way to go

[@kamilc.5271]

great advice! Thx!

[@AJSmart]

Thanks Kamil!

[@abhishek_ux]

That was a fantastic Lo-Fi video Johnathan. Getting such in-depth insights on Canvas Strategy was amazing. Will be giving it a thorough read. Thanks for sharing.

[@AJSmart]

Thanks again Abhishek! Great to hear you like the style as there'll be more to come for sure!

[@DevPalliSri]

Great video. Very informative. Can I know what made you to name mentioned strategy as Canvas strategy.

[@xandykkaudy8252]

Making connection is the hardest thing for me as I'm an introvert but i think I just need to work on my confidence

[@frankie_44]

I'm at the bottom of the food chain 😅 I reached out to a company who are willing to go trough the UX process by redesigning their website. I'll help them to define the core message to their customers through user-centered design. They'll help me to document all the steps and I'll have a strong project to put in my portfolio. 🙂 I hope this a good way to get where I want.

[@AJSmart]

Amazing to hear Franjo! And spot on! Great to see your targets and your outlines for it! Please let us know if you have any questions on specifics!

[@frankie_44]

@@AJSmart Thanks! I'll let you know for sure, just started to follow you guys 😉

[@myjourneywithtech3513]

@@frankie_44 how did it go Franjo?

[@amitojable]

Your videos are amazing and inspiring! Thank you for the amazing tips!

[@faruqadams2365]

I totally agree it’s a strategy that helps people in every sphere if properly employed. I am definitely going to research it proper while I am learning. Thank you for the video.

[@auwalrg]

Thanks AJ&SMART

[@sumitbhure3889]

I really like the way you explain the canvas strategy. I just started my career in ux/ui this strategy will really helps me to improve my knowledge about ux and skills about my self too this video is eye opening for me thank you for such amazing video.

[@Padessence]

Great video! I learned a lot recently from UI and UX courses but I am still thinking there are people that are so much better and more experienced. There are so much more to learn and I think as a designer you always have to keep your eyes open and learn new stuff; programs, techniques and develop new skills.