After eight years of designer recruiting experience and providing UX/UI design services, Cieden’s team mastered all its kinks. This guide is a structured and polished outcome of our trials and errors along the way. You’ll find answers to the most practical questions on how to hire a UX/UI designer.
We’ll cover all the information you need to know:
- overview of each designer role your business may need;
- the difference between freelance, in-house, and outsourced designers for your business;
- ways to find the right designer for your project;
- how to use portfolios to analyze their skills and experience;
- interview tips and test assignment recommendations.
Let us walk you through all the stages of recruitment to make the best choices for your business.
The evolving role of designers in 2024: moving beyond building to impacting products
In 2024, the UX/UI designer's role has undergone a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days when designers were merely 'pixel movers', creating 'visually appealing interfaces'. Today, they are at the forefront of strategic decision-making and have a direct impact on product development.
A good UX no longer surprises anyone
The landscape of design has evolved, with hundreds of design patterns tested and implemented across thousands of products. A good UX no longer surprises anyone. AI tools have taken over some aspects of designers' roles, freeing their time to focus on understanding business, strategy, and market needs. This shift requires designers to develop a deep understanding of business strategies, industries, markets, and user behavior.
Product and feature ownership becomes more common
Designers are stepping into roles that emphasize 'ownership'. This involves not just executing tasks as per client requirements but also proposing features, based on market research, user behavior analysis, and creative brainstorming, that can significantly improve the product. They take full responsibility for the implementation and life cycle of these features, positioning themselves as more than consultants.
The partnership between product managers and designers
The partnership between designers and product managers has become more integral. They work hand-in-hand, each with their distinct areas of responsibility, ensuring decisions are made collaboratively. This synergy is crucial in aligning design with product goals.
Bridging towards the product management role
Designers are increasingly adopting aspects of the product manager role. While they are not product managers, they are absorbing many elements of this role, which involves understanding and influencing the broader aspects of product development.
The rise of the design strategist
A significant shift is the increasing demand for design strategists. This role moves beyond direct design tasks (except for creating wireframes and prototypes) to focus on market research, competitive analysis, and industry analysis. Design strategists determine which features are needed to make the product more valuable for users.
Integration of AI in design
AI-powered tools are revolutionizing design workflows, enabling designers to automate repetitive tasks, analyze large datasets, and prototype more efficiently. This technological integration allows designers to concentrate on strategic decision-making, creativity, and problem-solving.
Also read: How to create better digital products with AI
AI turns designers into data interpreters
Designers are evolving into data interpreters. They use AI-generated insights to inform design decisions and optimize user experiences. By championing the integration of AI and other emerging technologies, designers are driving transformative changes and shaping the future of the industry.
Embracing continuous learning
This evolution highlights the need for designers to acquire new skills such as data literacy, algorithmic thinking, and a deep understanding of AI technologies. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for designers to stay ahead in this rapidly changing field.
Armed with this insight, prioritize candidates who demonstrate a strategic mindset, creativity, and adaptability to thrive in the rapidly changing industry landscape.