You’re doing all the right things.

You’re applying to roles, sending out resumes, even getting some interviews. But nothing sticks.

The problem isn’t your skills — it’s your strategy.

Most UX designers try to tackle the hiring process like it’s a checklist: apply, wait, repeat. But that’s not how decision-makers think.

Here’s how they really think:

→ They’re not just reading your resume; they’re skimming for ROI.

→ They’re not just looking for experience; they’re looking for alignment.

→ They’re not just interested in your portfolio; they’re interested in your process and impact.

That’s why I created the 5S Framework:

Skip the line: Reach out directly to hiring managers instead of waiting to be noticed.

Send a personalized pitch: Tailor every cover letter to the role’s specific pain points.

Share a curated portfolio: Highlight 2–3 projects that directly mirror the role’s challenges.

Show genuine interest: Mention a recent project or milestone that caught your eye.

Say thank you: Follow up with a concise, memorable message that reinforces your value.

You can keep guessing, or you can follow a framework that gets results.

Which of the 5S steps are you skipping?