compete for web development jobs

How to Compete for a Web Development Job in 3 Key Steps

You've probably realized that these days, whether someone is looking for a good Italian restaurant or a reliable car mechanic, they search their phone rather than the yellow pages. Every business needs a distinct web presence to attract and retain customers. And for that, they use web developers. Do you like the idea of designing websites? Do graphic design, digital media, and computer animation seem interesting to you? Maybe you've wondered how you can you get hired in the web development industry.

What is Web Development?

Web developers create web pages and applications. Their job includes collecting content like text, images, and videos and designing the website layout and also how it is navigated. After that, they code the web pages and test the site for optimal user experience. In addition, some web developers might maintain databases and administer content management systems. Finally, some jobs in web development involve providing customer service and assisting clients with technical issues.

What Do Web Developers Need to Know?

While some people learn web development on their own, you probably should consider formal training if you want to become proficient in all aspects of the field. A degree demonstrates that you've undergone sufficient training in the field. What types of things might you learn in a web development degree program?

  • Graphic design
  • Programming
  • Website design
  • Accessible web page interfaces
  • Scripting for web client and server
  • Database design and scripting
  • Interactive data-driven web pages
  • Animated graphics

So, How Do You Get Noticed in the Web Development world?

While working on your education in web development, you can prepare for the job market by making a portfolio of your work. In fact, your classes may help you to prepare samples for the job market. In addition, you can help prepare yourself for being hired by creating samples of your work. Here are some steps you can take to stand out among the competition:

1. Create an Online Portfolio

Since clients want you to develop their websites, they will want to see samples of your work. Start by creating a portfolio website to display your best work. The portfolio is a great place to put your completed class projects or links to any freelance work you do.

2. Build Up Your Portfolio

As you complete work for your classes, you can start adding that to your portfolio. However, since your portfolio is how you create your personal brand and style, you also need to include these elements so that you stand out to an employer:

  • Who you are
  • The work you are trained to do
  • Your experience and training
  • Your method of working with clients
  • The type of work you like to do best

Your college classes in composition and communication may help you to think through these issues and prepare you to better present yourself to employers.

3. Do Some Freelance Projects

It doesn't hurt to get more samples by working on some freelance projects. How can you get business? Solicit customers who need a website by talking to owners of businesses you frequent, like restaurants or stores. Maybe you have a friend or relative who has a small business that needs a website, or consider offering to build or re-work the website of a non-profit group. You will not only gain more examples of your work this way, you will also gain experience in working with clients and get references. Who knows? This work might even lead to your first job as a developer.

Thinking About Becoming a Web Developer?

Does web development sound interesting to you? Contact ECPI University today for information about earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Web Development. With ECPI's year-round schedule, you could earn your degree in as little as 2.5 years. Contact us today - it could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Technology TODAY!

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