Leveraging Online Platforms for UX/UI Networking

I spoke to a group of UX/UI Design students at the PROG Foundation Development Center - all about connecting on LinkedIn to get a job in the UX/UI space. Here are some of the takeaways: 🔆 Make new connections weekly 🔆 Search for your role or the role you want to be in, connect, connect! 🔆 People want to help, send a genuine message to see if there is interest Your LinkedIn account does nothing for you if you don't have a goal to connect. I have talked to too many people who say, "I wish I started connecting with more people on LinkedIn BEFORE I was laid off." It takes some intentionality. My advice ⬇️ Find a time of day where you typically have about 15 minutes uninterrupted Set a weekly reminder for that time and change it as needed During that time you can do any of the following: ☑️ Search for roles you want to connect with ☑️ Connect with several people without much of an additional filter - no need to add a note ☑️ Send two messages to new connections (don't overwhelm yourself) Here are some examples of messages (PLEASE STEAL THESE): Interested in learning from an early stage of getting your feet wet: "Hi [Name], great to connect with you. I'm currently in a UX/UI design cohort and am really loving what I'm learning. My goal for connecting is to learn more about people who have experience in the space. Would you be open to a conversation where I can ask some questions to understand if a company like [their company] would be a good fit for me down the road? No worries if not, I'm also happy to send some questions over DM if that's easier for you as well. Hope to hear from you soon." Interested in learning from people with more experience in your space: "Hi [Name], great to connect with you. I'm currently working as a [Your current role] and am really enjoying it. My goal for connecting is to learn more about people who have experience in the space. Would you be open to a conversation where I can ask some questions to understand if a company like [their company] would be a good fit for me down the road? No worries if not, I'm also happy to send some questions over DM if that's easier for you as well. Hope to hear from you soon." Interested in a career pivot into another type of role: "Hi [Name], great to connect with you. I'm currently working as a [Your current role] and am interested in a possible career change. My goal for connecting is to learn more about people who have experience in [their job title] space. Would you be open to a conversation where I can ask some questions to understand if a company like [their company](or you can replace company with role) would be a good fit for me down the road? No worries if not, I'm also happy to send some questions over DM if that's easier for you as well. Hope to hear from you soon." Baby steps and this isn't a race. But I will say that if you take a small amount of time each week to intentionally connect, finding a job will be much easier for you.

Recently, I had a UX student struggling to find her footing as a UXer. Despite having a solid career before entering a UX bootcamp (yes, that's where she started her UX education), being a super quick UX learner, proactive in-person connector, and having a portfolio full of interesting projects – she couldn't land a job. She faced the same daunting rejection cycle many did: - Her resume vanished into the abyss. - Her experience failed to meet elusive standards. - Being a non-native English speaker only added to her doubts. She felt like her new career was slipping out of her grasp. That's when our conversation led to a pivotal shift. And this is when she "took a chance" on LinkedIn. Instead of just sending out resumes and waiting, she decided to actively engage on the platform. She started by sharing her journey, the challenges she faced, and the small victories she celebrated. She reached out to people for advice, commented on industry posts, and participated in discussions. Her wit, authenticity, and persistence began to pay off. People noticed her original insights and determination. Connections grew into meaningful conversations. She even started a newsletter for aspiring UXers. Finally, she was getting invites for interviews... Within 6 months, she landed her first UX role! Yep, it took 6 months of daily consistency to get there. But the real win wasn't even the job itself – it was the network she built, the confidence she gained, and the recognition that her unique voice had value. I'm not saying that LinkedIn is for everyone, or that it's a sure way to land a UX role. But it's definitely a way to become more visible and create your own opportunities. So if you're feeling stuck, maybe the key to breaking the cycle is to change the game you're playing? 😉 #ux #uxcareer #linkedinforuxers

One strategy I’ve been encouraging job seekers to try and it's been effective outside of the usual LinkedIn networking is getting involved in Slack communities. Slack groups are super valuable because they’re more informal and interactive, allowing you to connect with people in your field in a genuine way. These communities often have channels for job postings, advice, and even mentorship, which you might not always find on LinkedIn. You don’t need to be currently employed to join these groups. Whether you’re job hunting, freelancing, or just looking to learn and grow, there’s a space for you. If you’re wondering how to get started: 1. Search for Slack directories like Slofile where you can find Slack groups organized by industry. 2. Use Google to search for groups relevant to your field, like “Best Slack groups for marketers” or “Slack communities for UX designers.” 3. Check out Reddit or LinkedIn, lots of people share invite links for Slack communities in subreddits like r/slackgroups or through posts on LinkedIn. 4. Ask your network, reach out to others in your industry and ask if they’re part of any Slack groups. For me, it’s been a great way to connect, ask questions, and learn from others outside of LinkedIn. Most groups are free, though some require a request to join. If you haven’t checked out Slack communities yet, I’d definitely recommend giving them a try!