The two small words that can add incredible merit to your skills are web development. A job that is ranked as the 8th best in the tech world, web development will bring you money, reputation, and growth. Statistically speaking, the job is expected to create 15% more employment within 2026.
As you can understand the ever-growing competition, the skillsets required to shine as a web developer are immense. This is a kind of field where getting better is an everyday job. However, there are specific skills demanded a web developer. So, what are these skills and qualifications needed for web development?
8 Web Developer skills: The Job and Requirements
If you are looking forward to getting into the tech world with your creative mindset, then web development is perfect for you. A web developer looks after the web portal of an entity with activities like storing data, user interface, testing functionality, and fixing bugs. Web developers actually create these websites with their programming language and graphics designing abilities.
So, you can imagine how skilled you must be to survive in this industry. The requirements are pretty exclusive yet standard. As a web developer, one must have specific skills and abilities to get hired and perform remarkably in the field. A good web developer possesses sound knowledge of programming language, necessary graphics designing skills, and analytical capabilities. Its also important to monitor trends in software development for startups to see what future skills and technologies you will need to know.
Becoming a web developer may be a piece of cake if you can gather some precise soft and hard skills. Here we look at a whole list of essential skills needed for web development.
1. A Profound Knowledge of Programming Language
It is basically unimaginable to become a web developer if you do not know the programming language. These languages are used in creating websites, visual representations, and user interface.
These programming languages are a fundamental building block of producing an interactive website. You need them to create your own fonts, add colors according to the company demand, and present them in front of the audience. In addition, a programming language is a fundamental tool in web development.
There is 3 must-be-known programming language. These are- HTML, CSS and JavaScript. It is a must for any web developer to learn and know them beforehand. In addition to these 3, several other programming languages can aid in the tasks of a web developer.
2. Working Your Way with Libraries and Frameworks
Libraries and frameworks are other software that helps you in simplifying the programming process. They also fasten your creating websites with the programming language. Bootstrap and jQuery are 2 common and widely used framework.
Bootstrap is and front-end library, which is free and open. Moreover, it contains a vast amount of design templates based on HTML and CSS. If you want to create mobile-friendly and responsive websites, you should know about Bootstrap.
On the other hand, jQuery is a JavaScript library that simply summarizes JavaScript works into simpler forms.
Furthermore, frameworks are readymade structures for your codes. They make your coding faster and better so that you can create websites with your programming efficiently. You can be sure that your employer will definitely require you to have a working knowledge of the frameworks and libraries.
3. Skill to Use Git and GitHub
Git and GitHub are version control systems that assist in keeping track of changes made to your codes. For example, imagine you have written a new jQuery code, and all of a sudden, your entire work destroys. The version control system will then enable you to go back to the previous version and work your way with a better solution.
Git is the most widely used control management system, and it is a requirement for a web development job. Although few people actually realize its importance, a web developer should acquire this skill.
4. Be Familiar with Testing and Debugging
Bugs are the most common enemy of your developed web, and they can ruin your whole work within seconds. So, being accustomed to the process of testing and debugging is paramount.
There are several ways of testing. Firstly, unit testing is a common one. It is a testing process that tells how the website should work and enables to test specific blocks of the code. Another standard testing method is UI testing. This testing process checks whether the site behaves the way you programmed it to behave when users take different actions.
On the other hand, debugging is removing errors and keeping your website fresh of any glitches. This is your Sherlock Holmes, who detect all the problems and fixes it on its own.
5. Complementary Skills: Photoshop and Designing
This skill is not mandatory but can give you a massive boost in the market as a web developer. Having the right eye for creative design can earn you a lot of offers. With the ever-growing demand for graphics designing, having a basic knowledge of Photoshop and illustration can take you further. You can learn Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator on your own online or take courses from any reputed training program.
6. Have Basic Knowledge about E-commerce
E-commerce is the future of any company. Content Management System (CMS) is the pillar of any website these days. If you know how to drive traffic to the website through Search Engine Optimization (SEO), it will be a great added skill in your arsenal.
Companies highly recommend aspiring web developers to acquire this skill. Some common CMS used worldwide are WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, Skillcrush, and Magento.
7. Analytical Skills
Just like other jobs, analytical skills are highly required for a web developer. It ensures you to create successful and up-to-date websites. Your analytical expertise enables you to write error-free codes, understand the customer base and client demand. In addition, analytical skills also include quick problem-solving skills for you to fix bugs and determine a possible solution.
8. Soft Skills Are Just As Important
With the hard skills that you can acquire from all the software and apps, you also need some soft skills for web development. These skills include collaboration, building relationships, communication, and project and time management.
You must be able to build a formal relationship with your clients and co-workers to collaborate constructively. Communication is essential in conveying your ideas. Consequently, having the skill to manage your time to complete the project within the deadline.
Conclusion
A well-skilled and qualified web developer is bound to be successful in the tech world. Even though web development requires very high skills, anyone can acquire them through online courses or training programs. The career can be challenging and competitive, so having as many skills as possible will prove greatly beneficial.