Who Let The Jobs Out?

Who Let The Jobs Out? A 4-Part Panel Series

The job market is ruff. And if you've spent any time searching for design work lately, you already know that.

Between shifting hiring practices, increasingly competitive applicant pools and the challenge of standing out in a digital-first recruitment landscape, finding your next role can feel overwhelming, especially for younger designers still building their portfolios and professional networks.

This four-part series brings together designers who've recently navigated the job hunt and come out the other side. No sugarcoating, just honest conversations about what it really takes to land work in today's environment.

What to expect:
Our panelists will share their experiences, including the unexpected hurdles and the strategies that actually moved the needle. You'll hear about the emotional side of job hunting too, how to stay motivated when the process drags and keep your confidence intact through rejection and radio silence.

Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time, a designer between roles or someone feeling stuck in a slow market, this series offers practical guidance and genuine encouragement from people who truly understand what you're going through.

Your next opportunity is out there. Let's find it together.

This Session: Understanding Today’s Design Job Market
This opening panel brings together designers who’ve recently navigated the job search to share honest insights into today’s hiring landscape. From shifting expectations to common roadblocks, this conversation sets the foundation for the more tactical sessions to follow.

Panelists:
Madeline Belfrod
Associate Designer at Marks

Kaoutar Taghi
Graphic & Communications Designer at MJMA

Peter Elima
Senior Designer at Critical Mass

Other sessions in the series:

• Thursday, April 16
• Thursday, June 11
• Thursday, September 24