Mock-up

Term from Graphic Design industry explained for recruiters

A mock-up is a realistic preview or model of what a final design will look like. It's like a draft version that shows clients how their project (such as a website, product packaging, or advertisement) will appear when finished. Designers create mock-ups to get feedback and approval before moving forward with the final product. Think of it as similar to how an architect shows a model of a building before construction begins. Mock-ups can be digital (created on computers) or physical (hand-crafted samples), depending on what's being designed.

Examples in Resumes

Created Mock-up designs for client websites using Adobe XD

Developed physical Mock-ups and Mockups for product packaging

Presented digital Mock-up concepts to stakeholders for brand redesign projects

Typical job title: "Graphic Designers"

Also try searching for:

UI Designer Visual Designer Product Designer Web Designer Packaging Designer Brand Designer Digital Designer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage client feedback and revisions during the mock-up phase of a project?

Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss their systematic approach to collecting feedback, organizing revision rounds, setting clear expectations with clients, and maintaining design integrity while incorporating changes.

Q: How do you ensure your mock-ups align with both brand guidelines and practical implementation requirements?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process of balancing creative design with technical constraints, brand consistency, and real-world application considerations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What tools and techniques do you use to create effective mock-ups?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss various design software, explain when to use digital vs. physical mock-ups, and demonstrate knowledge of different presentation methods.

Q: How do you ensure your mock-ups are realistic and accurately represent the final product?

Expected Answer: Should explain their attention to detail, understanding of materials and production methods, and how they consider real-world applications in their designs.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of creating a mock-up?

Expected Answer: Should explain that mock-ups help visualize the final product, get client approval, and identify potential issues before final production.

Q: What's the difference between a rough sketch and a mock-up?

Expected Answer: Should explain that rough sketches are quick initial ideas, while mock-ups are more detailed, polished presentations that closely represent the final product.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic design software knowledge
  • Creating simple digital mock-ups
  • Understanding of design principles
  • Basic presentation skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced mock-up techniques
  • Multiple design software proficiency
  • Client presentation skills
  • Understanding of production processes

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex mock-up creation
  • Project management
  • Client relationship management
  • Team leadership and mentoring

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to create professional-looking mock-ups
  • Poor understanding of design software
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No portfolio of previous mock-up work
  • Poor presentation and communication skills