Product Designer Interview Questions

Product Designer interview questions:

Evaluating a designer may initially appear straightforward, primarily by examining their portfolio. An extensive review of their work is an excellent starting point. Additionally, assigning them a project is a crucial step in the evaluation process. Assuming both of these assessments yield positive results, the subsequent conversation should delve into their perspectives on design.

Engage them in a discussion about their design influences and inspirations. Inquire about their role models and the sources they turn to for creative inspiration. Explore how they stay current with the ever-evolving design trends. Request an example of design they consider outstanding, whether in the digital or physical realm.

Discover their engagement with the design community. Inquire about books, exhibitions, conferences, or communities they attend or admire. Probe to understand what they perceive as the most crucial aspect of their role as a designer.

What you’re aiming for is an indication of their passion for design that transcends their specific expertise. Are they mindful of and capable of critically analyzing the design choices that permeate our daily lives? A truly exceptional designer is consistently contemplating ways to enhance these intricate details.

Role-specific questions:

• If you were to initiate a new project at this moment, which approach would you select for incorporating icons into the interface?
• Can you explain the distinction between progressive enhancement and graceful degradation?
• Have you worked with any CSS/Sass frameworks in local development or in a production environment?
• Are you acquainted with BEM and SMACSS? What aspects do you appreciate or find less favorable about these conventions?
• What methods do you employ to enhance a website’s assets and minimize page load times?

Operational questions:

• Can you share insights about your educational background? Discuss a particular aspect of your coursework that captivated your interest the most.
• What is your current professional role, and what projects are you currently engaged in?
• Walk us through a couple of your favorite pieces from your portfolio. Could you outline your design process for these projects, including the issues you aimed to address and the decision-making behind specific design choices?
• To what extent do you take ownership of the work featured in your portfolio, and can you provide specific details regarding your contributions?
• How do you approach prototyping your design ideas, and how do you determine when you’ve achieved the right design solution?
• Explain how you empathize with the end user. What research methods do you typically employ when commencing a new project?
• Can you share a project that didn’t unfold as planned and the factors contributing to this? How did you go about resolving the issues that emerged?
• Do you have any side projects or personal endeavors you’d like to discuss?