Have you ever looked at a designer’s portfolio and thought, “Wow, this is stunning”? It’s natural to be drawn to polished designs. But here’s the truth: portfolios often tell a false story.
Relying solely on portfolios can lead to bad hires. Why?
Because the prettiest designs don’t always solve the biggest problems.
The real challenges behind great design
Design isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about navigating chaos and making sense of it. Behind every pixel-perfect layout is a sea of messy, complex challenges. Here are a few examples:
- Broken briefs: Designers often receive vague or contradictory project briefs. The ability to dig deeper, ask the right questions, and clarify objectives separates the great from the good.
- Unclear feedback: Stakeholders might say, “Make it pop” or “It doesn’t feel right” without offering actionable insights. The best designers know how to decode this feedback and turn it into results.
- Complex problems: Real-world design means solving problems that aren’t black and white. Balancing user needs with business goals requires skill, empathy, and creativity.
What great designers actually do
Great designers don’t just make things look good. They bring clarity to chaos. They:
- Fix broken briefs by identifying the root problems and aligning teams.
- Solve complex issues with innovative yet practical solutions.
- Prioritize users over trends or the personal preferences of stakeholders.
How to hire for skill, not shine
Instead of judging designers by their portfolios, dig deeper. Here’s how:
- Ask about their toughest project: What made it challenging? How did they approach the problem? Look for stories of perseverance, adaptability, and learning.
- Focus on their process: Ask how they handle unclear feedback, manage stakeholder expectations, and prioritize user needs.
- Test their problem-solving skills: Give them a hypothetical scenario or a real issue your company faces. Observe their thinking and approach rather than expecting a perfect solution.
Practical steps to evaluate designers
- Conduct design challenges: Ensure these mimic real-world conditions, focusing on problem-solving, not just aesthetics.
- Review case studies, not just portfolios: Ask for detailed explanations of their process, including what worked, what didn’t, and why.
- Speak with references: Learn how they handled pressure, collaboration, and difficult projects in the past.
Portfolios may grab your attention, but they don’t reveal the skills that truly matter. To find great designers, you need to look beyond the surface. Focus on their thinking, their process, and their ability to tackle challenges with clarity and purpose.
As Albert Einstein said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Great designers embody this by adapting, solving, and growing with every project.
Let’s connect
If you’re searching for a design partner who not only understands your requirements but also knows how to create solutions that keep your clients happy, let’s get in touch
