The Journey Through Job Interviews in Big Tech: A UX Designer’s Perspective
Introduction
Navigating the tech job landscape can feel overwhelming, especially for a UX designer eyeing opportunities at major companies like Meta, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google—collectively known as the MAANG companies. Ganesh Karthik Sankar, a 29-year-old UX designer who transitioned from Amazon to Google, offers insights from his recent job search experience.
Starting the Job Search
Ganesh’s job search began in late 2024 while he was a senior UX designer at Qualcomm. Despite enjoying his role, he aimed to work on larger, more impactful projects. His desire for a challenging environment and a significant increase in compensation led him to explore opportunities at big tech firms.
To kickstart his search, he meticulously tailored his résumé and portfolio to highlight his expertise in designing complex enterprise software and technical developer tools. This strategic approach was critical in receiving interview callbacks, as it ensured potential employers understood his niche focus.
Networking for Referrals
As Ganesh delved into the job market, he also recognized the importance of leveraging his professional network. Engaging with design communities through organizations and events, he made meaningful connections. His participation in the Special Interest Group on Computer-Human Interaction proved particularly fruitful, allowing him to secure several referrals during his applications.
By reaching out to colleagues and utilizing platforms like LinkedIn, he effectively expanded his circle. This proactive networking not only opened doors at Amazon but also led to opportunities at Google and Meta, proving that personal connections can significantly enhance a job search.
Securing Interviews: The Referral Advantage
Ganesh’s referrals played a vital role in landing interviews. When he applied for a product designer role at Amazon, a colleague’s referral facilitated the initial steps of the hiring process. After completing an online assessment, he moved through stages that included recruiter conversations and a comprehensive interview loop.
With similar experiences at Google and Meta, his targeted approach proved advantageous. His referral for a UX designer role at Google began with an online assessment that transitioned smoothly into a portfolio presentation, showcasing the value of having an insider vouch for his skills.
Cold Applications to Netflix and Apple
Not every opportunity came through referrals. Ganesh’s path to Apple and Netflix involved cold applications. For Apple, a well-aligned role encouraged him to apply directly, resulting in recruiter outreach. He capitalized on every interaction by asking thoughtful questions about team dynamics and project challenges—demonstrating a proactive and engaged mindset.
At Netflix, despite initially lacking a referral, Ganesh took the initiative by directly emailing the hiring manager, which caught their attention and led to an interview. This strategy of directly reaching out not only demonstrates assertiveness but also a tactical understanding of how to stand out in a competitive job market.
Transitioning from Amazon to Google
After starting his position at Amazon, Ganesh chose to continue with interviews—an insightful decision that underscored a competitive yet strategic approach to his career. Despite progressing in a previous interview phase at Google that didn’t pan out, he received a call in February 2025 for a new UX designer role that struck a chord with his aspirations.
After weighing his options, Ganesh made the shift from Amazon to Google, motivated by the alignment of the role with his expertise and a significant compensation increase. This transition highlights the importance of maintaining openness to new opportunities, even after having secured a position.
Targeting Intentional Roles
One of the key factors behind Ganesh’s successful navigation through his job search was his strategic targeting of roles closely aligned with his skill set. He recognized that companies like Apple and Netflix were looking for candidates who matched their specific requirements, while Amazon and Google exhibited more flexibility in considering tangentially skilled candidates.
This focused approach allowed him to make informed decisions about which roles to pursue, emphasizing the importance of aligning expertise with company needs. Ganesh’s insights suggest that job seekers should not only consider their capabilities but also clearly communicate their specialized skills in applications.
The Power of Strategic Cold Outreach
Ganesh stresses that cold outreach can yield positive results when done thoughtfully. By targeting hiring managers for roles that align with his profile, he capitalized on these tailored communications rather than sending generic emails. This strategic approach not only illustrates his qualifications but also demonstrates a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances.
By sharing his detailed journey, Ganesh Karthik Sankar provides valuable lessons in preparing for job searches within the tech industry, emphasizing the significance of networking, targeted applications, and strategic decision-making in landing roles at major tech companies.