Landing a UX job isn't just about having the right skills; it's also about avoiding common mistakes in your portfolio, resume, and interview process. The attached document offers a great overview, and we can expand on those points to give you a more comprehensive guide.

1. The Portfolio: Measurable Results are Key

As the document points out, "recruiters want proof of impact, not just pretty screens." It’s a classic mistake to showcase a project without any context of its success. Instead of simply displaying your final designs, tell the story of your work. What was the problem? What was your hypothesis? How did you measure the outcome? Did you achieve a measurable result, like a 20% increase in user engagement or a 40% reduction in listing time? Quantifying your impact is what separates a good portfolio from a great one.

2. The Case Study: Concise and Scannable

Hiring managers have limited time, and as the document states, "if it's too long, they skip." A long-winded case study is a major turn-off. Your goal should be to make your work easily digestible. Use clear headings, bullet points, and visuals to break up the text. Focus on the most important parts of your process and don't get bogged down in every minor detail. Think of it as a movie trailer, not the full film.

3. Mobile Optimisation: Design for All Devices

The document correctly notes that "many recruiters check portfolios on their phone." This is a crucial point that is often overlooked. Your portfolio should be responsive and easy to navigate on a mobile device. Ensure your case studies are readable, your images load quickly, and your navigation is intuitive, no matter the screen size. A poor mobile experience for a UX designer’s portfolio is a red flag.

4. The Collaboration Mistake: The "I" vs. "We" Problem

While it's not in the attached document, another common mistake is to only talk about your individual contributions. UX is a team sport, and hiring managers want to know you can work effectively with others. When discussing your projects, use collaborative language. Instead of "I designed," try "I collaborated with the product team to design..." This shows you understand the importance of communication and teamwork.

5. The Feedback Mistake: Embracing the "Why"

Getting defensive during an interview is a huge mistake. When a hiring manager gives you constructive criticism on your work, don't justify your choices. Instead, ask "why?" and "how?" This shows that you have a growth mindset and are open to learning. It demonstrates humility and a strong desire to improve, which are qualities every team wants.

By focusing on these areas, you can elevate your job search and stand out in the competitive world of UX design.