I have a BA in journalism, which has not helped me at all in finding a permanent job. I’ve been out of college for a year, and working as a temp in anything that I can find. I have internships and some small jobs in the past, but nothing related to web design. I’ve taught myself in HTML, CSS, Java , etc. and have created websites. But I have absolutely no experience! So is it possible to get a permanent job in web design?
3 Comments to “How do I get a permanent job in Web Design without experience?”
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i doubt it because u dont really have any credentials but its always worth the try and showing ur employer what u r good at.
You need to make connections and get internships. I know a couple of Web designers with journalism backgrounds. They both started writing, editing, etc. for internal communication departments or magazines and kind of fell into the opportunity and were taught on-the-job.
Start showing your work to people who can help you get a job. Even if it means doing free or low-cost Web sites for churches, non-profits, etc. That way you get REAL examples of your work to show to prospective employers.
It’s always hard to get a good job right out of college, especially in a highly specialized field, but the more work examples and experience you have to show, the better off you’ll be.
I was in a similar situation that your in so I think you should take my advice.
Because you have no experience, you need a portfolio. Build a portfolio by offering your web design services (either at very low rates or even for free) to people/companies. Costs for royalty free images and etc should be paid by them. After a few sites (maybe 10 or so) create your own personal site that shows (and links to) the work, tells more about you and how to contact you. Its a good idea to create websites with different styles, which will show your creativity (if of course you actually have any).
Employers don’t always look for the number of years experience, because in web design, experience will only get you so far. I only have just over 1 year experience in web design but I get paid more than a guy with almost 7 years experience in the same design firm.
You only need the required level of HTML, actionscript, etc. I don’t even know THAT much myself so I just ask others or use forums – by employers don’t mind. What you really want to focus on is developing a creative mind on art, style and how things move (helps with things like menus, animation, etc).
Anyway good luck with finding a web design job. It can be lots of fun if you work with the right people.