First, you need to know about web developer and its basics. There is a simple guide that will help you plan for a career as a professional web developer.
Difference between web developers and web designers
Make sure you do not get confused between a web designer and a web developer. They have interdependent roles, but different duties and skills.
The visuals, images, and graphics are design by the web designer using software like Photoshop. Web developers then take on the created website and work on its functioning. Now developers categorize their duties into front-end and back-end web developers.
Front-end developers work on programming languages such as JavaScript, CSS, and HTML to build the visual interactive part of the website seen by the visitors. Back-end developers work on logic that runs on a server. It involves communication with the central database before it is presented to the user on the browser. Languages used by the back-end web developer are ASP, PHP, SQL, and Ruby.
Job description
A web developer typically builds and maintains websites by keeping in mind the client requirements. They actually make the functionality of a website and its visible structure according to the designer’s visualization. The end design consists of services and products offered, and it helps the users to access the website.
The web developer is also responsible for the smooth functioning of the website on all kinds of devices, including desktops, mobiles, and tablets. He maintains the website through continuous monitoring and updates it accordingly.
After the website is launched, the web developer has to maintain its functioning. He engages visitors by ensuring that the website is responsive. He tests and continuously updates the website according to the requirement. If applicable, he adds multiple features like animations, videos, and sound to the website.
Qualification needed
There are as such no strict qualification requirements to be a web developer. A degree in mathematics or science can be helpful, but a degree in the computer is preferred. However, you must have a strong aptitude for multiple elements of web development mentioned below:
- User Interface (UI)
- User Experience (UX)
- Coding languages like CSS and HTML
- Visual Design
- Front-end programming languages such as Ajax and JavaScript
- Back-end programming languages like Java and PHP
- Basic knowledge of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Skills needed
There are several skills that you must have if you want to be a good web developer. They include:
- Problem-solving
- Excellent communication
- Analytical skills
- Creativity
- Computer literacy
- Detail-oriented attitude
- Critical thinking
Web developer has more of a self-learning career which also keeps him updated regarding new technological advancements.
Why should you choose web development as a career?
This career is exciting and appealing due to many reasons.
- You get work in the digital industry.
- Work according to your creativity, from designing websites to applications and even games.
- Try remotely or abroad. Professional web developers are likely to be hired worldwide if they have the suitable skillset and experience.
- Web developers work flexibly quite often. Working as a freelancer in website development is one of the most demanded skills in the freelance industry.
Career growth and salaries
It depends on your area of interest in web development, whether you go for a front-end, back-end, or full-stack development career. Once you are into one of the mentioned categories, you can quickly progress while gaining experience.
Starting from a Junior developer, you can get promoted to senior developer, technical lead, and technical architect within a few years.
Salaries of web development professionals are high. The average salary of a web developer ranges between 18,000 pounds to 40,000 pounds from a fresher to an experienced professional. Freelance web developers have their own rates per hour or according to the project.
How to kickstart a career as a web developer?
After deciding on a career path as a web developer, you should gain experience at priority. JavaScript is an easy program to start. You need to have hands-on experience in this programming. Ruby is an excellent beginner-level programming language to get you familiar with the basic concepts of programming languages.
Building your portfolio
You need to maintain a structured portfolio as a professional web developer. You need to have credentials for the websites that you have worked on. It can help your clients see the work you have done for previous clients. You should have testimonials from old clients after their projects.
It is possible by requesting clients at the delivery of a project for a testimonial. Your Unique Selling Propositions (USPs) make you stand out from the crowd by showcasing your core competencies compared to any other web developer. You need to mention your details like your email address, LinkedIn ID, full name, and address.
