IIInsiderInterview
Sign in
hardbehavioral

How do you handle feedback and criticism of your designs?

Handling feedback and criticism is a crucial aspect of being a successful UX Designer, especially in a collaborative environment like FAANG companies. Here's how I approach it:

  1. Embrace Feedback: I view feedback as an opportunity to enhance my designs. Constructive criticism helps me uncover blind spots and iterate to create user-centered solutions.

  2. Active Listening: I actively listen to the feedback provided, ensuring I understand the underlying concerns or suggestions before responding.

  3. Ask Clarifying Questions: To ensure I fully grasp the feedback, I ask clarifying questions. This helps in aligning the design more closely with the user needs and business goals.

  4. Iterate and Implement: I prioritize feedback, focusing on the most impactful changes first. I then iterate on the design, implementing those changes and testing their effectiveness.

  5. Maintain a Growth Mindset: I maintain a growth mindset, seeing every piece of feedback as a chance to grow as a designer and deliver better user experiences.

Key Talking Points:

  • Embrace Feedback: See it as an opportunity for improvement.
  • Active Listening: Understand before reacting.
  • Clarify: Ask questions to fully understand the feedback.
  • Iterate: Make changes based on prioritized feedback.
  • Growth Mindset: Use feedback for professional development.

NOTES:

Reference Table:

AspectPositive ApproachNegative Approach
Receiving FeedbackEmbrace and see as opportunityDefensive and dismissive
UnderstandingAsk clarifying questionsAssume understanding without probing
ImplementingPrioritize and iterate on changesIgnore or superficially apply changes
MindsetGrowth-orientedFixed and resistant

Follow-Up Questions and Answers:

  1. Question: How do you prioritize which feedback to implement when you receive conflicting opinions?

    Answer: I prioritize feedback based on alignment with user needs, design goals, and business objectives. I also consider the source of the feedback, giving more weight to insights from user testing or key stakeholders. If necessary, I facilitate a discussion to reach a consensus on the most critical feedback to address.

  2. Question: Can you share an instance where feedback significantly improved your design?

    Answer: In a recent project, feedback from user testing revealed that users were confused by the navigation structure. By actively listening and iterating on the design, we simplified the navigation, resulting in a 30% increase in task completion during subsequent tests. This feedback was invaluable in enhancing the overall user experience.

  3. Question: How do you handle feedback that you disagree with?

    Answer: I approach it with an open mind, considering why the feedback was given. I engage in a dialogue to understand the perspective and share my rationale as well. If after discussion, the feedback still doesn't align with user or business needs, I provide evidence-based reasoning for why it might not be implemented.

Want all 100 questions?
Practise the full set with grading in the app, or get the book on Amazon.
Practise this role →