When evaluating 'AI fluency,' discerning hiring managers are less interested in a perfect, AI-generated artifact and more interested in the candidate's workflow. They want to see how a designer thinks, which tools they use, and why. The ability to articulate an experimental and evolving process is the key signal they are looking for.

Research shows work samples are the single highest predictor of a candidate's future success, yet most companies over-rely on conversational interviews. Integrating a hands-on project or work trial provides immense signal for the company and gives the candidate a realistic preview, which also enables powerful self-selection.

The expectation for design leaders to be hands-on has reached the interview process. A director-level candidate recounts being watched by an engineer to confirm he could use Figma's auto-layout, signaling a major shift away from pure management roles.

Instead of detailing every step of your design process, focus on showcasing the final work. Hiring managers often assume a process exists. Over-explaining it can introduce biases (e.g., you only show qualitative research) or provide reasons for disqualification. Let the work be the hero, not the process.

Many candidates are skilled at presenting product frameworks but lack deep thinking. Whatnot uses a mandatory, hands-on case study for all roles. This step effectively filters for substance over style, as candidates must defend their analysis, quickly revealing those who rely on 'product theater.'

To get beyond rehearsed answers, ask guests for screenshots of their personal digital spaces: their calendar, phone homescreen, or Chrome plugins. These "artifacts" reveal their real workflows and priorities, unlocking unique conversations that go deeper than standard interview questions.

A common hiring mistake is prioritizing a conversational 'vibe check' over assessing actual skills. A much better approach is to give candidates a project that simulates the job's core responsibilities, providing a direct and clean signal of their capabilities.

When a non-designer provides a polished mockup, designers often feel constrained to only refine it. Presenting intentionally rough sketches signals you're communicating an idea's intent, not a proposed execution, freeing designers to reimagine the solution and collaborate more creatively.

To get beyond polished portfolios, Wealthsimple's hiring process includes an interview where candidates do a live critique of an app like Spotify. This reveals how they think on their feet and their raw product sense, providing a more accurate signal of their day-to-day abilities.