So You Want to Be a Founding Designer? Here’s Some Interview Tips

Looking back a few years ago as a founding designer, the one thing that always stood out to me was how much of a balancing act it truly is. You’re not just there to make things look pretty—you’re shaping the very foundation of what the product can become from day one. After almost three years in a founding role, I’ve seen a lot and learned even more. If you’re gearing up for your own interview as a founding product designer, here are a few insights to keep in mind:

Showcase Your Versatility

It’s a cliché, but it’s true: founding designers wear a lot of hats. One day you might be sketching out user flows, the next you’re diving deep into strategy or even writing some front-end code. When you’re interviewing, don’t just tell them you can do it all—prove it. Share stories about how you’ve dabbled in different areas of design, product, or even coding when needed. Versatility isn’t just a bonus; it’s a requirement.

Think Like a Founder

This is where a lot of designers trip up. It’s not just about crafting something beautiful—it’s about making design decisions that drive the business forward. Founders are always thinking about the big picture, and as a founding designer, you should too. Be ready to discuss times when your design choices led to measurable business outcomes or helped solve strategic problems.

Embrace the Chaos

Let’s be real: startups are messy. Processes are loose, resources are limited, and sometimes you’re building the plane as you fly it. If that sounds thrilling rather than terrifying, you’re in the right place. During your interview, lean into this idea of thriving in ambiguity. Share how you’ve built things from scratch or delivered results despite a lack of clear direction.

Collaboration Over Everything

One of the most rewarding parts of being a founding designer is the level of collaboration you get with other teams. You’re not working in a bubble—you’re teaming up with product managers, engineers, marketers, and sometimes even the CEO. Talk about how you’ve worked closely with cross-functional teams to align on goals, build trust, and get everyone pulling in the same direction.

Impact Matters More Than Perfection

Perfectionism can be a killer in a startup environment. Founding designers need to deliver quick wins that provide real value, even if they’re not polished. Be prepared to talk about how you’ve prioritized speed and made decisions that led to fast, measurable impact. It’s all about getting things done, learning from them, and iterating quickly.

Cultural Fit and Growth Mindset

Lastly, founding roles are as much about your mindset as they are about your skills. Startups are looking for someone who aligns with their mission and wants to grow with the team. Be open about your passion for what the company is building and your eagerness to be part of that journey. Let them see that you’re not just there for the job—you’re there for the vision.

Landing a founding design role is a unique challenge, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to shape a product from the ground up. If you come prepared to show your versatility, think like a founder, embrace the chaos, prioritize impact, and share the vision, you’ll stand out in all the right ways.

👍 Good luck out there! You’ve got this.