Photo by Akson on Unsplash

Introduction

I can guarantee you that embarking on a career in design will be an exhilarating and rewarding journey. Sure, it will come with its very own set of challenges and uncertainties, but what doesn’t in life right?

As a seasoned designer, I’ve had my fair share of experiences and have learned some valuable lessons along the way. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to support your existing path, these insights can help you navigate the world of design more effectively.

Embrace Continuous Learning.

One of the most fundamental aspects of a successful design career is the commitment to lifelong learning. The design field is ever-evolving, with new tools, technologies, and trends emerging regularly. To stay relevant and competitive, you must embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Don’t just limit your education to formal degrees or courses; immerse yourself in design books, online resources, and communities. Attend design conferences, workshops, and webinars to network and gain insights from other professionals. The more you invest in your education, the more you’ll evolve as a designer and stay ahead of the curve.

Things you wouldn’t expect:

• Be active on X.com (formerly Twitter). The design community is very much present there, with lots of insights, resources, and tutorials shared on a daily basis.
• There’s no King of Tools. Or better, let me rephrase that. There is no permanent King of Tools. This means that in today’s world, Figma is king. But until a few years ago, everyone was using Sketch. And we were not expecting such a drastic drift. Before that, people designed products on Photoshop. New tools, atm closer to the no-code and web space are gaining more and more tractions (i.e. Webflow and Framer). Learning those not only keeps you on track with the industry but also gives you an edge against the competition.
• Learn analytics. This applies to both website-oriented KPIs and product oriented KPIs. Analytics are keys to decision making and therefore better design results.