Alex Small🇺🇸

About Alex Small

Staff Interaction Designer / Design Manager at Google

I'm a UX design manager at Google where I've been for 9+ years. I currently manage a team of Interaction Designers working on privacy features in Chrome and Android.

I started mentoring to become a better manager and have kept at it because it's super satisfying to share what I've learned and hopefully help others make bigger strides in their careers while avoiding some of the mistakes I've seen happen.

Here are some common reasons for booking time with me (but feel free to book for other reasons too) : • Portfolio reviews and interview prep • Transitioning from IC to manager (and back to IC) • Transitioning into UX/UI from a related field, e.g. architecture

One question I get a lot… Q: What is an Interaction Designer? A: This is Google's title for a UX/UI designer. The same role at Apple or Facebook is called Product Designer.

I love beer, travel, and helping others learn from my mistakes so they don't have to make the same ones.

Expertise

What mentees say

“Alex offered his practical insights about how UX works at a large tech company, as well as valuable perspective about creating an impactful case study portfolio. The tools he provided were invaluable in re-thinking how I approach presenting my work as I’m applying for UX roles.”

“The focus of our mentor session was on creating a case study for a portfolio website with a strong emphasis on storytelling. Alex provided me with constructive feedback when reviewing my current portfolio. While responding to his questions, I realized that there were certain points I had overlooked in the case study, indicating that I had missed some important storytelling details.”

“I had my first session on ADPList with Alex, and it was an incredibly valuable experience. We discussed expectations and I received a thorough critique of my resume. Alex's advice was not only super helpful but also insightful. I truly appreciate the time and effort he put into this session.”