Shows
Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research142: How Laura Landed a Principal UX Design Role Without Applying (and With Only 1 Project in her UX Portfolio)Think you need a perfect UX portfolio and hundreds of job applications to land a senior UX role? Think again.In this episode, UX career coach Sarah Doody talks with Laura, a former physician turned UX designer, about how she landed a Principal Product Design role, without even applying.Laura shares how she turned a contract job into a 2.5-year role at Cisco, why she joined Sarah Doody's UX career coaching program, Career Strategy Lab, twice. Laura also shares how staying ready (not scrambling) made all the difference when...
2025-09-2921 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research141: Design a UX Portfolio Recruiters Read for More Than 1 MinuteIf you've ever wondered why your UX or product design portfolio isn't getting attention, this episode is your answer.In this mini workshop, Sarah walks you through the most critical and overlooked fix you can make to your portfolio right now. It’s simple, strategic, and backed by nearly a decade of hiring results.Spoiler: This isn’t about adding more screens or showing more visuals. It’s about how you tell the story of your work—and it all starts with how you use headlines.Whe...
2025-09-2235 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research124: Why Sarah Doody's UX portfolio framework still works after 20 yearsApplied to 50+ UX or Product jobs & still no interviews or offers? Get UX job search help.Welcome to the Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody, a UX Designer & UX Researcher with 20 years of experience who founded the UX job search accelerator, Career Strategy Lab. She's been doing UX career coaching since 2017.Follow Sarah on: LinkedIn | YouTube | InstagramIn this special solo episode, Sarah Doody shares the real story behind her first UX portfolio—and the costly mistakes she made that kept her stuck in interview limbo. From printing screenshots into a binder to le...
2025-05-2629 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research121: Your UX Job Search Has Cost You 5-Figures. What To Do About ItIn this episode, UX Researcher & Product Designer, Sarah Doody, shares a tool she created to calculate the ROI of your UX job search. You can watch the episode here and if you wish, get your own personalized UX job search calculator.You might think your DIY job search is saving you money, but the truth is, it’s likely costing you tens of thousands in lost income, time, and emotional energy. In this eye-opening episode, Sarah Doody breaks down the real cost of an inefficient UX job search using her custom-built UX Job Search ROI Calculator. You’ll f...
2025-05-0522 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research116: How to optimize your resume for the ATS so you can get more UX job interviewsApplied to 50+ UX or Product jobs & still no interviews or offers? Get UX job search help.Welcome to the Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody, a UX Designer & UX Researcher with 20 years of experience who founded the UX job search accelerator, Career Strategy Lab. She's been doing UX career coaching since 2017.Follow Sarah on: LinkedIn | YouTube | InstagramThis episode was from a session on Maven! Click here to watch the replay.If you’re applying to UX jobs and not getting interviews, your resume might be the problem—specif...
2025-03-3126 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research115: How this UX Designer escaped UX portfolio burnout and rebuilt his entire UX job search strategyApplied to 50+ UX or Product jobs & still no interviews or offers? Get UX job search help.Welcome to the Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody, a UX Designer & UX Researcher with 20 years of experience who founded the UX job search accelerator, Career Strategy Lab. She's been doing UX career coaching since 2017.Follow Sarah on: LinkedIn | YouTube | InstagramWelcome to another Open House episode of the Career Strategy Podcast! In this episode, Sarah Doody sits down with Jon Simmons, a seasoned product designer currently navigating the UX job search....
2025-03-2422 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research114: From Laid Off to Senior UX Designer: How Sarah Landed Her Dream RoleApplied to 50+ UX or Product jobs & still no interviews or offers? Get UX job search help.Welcome to the Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody, a UX Designer & UX Researcher who founded the UX job search accelerator, Career Strategy Lab. She's been doing UX career coaching since 2017.Follow Sarah on: LinkedIn | YouTube | InstagramIn this special Open House episode, Sarah Doody sits down with Career Strategy Lab (CSL) alum Sarah Page to discuss her journey navigating the UX job market. From being laid off as a creative director to landing...
2025-03-1721 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research112: How Emily tripled her UX freelance rate from $35 to $125 / hour (and got a full time job too)Want to get hired in UX faster? Click here.Welcome to the Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody, a UX Designer & UX Researcher who also founded the UX job search accelerator Career Strategy Lab. She's been doing UX career coaching since 2017.Follow Sarah on: LinkedIn | YouTube | InstagramIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah Doody breaks down the key steps to getting hired—whether for a full-time job or a freelance contract. Through the story of Emily, a former fashion and beauty marketer turned UX writer, Sarah illustrates how refining your re...
2025-03-0314 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research109: How cohorts can hold you back and why Career Strategy Lab takes a different approachMany career coaching programs use cohort-based models to keep participants accountable. But do they really work? In today’s episode, we’re tackling a common question: Is Career Strategy Lab’s UX Job Search Accelerator run in cohorts? Spoiler alert—it's not! And there’s a very good reason why.Host Sarah Doody breaks down why strict cohort schedules can be limiting, how Career Strategy Lab takes a different approach, and why focusing on outcomes over rigid timelines creates a better job search experience. Whether you’re treating your job search like a full-time job or balancing it alongside...
2025-02-1020 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research107: Your UX Career Is a Product (Sarah Doody's interview on the Awkward Silences podcast by User Interviews)This episode of the Career Strategy Podcast features Sarah's interview on the Awkward Silences Podcast by User Interviews. In this episode, Sarah Doody is interviewed by Erin May, the CMO of User Interviews, and John-Henry Forster, who at the time of recording was the SVP of Product at User Interviews. Join them as they dive deep into treating your UX research career like a product and the pivotal strategies to become a UX research manager.🧠 6 Key takeaways1) Treating Your Career as a ProductYour career should be man...
2025-02-0350 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research102: Navigating Your UX Career in Challenging Times (Sarah Doody's episode on the Insights Unlocked Podcast)This special episode of the Career Strategy Podcast features an episode of the Insights Unlocked Podcast powered by UserTesting. In this episode, Sarah Doody is interviewed by UserTesting’s CEO, Andy McMillan. They discuss navigating your UX career over the next one to two years and dive into crucial themes that resonate with UX researchers, designers, and product managers from coping with tech layoffs to understanding the impact of AI.Key Topics Covered:The State of UX Careers in 2024Insights from UX professionals on career satisfaction and challenges.Exploring opportunities beyond traditional tech companies.Imp...
2024-12-3027 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research101: Creating a UX Career Roadmap: Sarah Doody's Episode on the AIGA Design PodcastThis is a special episode of the Career Strategy Podcast that features an interview with Sarah on the AIGA Design Podcast with host Lee-Sean Huang. In this episode, Sarah and Lee-Sean dive deep into the innovative concept of treating your career as a product. Sarah shares practical strategies for creating a "career roadmap" and "compass statement" to align short-term goals with long-term ambitions while balancing professional growth and personal life priorities.Sarah reveals how applying design principles like research, iteration, and systems thinking can help job seekers and professionals stand out, avoid career plateaus, and...
2024-12-2342 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research100: How Jaden got hired as a Sr Product Designer after a 1-year employment gapIn this milestone 100th episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, we sit down with Jaden, a Career Strategy Lab alumni, who shares their transformative journey from apparel design to landing a senior product designer role at Zipline as a Senior Product Designer with a 15% pay increase from her previous role. Sarah and Jaden discuss the struggles of job searching, the importance of a strong LinkedIn presence, navigating a career gap, and the power of storytelling in portfolios. Jaden emphasizes the value of investing in oneself and the benefits of the Career Strategy Lab curriculum...
2024-12-1617 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research098: Why In-Demand UX Professionals Treat Full-Time Roles Like Freelance GigsImagine treating your job like a freelance gig—always ready for what’s next. This episode dives deep into why adopting a freelancer mindset can boost your career, even if you love your full-time job.Join Sarah to explore real strategies that freelancers use to stay in demand: documenting wins and projects, nurturing relationships, keeping up with industry trends, and treating each project like a portfolio piece. You’ll hear practical tips on timeboxing tasks to fit career-building activities into your busy schedule. Whether you're eyeing a promotion, preparing for possible layoffs, or just curious about s...
2024-12-0221 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX ResearchHow do the CRITIQUES in Career Strategy Lab work?In this episode, Sarah explains how the critiques in Career Strategy Lab work, including how many critiques you can submit, what you can submit, how you'll receive feedback, and more. Enrollment is OPEN until Wed, Nov 20. Visit www.careerstrategylab.com/sprint to learn more or join.Career Strategy Lab helps mid and senior UX and Product people be ready to apply in 3 months or less and get hired with a 5-figure salary increases without applying to hundreds of jobs.If you have any questions, feel free to email us a...
2024-11-1908 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX ResearchHow do the CALLS in Career Strategy Lab work?In this episode, Sarah explains the 2 types of weekly calls in Career Strategy Lab and shares examples of questions we've answered. Enrollment is OPEN until Wed, Nov 20. Visit www.careerstrategylab.com/sprint to learn more or join.Career Strategy Lab helps mid and senior UX and Product people be ready to apply in 3 months or less and get hired with a 5-figure salary increases without applying to hundreds of jobs.If you have any questions, feel free to email us at hello@sarahdoody.com🎬 Watch Sara...
2024-11-1916 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX ResearchHow a Lead Designer Researcher got a 35% salary increaseIn this episode, Sarah shares the story of a Lead Design Researcher who got hired with a 35% salary increase. This person, an alumni of Career Strategy Lab, said a that major factor in securing the role was relationships. In the episode, you'll learn the role of relationships in this person's job search and interviews.Career Strategy Lab helps mid and senior UX and Product people be ready to apply in 3 months or less and get hired with a 5-figure salary increases without applying to hundreds of jobs.Enrollment is O...
2024-11-1706 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX ResearchHow a Lead UX Designer got hired in 56 daysIn this episode, Sarah shares the story of Dan, a Lead UX Designer who got hired in 56 days. In Dec 2023, he was laid off and joined Career Strategy Lab. A few weeks later, he saw a role and applied despite his UX portfolio not being finished and being "far from perfect." To his surprise, he moved along in the interview process and was offered a job in February 2024 as a Lead UX Designer at a large healthcare company.THIS is what can happen when you stop trying to make a "perfect" portfolio and instead...
2024-11-1606 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX ResearchIs Career Strategy Lab Right For You?In this episode, Sarah details the extra traits of who Career Strategy Lab was designed for. Enrollment is OPEN until Wed, Nov 20. Visit www.careerstrategylab.com/sprint to learn more or join.Career Strategy Lab helps mid and senior UX and Product people be ready to apply in 3 months or less and get hired with a 5-figure salary increases without applying to hundreds of jobs.If you have any questions feel free to email us at hello@sarahdoody.com🎬 Watch Sarah's free UX Job Search Work...
2024-11-1614 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research095: Beyond Big Tech UX Jobs: Industries hiring for UX and Product roles in 2025 and beyondTired of endless applications to big tech companies without any luck? This episode of The Career Strategy Podcast dives into industries outside of tech that are actively hiring for UX, product design, and tech roles. From health care to finance, education to retail, discover real data showing where job seekers are finding success. Sarah talks through why these industries are ramping up their hiring and how your existing skills can transfer seamlessly. Plus, you’ll get tips on how to refine your resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn to stand out. Listen in to get to know powe...
2024-11-1121 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research093: How 2 senior UX professionals got hired (& preview the UX portfolio "Inverted Pyramid Framework"))Navigating a career change or climbing the job ladder can be daunting, but guidance and support make all the difference. In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast we take you behind the scenes into an Open House for CSL where you’ll meet 2 professionals, a Senior User Researcher and a Lead UX Designer, who worked with Sarah and her team directly to improve their career materials and stand out in the crowded job market.In this episode we’ll dive into the unique structure of the Career Strategy Lab, the proven program that breaks down job sear...
2024-10-281h 06Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research092: How piecemeal career advice holds you back (and what to do instead)Are you falling into the trap of getting career advice from too many sources? In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah explores why a piecemeal approach to job searches and career advancement can lead to confusion and wasted time. Join Sarah to discuss the common mistake of piecing together advice from various sources, such as resume reviews, LinkedIn critiques, and one-off coaching sessions, and how this often results in disconnected and conflicting feedback.After listening, we hope you consider a more holistic approach, where your unique goals and situation are taken in...
2024-10-2117 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research091: No, you don't need 3 - 5 projects in your UX portfolio before you applyDo you really need 3 to 5 projects in your portfolio before applying for jobs? Could focusing on quantity be a mistake? In today’s episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah explores why the quality of how you discuss your projects outweighs the sheer number of them. In this episode, we'll discuss:- Why “3 to 5 projects” is a myth- Importance of storytelling in your portfolio- How to highlight your thought process and impact- Applying with just one strong project- Actionable steps to strengthen your portfol...
2024-10-1415 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research090: How Career Strategy Lab can pay for itselfAre you stuck in a never-ending job search and unsure if investing in a career program is worth it? In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah breaks down the real cost of DIY-ing your job hunt and how a 3-month job search accelerator can actually pay for itself. In this episode, you’ll discover three crucial ways to rethink investing in your career. First, learn how the time spent job hunting affects your potential earning and find out why landing a job faster can mean extra cash in your pocket. Second, see how...
2024-10-0716 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research089: Should you pause your job search until after the election?Thinking about pausing your job search until after the election? You might want to think again.This episode of The Career Strategy Podcast tackles the common question: Should you wait until political uncertainty settles to move forward in your job search? Get ready to learn why holding off could actually set you back and why companies aren't hitting pause on hiring. The key is to stay proactive and not fall into the "election waiting game” because job markets don't stop for elections and continuing your job search now can give you a competitive edge. Sa...
2024-09-3013 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research088: Troubleshoot your resume with this 11-point resume checklistReady to make your resume stand out? In this episode, Sarah walks through a 11-question checklist to transform your resume and boost your chances of landing that dream job. From making sure your bullet points start with engaging action verbs to tailoring your resume for each job application, these tips are straightforward and actionable. You’ll learn: Why columns might hurt your resume's chances in applicant tracking systems, and learn the importance of quantifying your achievements, even if the numbers aren’t huge. Why a one-page resume could be holding you backWhy adding space between bullet points...
2024-09-2326 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research087: Reduce job search overwhelm with a task batching scheduleIn today's episode Sarah shares an incredibly practical and efficient tip that's going to revolutionize your job search strategy: batching. Sarah discusses actionable advice on how to group similar tasks to stay focused and save time, from updating your resume to networking on LinkedIn. She walks you through different approaches and schedules for organizing these tasks & staying accountable through completion, whether on a weekly or monthly basis.If you're feeling overwhelmed by your job search, this might be the game-changer you need to take control and reduce stress in your job search....
2024-09-1611 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research086: No, LinkedIn's Open To Work feature doesn't make you seem desperateEver wondered if LinkedIn's "open to work" feature makes you look desperate? In this episode Sarah tackles that question head-on.You’ll learn why professionals using the green "open to work" banner receive more recruiter messages and have higher chances of engaging with hiring managers. Sarah also debunks some myths, explaining why being visible and proactive on LinkedIn can outweigh any potential downsides.Whether you’re considering turning on the green banner or looking for more efficient ways to connect with recruiters, this episode offers valuable insights you won't want to miss.Tim...
2024-09-0915 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research085: UX portfolio Q&A about portfolio formats, tailoring, your portfolio, & moreStruggling with updating your UX portfolio? This episode of the Career Strategy Podcast dives deep into UX portfolios and offers practical tips for both seasoned professionals and those switching careers. In this episode, you’ll discover the benefits of customizing your portfolio for each job application and why creating a presentation format might be your secret weapon. Sarah shares advice on aligning your projects with job descriptions, maintaining visibility, and dealing with company policies restricting showcasing your work. Tune in to get strategies for breaking down large projects and understand the significance of making your work...
2024-09-0230 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research084: 4 ways to get people to reply to emails by following upStruggling to get responses to your cold emails and messages? This episode of the Career Strategy Podcast dives into practical tips for improving your follow-up game. In this episode Sarah explores why people might not reply and how you can increase your chances of a response without being annoying. Sarah also breaks down a 5-day follow-up cadence and suggests experimenting with specific days and shares a simple and effective template for your follow-ups, ensuring you stay clear and direct. Plus, Sarah shares a handy hack involving TextExpander to make your follow-up process quicker and...
2024-08-2610 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research082: The ABA rule for your job searchAre you doing enough to stay ahead in your career? In this episode Sarah discusses why you should always be applying, even if you're happy with your job. You’ll learn the two main scenarios where this practice can make a difference and why it's important to apply for jobs right up until you start a new role.Even if you’re comfortably employed, Sarah also shares the benefits of keeping your resume, LinkedIn profile, and interview skills sharp.Tune in for actionable advice on how to take charge of your career...
2024-08-1209 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research081: In your job search, communication > qualificationsIn today's episode, Sarah addresses a crucial mindset shift for your job search: how your ability to communicate can be more important than your qualifications. Often times professionals hyperfocus on their credentials but struggle to convey their value effectively.Sarah explores common pitfalls in resumes and interviews, and actionable tips on improving your communication to boost your job search success.Quotables"Your qualifications don't matter unless you can communicate them, right?""If you're applying to jobs and not getting interviews it's more than likely a communication problem not a q...
2024-08-0507 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research080: How to include numbers on your resume even if you think you don't have anyIn today’s episode, Sarah shares how to include numbers on your resume, even if you think you don't have any. Many people believe that only monumental achievements, like saving or making a million dollars, are worthy of metrics on a resume. But that's far from the truth! This episode will walk you through a simple mindset shift from focusing on outcomes to showcasing your processes. Sarah explores practical examples for various roles like user researchers and designers, illustrating how to quantify your work and make your resume stand out. Ready to boo...
2024-07-2906 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research079: Advance your UX career as a mid or senior level professionalIf you're someone with 10, 15, or even 20-plus years of experience in user experience or product roles, this episode is tailor-made for you. Sarah breaks down how experienced professionals like you are still landing great opportunities in diverse industries, the crucial difference between settling and compromising in your job search, how overconfidence can mask underlying fears and why it's essential to embrace modern job search strategies to stand out and succeed.Whether you're looking to climb higher in your current field or pivot to new opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples t...
2024-07-2214 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research078: How to optimize your resume for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)In today’s episode Sarah addresses a topic that affects nearly every job seeker: the Applicant Tracking System, or ATS. With so much misinformation and myths swirling around about how ATS works, Sarah spends intentional time cutting through the noise to give you the real story. She’ll break down what an ATS is, how it processes your resume, and why it's crucial to optimize your document for these systems. Sarah also shares actionable tips to increase your visibility to recruiters and hiring managers. If you're in the middle of a job search or gearing up for one, this epis...
2024-07-1513 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research077: The truth about years of experience in your job searchIn today’s episode Sarah shares valuable strategies for analyzing job descriptions in detail, so you understand how to highlight your most relevant skills and experiences.You’ll learn practical tips for tailoring resumes and portfolios to catch a hiring manager's eye by emphasizing specific examples that match job requirements. Sarah also addresses the challenge of being perceived as overqualified and offers insights on presenting yourself effectively regardless of extensive experience. If you’re navigating a job search and wondering how to make your experience count, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help...
2024-07-0811 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research076: What to post on LinkedIn when you're in a job searchStruggling to know what to post on LinkedIn during your job search? You're not alone, and this episode has you covered.From sharing your expertise to engaging with people at companies you admire, you'll learn how to boost your visibility and create a strong first impression.In this episode, Sarah shares why posting regularly and thoughtfully can make a difference when potential employers scroll through LinkedIn profiles and gives practical tips on how to curate content, start meaningful conversations, and share valuable resources. You’ll also learn about the importance of engaging with posts from co...
2024-07-0114 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research075: Is Career Strategy Lab a scam?In today’s episode Sarah addresses this question head-on!Tune in to learn what Career Strategy Lab offers and how the unique group coaching program and community designed for UX, design, and tech professionals helps clients increase their confidence and achieve their career goals. Sarah also addresses the lack of negative reviews and discusses why some people choose not to publicly share their experiences.If you’ve ever been skeptical or simply curious, this fully transparent episode provides the clarity you need to get a real sense of what’s inside the Career Strate...
2024-06-2412 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research074: How to handle large projects in your UX portfolioAre you stuck trying to wrap up your UX portfolio because your massive project is taking forever to complete?Today we've got an insightful episode for all the UX designers out there grappling with how to present large projects in your portfolio. In this episode, Sarah discusses the strategy of breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable pieces, making your portfolio not only easier to complete but also more appealing to recruiters and hiring managers. Tune in to discover how this approach can streamline your job applications and better showcase your expertise....
2024-06-1708 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research072: How to stand out as a candidate with the AIDA frameworkWant to stand out in your job search? In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah breaks down the AIDA framework, a four-part methodology used by top companies to capture your attention and spark action. In this episode, you’ll learn how AIDA can be applied to your resume, LinkedIn profile, and even cold emails to potential employers and discover how small changes in how you present your skills and experience can make a big difference in holding a recruiter’s interest and getting that coveted interview.Whether you’re just starting to update your ca...
2024-06-0313 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research071: How to make time for professional developmentEager to boost your professional growth but struggling to find the time and right flow for your life? Figuring out how to best use your time is a regular topic inside of Career Strategy Lab as we help clients navigate how to focus on progress over perfection while juggling the realities of life.In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares practical strategies to fit professional development into your life regardless of what your calendar looks like. From tips on scheduling dedicated time for growth to managing perfectionism and expectations, you'll learn how t...
2024-05-2819 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research070: How these 3 CSL alumni landed UX jobsA few times a year we open the doors to Career Strategy Lab and host an Open House so prospective clients can learn about the program and get to know some of our clients. In this episode, we’re sharing the audio from our last Open House (it’s an imperfect podcast episode but we think the stories are worth sharing!) During this episode, you’ll hear from three Career Strategy Lab clients (two Product Designers and a Senior UX Designer) on how to tackle mindset issues like imposter syndrome and procrastination as well as how they improve...
2024-05-2058 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research069: Nine actionable steps to take after being laid offNavigating a layoff can leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and scared. In this episode, Sarah will walk you through how everything from feeling your feelings to updating your career materials.This episode offers 9 practical things you can to do feel more in control and to save time as you navigate the journey to finding your next role. And, if you're happily employed, these tips can help you prepare just in case you ever face an unexpected layoff. If you've recently experienced a lay off or spend time wondering what you'd do if you were to...
2024-05-1321 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research066: How to build authentic professional relationships with a quarterly engagement planHow do you know what UX career advice is actually worth listening to? If you're searching for your next UX or Product role, it's likely you've been bombarded with advice from blogs, social posts, and well-meaning strangers in Slack groups. In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah Doody, a UX Researcher & Product Designer, breaks down how to critically evaluate UX career advice so you can stop spinning in circles and start making real progress in your job search.This episode is especially for UX, Product Design, and UX Research professionals who are sick...
2024-04-2209 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research065: Why you should stop complaining on LinkedIn and what to do insteadIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, we explore the impact of first impressions on LinkedIn and why complaining on the platform during a job search may not be the best approach. Sarah discusses the downside of posting negative content and offers practical tips for job seekers to make a positive first impression. Tune in to gain insights into alternative ways to express frustrations and job-related interests on LinkedIn. 🎁 Get our free e-book, The Career Strategy Roadmap00:00 LinkedIn users complain about job search treatment.03:13 Negativity in posts can affect...
2024-04-1514 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research064: Interview with Cheryl Platz about the UX hiring process, portfolios, & storytelling👉 Get your free UX Career RoadmapNavigating the job market can feel like a maze. In this episode, Cheryl Platz, a seasoned UX professional, lays out a map for job seekers to present themselves effectively.Cheryl shares with Sarah her own job search experiences, sharing insights on how to adapt to feedback and connect with interviewers. She stresses the importance of engagement on platforms like LinkedIn, and how sharing genuine content can open unexpected doors in your career. Additionally, this episode delves into the process of evaluating portfolios, the critical skill of storytelling in interviews, and...
2024-04-0856 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research062: Career Compound Interest: Strategic moves for exponential successIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah delves into the intriguing concept of career compound interest. She draws parallels between smart financial decisions and strategic career moves, emphasizing how small investments in your career today can yield significant results over time.
Sarah discusses three key areas for creating a compound interest effect in your career: investing early, negotiating wisely, and building authentic relationships before they are needed. She offers actionable advice and real-world examples, highlighting the importance of proactive career management.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into unlocking exponential success in your...
2024-03-2516 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research060: How to make your portfolio stand out by focusing on benefits over featuresIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares actionable advice on how to stand out in your career by applying a sales strategy to your portfolio. By understanding the difference between features and benefits, you'll learn how to make a lasting impression through your portfolio, resume, or LinkedIn profile. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to level up their career and leave a lasting impact in the professional world. So grab your headphones and get ready to unlock the secrets to making your career stand out!00:00 Opportunity to enhance UX portfolio in 3 weeks.
2024-03-1814 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research059: Could you benefit from our upcoming UX Portfolio Sprint?In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah discusses how sprints can serve professionals regardless of whether they're just starting out or seasoned leaders. She addresses frequently asked questions and invites listeners to enhance their presentation skills and make a meaningful impact in their careers by developing their portfolios. If you're looking to elevate your career and master the art of storytelling through an effective portfolio, this episode is a must-listen.
00:00 UX portfolio sprint benefits all career stages.
04:52 Limited VIP spots available for UX portfolio sprint.
09:09 Revive portfolio sprint for improved job...
2024-03-1321 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research058: The Optimal UX Portfolio Format: 6 things to consider when decided between a website and presentationLet’s dive into the hotly debated topic of portfolio formats. In this episode, Sarah provides valuable insights into the strategic considerations that professionals should keep in mind when considering how to put together their UX Portfolio.
Sarah discusses the pros and cons of website portfolios versus presentations and explores crucial factors to consider, such as time, cost, customization, user experience, and accessibility.
This episode is a valuable guide in making informed decisions about your portfolio format. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on this critical aspect of your career development journey.
00:00 Ch...
2024-03-1118 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research057: A lesson on attention to detail involving Van Halen and M&M candies✨Reminder → Enrollment's open for our 3-week UX Portfolio Sprint. Doors close on March 22 or when seats are sold out!
In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah explores a crucial aspect of the job search process: attention to detail.
Drawing inspiration from a surprising source—the band Van Halen's infamous "no brown M and M's" contract clause—Sarah highlights the importance of demonstrating attentiveness in the job search. Through anecdotes and examples, she illustrates how failure to pay attention to crucial details can speak volumes to potential employers.
With actionable advice and thought...
2024-03-0409 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research055: How to conduct a successful job search, a 5 part frameworkReminder → Enrollment's open for our 3-week UX Portfolio Sprint. Doors close on March 22 or when seats are sold out!
Welcome to episode 55 of the Career Strategy Podcast which is a compilation of Sarah’s Job Search Series!
Navigating a job search can feel like a lonely journey, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we unpack practical strategies to refine your job hunt and stand out to employers. We start by exploring the importance of defining your "career value criteria" (CVC)—a personal checklist beyond job title and salary that includes factors like compan...
2024-02-191h 06Career Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research054: How to deal with ghosting in the job searchToday's episode of The Career Strategy Podcast delves into the topic of ghosting in the job search, shedding light on why it happens and how to cope with it.In this episode, Sarah shares a story from a restaurant manager's perspective, emphasizing that ghosting isn't a one-sided issue and is often not intentional.This episode offers practical advice, encouraging listeners not to take ghosting personally, and to take proactive steps to gather context and follow up with potential employers.00:00 Dealing with ghosting in the job search.03:49 Ghosting may not always be...
2024-02-1215 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research053: How to follow up after a job interview so you can stand outTo follow up or not follow up after a UX job interview? Most people send a cookie cutter “thank you” and hope for the best. But in today’s competitive UX and Product job market, that’s not enough.Your job interview follow-up message isn’t just a formality, it’s an opportunity to stand out from the sea of other candidates who disappear after the call. A thoughtful UX job interview follow-up email can keep you top of mind, reinforce your value, and even spark a second conversation that moves you closer to an offer.
2024-02-0508 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research051: 15-minute annual review with Sarah DoodyGet ready to take control of your career with a 15-minute annual review! This episode is designed to help you reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. The questions shared in the episode will guide you through a simple yet impactful review of your accomplishments and aspirations.
Sarah suggests sharing this exercise with a friend for accountability and fresh perspectives. By focusing on what you did last year, what went well, what to stop and start doing, and the conclusions you reached, you'll gain clarity on your short and long-term goals.
2024-01-2313 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research051: 15-minute annual review with Sarah DoodyGet ready to take control of your career with a 15-minute annual review! This episode is designed to help you reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. The questions shared in the episode will guide you through a simple yet impactful review of your accomplishments and aspirations.
Sarah suggests sharing this exercise with a friend for accountability and fresh perspectives. By focusing on what you did last year, what went well, what to stop and start doing, and the conclusions you reached, you'll gain clarity on your short and long-term goals.
2024-01-2213 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research049: Building a UX portfolio to get hiredThis episode origninally aired on the Ironhacks Podcast! Check out Ironhack's awesome resources here!
In this episode, we discuss building a robust UX portfolio, mastering personal growth, and overcoming imposter syndrome in the tech industry. Join us as we explore the power of positive thinking and the significance of planning your career roadmap.
Don't miss our expert insights into the evolving digital landscape and the impact of human connections in today's virtual world.
0:00 Sarah Doody lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.
05:08 Workshop and portfolio for experienced UX professionals.
2024-01-0854 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research048: How to stop applying to hundreds of jobsThis episode originally aired on the Honest UX Talks Podcast.
🗂 instagram.com/honest_ux_talks
This conversation ranges from learning how to position oneself strategically in the competitive job landscape to the art of finessing career materials such as resumes and portfolios.
Sarah shares innovative strategies for treating your job hunt as you would a UX project, emphasizing tailored applications, meaningful networking, and the human touch in technology-driven processes. With real-world examples and actionable advice, Sarah addresses common pitfalls and how to craft your narrative beyond checkbox portfolios.
Whether you're an asp...
2024-01-0247 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research047: Design a fulfilling UX career (and start thinking beyond job titles and salaries)This show was originally aired on the NN/g UX Podcast hosted and produced by Therese Festenden.
In this episode we dived into the heart of what makes a truly rewarding career – it's not the flashy title or the next paycheck, but the fulfillment you get from the impact you create and the skills you bring to the table.
Therese and I talked about curating a portfolio that reflects real-world problem-solving, not just textbook processes, and the value of strategic thinking for career advancement.
If you're chasing job satisfaction and meaningful projects in you...
2023-12-2645 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research043: How commenting on LinkedIn can land you job interviews and opportunitiesAre you using LinkedIn correctly?
It’s a social media platform, so be social!
This week Sarah talks about how making connections using LinkedIn can not only improve your visibility on recruiter searches AND help you find job openings faster.
01:09 The one thing many professionals forget to do when looking for work
02:08 LinkedIn Recruiter and the algorithm
03:35 You should be posting on your LinkedIn profile
05:25 It’s all about increasing visibility
07:12 Putting your skills and experience on display🎬 Watch Sarah's free UX Job S...
2023-11-2710 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research042: Do recruiters and hiring managers only spend 6 seconds on your resume?Everyone says that recruiters spend barely any time on resumes, but is that true?
This week Sarah shares her tips to keep recruiters engaged so they never spend less than a minute on your resume.
After this, be sure to listen to Episode 29 to learn more about the one page resume and how it could be selling you short!
00:19 Spoiler Alert: It’s a myth!
01:07 Put yourself into the shoes of a recruiter
02:52 Consider the design of your resume
05:45 Instead of a list of responsibilities, go into de...
2023-11-2009 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research041: A job search hack for career switchers and changersIf you’re considering a career in UX but not sure how you can leverage your previous experience to help you stand out as a candidate we want you to know it’s absolutely possible.
In this episode, Sarah talks through how to build a bridge from your current situation to a UX career.
0:55 You may be tempted to apply to lots of jobs
1:24 You might be competing for jobs with people with more UX experience than you
1:49 Here’s how to start thinking strategically about this
2:35 When you do this...
2023-11-1306 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research040: How to vet career advice and know who to trust How do you know what UX career advice is actually worth listening to? If you're searching for your next UX or Product role, it's likely you've been bombarded with advice from blogs, social posts, and well-meaning strangers in Slack groups. In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah Doody, a UX Researcher & Product Designer, breaks down how to critically evaluate UX career advice so you can stop spinning in circles and start making real progress in your job search.This episode is especially for UX, Product Design, and UX Research professionals who are sick...
2023-11-0607 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research039: Q&A with Sarah on where to start when you’re new to UX, getting promoted, and portfolio transformationThis week’s episode is a Q&A session with Sarah!
Tune in to hear how to start your job search when you’re brand new to UX, looking for opportunities to grow from within your company, and the importance of your portfolio!
01:16 If you’re early in your career, of course you want to apply to everything!
03:01 How do you approach finding your first job?
06:46 Make the most of performance reviews
08:54 Spell. Check. Your. Resume.
10:20 Curate your resume to each job you apply to
12:10 The be...
2023-10-3026 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research038: To advance your career, you don't need more information, you need more actionWhy aren’t you making the progress you’d like to in your career?
🤔 Maybe, just maybe, you’ve fallen victim to one of the biggest sources of procrastination in the job search?
This week, Sarah discusses how sometimes it’s best to stop looking for more info and advice, and just act! If you want to make TRUE progress in your job search, listen in!
Also, check out flowapp.info to help keep yourself on track!
01:14 At some point you need to stop seeking information and start taking action
02:04 Mor...
2023-10-2307 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research037: How to manage and regulate your emotions in your job searchLet’s be real, taking the next step in your career can be exhausting.
The process of getting clear on what you want, finding aligned roles, tweaking your career materials, making connections and so on is filled with highs and lows.
It’s not uncommon for each rejection or a lack of response to send you into a spin BUT, there are things you can do to manage your emotions, stay regulated, and continue down the path while taking space for the big feelings coming up.
In this episode, Sarah dives into the worl...
2023-10-1611 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research035: Q+A with Sarah: UX bootcamp portfolio projects, presenting case studies during an interview, 1-page resumes & more!During this Q+A, Sarah discusses what your portfolio should look like when you leave a UX bootcamp, how many case studies should you present in an interview, the myth of the one page resume, and so much more!
01:14 The portfolio you created in a bootcamp won’t work with recruiters
05:29 You can’t predict how long you’ll have in an interview, so why not ask?
06:55 Keep your resume chronological
08:40 Employers want experience, they want receipts!
11:32 Work done for confidential clients may still be useful for your portfolio
...
2023-10-0221 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research034: Was your job offer rescinded or withdrawn? Here's what to do ...You’ve done all the hard work of searching for a position, crafting your materials, interviewing, and you received a job offer!
But then, the unthinkable happens ... the job offer is rescinded or withdrawn 😱 This is a sucky situation to be in and this week Sarah dedicates an entire episode to help you move through it.
01:12 You aren’t the only one this has happened to.
01:53 Ask the company if they have any other open positions you may be a fit for
03:02 Remember, you made it this far. You’re doing something right!
2023-09-2511 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research032: Q+A with Sarah: Navigating saturated job markets, creating case studies when you signed an NDA, AI and moreThis week’s episode is a Q&A session with Sarah!
Tune in to hear the number one thing to do in a saturated job market, how to share case studies that are flagged as confidential, whether or not AI is a threat to UX careers and more!
01:16 Do everything you can to be visible to the companies you're applying to or where you wanna work
06:57 Don’t focus on the quantity of connections, but QUALITY!
11:11 Most people are only scratching the surface of their skills and experience
15:24 AI is n...
2023-09-1134 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research031: What is an informational interview and how to ask someone to do oneStop awkwardly approaching people to get career advice and use the strategies from this episode to connect instead! In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah introduces listeners to the informational interview and teaches exactly how to ask for one.
00:58 What is an informational interview?
01:59 Before asking someone, make sure they don’t cover your questions in their public work
03:23 How NOT to start your email
05:36 Tip #1: Breaking the ice
06:28 Tip #2: Be specific
07:57 Tip #3: Give them options for communication
09:38 A quick recap of how to...
2023-09-0411 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research029: Career Myth: Your resume must be 1 pageIn this episode Sarah discusses the common misconception that your resume should only be one page long
If you have a long and accomplished career history, why would you limit your ability to sell your experience?
There are many reasons to expand your resume, take a listen and see if you could improve how you sell yourself.
01:17 A one page resume isn’t enough most of the time
03:49 Recruiters and hiring managers want to see receipts of our abilities
06:01 When your resume reads like just an overview of your pre...
2023-08-2111 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research028: How and why you should treat your career like it's a productIn this episode Sarah discusses how to treat yourself and what you can offer to an employer like it’s a product. Do you know your core features? How are you marketing yourself? Are relationships important to “selling” myself? All these questions and more are answered!
01:16 I really believe that your career has a lot in common with a product and that the reason so many products fail is the same reason
05:23 Products can fail for three reasons:the design, the marketing, and the sales component
07:55 Every day you are trying to get people to...
2023-08-1424 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research027: Career Strategy Q+A with Sarah: UX job titles, portfolio tips, and hiring outlookThe episode of the Career Strategy podcast features clips from a live Q+A with Sarah. On it, she answers questions about differences in job titles, having a say in product strategy, transitioning from internship to positions, and so much more!
01:01 What is the difference between a UX Designer and Product Designer?
03:58 Should UX designers have a say in the overall product strategy and decision making process?
05:11 UX designers should always be operating from a place of strategy
06:08 Tips or recommendations for getting UX consultant positions after a UX internship.
06...
2023-08-1232 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research026: The #1 thing holding you back in your careerIn this episode, Sarah discusses the number one thing holding you back in your career, the benefits of a community, honing in on your goals, and so much more.
01:30 What does advancing your career mean to you?
05:34 What plans do you have in place to get you to your goals?
08:03 Every goal needs a why, a purpose, a motivation
10:00 Set aside some time to map out a plan. What do you need to do to achieve your goal?
11:45 You need a community of like-minded people to help stay motivated
2023-07-3123 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research025: [Job Search, Pt. 5 / 5] How to deal with rejection in your job searchWelcome to part 5 of the 5 part series on the Job Search.
In this episode, Sarah discusses what it means when you’re rejected at different points of the hiring process, reflecting on what is working and what isn’t, sparking relationships with employees, and accepting that sometimes rejection is a good thing.
01:35 Let’s jump right into how to deal with rejection in your job search
03:12 You’re not getting interviews, but who is rejecting you? An automatic system or a human being?
05:55 Now you’re getting interviews but still not getting hir...
2023-07-2422 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research024: [Job Search, Pt. 4 / 5] How to research a company before you applyWelcome to part 4 of the 5 part series on the Job Search!
In this episode, Sarah discusses the importance of researching what kind of work environment a company has LONG before you apply by using social media to your advantage. She covers covers how to discern which sources to trust, how to learn about a company's culture, and how to vet reviews and comments you might find online. In your job search, you do not have time to waste. By researching companies in advance, you'll avoid applying to companies that don't align with what you're looking for and y...
2023-07-1711 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research023: [Job Search, Pt. 3 / 5] Why you should NOT play the numbers game in your job searchWelcome to part 3 of the 5 part series on the Job Search.
In this episode, Sarah discusses why playing the numbers game is not in your best interest as well as how to recognize red flags in your job search, the value of your time and energy, and how to maximize each application you send.
01:34 Multiple times a week people message me, email me and say, Sarah, I've applied to a TON of jobs and not had a single interview.
02:47 A lot of people just simply don't know what to do if they're applying to...
2023-07-1012 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research022: [Job Search, Pt. 2 / 5] Why you should prioritize people over platforms in your job searchWelcome to part 2 of the 5 part series on the Job Search.
In this episode, Sarah discusses prioritizing making connections with people, following and engaging with people who work at companies you want to work for (without coming off as a creeper!), cold emailing hiring managers, and how to keep your messaging short and sweet.
01:27 Why you need to prioritize people over platforms in your job search.
03:03 How a lot of people successfully find and apply to jobs through the portal
04:38 Focus on connecting with people because people share about jobs before...
2023-07-0315 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research021: [Job Search, Pt. 1 / 5] The #1 thing to do before you apply for a jobWelcome to Part 1 of a 5 episode series about the job search! In this series, we'll cover what to do before you apply for a job, why relationships are crucial, why you should NOT play the numbers game, how to research a company before you apply for a job, and how to deal with rejection.
In today's episode, Sarah discusses creating your career value criteria so that instead of panicking and taking the first offer you get, you can feel confident that you’re making the right choice.
01:49 The number one thing you need to do be...
2023-06-2613 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research020: Listen in on a Career Strategy Lab Mindset CallIn today’s episode, Sarah shares a mindset coaching call that the CSL Coaching Team hosted for people interested in CSL to give them a taste of the kind of calls we host on a weekly basis.
Each week (and on this call) our coaches discuss a myriad of topics including; your relationship with your past work, confidence in yourself and your materials, and many other challenges you may face while developing your career strategy.
Tune in and let us know what you think!
02:00 Introduction
05:42 Sarah speaks about developing your career as...
2023-06-1952 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research019: Career tips from running the NYC marathonSometimes we can get overwhelmed trying to make our careers into what we want them to be over night.
Breathe and remember that your career is a marathon, a journey, and that takes time!
This week’s episode was recorded during a long car ride, that helped inspire this episode’s message.
During this episode, Sarah recounts her experiences with marathon running, injuries, and the struggles of accomplishing long term goals. She explains how community helps you get where you need to be without the stresses that come with doing it alone.
00...
2023-06-1222 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research018: Avoid this mistake when writing your headline on LinkedInLinkedIn profiles are often not optimized for visibility. They should be treated like web pages, keeping search engine optimization in mind. The right key words can elevate your profile tremendously! Your LinkedIn is its own search engine for recruiters to find out if you fit the position. If your profile is not optimized it will be harder for them to find you.
In this episode, Sarah guides you on how to optimize your profile and shares some examples of what not to do.
01:00 LinkedIn is a search engine that recruiters and hiring managers use to...
2023-06-0509 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research017: Ageism in tech and user experienceIt can feel difficult to break into the tech field, or any industry, when you reach a certain age. You may feel like you’re being overlooked for simply your age. Let’s talk about that!
This week Sarah discusses the topic of ageism in the tech industry and some misconceptions people have about it. You can’t control your age, so instead you should concentrate on things you can change. Leverage the extensive experience you have. Soft skills learned through a lifetime of work are some of the hardest to obtain.
00:38 Am I too old to...
2023-05-2913 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research016: 3 Questions to get unstuck in your careerDo you feel like you’re stuck in your career? Maybe you’re bored, or you feel like your skills have plateaued or heck, even your salary has plateaued. Do you see current and former colleagues getting promoted or doing work that you wish you were doing?
If so, these might be signs that you’re stuck in your career. So, the big question is, how do you get unstuck?
In this episode, Sarah gives you 3 questions to ponder to help you get unstuck in your career. And sidenote, these questions can really apply to ANY si...
2023-05-2215 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research015: 3 Ways to deal with job search burnoutFor many people, maybe even you, job search burnout is real.
A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that half of adult job seekers in the USA are pessimistic about their prospects for a new job. A survey by the Pew Research Center found that about half of US adults looking for a job are pessimistic about their prospects for future employment.
In this episode, Sarah talks about factors that contribute to job search burnout and some practical tips you can put into practice right now to help you manage and minimize this...
2023-05-1624 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research014: LinkedIn mistakes job seekers make & how to optimize your LinkedIn profileIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah goes over some of the common mistakes people make with their LinkedIn profiles and guides you towards creating a more dynamic and memorable profile.
Sarah shares:
- Creating posts of value, that would create conversation and interaction
- How to optimize your profile with strategic language
- The two hidden features of LinkedIn that help with visibility
00:21 The problem that I've noticed is that many people don't understand how to really effectively use LinkedIn
01:33 The name of the...
2023-05-0324 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research013: Create a resume that stands out with these 3 user experience (UX) tipsIn this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah does a deep dive into the UX mistakes commonly made with resumes and how to correct them to stand out from other candidates.
Sarah shares:
Why you need 2 versions of your resume
How to use a strategic summary effectively at the top of your resume
Using verbs to amp up your bullet points and catch the attention of hiring managers
00:29 Your resume is a big factor in your job search, mainly regarding whether you get an interview or not
01:07 Okay, so let's get into the...
2023-04-2621 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research012: You got the offer! How to determine if it's the right fit and what to do if notAlthough a job offer is an exciting accomplishment, don't let your judgment be clouded by the salary or other shiny objects. In this episode Sarah shares reflection questions to ask yourself when you get an offer to determine if it’s the next best step for you as well as steps to follow when you determine it’s not.
Timestamps:
0:09: Don’t let your judgment be clouded by the salary or other shiny objects.
0:49: The goal today is for me to share how to decide a job is right for you or not so you...
2023-03-2109 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research011: How to stop doubting your resume and portfolioWhat would change if you treated your resume and portfolio as products? What would an MVP look like? In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares how to beat perfectionism and get solid versions of your resume and portfolio out into the world.
0:30: Is it possible that your resume portfolio isn't ready because of the bar you've set for yourself?
0:55: In this quest for perfect, it's easy to pass on applying to lots of awesome job opportunities.
1:40: I want you to think of your resume and portfolio as products.
2:19...
2023-03-2115 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research010: The 3 considerations most people miss when it comes to the job searchMany candidates obsess over job titles, salaries, or having a certain company on their resume, and as a result, they often turn a blind eye to other things that can have a bigger impact in their career in the long term. In this episode, Sarah shares 3 things to consider that many people miss.
1:02: When thinking about their next career. Most candidates aren't thinking long-term enough.
2:04: If you know you wanna get into management or get more specialized, that should inform your next career move
2:22: Some roles help you build a foundation to help...
2023-03-2106 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research009: Don't take this popular career advice"Playing the numbers game isn't a strategy; it's a recipe for burnout."
In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah debunks the popular advice to apply to as many jobs as possible and shares a more effective way to land the career of your dreams.
Timestamps:
0:19 Congrats on getting hired, Tessa!
1:42: Why would you keep applying if you haven't received an interview after 30, 50, 100 or more roles applied to it?
2:16: You should not play...
2023-03-2107 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research008: 3 Common mistakes career switchers make and how to avoid themCareer Switchers are incredibly well positioned for jobs in tech but so many of them don’t realize it. In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares 3 common mistakes career switchers make and how to avoid them.
0:31: Today I'll share some tips for career switchers to stand out by avoiding some common mistakes and mindset traps.
0:50: I want you to know that as a career switcher, you are not starting from scratch. You don't need to start from the bottom. So stop assuming you'll get hired into a junior role and need to wo...
2023-03-2109 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research007: Will Career Strategy Lab work for you?If you’ve ever considered joining CSL (or any career development program, really) you’ve likely wondered if it’s for YOU. In this episode, Sarah shares reflection questions to ask yourself to help discern if investing in a program is right for you.
1:20: Today I want to invite you to consider three questions to ask yourself instead of this common question
2:14: In design, we rely on research to make decisions all the time, and it's smart.
2:44: There is probably no perfect case study. No perfect example I could give you that is going...
2023-03-2114 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research006: How to make it past the second job interviewGetting chosen for an interview means you're doing something right. But, if you’re not getting callbacks or offers, then there are likely specific things that you can tweak when it comes to what you’re sharing and how you’re sharing it. In this episode, Sarah talks through her Job Search Checkpoint Methodology to help show you how to analyze what may need to change and put the shifts into practice.
0:41: In 2021, Pew Research Center did a study with 715 US adults and found one third said they felt more stress than usual, and 56% said they experienced more e...
2023-03-2110 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research005: 5 Lessons from hiring managersIn this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah talks to hiring managers from Gusto, Meta, Shopify, IBM, and a recruiter who works in the field of user experience to share some of their top advice to avoid making major mistakes and increase the chances that you stand out in the sea of candidates.
1:20 You have to think of the users or stakeholders involved in the hiring process and just like users and stakeholders of projects you work on.
1:47 The three stakeholders in the hiring process.
1:54 Stakeholder 1: Human resources and recruiters
3:06...
2023-03-2121 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research004: How to find a tech job outside of the tech industryIs it time to redefine what it means to "work in tech"? In this episode, Sarah shares how to find excellent jobs outside of the typical FAANG companies tech professionals tend to set their sights on.
1:11 Layoffs can be scary whether you have a job or not.
1:58 Regardless of your role at a tech company, your skills and expertise are valuable and can transfer to many other industries.
2:10 Just because your last job was at a tech company, that doesn't mean you can't get hired in another sector and honestly, maybe even with...
2023-03-2110 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research003: Thinking differently about career development (+3 questions to ask yourself)In this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah breaks down the 3 questions to ask yourself to discern whether or not an investment in career development is right for you.
1:03 Today we have 3 questions for you to ponder to help gain clarity around whether or not you're ready to invest your time and energy to grow yourself and your career.
1:12 It's normal to have big feelings when it comes to career.
1:59 Instead of trying to overcome the thoughts and feelings, consider embracing them. They might be shining a spotlight on things that are...
2023-03-2115 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research002: The REAL reason you're overlooked for job opportunities (and what to do)In this episode of the Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah talks about the REAL reason most candidates get overlooked when applying for jobs and what to do about it.
1:17: If you didn't get an interview, you need to understand the root problem and not just the symptom.
2:30: Standing out when you apply and during interviews goes way beyond wordsmithing, bullet points, and massaging pixels.
3:12: If what you're talking about only scratches the surface, then you're gonna sell yourself short.
4:13: No amount of rewriting or redesigning can help if your story isn't solid.
2023-03-2108 minCareer Strategy Podcast with Sarah Doody | UX, Product Design, UX Research001: How to build confidence for the job searchIn this episode of The Career Strategy Podcast, Sarah shares 3 tips to help let go of self doubt and increase confidence for the job search.
0:15: If you've ever felt like you'd lacked confidence in the job search, this is for you.
2:00: The key to building confidence is getting clear on what you can and cannot control.
2:48: Are you a switcher, launcher, or climber?
3:55: Stop playing the numbers game.
4:32: Stop sending your resume all over the internet clicking apply to every job that has the word UX or design in...
2023-03-2111 min
Awkward Silences#96 - Your UX Career Is a Product with Sarah DoodyMost people—including product people—don't think of their career as a product. And even the best researchers often neglect to do the research to identify suitable roles and opportunities. The result? They stay in roles for too long, or accept one that simply doesn't align with their career goals, interest, or values. They burn out and feel stuck. Sarah Doody, Founder and CEO of Career Strategy Lab, joins us to share why you should start thinking of your User Research career as a product and how you can start doing so today.In this episo...
2022-06-3050 min