Range of execution and influence in UX

Mentoring young designers often involves addressing questions about career growth, particularly around knowing when someone is ready for a promotion. Beyond company metrics, the ability to execute well and generate influence within a team are critical factors in professional advancement. Execution in UX involves creating deliverables like mockups and user flows with proficiency and autonomy, while influence is about changing mindsets and dynamics through innovative ideas and effective communication. The interplay between execution and influence can define a designer's evolution, and recognizing this can impact promotion decisions significantly. An anecdote highlights the potential loss when metrics overshadow personal influence, emphasizing that real growth is about making significant impacts beyond expected duties. Skills enhancing influence, such as storytelling and openness to feedback, are important at any stage, and understanding these dynamics can guide both individual and organizational development.