It is fascinating to see just how important the internet has become in life and in business. Most of us will admit to relying on the internet for something. Whether it is to go online shopping, watch the latest movies, play games, study, or connect with friends, the internet plays a massive role in our lives. As for businesses, none are likely to survive too long without an online presence – which usually starts with a company website.
What this means is that there will always be a demand for new websites. Currently, over 650 million of them exist on the world wide web, and that number is only going to continue to grow! As a result, there will always be a need for web developers, designers, and programmers.
Could this be the career for you? Well, check out the steps required to become a professional web designer to see if you think you might fit this profession.
- Get a Feel for Web Design via Website Builders
To become a fully-fledged web designer, you will need to learn one of the many programming languages used to create websites, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Before diving in, however, why not get a taste of web design by using website building software to create your first few websites?
Wix is one of the best website builders out there and it uses a template system that you can use to create and customise a website as you see fit. Take your time to develop attractive websites such as blogs, eCommerce platforms, business websites, and more. You can do this for free using most website builders.
Getting good at this is already a skill you can use to make some money. You could sell pre-built or made-to-custom websites for clients.
- Learn to Code
If the first step left you wanting more, the next is to learn how to code your very own websites from scratch. We already mentioned some of the programming languages to consider learning. You will find most schools and colleges will offer courses that cover these languages, while you could go as far as obtaining a degree in web development.
That said, while academic qualifications will get you faster employment, you can learn all this stuff on your own and for free. It just means you may have to work harder to convince employers and clients that you have the skills needed to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, creative web designs.
- Understand the Basics of SEO
Although a different industry altogether, SEO (search engine optimisation) plays a fundamental part in the development of a website. At least it should. Any website you design should incorporate structure and optimisation that allows it to rank within the major search engines. To stand a chance of ranking organically, the website’s performance, page optimisation, and content must all follow basic SEO guidelines.
- Build Your Portfolio
You could have all the qualifications in the world but without a portfolio showcasing your talents, you will struggle to convince employers or clients to hire you. Demonstrate your work by building websites that feature high-quality workmanship and impressive design elements. Build them for yourself and your portfolio if you have yet to find a client willing to pay for your services.
An even better idea is to get yourself an online portfolio. You could use Wix to create a free online portfolio using a template designed especially for portfolio websites. Just add your new website creations as you go along, and share the link to your portfolio with potential employers and clients.
- Pitch Yourself to Web Design Companies and Potential Clients
You have two options once ready to start your web design career. You can either look for a solid job working for web design companies, or go at it alone by sourcing your own clients using freelancing sites such as UpWork.
The latter is a good option, especially in the beginning. You can build up your portfolio by taking lower-paying freelance gigs offered by clients that do not have the money to pay the going rate for web designers. Of course, if you can get yourself a suitable job opportunity with a company which specialises in web design services, this is a great option too. Pick up some solid experience and future opportunities will come easier.
Ready to Get Designing?
So, you now understand the basics of what is required if you want to join the ranks of thousands of web designers around the world. It will take a bit of work on your part, especially in the beginning. However, once you have the required skills, and the talent to show a creative edge over your competitors, your newfound career should start to take off. Just remember to stay on top of all the latest web design trends, and the latest search engine algorithms.
