Frequently Asked Questions
I have many references and recommendations that I can provide that will gush about two things, 1) how capable I am as a designer, and 2) how patient, kind, and humble I am as a designer. I'll be specific, there is no attachment or ego in my designs, I aim to provide the best possible options/solutions for the problem, and I know that it won't be perfect round one, or even round 10. We get to good enough, and continuously improve. Feedback can be either helpful (and incorporated) or not helpful (and thus ignored), but it is always welcome. I am here for you, your product, and your users.
I listen to, advocate for, assist, and stay out of the way of the work of my team. I mentor those near me so that they (and I) may grow as people. I am collaborative and adaptable. I believe in setting clear expectations while empowering my team to take ownership of their work. I value open communication, providing constructive feedback, and creating an environment where creativity can thrive. For example, I prioritize one-on-one meetings to understand individual goals and challenges, ensuring each team member feels heard and supported. I also use project management tools to maintain transparency and alignment within the team. This approach helps me adjust my leadership style based on the unique needs of the project or individual team members. I am flexible, approachable, and focused on outcomes while focusing on practical actions and sticking to my principles.
I foster a sense of purpose and ownership in their work. I make it a priority to recognize achievements and celebrate successes publicly. I also provide growth opportunities, like offering challenging projects that align with their interests or facilitating professional development. For example, during a recent project, I ensured team members had clear goals and connected their contributions to the larger organizational vision. By showing how their work made an impact, I kept morale high and engagement strong. I also encouraged regular brainstorming sessions, which energized the team and led to innovative solutions. I focus on recognition, purpose, and personal development, all key motivators in the workplace, and when possible, monetary bonuses or raises work best.
I have many years of experience in many domains, fields, industries, products owing to my thrist for knowledge and my propensity to take on several projects at once. So if it exists and needs design input, I've likely done that thing already before. If I haven't, then I'll figure it out as I always have.
I have been in school full time for most of my life, while also working full time, and running my own design consultancy. I'm also leading Ghoul A.D., a Ghost (B.C>) tribute band. I have a home, a wife, and pets. I timebox my critical work tasks, and I have a huge battery of stamina for projects/problems that intrigue me. The more challenging and novel, the better.
I don't typically put stock in behavioral tests, but I will say that I strongly identify with my results being generally INTJ. That outlines quite a bit about me with a high degree of accuracy.
First off, don't give me any lines about the median salary for my zip code. I am looking for full-time positions that can offer at least $200,000, as befits someone of my tenure, erudition, output/outcomes, and skill.
Stability, (mutual) respect, a design challenge, the ability to put down and spread roots in the organization, the opportunity to grow my skills, oversight, career/titles, and a group of decent comrades with which to make something awesome.