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Over the past eight years, I’ve been lucky to work across many sides of the design industry. From collaborating with experts and learning from respected mentors to leading panel discussions and managing impactful projects — I’ve seen how much is possible when you combine creativity with purpose.

This journey has shaped me not only as a designer but also as a leader and mentor. I’ve supported designers who have gone on to do amazing things and had the chance to contribute to companies whose work reaches thousands of people. These experiences have taught me that good design isn’t only about what we create — it’s also about how we work, who we work with, and how we grow.

And through it all, I’ve learned some valuable lessons — lessons that go beyond design software or visual trends. These are lessons I try to carry into every project, every meeting, and every decision.

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1. Great Design Starts with Listening

Whether you’re working with a team, a client, or a user, listening is the starting point. It’s easy to jump into solutions, but the best work always begins with understanding.

Early in my career, I would focus so much on the outcome that I sometimes missed the bigger picture. Over time, I learned that taking the time to ask questions, stay curious, and listen helps avoid confusion and opens up more creative paths.

Design is not about decorating — it’s about solving problems. And the more clearly you understand the problem, the better your solution will be.

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2. Collaboration Is the Real Superpower

As a team leader and project manager, I’ve seen how much stronger work becomes when people bring their different strengths to the table. No one creates something great alone.

I’ve led panel discussions where different voices came together to challenge each other’s thinking in the best way. That same energy is what I try to bring to my teams. When everyone feels safe to contribute, you end up with better ideas and stronger results.

Good design is a team sport — and clear, honest communication is what keeps the team moving forward.

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3. Keep Learning, No Matter What

Trends change. Tools evolve. Clients shift direction. What stays the same is your ability to learn, adapt, and improve.

Some of the most respected mentors I’ve worked with always stayed curious, no matter how experienced they were. That mindset stuck with me. I try to treat every new project as a learning opportunity, and I encourage those around me to do the same.

Professionalism isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about being open, responsible, and consistent, even when things are uncertain.

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Still Learning, Still Growing

Today, I look back on everything I’ve experienced — with gratitude and motivation. I’ve had the privilege of mentoring designers, leading meaningful conversations in public forums, and playing key roles in projects that shaped large teams and companies.

But I also know that learning never stops. The design industry is always changing — and so am I. What matters most is staying connected to the work, the people, and the values that brought me here in the first place.

Design, at its core, is about making things better. For me, that means continuing to grow, share, and support others on their path forward.

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Aram Andreasyan
Industry Leader, Design Expert

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