Cracking the code: two key strategies to land a UX job and estimated time to get hired | by Irisi Tole, MM | Mar, 2023

Many designers who are looking for their first job in UX or their next UX role often wonder how long it will take to land a job. This is especially true for those who have completed a boot camp and are looking for their first role or have been laid off due to the current state of the economy. It’s understandable to feel anxious and discouraged during the job search process, but it’s important to remember that finding a job can be stressful for anyone.

According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average length of unemployment in the United States across all occupations is currently around 9.1 weeks (as of January 2022). However, the time it takes to find a job in UX design can be longer or shorter than this average, depending on a variety of factors.

For someone just starting out in UX design, it may take several months to find a job, especially if they are transitioning from a different field or have limited experience. In some cases, it may take longer than six months to secure a job in UX design.

However, for experienced UX designers with a strong portfolio and a good network, the job search process can be shorter. They may be able to land a job within a few weeks or a few months, especially if they have in-demand skills and experience.

The ratio between job applications, interviews, and offers can vary depending on several factors, including the job market, the level of competition, and the job seeker’s qualifications and experience.

Six eye-opening statistics

🔮 According to a survey by LinkedIn, 85% of all jobs are filled through ✨✨networking✨✨

🔮 According to a 2021 survey by Indeed, it takes an average of 20.1 weeks to land a new job in the US.

🔮 The same survey found that job seekers apply for an average of 30 jobs before receiving a job offer.

🔮 In a 2020 survey by Jobvite, 43% of job seekers said that they expect to hear back from a potential employer within two weeks of submitting their application.

🔮 A survey by Glassdoor found that on average, a job opening attracts 250 resumes, but only four to six of those applicants will be called in for an interview.

🔮 A survey by Robert Half found that on average, employers conduct three to four interviews before making a job offer.

The job market can also fluctuate, impacting the time it takes to find a job. Nevertheless, these statistics can provide insights into the job search process and help job seekers set expectations and strategies for their search.

Here are two actions you can take today to set yourself up for success in your job search:

1. Build your professional network by attending networking events & reach out to current and former colleagues, classmates, and other professionals in your field.
2. Update your resume by using keywords and phrases from the job description to highlight your skills and experience.

1. Networking is key to success

Networking can have a significant impact on getting hired for a job as it allows job seekers to make connections with people who can provide them with job leads, referrals, and advice. In fact, many job openings are never posted publicly and are filled through word-of-mouth referrals and networking. By having a personal referral you can increase the chances of getting an interview and ultimately getting hired as employers may prioritize candidates who come recommended by someone they trust.

According to the Jobvite survey, almost half of employers (48%) consider referred candidates as their best source of quality hires.
Referred candidates were 15 times more likely to be hired than candidates who applied through a job board.

These statistics demonstrate the significant impact networking and referrals can have on job search and hiring, underscoring the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships and leveraging one’s network to access job opportunities.

2. Make multiple versions of your resume

To maximize your chances of success in your job search, start by identifying the industries you’re interested in and analyzing job descriptions to understand the key skills and qualifications that employers are looking for. From there, tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills for each industry you’re targeting, incorporating the keywords and phrases used in job postings. This approach can increase the chances of your resume getting noticed and ultimately help you land the job you want.

Make multiple versions of your resume so you can present yourself as a more tailored and qualified candidate for each job you apply to. It also helps you stand out in a crowded job market by demonstrating your understanding of the specific job requirements and the skills needed to succeed in that role.

The number of resume variations you should have depends on several factors, including your career goals, job target, and the industries or companies you are applying to.

However, I recommend having at least two to three versions of your resume that highlight different skills and experiences. These versions can be tailored to the specific job or industry you are targeting, showcasing the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the position.

The job market can be highly competitive, and landing a job in UX design often requires persistence, patience, and hard work. With dedication and effort, it is possible to find a job in UX design and start a rewarding career in this exciting field. While the time it takes to find a job can vary depending on individual circumstances, it’s important to stay focused and persistent during the job search process.