Nova Ding🇺🇸

About Nova Ding

Senior Product designer at TikTok

Hi, I am a Senior Product Designer working on e-commerce experiences. My work focuses on designing scalable tools that help businesses succeed in the creator economy.

Previously, I led design initiatives for AI-powered writing tools used by millions of users worldwide. I specialize in simplifying complex systems, designing for large-scale products, and turning emerging technologies into intuitive user experiences.

I enjoy helping designers strengthen product thinking, refine their portfolios, and navigate career growth in the tech industry.

Expertise

Sessions with Nova Ding

• General Mentorship Session (15 min): Bring the question you’re stuck on. Breaking into product design, leveling up from junior to mid, or figuring out what to work on next: we’ll pick the one that matters most and work through it together. Ideal for career switchers and junior designers working toward their next role. Share any context (portfolio link, resume, a question) before we meet so we can skip the warm-up.
• Craft Your Portfolio (15 min): In these series, we will learn to create a standout portfolio that impresses potential clients and employers. Through personalized guidance, we'll help you showcase your best work and highlight your unique skills and talents. Learn to tell a compelling story through your portfolio and present yourself as a creative force in your field. This mentorship will equip you with the tools to elevate your career and open doors to exciting opportunities.
• 1:1 Intro Session (15 min): In this 1:1 Intro Session, we will embark on a journey to understand you and your aspirations. This conversation is a dedicated space for you to express your career goals and the challenges you may be facing. Whether you are seeking guidance on job hunting strategies, looking for advice on career transitions, or wanting to refine your resume, we will explore all avenues together. The session aims to create an inviting atmosphere where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and ambitions. By the end of our time together, you will have a clearer perspective on your next steps and the tools to navigate your unique career path. Let's engage in a meaningful dialogue that sets the groundwork for your success.
• Let's talk about AI/vibe coding (15 min): In the age of AI, the role of designers is evolving into that of design engineers. This session invites you to explore the transformative concept of vibe coding, a workflow that harmonizes creativity with technology. We will delve into best practices for integrating AI within both startup and corporate environments, emphasizing how to leverage AI tools to amplify your impact and influence in design. Join us as we navigate the intersection of design and AI, sharing insights and strategies that can empower you to excel in this rapidly changing landscape. Together, we will unlock new possibilities and redefine the future of design in an AI-driven world.
• Interview Prep & Career Strategy (45 min): Practice for the parts of a design interview that are hard to rehearse alone: the portfolio presentation, the app critique, and the “tell me about a time” questions. Agenda: 5 min: the role, the company, and where you feel least ready 30 min: mock portfolio presentation or app critique, with live feedback 10 min: what to change and what to keep Also open to career questions: moving into AI products, e-commerce design, or designers who build their own prototypes and tools.
• Portfolio & Case Study Review (45 min): A focused review of your portfolio or one case study, before you send it out. Ideal for career switchers and junior designers preparing for their next role. I’m a Senior Product Designer at TikTok Shop with 6+ years in product design, including leading AI writing tool design at QuillBot. I’ve reviewed portfolios from both sides: as a candidate and as an interviewer. Agenda: 5 min: your goals, target roles, and timeline 35 min: live review of your portfolio or case study: story, structure, craft, and how it reads to a hiring manager 5 min: a prioritized list of fixes you can act on this week Please share your portfolio link or case study at least 24 hours before we meet.

What mentees say

“Nova has been really helpful in our sessions! She gives thoughtful, specific, and actionable feedback, and has brought up a lot of great insights on how to strengthen the storytelling in my portfolio. I always come away from our conversations with fresh perspectives and concrete things I want to improve, which I really appreciate.”

“I had an outstanding experience with Nova, whose amazing communication and motivation made a significant impact during our session. Her deep subject knowledge and exceptional problem-solving skills helped me refine my portfolio and clarify my use case. I truly appreciate her detailed feedback and actionable next steps. I highly recommend booking a session with Nova”

“I really enjoyed my mentoring sessions with Nova and learned so much from her feedback! She brought a fresh perspective to my case studies and helped me identify areas where I could make my presentation more compelling and impactful. I came away with a lot of new insights and would highly recommend Nova as a mentor!”