Product Designer Portfolio Reviews: Tips from a Miro Recruiter and Head of Design

Summary

In this detailed video from Miro's 'Life at Miro' YouTube channel, lead product design recruiters Lena and Robert delve into the nuances of creating standout design portfolios. They review real examples from recently hired designers, emphasizing the importance of first impressions, accessibility, and effective presentation of case studies. The video offers invaluable tips for prospective designers on how to package their work, optimize content density, and incorporate visual and strategic elements to enhance their portfolios. The discussion also highlights the role-specific expectations and the benefits of integrating dynamic elements like motion design into their presentations.

Takeaways

• 🎯 Define success before starting a design project and connect it back at the end for a comprehensive review.
• 🔗 Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible and avoid roadblocks that might hinder quick access to your work.
• 📦 Package your material effectively; first impressions matter and clarity in finding the portfolio is crucial.
• 📈 Showcase an overview of case studies, allowing reviewers to pick the ones that interest them the most.
• 🌟 Highlight creativity and passion for the domain in your portfolio to stand out from the crowd.
• 🚀 Present your case studies concisely; dense information and excessive text can be overwhelming.
• 🎨 Use visual communication to convey your ideas effectively, as it can enhance understanding and engagement.
• 🛠️ Include evidence of end-to-end design process, from identifying problem spaces to user research and execution.
• 💡 Showcase your strategic thinking and how it translates into actionable design principles.
• 📊 Include metrics and business impact where possible to demonstrate the effectiveness of your design solutions.
• 📋 Tailor your portfolio to the specific role you're applying for, ensuring relevance and alignment with job expectations.

Q & A

What is the significance of defining success before starting a design project?

Defining success before starting a design project is crucial as it sets clear goals and expectations. It allows designers to measure the effectiveness of their work against predefined criteria, ensuring that the final product aligns with the intended outcomes and objectives.

How does accessibility in a portfolio showcase a product designer's UX skills?

Accessibility in a portfolio demonstrates a product designer's understanding of user experience (UX) principles. It shows that the designer considers the needs of all users, including those with disabilities, and incorporates features that make the portfolio easy to navigate and understand for everyone.

What are the key aspects of first impressions in a portfolio review?

First impressions in a portfolio review include the ease of finding and accessing the portfolio, the packaging of the material, and the clarity of the presentation. These aspects are important as they reflect the designer's ability to communicate effectively and make a strong initial impact on the reviewer.

What format preferences do Miro recruiters have for portfolios?

Miro recruiters do not have specific format preferences for portfolios. They can be in the form of a PDF file, a framework website, a pitch deck, or a Miro board. The key is that the portfolio should be easy to use and navigate, allowing reviewers to quickly access and understand the content.

Why is it important to provide an overview of multiple case studies in a portfolio?

Providing an overview of multiple case studies allows reviewers to quickly grasp the breadth of a designer's experience and skills. It enables them to select cases that are most relevant to the role they are applying for, thus facilitating a more targeted and efficient review process.

What role does visual communication play in a designer's portfolio?

Visual communication is essential in a designer's portfolio as it showcases the designer's ability to convey information effectively through visuals. It helps the reviewer understand the designer's thought process, problem-solving approach, and aesthetic sensibilities without getting overwhelmed by excessive text.

How does a designer demonstrate their passion for the domain in their portfolio?

A designer can demonstrate their passion for the domain by selecting case studies that align with their interests and showcasing projects that reflect a deep understanding of the subject matter. This can be seen through the creativity, detail, and the narrative around the projects they choose to include.

What is the significance of including both the 'before' and 'after' versions of a redesign project in a portfolio?

Including both the 'before' and 'after' versions of a redesign project in a portfolio allows reviewers to see the impact of the designer's work. It provides context for the challenges faced and the solutions implemented, demonstrating the designer's ability to identify problems and create effective solutions.

Why is it beneficial for a portfolio to include interactive elements like videos or原型?

Interactive elements like videos or prototypes in a portfolio provide a more engaging and dynamic experience for the reviewer. They allow the reviewer to interact with the designer's work, which can lead to a better understanding of the design process and the final product's functionality and usability.

What should a design leader focus on including in their portfolio?

A design leader should focus on including a balance of product work they've been involved in, team building and growth initiatives, and evidence of their strategic thinking and impact on the business. The portfolio should reflect their leadership skills, strategic contributions, and continued involvement in the craft.

What is the value of having a portfolio, even for design leaders?

Having a portfolio is valuable for design leaders as it provides a concise overview of their experience, accomplishments, and design philosophy. It helps potential employers understand the leader's approach to design, their strategic thinking, and their ability to contribute to the company's product development and team growth.