Based on X posts of @ridd_design & @gabrielvaldivia
Core Qualities
1. Proactive Approach:
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Identifying critical tasks without waiting for instructions.
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Taking the initiative to create the initial version (v0) rather than waiting for a master plan.
2. Idea Conduit:
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Positioning oneself as the go-to person for sharing design ideas.
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Becoming a central figure in company strategy by being the hub for innovative ideas.
3. Change Drivers:
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Identifying key individuals responsible for driving impactful changes.
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Building connections with influential figures to understand the driving forces behind projects.
4. Effective Idea Framing:
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Using unconventional language to present concepts and disarm initial skepticism.
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Encouraging a focus on positive aspects by presenting ideas as imaginative possibilities.
5. Collaborative Design:
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Embracing pair designing for early feedback and creating allies.
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Building support for concepts by involving others in the design process.
6. Secret Missions for Progress:
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Planning and executing discreet initiatives to advance product development.
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Fostering camaraderie and achieving significant progress through confidential collaborations.
7. Comfortable Uncomfortableness:
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Encouraging the timely sharing of work, even if it feels uncomfortable.
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Promoting an open and transparent work environment.
8. Shipping Top Design Work:
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Demonstrating a high level of design intuition.
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Maintaining a strong and prolific portfolio that speaks to their design capabilities.
9. Clear and Compelling Storytelling:
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Communicating with clarity, conciseness, and impact.
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Mastering the art of storytelling to effectively convey the narrative of their design work.
10. Inspiring Growth:
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Investing in the growth of team members.
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Being generous and supportive, particularly to junior contributors.
11. Interdisciplinary Thinking:
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Recognising the interconnectedness of design with broader fields.
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Borrowing insights from outside the design bubble, incorporating ideas from different disciplines.
12. Critical Thinking:
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Discerning between design trends and enduring principles.
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Identifying the value of new trends and technologies while avoiding fleeting fads.
13. Curiosity and Continuous Learning:
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Maintaining a curious mindset.
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Embracing new technologies, tools, and methodologies.
Additional Traits
14. Adaptable Problem Solvers:
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Approaching challenges with flexibility and considering multiple solutions.
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Pivoting and iterating as needed in dynamic work environments.
15. Constructive Feedback Dynamics:
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Actively seeking and providing constructive feedback.
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Fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
16. Industry Trends Awareness:
- Staying informed about the latest design trends, technologies, and user experience innovations.
17. Collaborative Work Environment:
- Cultivating a positive and inclusive team culture that encourages open communication and idea sharing.
18. Effective Time Management:
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Balancing multiple projects with strong organisational skills.
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Prioritising tasks and aligning work with project goals.
19. Advocates for User-Centred Design:
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Championing user needs and preferences in design decisions.
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Ensuring products are both visually appealing and user-friendly.
20. Business Acumen:
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Staying curious about the business side of products.
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Aligning design decisions with broader company objectives.
21. Positive Team Culture Contribution:
- Fostering camaraderie, celebrating successes, and providing support during challenges.
22. Ethical Design Practices:
- Considering ethical implications in design decisions, including inclusivity and accessibility.
v1
Berlin, 22. Nov 2023