How to get useful advice (like a designer)

I listened to a podcast recently where the host said something profound;

“Going to < insert person’s name > for career advice is like going to a Mexican restaurant for Chinese food. While they may try to make you a meal, odds are high you’ll be disappointed.”

Within the world of UX design, I think this really applies when you work on a big team.

On a larger team, designers outside your immediate circle usually need to be consulted for your work to be accurate, considerate of all edge cases, and properly integrated into the larger user experience.

The challenge here, however, is that I work on a team of over 60 designers, and everyone has really strong views. The reality is — I don’t have time to consult everyone on everything I do.

In your own life, outside of design, I’m sure you can relate. Who doesn’t have numerous relatives ready to theorize on why you’re still single? Or parents who don’t understand your career path?

To overcome this information overwhelm, but to still make good decisions, I’ve learned a few lessons along the way…

How this applies to your life?

Open your circle

While this may seem contradictory to narrowing down who you get advice from, I think it’s important to start fresh if you have the wrong people around you. Go to spaces and communities where like-minded people go. Instead of going to your parents for career advice, for instance, maybe join a community of creative entrepreneurs? If you feel stuck in your job or UX team, maybe seek advice from another team, or switch companies?

Take a break

Once you open your circle, you’ll likely realize that some people should probably leave it. Or, maybe you need a break, or to take a step back from a frustrating project.

Note their results

If you’re about to go to someone for feedback think — what results are they achieving? If you want to improve your people skills at work, but your manager isn’t exactly regarded as a ‘people person’, think of someone else at work (or outside) who you’d rather become like.

This week…

I challenge you (yes, you) to think of who gives you feedback in different areas of your life. Who are you listening to, and should you really be listening to them?