Posted 1 day by Jonny Grange
The UX design world is changing fast. As new technologies take centre stage and user expectations rise, designers need more than just technical know-how to stand out.
Whether you're just starting out in UX design, looking to level up in your current role, or actively applying for new opportunities, it’s essential to keep your skills relevant and sharp.
In this blog, we’ve outlined the ten must-have skills that will help you thrive in 2025, based on what we’re seeing across UX design recruitment.
1. AI literacy
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept. It's already changing how products are built and how users interact with them. As a UX designer, understanding how AI fits into the user journey is now a core skill.
Designers who can use AI tools like Figma’s smart features or Adobe’s generative design capabilities are saving time and unlocking creativity. But it’s not just about using the tools – it’s about knowing how AI influences design decisions and user expectations. From chatbots to personalised content, AI is everywhere.
If you're searching for UX design jobs in 2025, showing that you’re confident with AI and aware of its ethical implications will put you in a stronger position with both employers and recruiters.
2. Voice and conversational UI design
With the rise of voice assistants and smart tech, more users are interacting with products through conversation rather than clicks. That’s where voice UI design comes in.
Designing for voice is very different from traditional screens. You’ll need to think about how users speak, how they expect technology to respond, and how to build conversations that feel natural.
Whether it's designing for Alexa, Google Assistant or an in-app chatbot, these interfaces are becoming more common across a range of industries.
If you’re applying for roles in UX design, having experience or interest in conversational design could make your CV stand out, especially as more companies explore new ways to connect with their users.
3. Extended reality (AR/VR) design
Extended Reality (XR), which includes augmented and virtual reality, is becoming a serious part of the digital toolkit. With brands investing in immersive experiences – from virtual shopping to interactive training – there’s growing demand for designers who can build for these environments.
Designing for XR means going beyond 2D screens. You’ll need to understand how users move through space, how they interact with 3D objects, and how to guide them in immersive environments. Even basic knowledge of tools like Unity or Blender can give you an edge.
If you're hoping to land a role at a company experimenting with AR or VR, developing XR design skills will open doors.
4. Responsible design (Accessibility, inclusivity & ethical practice)
Creating products that are usable for everyone isn't just good practice – it's essential. Employers are actively looking for UX designers who put accessibility and inclusivity at the heart of their work.
You should be comfortable with accessibility standards like WCAG and know how to design for assistive technologies, keyboard navigation, and visual contrast.
But responsible design also goes further, covering ethics too. That means avoiding dark patterns, respecting user privacy, and designing in a way that’s honest and sustainable.
Having these values built into your portfolio will not only impress hiring managers, but also show that you care about the real impact of your work.
5. User research & data-driven decision making
At the heart of good UX is a solid understanding of the user. That’s why research and data analysis remain some of the most important skills for UX designers.
In today’s job market, it’s not enough to say “I think this works”. Employers want to see evidence that you’ve tested ideas, gathered feedback, and based your decisions on real user behaviour.
Whether you’re running interviews, tracking A/B tests, or using tools like Hotjar or Google Analytics, your ability to back up design decisions with data will always be in demand.
If you’re preparing for UX design interviews, think about how you can talk through research processes and what insights you uncovered.
6. Design systems and scalable design
Design systems help teams stay consistent and efficient, especially in large organisations or fast-paced environments. As a designer, being able to work within a design system – or even build one – is a valuable skill.
This includes using shared libraries in tools like Figma, maintaining UI components, and creating documentation that others can follow. Scalable design is about thinking long-term, ensuring that your work can grow as products evolve.
If you’re applying for roles where collaboration is key, employers will be looking for someone who understands design systems and can contribute to a shared visual language.
7. Strategic thinking
UX design is more than just creating beautiful interfaces. Employers now want designers who can connect the dots between user needs and business goals.
Strategic thinking means understanding the bigger picture – what the product is trying to achieve, what success looks like, and how your design choices can support those outcomes.
Whether it’s improving conversion rates, boosting retention, or solving a key user pain point, the best designers align their work with business value.
If you're looking to move into a senior or lead UX position, this is one area worth focusing on. It’s also something that comes up often in UX design recruitment conversations with our clients.
8. Storytelling
Storytelling is a powerful tool in UX. It helps you communicate your ideas clearly, build empathy with users, and get buy-in from stakeholders.
Whether you’re walking someone through a user journey, presenting a new feature idea, or putting together a case study for your portfolio, storytelling helps bring your work to life.
It's not about being flashy – it's about helping others understand the problem, the solution, and why it matters.
As a recruitment agency, we often advise candidates to use storytelling in interviews and portfolios. It’s a great way to stand out and show the impact of your work.
Read more: How to create a professional portfolio for job applications
9. Empathy and user advocacy
Empathy has always been at the core of UX design. In 2025, it remains one of the most important qualities a designer can have.
Putting yourself in the user’s shoes means you’re more likely to build something that works for them – not just for the business. Whether it’s through user interviews, persona development, or journey mapping, keeping the user front and centre helps create better outcomes.
Companies want to hire designers who are advocates for their users. If that’s how you approach your work, make sure it’s visible in your CV, portfolio, and interviews.
10. Adaptability and continuous learning
The tools, trends and technologies in UX are always evolving. That’s why adaptability is such an important skill – especially for anyone early in their UX career.
Being open to learning new tools, testing new methods, and staying curious shows employers that you’re ready to grow with the role. From prototyping tools to AI features or even new research techniques, the best designers are always learning.
In recruitment, we see a clear link between adaptability and long-term career growth. If you can show that you're someone who stays ahead of the curve, you'll be a valuable asset to any design team.
As UX design continues to evolve in 2025, it's clear that employers are looking for more than just creativity. The most successful candidates are those who combine technical expertise with strategic thinking, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your UX career, investing in these ten skills can help you stand out in a competitive market.
Looking for your next UX design role? At Digital Waffle, we specialise in UX design recruitment and connect talented designers with forward-thinking employers across the UK and beyond.
