We are TOWA: Jacqueline, UI/UX Consultant

Hey Jacqui, nice to have you here! Why don't you tell us briefly what you do at TOWA and how you found out about us?

I've been at TOWA for four years now and as a UI/UX Designer & Consultant in the Experience Team, I take care of the design and UX of digital products. How did I find out about TOWA? Quite simply, I was looking for an internship and searched online for agencies in Austria. Then I stumbled across TOWA on Awwwards, had a look at our website and thought it was great. So one thing followed another and I applied directly on my own initiative.

When did you actually start with UI/UX design and how did you get into it?

I originally started with classic print design and then studied information design at the University of Applied Sciences in Graz. I did pretty much everything, from video to print and also UI/UX. And guess what picked me up the most? UI/UX, of course! I was fascinated by creating design that makes sense for users and creates value. Call me a helper type (laughs), but the interplay of design, creativity and psychology in the user experience area really grabbed me back then.

What does your typical working day at TOWA look like?

Nothing works without coffee in the morning. Then I check what's on the agenda for the day, but I've usually already defined my to-dos the day before. Then it's down to business: checking emails, answering Slack messages and then getting stuck into designing or giving design feedback to the team. The mornings are usually dedicated to planning and coordination, and the most important things are already done by lunchtime. After the lunch break, things really get going and I usually block out 3-4 hours for design. And not to forget: I'm in daily contact with our customers, discussing designs and projects - that's the consulting part of my job.

What projects are you currently working on?

I'm currently working on a lot of design system projects. For example, we're currently working on a design system for VP Bank, and every now and then I also support the design system at Meusburger and advise customers on design systems and Figma, for example at the JKU.

Do you work more from home or in the office?

Actually 90% at home - especially in summer!

How does working at TOWA differ from your previous employers?

I previously worked in the catering industry, which was of course completely different. But there I was able to learn early on how to work with different people every day, deal well with stressful situations and react quickly to new circumstances. I definitely overcame my inhibitions there by proactively approaching people.

My first real UI/UX job was a two-summer internship at the Standard. But working in the agency business is very different. It's much more varied here and you learn more in a very short space of time because you're directly integrated into customer projects.

What do you particularly like about your job?

Definitely my colleagues and the whole environment. Everyone here has an open ear and you can organise your working day quite flexibly. You get a lot of responsibility, but also a lot of freedom in how you achieve your goal, as long as the quality and output are right. Being proud of your work at the end of the day is simply priceless, especially when the customers are just as happy.

Are there any special challenges as a UI/UX designer with us?

Yes, because we have to deal with many different customers and users, especially in the B2B sector. You have to fully familiarise yourself with the customers and target groups at the start of every new project, which can be quite challenging at the beginning.

Do you feel that working at TOWA has helped you grow and develop?

Definitely! When I think back to the early days after leaving school or university and entering the world of work, it was definitely very exciting, but also full of uncertainty. It felt like I was stumbling into a big adventure. Something I learnt back then that is particularly important to me is the art of saying "no". As a young professional, I often felt the need to make myself available to everyone and everything in order to make a good impression. But I quickly realised that this could lead to overload. So I had to learn to set my boundaries and set clear priorities.

I also remember how exciting it was to put myself in the shoes of my younger colleagues, the "juniors". This not only helped me to pass on my knowledge and experience, but I also learnt a lot myself. It's amazing how much you can grow in these situations.

Which highlight at TOWA has stuck in your mind in particular?

The team events were amazing, from gin tastings to the teamworkation in Portugal. And our office parties are legendary. But giving talks and presentations at various events is also always a special adrenaline rush for me. This has not only strengthened our team spirit, but has also given me valuable personal experience.

Now a question for anyone thinking of becoming part of TOWA. What advice would you give them along the way?

I applied on my own initiative and my portfolio got my foot in the door. It helped me to show my passion and skills. When we met in person in the office, it really clicked. And the question of where I wanted to develop helped me to hone my skills. Open communication and cooperation were worth their weight in gold. So, if you fancy joining our team, go for it - it's worth it!