How to answer "What is your experience with user experience design and research?" (with sample answers)

Why Employers Ask This

Asking about a candidate's experience with user experience design and research is a common question in job interviews for roles in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design. This question is important to employers because it gives insight into a candidate's level of expertise in UX/UI design, knowledge of industry tools and trends, and their ability to communicate and collaborate with other team members.

Employers are looking for candidates who have a strong understanding of the UX design process, including research, prototyping, testing and implementation. They also want to know how candidates collaborate with other members of the design team, such as product managers, developers and other UX designers.

Candidates who can provide clear and concise examples of their experience in UX/UI design and research will stand out to employers and demonstrate their value to the team.

How to Answer the Question

When answering the question about your experience with user experience design and research, it is important to provide specific examples of your work in this area. Start by discussing your understanding of the UX design process, including research, prototyping, and testing.

Next, highlight your experience working with industry-standard tools and technologies, such as Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma. Additionally, discuss your experience collaborating with other team members, such as product managers, developers, and UX designers. Provide examples of how you have worked with these teams to successfully complete projects.

Lastly, talk about the results and impact of your work in UX/UI design and research. Discuss how your designs improved user experience, increased user satisfaction, or impacted company goals.

Be sure to tailor your answer to the specific job requirements and company culture. Showing enthusiasm for UX/UI design and research and demonstrating your ability to learn and collaborate will make you stand out to potential employers.

Sample answers

Answer 1 (bad answer): "Hmm, I don't really have any experience with user experience design and research. But I've read some articles online and I think I have a good understanding of it."

Explanation: This answer shows that the candidate has not prepared for the interview and does not have the relevant experience. It may give a negative impression to the interviewer and reduce the chances of getting the job.

Answer 2 (acceptable answer): "I have recently completed a course on UX design and research where I learned about various tools and techniques such as user personas, user journey mapping, and different types of user testing. Additionally, I have worked on a couple of personal projects where I implemented these techniques to improve the user experience of my designs."

Explanation: This answer demonstrates that the candidate has taken the initiative to learn about UX design and research and has applied the learning to personal projects. It shows a willingness to learn and a practical understanding of UX design principles.

Answer 3 (good answer): "I have been working as a UX designer for the past two years, primarily in the healthcare industry. In this time, I have conducted user research and usability testing to gather feedback and improve the user experience of our product. I have also collaborated with development teams to implement design changes and improve product functionality."

Explanation: This answer showcases the candidate's relevant experience in UX design and research. It demonstrates practical skills in conducting research, collaboration with developers and improving product functionality.

Answer 4 (excellent answer): "In my previous role as a UX researcher, I led several user-centered design projects for a renowned e-commerce company. I conducted user research studies to identify pain-points in the user journey and improve UX design. From my experience, I've learned that effective design goes beyond aesthetics, and sometimes small UI changes can have a big impact on user experience. I also championed the use of inclusive design principles to ensure our product was accessible for all users."

Explanation: This answer demonstrates the candidate's valuable experience as a UX Researcher. The answer showcases the ability to lead user-centered design projects, champion inclusive design, and make design decisions that benefit the user experience. It also highlights the understanding that improving UX is not only changing aesthetics but paying attention to small UI changes as well.