Web development is a challenging, but rewarding career for those who are self-taught. It requires an understanding of the latest coding languages and technologies, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
Before you get started, it’s important to establish a set of goals for your career as a web developer. This will help you narrow down your focus and prioritize the things that will move you forward in the most efficient way.
Start with the Basics
When it comes to learning a new language, the best way to go about it is by starting with the basics. This includes things like memorizing the alphabet, learning the pronunciation and syllables for the letters corresponding to the vowels, and figuring out how to write them in a foreign language. Luckily, there are plenty of free online linguistics courses and apps to help you along the way. Using the aforementioned tools will have you speaking a foreign language in no time. Those who are more inclined to fumble around with their feet may want to consider taking on a tutor. Thankfully, this is a relatively inexpensive option and will put you on the path to a new career in no time. The biggest challenge will come down to your own motivation and how well you perform in the classroom.
Learn a New Language
Web development is a growing field, and it offers a lot of potential for career growth. Having a strong knowledge of a coding language can help you land your first job in the industry or take it to the next level.
The best way to learn a new language is to focus on learning the basics, which will give you a solid foundation of the coding skills you need. It’s also a good idea to pick a few different languages, and then practice with them until you become proficient.
HTML and CSS are foundational coding languages that are essential for building any type of website or online application. They make it easy to create aesthetically pleasing, functional, and responsive sites.
JavaScript is another popular programming language that controls pop-up ads, slideshows, and search field autocompletes on websites. It’s also useful for creating mobile applications, as it’s the only language that can be used on both the front and back ends of a web page.
Build a Portfolio
Having a portfolio is one of the best ways to demonstrate your new web development skills. It helps potential employers and clients get a feel for your work ethic, creativity and design vision.
It’s also a great way to highlight your personality and unique experience. In addition to your resume and personal website, your portfolio should include links to profiles on social media platforms.
You should also add a bio section that shows off your other interests, both related and unrelated to web development. This is a good place to add information that doesn’t fit on your resume, such as hobbies and volunteer work.
Network
Networking is a key skill that you’ll need to learn when you’re trying to get into a new field. You can use it to find job opportunities, network with professionals in your field, and more.
You can do this by building an online presence and staying in touch with people you know or do business with. This will help you build your social capital and increase your professional status.
Web developers typically have a broad range of skills, including programming languages like HTML and CSS, front-end frameworks like React, and back-end technologies. They also work with tools such as a code editor, a web browser, and Git to make changes to code.
Many web developers are self-taught or have earned a college degree. However, there are also more and more pathways in to the field than ever before, which can be beneficial for someone who doesn’t have a college degree yet. For example, you can complete a coding bootcamp and learn the basics of web development from the comfort of your own home.