6 replies to this topic

[DanBeckett]

I need advice on creating a portfolio to send out to web design employers locally so I can get into the business and some "real experince". I have done a lot of spare time web design, what kind of things could I do to impress with this? annotated screenshots and examples of code?

I have always dreamed of getting into web design, although I can't really go into freelance without experience and have seemingly made bad career decisions from starting college (Picking Accountancy, Maths etc, and then not going to University), and am now working in a low skilled job, basically to keep from going on the dole and still looking for other work.

If anyone could offer me any advice that you have to offer please please PM me or post.

Apologies if this is posted in the wrong section, and thanks for reading what turned into a bit of a life story.

[Jamie Huskisson]

My main advice would be - you don't need to be employed to gain experience. This goes for both playing around with your own experiment with code/design and working for someone for free.

Sometimes volunteering is what will get you the job in the first place

[DanBeckett]

OK, thanks... is that like going to places schools etc (any other examples would be a massive help), or to actual businesses?

[Jamie Huskisson]

for web design for example.. you can offer your services locally (shops etc.) providing you have something good to offer (ie trained, do it well... not completly new to it all)

or you can offer it online, at places such as pixel2life (we take volunteers for staff/moderators) or the like... other tutorial sites etc. that may take on staff from time to time

[austen]

I came up with a Resume and a Portfolio that showcases my general capabilities, which then gave me some "real life experience" because I got a job working for a developed web firm in town. Personally, I would suggest applying for a job with a portfolio and resume handy.

-austen

[DanWilliamson]

I suggest putting a nice portfolio together and posting it on a few freelance sites and also Yell.com as that brought my uncle quite a few customers in E-commerce so it's not a bad idea.

All you need to do is have some decent experience, the time and patience and you will probably do pretty well.

[DanBeckett]

Alright thanks guys for all the info so far. I REALLY appreciate all of it.

Edited by DanBeckett, 23 March 2006 - 11:01 AM.