We recently had the chance to connect with Zilin Zhou and have shared our conversation below.
Zilin, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy outside of work in the kitchen. I’ve been cooking more and really getting into baking experimenting with new recipes, learning techniques, and enjoying the process as much as the results. It’s become a relaxing and creative outlet for me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a UX designer at PayPal, where I focus on designing digital security experiences that help people feel safe, confident, and in control of their financial lives. My work centers on simplifying complex security concepts like authentication, fraud prevention, and account protection into experiences that feel intuitive, transparent, and human. I’m especially passionate about building trust through design, ensuring that security doesn’t come at the cost of usability or accessibility.
What I find most interesting about my role is the balance between protection and ease. Security is often invisible when it works well, but it plays a critical role in shaping how users perceive a product and a brand. I enjoy collaborating closely with product managers, engineers, and researchers to translate technical requirements into thoughtful user experiences that reduce friction and anxiety.
Beyond day to day design work, I’m constantly exploring how emerging technologies and evolving user behaviors impact digital safety. I’m driven by the idea that good security design shouldn’t feel restrictive or intimidating it should feel empowering. Ultimately, my goal is to create experiences that not only protect users, but also earn their trust and make their interactions with digital finance feel seamless and reassuring.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I believe I’ve learned the most about work from myself. Being largely self-taught has pushed me to stay curious, take initiative, and learn through experience. Trial and error, reflection, and continuous self-improvement have been my greatest teachers.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Trust yourself more. You’re learning faster than you think, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out yet.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Psychological safety. I strongly believe people do their best work when they feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and share ideas without fear.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I give myself permission to slow down, step away from noise, and focus on one thing at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https”//www.jasonzhouzilin.com
Image Credits
Zilin Zhou
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