Key insights

• ⚖️ The industry is experiencing a shift in the market after a long bull run
• 💼 Companies are becoming more selective in their hiring due to budget constraints
• 🚀 There is a need for self-driven employees as companies shift focus to profitability
• 💰 The focus is shifting from user growth to revenue-driven products, impacting hiring criteria
• 🎨 Employers want designers with initiative and independence
• 📝 Job descriptions emphasize unique character traits, reflecting a more serious approach to hiring
• 🎯 Hiring managers have very distinct lists of projects for candidates and are making bets on their return for those projects
• 🗣️ Different hiring managers have different preferences for job interviews, from formal presentations to casual conversations

Q&A

• What are the different preferences of hiring managers during job interviews?

  Hiring managers have varied preferences, from formal presentations to evaluating personality fit. Some prefer structured presentations, while others prioritize evaluating the candidate's personality and fit within the team. It's valuable to ask the hiring manager directly about their preferences for the interview format.

• What are the key challenges in demonstrating assurance as a product designer?

  Product designers face the challenge of demonstrating assurance and standing out in the current market. Soft skills play a significant role in effectively communicating conviction and understanding individual needs.

• How have job applications and descriptions changed?

  Job applications and descriptions have become more specific, focusing on the candidate's ability to be a self-starter, communicate effectively, and fulfill particular roles. Hiring managers are making strategic decisions based on these criteria.

• What are employers looking for in designers?

  Employers are seeking designers with initiative, independence, specific skill sets for revenue generation, and unique character traits. Job descriptions now reflect a more serious approach to hiring, emphasizing the importance of these traits.

• How are macro trends affecting companies' hiring strategies?

  Macro trends are impacting companies' approach to hiring by prioritizing revenue and profit per head. This has led to a more selective hiring process due to budget constraints and a shift in focus from user growth to revenue-driven products, influencing hiring criteria.

• What are the important factors for job seekers in the current market?

  Soft skills and character traits play a crucial role for job seekers in the current market. Employers are placing emphasis on specific skill sets, initiative, independence, and effective communication.

• What challenges is the industry facing in finding good jobs?

  The industry is currently experiencing an imbalance in supply and demand, leading to difficulties in finding quality jobs. The shift in the market has also brought about changes in hiring practices and a focus on financial responsibility.

• 00:00 The industry is facing challenges in finding good jobs due to an imbalance in supply and demand. The shift in the market has led to changes in hiring practices and a focus on financial responsibility.
• 01:13 The macro trends are impacting companies' approach to hiring, focusing on revenue and profit per head. Companies are being more selective in hiring due to budget constraints and the need for self-driven employees. The shift in focus from user growth to revenue-driven products is influencing hiring criteria.
• 02:28 Employers are seeking designers with initiative and independence, narrowing down the hiring process to specific skill sets required to generate revenue. Job descriptions now emphasize the importance of unique character traits and reflect a more serious approach to hiring.
• 03:43 Job applications and descriptions have become more specific, focusing on the candidate's ability to be a self-starter and communicate well. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who can fill particular roles and are making bets on their return for specific projects.
• 05:00 Navigating the challenges of demonstrating assurance and standing out as a product designer. Importance of soft skills in communicating conviction and understanding individual needs.
• 06:17 Understanding the different preferences of hiring managers during job interviews, from formal presentations to evaluating personality fit.