What Is a Good UI Designer?

It feels so great to find a company that solely works on user interfaces, I didn’t know such company existed. Right now I am working to improve my skill and knowledge in the User Interface and User Experience field. What I would like to ask you is, when you look for a new UI Designer, what do you generally expect from him or her? Can you please tell me what you think a modern UI designer should posses in terms of knowledge, skill and experience ?

– Kshitiz Rimal, via e-mail

I would say there are two things that are key in building a good UI design profile:

1. A good portfolio

Ideally you can show work in a real business environment, with real restrictions. We do not care much about visually appealing one-shots when looking to hire. We care more about the entire design system you can create and how you use your design skills to solve business problems. If that is not possible – for students or junior people for instance – I think theoretical (re)designs can show your skills and the way you think.

2. Great communication skills and curiosity

Learn about people. A good UI designer is able to listen to problems, analyse them and communicate their solution in such a way that they can sell it well. Good starting points are Robert Cialdini’s book Influence and Dale Carnegie’s book How to Win Friends and Influence People.