You are new to UX Research and feel overwhelmed by the list of skills demanded in most job offers? Or maybe you recently landed a job, but can’t shake off the feeling of being a fraud? Well, that’s actually OK. You will get there. And we can assure you, most people in UX Research felt like imposters early in their careers. Yet, they made it. You don’t believe us? Read on.

For our new mini-series First Steps in Research, we asked Senior Researchers (some of whom are quite recognisable faces) from UX, User, Market, Product, and Design Research about their early years in the industry, their initial challenges and secret passions. Here’s what they had to say.

How did you enter the field?

What felt super hard in your first year as researcher and became very easy with more experience?

How did you overcome your imposter syndrome?

On that note, let’s close with incredibly important advise by Basim:

If you’re unsure how to tackle imposter syndrome yourself, then consider resources like this article by the New York Times, speaking to a mental health professional and/or getting support from people you trust.

Enjoyed the read? Check part #2 & #3, sign up to our newsletter, and follow us on our social channels for the next edition.