Here is what I look for in a UXR case study to evaluate your previous work and current expertise. It should clearly and succinctly communicate:

1. Problem/opportunity explored (the goal)

2. Assumptions/hypotheses tested (this is missing in most junior’s case studies especially in those coming from a UX Design bootcamp and this is critical)

3. Details about your approach/process (some, not all!)

4. A sense of the timeline (4 weeks or 4 months?)

5. Impact (internal, external, industry-wise, etc.)

6. Specific role you played (lead or support, on what?)

7. Whom you collaborated with and how (stakeholder engagement)

8. What you learned (show your critical thinking, what you would have done differently, will remember in the future, etc.). 

9. Values you bring to the table (teamwork, resourcefulness, transferable knowledge, etc.). Align these to the structure of the case study.

Demonstrate you can tell a short but compelling story, select the right techniques, and BRING YOUR PERSONALITY TO LIFE.

Nope. I am not interested in the “results” of the study. These are often, if not completely, confidential.

Last, but certainly, not least, I read each word to ascertain if you understand our industry’s terminology, or not. I can tell immediately how savvy you are, or not, by the terms you use and how you use them.

Consider different case studies for different goals/roles. For example:

• Start-up versus a big organization (they seek different things)

• Established research practice versus the first research hire (they also seek different things)

• Sector preference (like social impact, fintech, education, etc.)

• Big sky research questions versus smaller questions

• Enterprise research questions versus start-up questions

• Rapid or iterative research versus “precious” research

• Particular approaches (mixed methods or pricing analysis) or skills focused (like stakeholder collaboration or research ops)

An overview and a presentation deck that speaks to the kind of role are you hoping to land will likely benefit you as well.

• Is it your next full-time job?

• An advisory or ReOps role?

• A volunteer or community role?

• Management or individual role?

• Internal team or agency?

Then be prepared to speak about why this is your ideal position.

I’d love to hear other people’s thoughts. I know it’s extremely competitive right now, especially for juniors. Keep your eye on the end game. I AM CHEERING YOU ON FROM THE SIDELINES!