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Ask DN: Started a new job last week. Interviewing a Director of UX candidate tomorrow. What would you ask of your potential new boss?

over 8 years ago from , Designer

Any input would be apprecaited. My initial thoughts are around how do we advocate design thinking and our practice area across the organization and win over key stakeholders. Establishing and distributing best practices and design pattern libraries. Proactive projects vs putting out fires.

8 comments

  • Nathan LeeNathan Lee, over 8 years ago

    I'd love to hear how a potential Director would impact the organization in their own mind. Have them break it down - what does a healthy company culture look like to them? How do they envision nurturing that culture? What does a healthy design culture and design process look like to them? Have them talk about their past environments and what they thought made those environments great - especially if they were a lead or director in a past gig.

    I'd also give thoughts to your own position and what you want from this director. Are you looking for mentorship? In what areas? Do you feel like the company is in need of leadership (in design or in other things?) Will this potential director help you in your advancement of skills and professionalism?

    Hope that helps.

    4 points
  • Michael AleoMichael Aleo, over 8 years ago

    Ask them what's more important than user testing.

    I don't know the "right" answer, but it's always interesting to gauge someone by their response. Points for mentioning data and emotion.

    3 points
  • Emily SaforrianEmily Saforrian, over 8 years ago

    I'm guessing that your new boss will be the top ranked UX person in the organization. If that's the case then a big part of his job is to be an advocate for your team. I would ask him about how he thinks he can do that.

    1 point
    • Sean SchraederSean Schraeder, over 8 years ago

      Thanks for sharing Matthew, my question #3 touches on that...

      1) Favorite software, tools, and design deliverables

      2) What does a healthy design culture and process look like to you?

      3) How do you approach advocating design thinking across the organization and win over key stakeholders?

      4) How do you stay inspired and grow as a designer? Help members of your team do the same?

      0 points
  • Evan KnightEvan Knight, over 8 years ago

    A cool and smart boss can make life much better. I would put focus on what he/she can teach you, as well as how they like to manage and work.

    1 point
  • Jeffery Bennett, over 8 years ago

    What's the difference between experience design and interface design?

    1 point
  • Oz ChenOz Chen, over 8 years ago

    "How good of a shit deflector are you?"

    0 points