How to Build a UX/UI Portfolio That Gets Hired

Putting together a UX/UI portfolio can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re just starting out or changing careers. But the truth is, a thoughtful portfolio isn’t about showing every pixel you’ve ever touched. It’s about telling a few strong stories that prove you can solve problems, collaborate, and create delightful experiences.

Why a UX/UI portfolio matters more than a resume

Resumes list experience. Portfolios demonstrate thinking. Hiring managers and recruiters want to see how you approach problems, make decisions, and iterate. A well-crafted UX/UI portfolio helps you stand out because it shows your process—not just the final screens.

What to include: the essential pieces

• 3–5 case studies: Quality over quantity. Pick projects that highlight different skills—research, interaction design, visual design, or product thinking.
• One-line summary: Each case study should open with a quick problem + impact statement so readers know what they’re about to learn.
• Process over polish: Include research, sketches, user flows, wireframes, and iterations. Show how you reached the solution.
• Metrics and outcomes: Whenever possible, add measurable results like increased conversions or reduced task time.
• Context: Explain your role, constraints, team size, timeline, and tools used.

Structure a case study that hiring managers will actually read

Think of each case study as a mini-story. Here’s a simple, effective structure I use and recommend:

1. Title + One-line summary

Start with a clear headline and a 1–2 sentence summary: the problem, your role, and a high-level outcome. Busy readers should understand the gist in seconds.

2. Problem & context

Why did this project exist? Who was the user? What constraints or business goals shaped the brief? This is where context sets expectations.

3. Research & insights

Share your methods—interviews, surveys, analytics—and the key insights that guided your decisions. A couple of quotes from users or screenshots of findings add credibility.

4. Ideation & design process

Show sketches, wireframes, flows, and alternatives you explored. Explain why you chose one direction over another. That decision-making is gold.

5. Final solution & outcomes

Show the polished screens, but keep the emphasis on impact. Include metrics, stakeholder feedback, and next steps.

Practical tips to make your portfolio human and memorable

• Lead with empathy: Add a short “about me” that’s personal—your values, how you work, or what makes you tick as a designer.
• Be honest about your role: Clarify what you did vs. what teammates did so reviewers understand your contribution.
• Keep it scannable: Use headings, short paragraphs, and visuals. Recruiters often skim for 30–60 seconds first.
• Optimize for mobile: Many hiring managers view portfolios on phones—make sure it’s readable and fast.
• Link to prototypes: If possible, include working prototypes or interactive demos so people can experience your work.

Where to host your UX/UI portfolio

You’ve got options: build a custom site (Webflow, Gatsby), use portfolio platforms (Behance, Dribbble), or create a simple PDF version. I like a personal site because it’s flexible and shows off your front-end chops if you have them. If you want quick exposure, share projects on Behance or Dribbble.

What recruiters and studios actually care about

From conversations with hiring managers, a few things always pop up: clarity of thinking, evidence of collaboration, and the ability to measure impact. You can read more about UX career advice and research-backed guidance at Nielsen Norman Group.

Bonus: Quick checklist before you hit publish

• Proofread every case study (typos undermine credibility).
• Make sure links and prototypes work and aren’t behind logins.
• Ask a peer for feedback—ideally someone outside your immediate circle.
• Include a clear contact method and links to your LinkedIn or social profiles.

Real-life example (a tiny anecdote)

When I revamped my own portfolio, I removed four small projects and expanded two case studies to show more of the research that led to design decisions. A week after relaunching, I had three interviews. Why? Those deeper stories made it easier for recruiters to picture me solving their problems—exactly what you want your UX UI portfolio to do.

Keep improving—your portfolio is never finished

Design is iterative, and so is your portfolio. Add new projects, refine your storytelling, and archive older work that no longer represents the level you want to be hired for. Treat it like a living document of your best thinking.

If you’re job-hunting in the broader Carrere space or just curious about career resources, keep testing different formats and asking for feedback—the small improvements add up fast.

Ready to start? Pick one project, write the one-line summary, and outline the case study structure above. You’ll be surprised how quickly a clear story comes together.

Good luck—go tell great design stories.