How to Get Hired by the Best Product Design Companies in India?

Having excellent product design encompasses innovation, aesthetic appeal, and usability. It has become crucial for the success of a new product. The benefits are evident: product design companies that consistently introduce well-designed products experience significant sales growth and establish strong brand images.

Apple is a prominent example of a company that believes in the importance of good design. They turned heads if you look at some of their iconic products, whether the iPod or the iPhone. They were sleek, simple, and sophisticated. While all of their products are functionally superior, they were stunning in their ways, thanks to their dogged focus on design.   

You will find that most of the biggest names on the top of their game see value in creating appealing products. Interestingly, even companies operating in less glamorous industries leverage the power of design thinking to stand out from their competitors. For instance, Akzo Nobel’s Dulux launched its “Perfect Accessories” line of paintbrushes in 2009. The result was robust sales growth, reaching up to 36% annually. Also, their brushes received numerous awards, including being recognized by DIY Week as the “Product of the Year.”.

What Makes Product Design Companies Successful?

1. Defining a Design Philosophy:

Successful product design companies establish a clear design philosophy that guides their approach and decision-making. This philosophy defines their core values, design principles, and vision for creating exceptional products. It serves as a compass, ensuring consistency and coherence in their design work.

For instance, Hidesign, a luxury leather goods brand in India, is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and minimalist design aesthetic. FabIndia, a leading Indian retail brand, often features intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and handcrafted details, reflecting India’s diverse textile heritage.

2. Aligning the Design Team With the Product Development Process and Market Needs

Product design companies must align their design team with the product development process and market needs to achieve success. This involves close collaboration between designers, engineers, marketers, and other stakeholders throughout the product lifecycle. By integrating design early on, understanding market trends, and conducting user research, the design team can create products that truly resonate with the target audience. 

3. Promoting a Collaborative and Cross-Functional Environment

Successful design companies foster a collaborative and cross-functional environment. They encourage open communication, knowledge sharing, and collaboration between teams and disciplines. By breaking down silos and promoting cross-functional collaboration, diverse perspectives, and expertise can be leveraged, leading to innovative and holistic product designs.

4. Investing in Talent and Continuous Learning

Successful product design companies recognize the importance of talent and invest in nurturing and developing their design team. They hire skilled designers, provide them with the necessary resources and tools, and support their professional growth. Continuous learning and skill development programs, workshops, and training opportunities are offered to keep the team updated with the latest design trends, technologies, and methodologies.

5. Embracing Iteration and User Feedback

Iterative design and incorporating user feedback are crucial aspects of success. Design companies embracing a cycle of prototyping, testing, and refining their designs based on user feedback are more likely to create products that effectively address user needs and preferences. They understand that successful design is an iterative process and value the insights gained through user testing and feedback.

6. Maintaining a Strong Brand Identity:

A successful product design company understands the significance of a strong brand identity. They create products that align with the brand’s values, aesthetics, and overall identity. Consistency in design language, visual elements, and user experience across different product lines helps establish brand recognition and loyalty.

What are the Necessary Skills Required to Get a Job in a Product Design Company?

A combination of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities is essential to thrive in a product design company. Here are some critical  hard skills and soft skills required to secure a job in a product design company:

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in design thinking methodologies and processes
• Strong sketching and visualization skills, both by hand and using digital tools
• Knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and 3D modeling tools
• Ability to create prototypes and iterate designs based on user feedback
• Understanding user-centered design principles and conducting user research
• Familiarity with materials and manufacturing processes
• Competence in designing  software and tools relevant to the industry

Soft Skills

• Strong collaboration and teamwork abilities
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Problem-solving and critical thinking capabilities
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new tools and technologies
• Creativity and the ability to think outside the box
• Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work
• Time management and organization skills to meet project deadlines

ALSO READ: How to Build a Successful Career as a Product Design Engineer

How to Research and Identify Successful Product Design Companies

Researching and identifying successful product design companies is crucial in understanding industry trends, gaining inspiration, and identifying potential career opportunities. Here are five key steps to help you in your research:

1. Online Search Engines

Utilize search engines like Google to search for keywords such as “top product design companies” or “successful product design firms.” Explore the search results to find articles, rankings, and lists highlighting noteworthy industry companies.

2. Design Publications and Awards

Refer to design publications and websites that feature articles and interviews with successful design companies. These publications often showcase projects, share insights from industry experts, and highlight emerging trends. Additionally, pay attention to prestigious design awards like the Red Dot Design Award or the Forbes India Design Award, which recognize outstanding design achievements.

3. Professional Networks

Tap into your professional networks, including LinkedIn and design-specific communities on different online platforms, to seek recommendations and gather insights. Connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and engage in discussions to gain valuable information about successful product design companies.

4. Design Events and Exhibitions

Attend design events, trade shows, and exhibitions where companies showcase their products and services. These events provide an opportunity to interact with designers, observe their work firsthand, and understand their design philosophies and approaches.

5. Online Portfolios and Case Studies

Explore the online portfolios and case studies of design companies. Many companies feature their projects, client testimonials, and design processes on their websites. Analyze their design aesthetics, innovation, and impact on user experiences to assess their success.

6. Industry Reports and Market Research

Consult industry reports and market research studies that focus on product design and innovation. These reports often provide insights into the market leaders, emerging trends, and successful design strategies that companies with design-first thinking employ.

How to Excel in a Product Design Career in India?

Excelling in a product design career in India requires a combination of technical expertise, creative thinking, and a proactive mindset. As the design industry continues to grow and evolve, standing out and achieving success requires a strategic approach.

For example, participating in design competitions such as the India Design Mark or the Kyoorius Design Awards can provide opportunities to showcase your talent and gain recognition within the industry.

Participating in design conferences and workshops like the India Design Summit or UX India Conference allows you to learn from industry experts, expand your knowledge, and stay current with the latest design trends. You can also follow the steps below to improve your design career prospects.

1. Emphasize continuous learning and skill development by staying updated with industry trends.
2. Develop a comprehensive and well-curated portfolio that showcases your best design work.
3. Seek opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, freelance projects, or collaborations with real clients.
4. Network with professionals in the design industry, attend industry events, and join design communities and forums.
5. Hone your verbal and written communication skills to effectively articulate your design ideas, collaborate with team members, and present your work to stakeholders.

ALSO READ: How Digital Product Design Can Help You Make Better Products in India

Learn How Emeritus Can Accelerate Your Product Design Career

Emeritus offers a range of programs and resources designed to accelerate your product design career. By enrolling in product management courses, you can gain valuable skills, knowledge, and practical experience in product design, UX/UI, and design thinking. You can enhance your professional prospects, expand your network, and take significant strides toward success in your product design career.