You’re applying for your dream UX role.

You’ve got the skills.

You’ve got the drive.

But so does everyone else.

Here’s the uncomfortable truth:

Most candidates sound exactly the same.

→ “Passionate about user-centric design.”

→ “Skilled in Figma, research, prototyping.”

→ “Looking for the next challenge.”

If you’re pitching yourself like that… you’ve already lost.

What you need isn’t a better pitch.

You need a Minimum Valuable Pitch — an MVP.

Think of it like a trailer before a movie.

A preview of the results you bring before you even join.

It’s not theory.

It’s not speculation.

It’s your value, in action.

Here’s how to build one:

Step 1: Deep research — like an embedded designer

→ Don’t just read the “About” page.

→ Comb through product reviews.

→ Scan employee posts on LinkedIn.

→ Note expansion plans or known product pain points.

What you’re hunting for is this:

A single UX problem that you can solve.

Step 2: Spot your UX opportunity gap

→ List 3–5 potential problems or growth areas.

→ Use the RICE framework: Reach, Impact, Confidence, Effort.

→ Prioritize the one that best overlaps with your skill edge.

If your edge is onboarding flows, don’t pitch a design system revamp.

Play to your strengths.

Step 3: Package a crisp, visual solution

→ Create a 5-slide deck.

→ Mock up a new screen, flow, or experience.

→ Show before → after.

→ Add a short Loom walkthrough if needed.

It’s not about being right. It’s about being thoughtful.

You’re showing how you think — not selling a finished product.

Step 4: Deliver it like a leader

→ Don’t cold email “Hey, I’m applying…”

→ Try this instead:

“Hi [Hiring Manager], I’ve been following [Company]’s product journey — especially your expansion into [new region]. Based on some reviews and customer insights, I noticed a UX friction point around [X]. I took a shot at a simple improvement. Here’s a 2-minute Loom and a 5-slide deck with my thinking. Hope it’s useful!”

That’s not an application.

That’s a demonstration.

And it works — because it does 3 things instantly:

→ Shows your initiative

→ Proves your thinking

→ Reduces their risk

You’re not just telling them you’re a strong candidate.

You’re showing them why you’re the obvious one.

Most people pitch themselves with fluff.

You’ll pitch yourself with proof.

Reply back to this email — what’s your take?