How user researchers should think about the job market: A Guide | User Interviews
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A User Researchers's Guide to Thinking About the Job Market: 2025 Edition

A senior UXR expert and career advisor weighs in on the factors that will impact the job market this year.

The tech industry has undergone massive changes since 2020, and user experience researchers (UXRs) continue to be directly impacted. Massive layoffs have swept through companies, affecting everyone from tech giants to startups and solo practitioners. UXRs, once seen as central to innovation, now found themselves navigating a difficult job market.

The tactics and approaches that helped many secure research roles in 2020 and before no longer guarantees success.

In 2025, UXRs must shift to a more proactive approach in order to get the attention of employers. This guide offers an educational perspective on the current job market, grounded in data and coaching insights. Importantly, it includes recommendations, so that all UXRs can set themselves up for success in the year(s) ahead.

Understanding the current job market

A recent UX jobs analysis by Jeff Sauro and James R. Lewis of Measuring U found that 35% of organizations reported reducing UX staff. This is twice the rate seen in recent years and marks the worst year on record according to the UXPA. This aligns with trends observed in our own 2024 State of User Research Report., which includes insights from 759 professionals across UX, Research, and Design. Between April 2023 and April 2024, 22% of respondents reported their companies laid off dedicated researchers. Of those, 14% indicated their company has zero educated researchers, with no plans to backfill these roles.

While these data can make it hard to remain optimistic, it’s important to remember that UX teams aren't the only function to be impacted. Engineers and other teams have also faced significant reductions. However, there are glimmers of hope. Among respondents in a position to hire from MeasuringU’s survey, 70% reported plans to hire at least one UX position in 2025.

So how has this been trickling down to practitioners?  Many UXers have been battling endless team restructures, searching for what's next after layoffs, and considering bigger shifts like switching roles or going independent. 

The options are endless and there is no single “right path” - only the next right step for you. Personally, I consciously chose to prioritize health, flexibility, and autonomy for this phase of my life. Two years ago, this meant shifting away from executive-level work to build out my own solo practice.

Below, we’ll cover how you can begin to adapt to this new landscape and set yourself up for success in 2025.

Check out our Ultimate UX Research Job Board for the latest open roles.

The new UXR landscape

To navigate this new phase, UXRs must realize that what previously brought them success isn’t necessarily going to support where they want to go moving forward. Settling into what's next requires embracing new approaches and techniques like clarifying your vision, focusing on relationship building, storytelling, and energy management during your search.

Here are tips to help you uncover what's next:

Develop your north star(s)

One of the first things UXRs do when they kick off their search is invest time in updating their resume and portfolios. While showcasing your impact is important, I always encourage clients to slow down and get grounded in what they’re looking for next—their north star(s).

Reflect on things like:

  • What kind of work energizes you?
  • What type of impact do you want to make?
  • What do you really want in this next chapter? 
  • What are your ideals vs. non-negotiables for your next role (ex. Salary, company size, etc)?

Once you have your north star(s), you can move forward with determining the best way to get there. 

Leverage existing UXR relationships

Networking has always been valuable, but in 2025 it's essential. Many UXR roles are filled through referrals rather than applying to job postings. Building genuine connections allows you to learn about roles before they're widely posted. You're also more likely to secure a referral, which helps you stand out in a competitive market.

Communities like the UXR Guild hold open events and discussions for building genuine connections with others.

Hone your UX research storytelling

UXRs are natural storytellers, and it’s crucial to apply these skills to your career search. Hiring managers want to understand not just the work you've done but how your experiences will benefit their organization in the future.

  • Practice your pitch: Reflect on your holistic career journey. What’s the story you want to tell? What milestones or achievements will help you convey your narrative?
  • Focus on impact: Don’t just highlight the tasks and responsibilities from your previous role. Emphasize measurable outcomes from your work, such as improved customer satisfaction or reduced error rates. 
Check out these helpful tips for measuring your research impact.

Manage your energy during the job search

The average time to land your next role is 3-6 months. This can be an emotionally draining period, so it’s crucial to manage your energy effectively. Consider:

  • Timeboxing your efforts: You can use a pomodoro timer for 30 minute chunks three times per week to focus on specific tasks like updating your resume or applying to jobs. This prevents the search from consuming entire days.
  • Incorporating fun: Take time to connect with friends and family, exercise, learn a new skill, or travel
  • Celebrate the wins: Take time to acknowledge the small victories like scheduling an informational interview or getting feedback about your portfolio. Job searches can often feel like a black box with limited feedback, so celebrating progress can keep you moving forward.

Setting yourself up for success in 2025

The user research job market in 2025 requires a proactive and strategic approach. By anchoring yourself in your values, leveraging your network, refining storytelling, and managing your energy, you can navigate any obstacles that come your way. Adaptability and resilience are your greatest assets. 

Further resources

Roberta Dombrowski
Senior User Researcher & Career Advisor

Roberta Dombrowski is a (former) VP, UXR at User Interviews. In her free time, Roberta is a Career Coach and Mindfulness teacher through Learn Mindfully.

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