Design Mentoring

I provide strategic career guidance, empowering mentees to gain clarity and confidence in their product design journey, regardless of their career stage. Through personalized mentorship, I guide them in defining their long-term vision and develop actionable plans for achievement.

Early Career

Starting your career in product design can be both exciting and overwhelming. You're eager to apply your skills, but navigating the job market, building a compelling case studies and portfolio, and understanding industry expectations can feel daunting. That's where I come in.

If you are in this stage, we'll focus on building a strong foundation for your future success. I'll guide you through:

  • Creating compelling case studies: Effectively communicating your design process and impact.
  • Crafting a standout portfolio: Showcasing your skills and potential to employers.
  • Preparing for whiteboard challenges: Developing strategies to tackle design problems in real-time.
  • Mastering interview techniques: Confidently presenting yourself and your work.
  • Understanding core design principles: Solidifying your knowledge and applying them effectively.
  • Navigating team dynamics: Communicating effectively and collaborating with colleagues.

Together we can turn your passion into a thriving career. We'll create a roadmap that empowers you to launch your design journey with confidence.

Career Transition

A career transition is more than just a job change; it's a strategic move to align your professional life with your evolving goals. I understand the challenges of making such a significant shift and I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need.

During this stage, we'll focus on:

  • Strategic Career Planning: Defining your new career goals and developing a roadmap for success.
  • Skill Gap Analysis: Identifying and addressing any necessary skill development.
  • Portfolio Creation or Transformation: Adapting or creating your portfolio to showcase your relevant skills and experience.
  • Confidence Building: Overcoming self-doubt and embracing your new direction.
  • Targeted Networking: Connecting with professionals in your desired field.
  • Interview Strategies for Transitions: Effectively explaining your career pivot to potential employers.

Together, we'll create a plan that allows you to confidently reinvent your career and achieve your professional ambitions.

Mid-Career SUpport

So, you're either looking to step into a senior role, or you're already there and wanting to do more? This is where we focus on refining your skills, broadening your impact, and taking on those bigger challenges. I'm here to support you along the way.

We'll work together on:

  • Developing Design Leadership Skills: Guiding teams, mentoring junior designers, and creating a collaborative environment.
  • Strategic Design Thinking: Solving complex problems, contributing to product strategy, and aligning design with business goals.
  • Managing Complex Projects and Stakeholders: Leading cross-functional teams and effectively communicating design vision.
  • Building a Strong Professional Network: Connecting with industry leaders and expanding your influence.
  • Transitioning into Management (if desired): Developing the skills and knowledge needed to lead design teams.
  • Deepening Expertise in a Specialization: Honing your skills in a specific area of design.

Let's collaborate to refine your leadership skills, amplify your impact, and propel your career forward.

Leadership

As a design leader, your focus shifts to building and scaling high-performing teams, shaping design strategy, and driving organizational impact. This stage requires a blend of strategic vision, people management skills, and a deep understanding of design operations. I'm here to support your growth in this critical role.

We'll work together on:

  • Building and Managing High-Performing Design Teams: Hiring, mentoring, and fostering a collaborative team culture.
  • Developing and Communicating Design Vision and Strategy: Aligning design initiatives with business goals and communicating design value to stakeholders.
  • Scaling Design Processes and Operations: Optimizing workflows, implementing design systems, and ensuring efficient collaboration.
  • Developing Leadership and Communication Skills: Effectively communicating design decisions and influencing stakeholders.
  • Hiring and Retaining Top Design Talent: Building a strong design culture and attracting and retaining skilled designers.
  • Navigating Organizational Change: Adapting to evolving business needs and leading design through change.

We'll develop strategies to elevate your leadership capabilities and empower you to build and lead exceptional design teams.

Mentee Testimonials
Slider Image

Fred has helped me so much in my product design career, as an excellent mentor and advisor. He always supported me whenever I had questions during my journey and professional growth. I feel grateful for his endeavor, resources, and integrity that constantly encouraged me to become a better designer!

Ashley Yeo
UX Design Manager, CVS Health
Slider Image

I was stuck. I knew I was good, but had no clue where to go next. Fred didn't just give me job tips, he helped me figure out my path. 

Zuki Zhang
Senior Product Designer, TikTok
Slider Image

Fred's expertise in the industry, combined with his patient approach, made a big difference in my job search. He helped me articulate my skills and his advice was always practical. Thanks to Fred, I felt confident during my interviews, and I landed a fantastic role. If you're looking for a mentor, Fred is the perfect choice. Thank you, Fred!

Subin Park
Product Design Intern, Rivian Automotive
Slider Image

Fred's mentorship changed my career. He guided me from entry-level to principal designer with kindness, focusing on both skill and strategic thinking. His impact on me and my career was immeasuable.

Sean Xiao
Principal Product Designer, AliveoAI
Slider Image

Through Fred's mentorship, I gained a deep understanding of UX and UI design that significantly benefited my work at Mucho and Tencent.

Heather Tang
Designer, Mucho Design Agency