From Recruitment
to UX Researcher
Christian Richards
UX Researcher at Equator
You see a lot of bootcamps that are popping up, but the backing of a university like Glasgow Caledonian mattered.
What’s your career background?
I worked in business development, account management and tech recruitment before becoming a UX researcher at a digital agency.
What interested you about UX?
When working as a relationship manager for an educational company, I was on the frontline of hearing customer pain points and trying to understand them. It was this research-led role that got me interested in how people use and respond to products.
Why did you choose the Professional Diploma in UX?
I think the two big things were the portfolio and the university credit rating. One of my mentors always says that UX is a mindset. Anyone can make wireframes, what he wants to see is that they’re thinking through a portfolio. I think the way that the course is laid out drives you to develop that.
Since completing the course, how has your career progressed?
During the course, I built out my portfolio and then, at a meetup, I ended up having a conversation with the Head of Strategy at Equator. I'm now working at Equator as a digital strategist. The course gave me an academic understanding of the industry and that was absolutely crucial.
Would you recommend the course to others? Why?
100%. Out of all of the different courses in the industry right now, I think that your one is certainly the best in terms of covering all the bases and getting that real foundation. Financially as well, I think it's amazing value for money for what you're getting out of it.
What advice would you give someone considering the course?
I'd say to completely throw yourself into it, really engage in all of the resources that are available and talk to the UX Design Institute team.