42 Interview: Gonen Maatuk, UX/UI Team Leader

Today, we interviewed Gonen Maatuk, UX/UI Team Leader. We are eager to learn more about him and his professional occupation. So let’s get started!

Why did this type of work interest you, and how did you get started?

G: I began my path three and a half years ago. I had a feeling that my professional practice didn’t bring me enough satisfaction when I worked as a print designer. I discovered a new field called UX/UI; at the time, I wasn’t sure what it meant, but it got me curious. I strive to communicate through design with people’s perceptions and provide work that resonates with audiences. When I discovered that this field revolves around a user, I became very excited. I realized it was my calling. Later on, I found employment at 42 Studio, and this is how my career advanced. I knew from the first interview that I found the place I wanted to work at. 

What abilities or personal qualities do you believe contribute most to success in this field/job? 

G: I have numerous responsibilities as a team leader that affect my team’s performance. So there is a necessity to be able to guide my team to meet challenges independently. It is vital to balance direct influence on my colleagues and allow them a place for decision-making. My team’s success powers my personal success. 

How would you describe the working atmosphere and the people with whom you work? 

G: As we worked remotely for a long period of time, it was challenging to convey to people why it was important to return to work from the office. We approached it by creating a very cool and unique vibe in the office. We have morning activities when we share our favorite lyrics, poetry, and literature passages. We write notes to each other to lift our team spirit while getting to know each other much better. We compile our own playlists that we listen to every day; we have dance contests and spontaneous happy hours. Today we have a FOMO when we work from home, as it is always fun to have each other around.