How to Hire a UX/UI & Graphic Designer: Top Tips

What is UX/UI?

The acronym UX stands for user experience. Simply put, this is how the user interacts with the interface and how comfortable the site or application is. UX / UI designers are in demand in IT since the interfaces that programmers prepare must be beautiful and understandable.

UX includes site navigation, menu functionality, and the result of interacting with pages. This is not only the “backbone” of the site – its structure – but also communication: dialog boxes, button functionality, search, and form settings. The quality of UX determines how quickly the user can get what he came to the site for.

UI is the user interface, user interface, in other words, the design of the site: color combinations, fonts, icons, and buttons.

UX is the functionality of the interface, and UI is its appearance.

In modern design, UX and UI almost always go hand in hand because they are so closely related. Yes, indeed, in some large agencies, user scenarios and visual interfaces are thought out by different specialists. But still, the result will be much better if the whole project is carried out by one designer because, in this way, he will build the work in a complex way.

However, at the same time, there are some types of projects in which UX is more important, and in some – UI:

1. UX comes top when designing CRM systems, dashboards, and internal working interfaces. The visual part is in the background here – the main thing is how conveniently the data will be placed.
2. More attention is paid to UI when creating online image resources and sites for promoting premium goods and services. Here, the main task is not to quickly lead the user to the target action but to let him examine the interface and immerse himself in the atmosphere.

If you look globally, then the concept of UX / UI applies not only to design. From the point of view of convenience and aesthetics, one can evaluate any object with which we interact – elevator buttons, restaurant interiors, and household appliances.

The very concept of UX was first formulated only in the early nineties. It was invented by psychologist and designer Donald Norman, who then joined the Apple team. He described the term in his book The Design of Everyday Things. From the beginning, Apple has paid great attention to usability, and its interfaces are still considered among the best.

What is a UX/UI & graphic Designer?

A UX/UI & graphic designer is a professional who specializes in designing the user experience and user interface of digital products, as well as creating visually appealing graphic designs that communicate a message effectively.

The UX/UI aspect of the role involves designing the user experience of a product or service, which includes the layout and flow of a website, mobile app, or software. This consists in creating wireframes, prototyping, and designing user interfaces that are intuitive and easy to use to create a seamless user experience.

The graphic design aspect of the role involves creating visual designs that communicate a message or concept effectively. This can include designing logos, icons, illustrations, and other visual elements used in branding and marketing materials.

A UX/UI & graphic designer combines technical knowledge with artistic and design skills to create visually appealing, user-friendly digital products. They work closely with developers, marketers, and other stakeholders to ensure their plans align with business goals and meet user needs.

Where to look for UX/UI & graphic designers?

The first question to answer is, “where do you even look for UX/UI & graphic designers?” Let’s run through the options.

1. In UX/UI & graphic agencies: The option is obvious, but one hundred percent. If you are willing to invest in the success of your product – well, that is, pay real pros for top-notch quality results – an agency specializing in UX/UI & graphic design is what you need. You can say that the guys in such companies “ate the dog on this” (you can be sure that they are not just familiar with the field, they know it inside and out). You can safely order UX design. As a rule, in such agencies, a project manager is assigned to each project, which deals with all issues related to your product – for example, evaluates the scope of work, plans deadlines, and considers the budget.
2. Through the UX/UI & Graphic community: How to find a UX/UI & graphic designer through social networks? Easily! You just need to know where to look. Platforms like Dribbble, Behance, and Awwwards will do – come in and choose the UI design you like.
3. On the freelance market: Limited budget? Do you have a lot of free time to solve micro-tasks? Freelancing is quite a working option. Look at freelance markets (for example, Upwork.com or Freelancer.com) – there, you will find a UX/UI & graphic designer “for every taste and budget.” Freelancing marketplaces are pushing the boundaries for finding a contractor: hire a designer from India? Easily! And it’s cool. There are, of course, downsides to finding a UI/UX designer this way. More precisely, one big minus is the lack of reliability. You are buying a pig in a poke: no one guarantees that the designer will complete the task on time or will not concoct an interface on his knee.
4. By acquaintance: This option is suitable for those with connections in startups and MVP development. Was Zuckerberg’s number lying around on your phone’s contact list? If not, skip it; if there is, ask to share contacts. Most likely, people associated with the topic of startups know a couple of names of proven UX/UI & Graphic designers. In the end, you will find the right one for you, and you will be able to find a super UX/UI & graphic designer.

Professional skills a UX/UI & graphic designer needs

A UX/UI & graphic designer requires a wide range of skills to design digital products and create compelling visual designs effectively. Some of the essential professional skills a UX/UI & graphic designer needs are:

1. User Research: Conducting research to understand user needs and preferences is crucial for a UX/UI & graphic designer. This involves gathering data through surveys, interviews, and usability testing.
2. Wireframing and Prototyping: Creating wireframes and prototypes is an important UX/UI designer skill. This helps to develop the layout and flow of a digital product before it is designed.
3. User Interface Design: A UX/UI designer needs to be skilled in designing user interfaces that are intuitive and easy to use. This involves designing layouts, navigation systems, and interactive elements that provide a seamless user experience.
4. Visual Design: Graphic design skills are essential for a UX/UI & graphic designer. This includes knowledge of color theory, typography, composition, and other design principles.
5. Software Skills: A UX/UI & graphic designer should be proficient in software such as Sketch, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator to create and edit designs.
6. Collaboration and Communication: A UX/UI & graphic designer should be able to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including developers, marketers, and project managers. This involves good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
7. Problem-Solving: A UX/UI & graphic designer should be able to identify and solve problems related to design, user experience, and functionality.
8. Adaptability and Flexibility: A UX/UI & graphic designer needs to be adaptable and flexible, as the design needs of a project may change based on user feedback, technological advancements, or business requirements.

A UX/UI & graphic designer must be skilled in various technical and creative areas to design digital products and create effective visual designs that meet user needs and business goals.

Soft skills a UX/UI & graphic designer needs

In addition to technical and design skills, a UX/UI & Graphic Designer must have a range of soft skills to succeed in their role. Here are some important soft skills for a UX/UI & Graphic Designer:

1. Ability to work in a team and communication skills: When several people are working on the same project at once – all with their views on the process – you need everyone to actively participate in the discussion of decisions (and no aggression). We always try to ensure that a person has no problems with this. UX/UI & graphic designers must effectively communicate with clients, stakeholders, and team members. This includes presenting their ideas, actively listening to feedback, and providing constructive criticism.
2. Collaboration: UX/UI & graphic designers often work in cross-functional teams, so they need to be able to work collaboratively with developers, marketers, and project managers.
3. Ability to think critically and make decisions: A person should be able to deal with problems and NOT panic if something happens. Forget about passive observation and all these “I am not me, and the house is not mine” – you need to find solutions.
4. Corporate values: Everything is simple (but very important): we are doing business, so we want a person to complete tasks on time and not be afraid to take the initiative.
5. Creativity: UX/UI & graphic designers must be able to think creatively to develop unique design solutions that meet user needs and business goals.
6. Empathy: UX/UI & graphic designers must have compassion for users to create products that are easy to use and provide a positive user experience.
7. Adaptability: UX/UI & graphic designers must be adaptable and able to work in a fast-paced environment where the design needs of a project may change.
8. Time Management: UX/UI & graphic designers must be able to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
9. Problem-Solving: UX/UI & graphic designers must be able to identify and solve problems related to design, user experience, and functionality.
10. Attention to Detail: UX/UI & graphic designers must have strong attention to detail to ensure their designs are accurate and error-free.
11. Continuous Learning: UX/UI & graphic designers must be committed to continuous learning to stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and technology.

Personal skills greatly affect the result. After all, it would help if you found a UI / UX designer who could show empathy – at least.

What must signpost in the contact form for hiring UX/UI & graphic designer?

When creating a contact form for hiring a UX/UI & Graphic Designer, it’s important to include certain signposts to ensure that potential candidates clearly understand the role and the requirements. Here are some signposts that can be included:

1. Job Title: Make sure the job title is clear and accurate, such as “UX/UI & Graphic Designer.”
2. Job Description: Include a detailed job description that outlines the responsibilities and expectations of the role. This should include information about the type of products the designer will be working on, the skills required, and any preferred qualifications.
3. Required Skills: List the specific skills required for the role, such as proficiency in software like Sketch, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator, as well as knowledge of user research and wireframing.
4. Experience: Indicate the required level of expertise for the role, such as a minimum of 2 years in UX/UI and graphic design.
5. Location: Include the position’s locale, whether remote or in-office.
6. Compensation: It’s important to be transparent about the payment for the role. You can include a salary range or a state that will be discussed during the interview.
7. Application Requirements: List the requirements, such as a resume, portfolio, and cover letter, and indicate how candidates can submit their applications.
8. Deadline: Specify a deadline for submitting applications so candidates know when the application process will close.

By including these signposts in the contact form, potential candidates will clearly understand the role and what is required, which will help attract the right candidates for the position.

Conclusion

Finding a UI/UX & graphic designer is certainly a challenging task. But feasible.

How to find a UI/UX & graphic designer? Be attentive to details: thoroughly study the portfolio, read reviews, and see how a person behaves – and you will find the UI / UX & graphic designer of your dreams (a professional who will reduce all risks, solve all problems and close all tasks)!