If you’ve always had a knack for computers and possess skills in software development, the career opportunities are expansive.
You’re in a good position in terms of employment; web and software development skills are in high demand in virtually every industry, and your skill set could set you apart from the competition, which lends itself to flexibility. A software engineer salary rate is also appealing as you can earn up to a 6-figure mark annually.
Many businesses are beginning to outsource their software development needs as development costs continue to rise. From small startups to large corporations, you can find employment in a wide array of industries. If you’re a skilled developer with plenty of experience, excelling in the freelancing sector is possible.
Hone Your Software Development Skills
The field of development is constantly evolving; as such, you’ll need to be evolving right along with it in order to remain competitive with the sea of freelancers out there. It’s vital that you invest in yourself; expand upon preexisting skills by taking online courses that might prove valuable to future clients.
Head to local seminars or take online software development webinars, and be sure to record all of the certifications and classes you’ve successfully passed. Showing potential employers the efforts you’ve made to stay relevant and abreast of industry trends can only help your freelancing career.
A Solid Software Development Portfolio
Before beginning to apply to various companies and clients as a software development engineer, you need to bolster your portfolio. Because you’re just getting started in freelancing, you’ll be at a certain disadvantage in comparison to more experienced freelance developers, but there’s a way to circumvent this: a solid portfolio.
Prospective clients and companies will ask for evidence that you can deliver quality content. This proof is most easily provided through a portfolio. If you don’t have enough experience, consider taking on some free work for family and friends to better your chances of landing that first freelancing job. This is an important first step in the freelancing process, and it’s vital that you take your time and create an impressive portfolio from the very start.
There are plenty of sites that offer remote work for software development engineers; often you may find small startups are willing to work with inexperienced developers as they get their feet on the ground. You might not pull in a great deal of money at the start, but this type of experience can prove to be invaluable later on down the road.
Presenting your portfolio in an efficient manner is important; consider using a site like Clippings.me to show clients your offerings in a clean, succinct way.
Temp Agencies Can Help
If you’re having a tough time getting started, consider employing the help of a staffing agency. Recruiters understand what it is that employers are searching for. Many of these positions are full-time, in-office roles, but often serve as a great way to get your foot in the door.
If you create a solid relationship with an employer for software development engineer, when the temporary position is up they may be able to offer you contracted work that could help your freelancing career take off. Many employers are now seeking remote developers, and recruiters may get you in contact with such companies, although these are admittedly few and far between in the temp agency world.
Recommendations are Key
Recommendations are going to be your best asset, so make sure you’re communicative with all clients, always hit deadlines, and work hard to make any requested changes with no push-back. Ask any previous or current employers or clients to provide you with testimonials about the development work you’ve completed for them in the past.
As you collect these recommendations for software development, always detail the name of your employer or company. This makes your testimonials appear more credible and makes you a more enticing prospect for searching clients.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved in freelance web development, these strategies can have you well on your way to a lucrative, remote career. Consider the ways you can improve your chances of landing a well-paying freelance position and advance your career in ways you never thought possible.
