Judy Wert: Negotiating salary and navigating career changes

Industry Changes

The design industry has undergone significant changes over the past few decades. Judy Wert notes that the impacts of technology and scale have transformed the role of designers from focusing solely on aesthetics to considering business value and user experience 1. This shift has led to larger design teams addressing more complex problems, such as sustainability and ethics 2.

It's no longer a graphic design exercise or a form exercise, or it's just about beauty. You know, technology, complexity and scale really have changed the conversation.

--- Judy Wert

Design leaders now need to understand how their work affects people and businesses on a global scale.

   

Leadership Transition

Transitioning from an individual contributor to a leadership role in design requires a different mindset and skill set. Judy Wert emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and adaptability for those stepping into leadership positions 3. She also highlights the need for self-awareness and a continuous learning mindset to grow as a design leader 4.

They need to come in with a huge level of curiosity and participation and intentionality and adaptability.

--- Judy Wert

Understanding one's strengths and preferences is crucial for determining whether to pursue a leadership path or remain a high-level craftsperson.