Happy New Year, designers!

It's always a good idea to start your year by reflecting on the past year, hence updating your portfolio. But what if most of your work consisted of NDA projects? Is it really doomed?

No, it's not.

First things first, though

When it comes to sharing your NDA projects, the go-to method is hiding them behind a password. If any information leaks, you can always backtrack where it leaks from. However, this convenience comes at a cost—increased friction on the way to see your work. Given the limited time hiring managers have for each portfolio, this can pose a real threat.

So, what's the solution? The answer is simple:

This principle, borrowed from persuasive design, is commonly employed in e-commerce and B2C projects. In this email, let's delve into four effective ways to communicate your value as a designer without compromising sensitive company information publicly.

Option #1
​Provide an easy way to reach out for a password​
When password-protecting projects, a common mistake is not providing a clear way to get the password. This significantly raises dropoff rates and impacts your chances of being hired.

So, the first thing we need to do is to offer a smooth access route, such as a direct link to your LinkedIn, with engaging copy to spark interest in asking for it.

​→ ​Here is a good example by Noah​

Option #2

Build up the hype by telling a compelling context

In a classic storytelling case study structure, we always include 3 parts: Start (context), middle (story), and end (results).

This idea essentially suggests breaking down your case study into the start (the context) being open and the middle (story) + end (results) being hidden behind the password. If you're good with storytelling and you nail context, then the hiring manager or recruiter will be particularly eager to reach out for the password.

​→ Check out a great example by Gabe here​

Option #3

Preview the live project without revealing NDA details

This method expands on building a spark and interest to nudge towards reaching out. Create a project preview page to highlight challenges you worked on (such as design systems or redesign) + mention how to reach out for the password.

If the project is public, you can benefit from posting the final UI shots and designed features (outcomes), but surely hiding your process, analytics, internal battles, and all the juicy stuff behind the password.

​→ Check a great example by James here​

​

Option #4

As a junior designer highlight your learnings or takeaways

Another great way to show your skills and credibility without breaching the NDA is to demonstrate your skills and credibility by sharing your growth story. A useful approach for entry-level designers.

Just like in the previous example, start with the project context, then highlight accomplishments and lessons. Plus, traditionally, includes an easy way to access the password.

​→ Check an example by Huiran​

🔥 New year, new you. Educational resources

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That's all for today.
Stay tuned, stay safe, and much love,

Anfisa​
​❤️