Who Do You Interview When You Don’t Know Anyone?

We’ve all been there;  you’re diving into an exciting new UX design project. The problem is validated, the background work is complete, and then it hits you: you don’t know anyone to interview. Now what?

This is a common challenge, especially for newer designers. Whether you're just starting out in the industry, fresh out of bootcamp, or freelancing without a network, it can be a frustrating experience. But don’t worry, you don’t need a massive network to get started. Here’s how you can find the right people to talk to and turn your research into meaningful, actionable insights.

Where Do You Start Looking For Participants?

Finding the right people to interview doesn't require insider connections. Most junior designers start with limited access to their target user group. The key is to look at networks you already belong to and think about how they might connect you to potential participants.

1. Tap Into Your Personal Network

Start with what you know. Your friends, family, and coworkers might not fit your target audience directly, but they probably know someone who does. Ask a trusted friend, “Do you know anyone who fits this profile?”—that one question can lead to great introductions.

Example: If your project focuses on parents with teenagers, ask around to see if anyone has a friend, neighbor, or colleague who fits that description and would be open to a quick chat.

2. Use LinkedIn Connections

LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunting—it’s a great tool for finding participants. Search by job title, industry, or location to identify people who match your criteria. You can reach out directly or ask a mutual connection for an intro.

Even if your network is small, don’t underestimate it. A few intentional messages can go a long way.

3. Explore Online Communities

Instead of UX-specific forums, focus on the online spaces where your target users hang out. Facebook groups, Reddit, Nextdoor, and niche forums can all be goldmines for finding participants.

Example: If you're designing a fitness app, try joining groups for runners, gym enthusiasts, or local workout classes. For professional audiences like teachers or healthcare workers, look for forums or community spaces tailored to those groups.

Be sure to follow group rules, and if public posts aren't allowed, send respectful DMs to individuals who may be a good fit.

4. Ask for Referrals

If you’ve already talked to one or two people who somewhat fit your user profile, ask them if they know anyone else you should speak with. This kind of snowball recruitment often yields great results, and people are usually happy to help.

Referrals not only expand your reach—they often come with a level of trust that makes participants more open to chatting.

5. Check Out Local Meetups, Events, and Community Boards

Sometimes the best way to meet users is offline (or in live virtual spaces). Local meetups, community centers, or hobby-based events can be great places to find participants outside your professional circle.

Example: A local cooking class, a small business networking event, or a library bulletin board might connect you to just the right people—whether you’re researching home chefs, solopreneurs, or caregivers.

A Little Creativity Goes a Long Way

There’s no single “correct” way to recruit participants. If one approach doesn’t work, try another. Stay open, be polite, and keep experimenting. Your confidence will grow with each new conversation.

You don’t need to build a massive network overnight. By tapping into the people and communities already around you, you’ll start uncovering the insights that bring your research to life.


Helping UX Designers bridge gaps and grow

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