By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader Stepping into a UX Research leadership role is exciting—and daunting. The first 90 days can set the tone for your credibility, influence, and the impact your team delivers. Here’s a roadmap for making those early months count. The First 90 Days as a UX Research Leader Day 1–30: Listen, Learn, Build Trust Goals: Understand the business context and product strategy. Build relationships with key stakeholders (product, design, engineering, e

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader “The art of leadership is not giving answers, but asking the right questions.” In UX research, autonomy isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When leaders shift from issuing directives to posing thoughtful questions, they unlock deeper insight, stronger ownership, and scalable impact. Why Autonomy Matters in UX Research UX researchers thrive when they’re trusted to explore, adapt, and innovate. Autonomy fuels: Methodological rigor : Resear

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader Leadership isn’t about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge. In UX research, this means shifting from directing to empowering—serving first, so your team can thrive. Why “Serve First” Matters in UX Research UX researchers are the heartbeat of user-centered design. They navigate ambiguity, advocate for users, and translate insights into impact. But too often, they’re asked to deliver without being supported.

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader In the high-stakes world of research-driven organizations—where data guides decisions and insights shape strategy—trust isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the currency of collaboration, innovation, and long-term impact. And one leadership philosophy consistently earns that trust: servant leadership . What Is Servant Leadership? Servant leadership flips the traditional hierarchy. Instead of commanding from the top, servant leaders empower f

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader In the fast-paced world of product development, UX Research Leaders often feel the pressure to move quickly, deliver insights, and prove value. But the strongest leaders know that their role isn’t about controlling every detail—it’s about empowering their team to thrive. This is where servant leadership becomes not only relevant but transformative. Understanding Servant Leadership Servant leadership flips the traditional leadership mode

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader As UX Research Leaders, we don’t just manage projects—we manage people. And sometimes, the conversations we have with our researchers are charged with emotion. Whether it’s frustration over a stalled project, anxiety about career growth, or personal stress spilling into work, these moments require us to lean into servant leadership. Servant leadership isn’t about control; it’s about care, empathy, and creating a space where people feel h

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader Layoffs are among the most difficult challenges any leader will face—especially in a field like UX research, where trust, empathy, and human connection are the cornerstones of the discipline. When researchers are impacted, leaders must balance organizational realities with care for their people. Leading well during these moments can define your leadership legacy. 1. Acknowledge the Human Impact Behind every role is a person with a story,

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader Meetings can either be a powerful force for alignment and inspiration—or a frustrating time sink. For UX Research leaders, striking the right balance in team meetings is crucial. Done well, they foster connection, sharpen research craft, and align the team with organizational goals. Done poorly, they drain energy and enthusiasm. This post outlines best practices, recommended structures, and guidance on how often to hold UX Research team

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader One-on-one meetings are one of the most powerful tools a UX Research Leader can use to build trust, support growth, and keep a pulse on both team health and project outcomes. Yet, too often, these meetings turn into status updates or routine check-ins rather than meaningful conversations. Here’s how to transform your 1:1s into valuable, intentional sessions that drive both personal and professional growth. 1. Set the Right Foundation Bef