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The UX Consultants Lounge

Erika Hall and Mike Monteiro - Consulting with Backbone: Authenticity, Humanity, and the Value of Hard Truths

Dec 17, 2024
In a thought-provoking conversation, Erika Hall, co-founder of Mule Design and author of 'Just Enough Research,' along with Mike Monteiro, also co-founder of Mule Design and author of 'Design Is a Job,' tackle the realities of UX consulting. They discuss the significance of authenticity and integrity in their work, share hard-earned lessons from running a consultancy, and highlight the importance of community engagement. With a candid take on the current UX climate, they advocate for a shift from bland conformity to embracing true individuality in the field.
01:03:42

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Authenticity is essential for UX consultants to stand out in a crowded market and build trust with clients through openness.
  • The founders of Mule Design emphasize the importance of making tough business decisions, including firing clients misaligned with their values.

Deep dives

The Importance of Authenticity in Consulting

Authenticity is crucial for consultants to differentiate themselves in a saturated market. Erica Hall and Mike Montero emphasize that self-promotion should not be viewed negatively, especially when done genuinely and transparently. They argue that consultants should embrace their humanity and communicate openly, sharing their true thoughts and experiences. This approach is essential not just for building trust with clients but also for fostering meaningful relationships within the industry.

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