In the current scenario of constant technological and market changes, many wonder about the possibilities and challenges of embarking on new careers, especially in UX and Product Design.

In this context, we present the fascinating trajectory of Arnouth Pessoa. With a background full of twists and turns, from artistic inclinations to public office, Arnouth made his way to effectively become a UX Designer.

In our conversation, he reflects on the importance of being authentic in job interviews, the value of design as a profession, and even on the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of work.

Join us in this interview and discover the tips and insights that Arnouth shares, fruits of his rich experience and unique perspective in the world of design.

Arnouth, please introduce yourself.

Thank you, Felipe!

First of all, I'd like to give a brief warning: I just became a father, so the face you're seeing now is more of a new parent than of a UX professional.

My name is Arnouth Pessoa. Currently, my position is called “Customer Experience Designer”, but I am essentially a UXer.

I have been with Aela since last year and, this year, I was able to make my transition to UX. I am very happy with this change.

Arnouth, tell us a bit about your background. What did you do before venturing into the world of UX?

My trajectory has several twists and turns, quite atypical. In the beginning, I always had an artistic inclination. I believe this is a common story among many who came from the arts and migrated to design.

However, for a moment, I thought about pursuing a military career. But in the final decision, I chose not to leave Recife and ended up not following through with it. The following month, I was already studying Design and working in the area. I joined a design firm owned by some acquaintances and worked for a while as a Visual Designer.

Despite my passion for design, there was pressure for financial stability. Influenced by family advice, I decided to take a public exam. After just three months of studying, I passed an examination for the court of law, where I remained for eight years.

However, I never abandoned my designer essence. I continued studying, illustrating, and taking various courses in the area. Feeling the need to return to design, I sought courses to improve my workflow. At a certain point, I decided to become certified as a Social Media and undertook it with a friend. Unfortunately, things didn't evolve as expected.

It was during this time that UX came into my life. About three years ago, my brother-in-law had already mentioned how promising the UX area was. However, it wasn't until last year that I really immersed myself in the subject. During a course, I watched a video about cognitive bias that made me see the potential of UX Design, leading me to meet Aela.

At that time, my wife was in Canada. She and my father-in-law, a technology enthusiast, evaluated the MID, the course offered by Aela that caught my attention.

What attracted me most to Aela was the authenticity of its marketing. They weren't empty promises. The interviews with students presented real, diverse stories, and this conveyed the seriousness of Aela's work. For that reason, I decided to enroll in the MID course. After joining, I realized that it was the right decision. Since then, my career has taken a new direction.

A major challenge for those starting out in UX is to discern false promises and identify relevant information. How do you think we can distinguish useful information from information that isn't?

Before getting into this, I think it's essential to highlight the importance of seeking a structured course. It is possible to spend a lot of time searching for scattered information on the internet, following different opinions in Instagram posts, and so on. I've been through this process, and I can tell you that it can be very difficult and frustrating.

I decided to pursue a course because I realized that it would save me a lot of time. Therefore, I always advise anyone who can: invest in a good course. The quality of the course is intrinsically linked to the team that teaches it. For example, Felipe, I know that you attach great importance to Aela's team of mentors, professionals active in the international market. Your own experience is a differentiator.

I avoid proposals that sound fanciful or exaggerated, even if they come from a “guru”. What made Aela stand out was the sense of community. Learning is not centered on a single figure; there are mentors and interaction with other students. In the Aela community, I found an excellent design partner, in addition to developing friendships based on daily exchanges of tips and studies.

A crucial tip for those seeking a course is to analyze the surrounding community. In many courses I took, I felt isolated, without interaction with other students. Aela excelled in this regard. Whenever I recommend Aela, I highlight both the student community and the mentoring team.

One of the aspects that I value most are meetings, such as “coffee times”, where there is a rich exchange of experiences. That, to me, is priceless.

Reading Tip: Graphic Design vs. UX & Product Design: Between Visual and Usability

In your view, how can people optimize interaction with the community, teachers, and meetings?

In my opinion, the behavioral skills, the calls Soft Skills, are fundamental. Of course the technical skills (Hard Skills) are essential, but maturity and the ability to relate stand out. Communication is crucial; it's not enough just to state in the curriculum that you're communicative—you need to demonstrate this in practice.

The labor market is not a path already outlined and ready. When joining a company, it is often necessary to “evangelize” the importance of UX, gain the trust of other stakeholders and thus build your own path. Right from the start, even before entering the area, this proactive stance is fundamental.

Aela provides an excellent base with a community filled with talented and engaged professionals. However, it is also essential that students do their part, being proactive, seeking connections and partnerships, such as the design pair, and actively participating in meetings and classes.

A proactive stance, communication skills, and the continuous search for learning and connections are decisive not only at the beginning, but throughout the career. I see many students who excel by participating in study groups, connecting on LinkedIn, exchanging information, and engaging consistently.

Therefore, I will always stress the importance of Soft Skills, maturity, communication and proactivity in professional success.

How was your UX Design study process?

When I decided to dive into the world of UX Design, I adopted an “All in” approach, because that's my nature. Just as I did when preparing for the public tender, I interrupted my design school to dedicate myself fully to studying the competition.

Before starting, I watched several Aela videos, analyzing each person's migration time. I noticed that there's a tendency: the more dedicated you are, the faster you can migrate. So I made the decision to dedicate myself completely. I prepared my finances and talked to my family. Their support, especially my wife's, was crucial. Without that support, my journey would have been very different.

I established a rigorous routine, similar to a work schedule, focused on studies. It started in the morning and continued until the end of the day. Over time, I admit that the routine became exhausting, but I persisted. In this transition phase, I became more dedicated than when I was employed, because in addition to studying, I was also looking for connections, participating in communities and study groups. Anyway, I did everything in my power.

If you're looking to enter the market quickly, it's essential to be proactive. The UX Design area is filled with passionate, dedicated, and motivated professionals. To stand out among them, extra effort is needed.

From the start, I tried my best. I actively participated in classes, connected with colleagues, debated ideas, and established partnerships. One of them, my design pair, had a significant influence on my trajectory. We talked weekly, exchanging ideas and perspectives. Although today we try to maintain that exchange, it is sometimes more difficult due to our routines.

In short, my success in UX Design was the result of intense dedication and commitment.

What was your job search experience like and how did you get your first position in UX Design?

The search for a job is a process that requires preparation and planning. I learned a lot about this while exchanging experiences with other Aela members.

First of all, I wanted to feel completely prepared before launching into the market. That meant having at least one solid, well-structured project to add to my portfolio. After completing this project, I began my journey of connections on LinkedIn, a platform that I consider essential for any professional in the field.

Coming from the public sector, my LinkedIn profile was practically non-existent. So I dedicated myself to creating a robust presence there, engaging with UX-related professionals and communities. Whenever I visited someone's profile, I made a point of sending a personalized message. I believe that humanization and closeness are fundamental to establishing genuine connections, and that definitely opened a lot of doors for me.

One strategy that proved particularly useful was to interact with colleagues from Aela who shared job opportunities. This provided me with a significant boost in my search.

Something I recommend is to keep a record of the vacancies you apply for. This allows you to assess your performance during interviews and identify areas where you can improve. Requesting feedback after interviews is also crucial.

I know that the job search can be exhausting, especially after months of unsuccessful attempts. But it's crucial to stay resilient and not give up. It was that mindset that allowed me to continue.

Gradually, I identified the factors that benefited me in the interviews. And I always actively searched for opportunities, exploring multiple sources and taking a strategic approach.

How was the experience of leaving public office to take up a position as a junior designer? Many are afraid of looking like a setback, especially with the possibility of starting out earning less. How did you deal with that?

That's an interesting question. Many associate stability with public office, but for me, the concept of stability has changed. I currently believe that to be truly stable is to be competent and passionate about what you do. I've never been the type to settle down after achieving a position; that just doesn't fit my profile.

My desire was always to act in something that I loved, not only for myself, but also to be a positive example for my daughter, who was yet to be born at the time. When deciding to resume my career in Design, I faced resistance and criticism from my family. However, when I applied for exemption from public service and fully dedicated myself to design, I realized that I was making the right choice. Today, looking back, I have no regrets, and even my family realizes how much more fulfilled I am.

Regarding the market, it is true that there are a wide range of opportunities. In moments of desperation, it can be tempting to apply for any position. However, it is essential to have a strategy. There are vacancies that pay more and others that pay less, and for the most attractive ones, it is necessary to be well prepared, to know the prerequisites and to research thoroughly about the companies.

Fortunately, I found a position that aligned perfectly with my profile. And I believe that, with the preparation and the appropriate profile, it is possible to find opportunities that meet our expectations and needs.

When you say that there are vacancies that pay a lot and others that pay little, what did you see in terms of salary when you were doing your research and applying?

When exploring design job offers, I observed a wide salary range. Some vacancies, particularly those with the lowest compensation, offered salaries of around R$ 2,000, while internship positions paid around R$ 1,800.

On the other hand, I considered decent compensation those that offered amounts close to R$ 4,000 to R$ 5,500. It is worth noting that, due to fluctuations in the economy, these numbers may have changed.

Reading Tip: 7 Valuable Soft Skills to Help You Migrate to UX Design

Arnouth, having undergone several job interviews along its trajectory, what would be your greatest learning in this process?

Look, Felipe, one thing I've learned, and it's something I always stress, is the importance of being genuine. When I began my search for the first opportunity, I realized that companies valued authenticity. So in every interview, I was simply myself, without masks.

To illustrate what I mean: in interviews, it's not just about memorizing answers to typical questions. Of course, preparation and planning are fundamental, but it's crucial to remember that, on the other side, we have humans. They are looking for someone real to join the team.

In my experience, taking an overly formal and rehearsed stance, almost as if reading a script, is counterproductive. People notice this lack of authenticity. In the interviews I did, I always maintained a frank and sincere approach, similar to how I am talking to you now.

It is essential to be interesting and to convey confidence in your own knowledge. And, if someone feels that they are not safe enough, my advice is: study harder! Invest in yourself until you feel you can be genuine and secure in your interviews.

Many people have a passion for design but fear that they can't make a living from it. What would you tell them based on your experience?

First, I want to stress that it's absolutely possible to have a sustainable and prosperous career in design. However, it is essential to approach this career with maturity.

Many transitioning to design worry that they don't have a specific background in the area. I always stress the importance of capitalizing on what we already have in our trajectory. For example, while my years in public service seemed to have no connection with design, the maturity and interpersonal skills I developed in that environment proved essential when I migrated to UX.

So, it's vital to recognize and value your own background, whatever it may be.

For those who are just starting out and are faced with skepticism about living by design, I advise: don't let yourself be discouraged. Yes, everyone knows their individual challenges, but the design market is vast and offers opportunities for various levels of expertise.

The path to a solid career in design involves continuing education. There are many quality courses and materials available. However, it is crucial to be careful and avoid misleading advertisements or self-proclaimed “gurus”.

I recommend that you explore LinkedIn, observe the vacancies available and the requirements requested. The key is to have the determination to meet those demands.

The real distance between you and your dream lies in your willingness to pursue that goal. If you have a passion for design, go for it! When we work with what we love, even challenges become more bearable. Facing difficulties in a job that you love is very different from dealing with adversity in a job that doesn't bring you satisfaction.

Therefore, if you feel the desire to pursue this career, pursue it with strategy and passion. The satisfaction of living from what you love is unparalleled.

I want to ask a question that I've never asked anyone: what do you think about artificial intelligence? Do you believe that it can end the market and leave us unemployed?

I believe that artificial intelligence is a powerful tool, but personally, I don't see it as a total threat to our jobs.

One of the reasons for my current hiring was precisely my familiarity with AI. I completed an IBM course on the topic to better understand this technology and its practical applications. So when I demonstrated my ability to integrate the use of AI with work, it definitely stood out to me during the selection process.

Historically, technological evolution has always brought changes in various sectors. But that doesn't mean that AI will replace all human positions. If we thought so, what would be the purpose of continuing with our current work?

My focus will always be on developing skills and competencies that AI cannot replicate. I will prioritize investment in human knowledge, in management, and in areas that, combined with my experience, are difficult for AI to imitate.

The human element is irreplaceable. Our daily interactions, whether in person or remotely, are based on human connection. We need to optimize our human capabilities and not fear technology. Personally, I'm confident in my ability to coexist and even collaborate with AI.

Reading Tip: Artificial Intelligence: How AI Is Changing the Art

Arnouth, thank you for your time and a lot of success on your journey!