Learning doesn’t have a timer, just as with any other profession. Apply enough dedication, and you can master the whole thing in a couple of months by one person and two years by another. To learn Frontend and then get started as a freelance web developer nyc, you need to familiarize yourself with:
- HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language.
- Styling web pages using CSS.
- Web pages can be enhanced with JavaScript to add interactive features or small functionality.
- Having mastered these three, you want to practice them and create side projects to later serve as portfolio pieces.
While you may find it useful to learn libraries and frameworks, it’s not a good idea when starting out. Make sure you learn the web developer basics first. If you want to stand out from the crowd, here are some things you have to learn:
- Web design.
- Version control.
- Photoshop.
- SEO.
What skills do you possess?
As a beginner freelance web developer in NYC, you should first learn some HTML/CSS/jQuery/JS. Develop a few personal designs, copying some of the biggest names in the world (Facebook, BBC, etc.).
As soon as you have learned all you need to know, move on to learning any server-side language. For example, you could learn PHP, Python, or RoR. You may want to move on to learn about Databases after you have selected your back-end programming language. This can be any database (MySQL, SQL Server, NoSQL, etc.).
- Mastering any version of control systems, such as Git would be the next step.
- Begin experimenting with some APIs next.
- Create small but useful applications for Facebook, Twitter, Maps, etc.
- Then if you’re interested in learning some testing skills, try CodeCeption/Mocha/PHPUnit.
Know what domain you wish to specialize in
Are you interested in front-end development? Don’t fall for any frameworks and libraries; instead, learn HTML, CSS, and JS! It’s easier and faster to learn them than the basics, so most people suggest you learn them.
They overlook the fact that no employer is going to take you seriously if you master the extra bits but forget the basic concepts. Keeping the basics in mind is the best way to succeed long-term.
When you’re new to web development, it’s not advisable to become a back-end developer. Get familiar with the Front-end first, then move into back-end development. A first-timer can choose from a few options; PHP is almost dead and used by only a few companies, but it still offers a good starting point.
Ruby, Python, Java, and many new languages are also available. Those are just a few ideas, so you can try them out and see which works best for you! Don’t forget about MySql, which will be a key part of your back-end development.
Its ability to connect to databases will make it possible to communicate with the database. In addition to SQLite and CouchDB, there are many other alternatives available. It’s possible to become an ace full stack developer if you manage to learn both Front-end and back-end simultaneously.
Build your online profile and use it to network
- Put “Looking for freelance web development work” as your LinkedIn status.
- Create a LinkedIn profile for your previous portfolio
- Locate people who are looking for freelancers
- Get work done by sending them a request
- Request references once the work has been completed
You can start getting noticed online once you’ve created your online profile. But you’ll also need another skill: marketing! Do not underestimate the power of marketing your profile. Professionals spend some time online due to the fierce competition they face.
Freelance web developers can work according to their convenience and schedule. Priorities can be set up depending on the need of the hour and on what is most important to be addressed first. One can start with the basics to get started as a freelance web developer:
Find your target group or niche
Concentrate on your strengths and niche segments. Having the ability to do a little bit of everything is great, but you will be valued more as a specialist in just a few areas. The goal shouldn’t be to be “that developer” but to be specialized in a particular field/solution/problem. If you can say you are the best in a particular, sought-after field or the only one capable of doing it, it will be much easier for you to advertise your skills and build your reputation.
Develop a brand identity
You’ll have to hustle if you want the freelance lifestyle, so you should make sure your name is known as an expert in your field. There are many ways for professionals to learn more about you without spending any money. With your work showcased, a network built, and your sharing expertise, you will find more ways than enough to connect with others and make yourself more discoverable.
Learn to juggle multiple skills
You’ll be a project manager, a salesperson, and a customer service representative. Your freelancing journey will be just as successful if you have some experience in these areas.
You can gradually expose your project
When you are just getting started, experience counts. There is a learning curve here. You are still very much at the beginning stages of learning. Business and freelancing are both new concepts for you. Please take advantage of this step to learn more about handling clients and what to expect from them.
