More and more companies are throwing themselves online, and it's getting harder for them to stand out. That's why they're hiring specialist web designers.

But you might be surprised to learn that designing websites isn't the only viable career in the digital space. Depending on your interests, there are many options, including UI/UX design and SEO.

So if you're a recent graduate looking for a career in one of these fields, you should start with specific technical skills to boost your employability.

The question is, which skills should you hone?

Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels

 

1. Web Design / Web Development

Building a functional website isn't enough these days. Companies want their websites to be beautifully designed and offer an engaging user experience.

To succeed as a web developer, you'll need to master a range of technical skills, depending on whether you want to specialize in front-end, back-end, or full-stack development.

Skills to develop

 

Programming languages

Ultimately, you need to learn a programming language. JavaScript and Python are great places to start. These are the two most widely used programming languages ​​by developers.

JavaScript is essential for front-end programming and is the backbone of many languages, including TypeScript. It will help you build dynamic and responsive web pages. 

For back-end development, Python's versatility makes it a great choice, especially with frameworks like Django or Flask . (More on frameworks shortly.) Python is also used in AI for things like data analysis and automation.

Frameworks & libraries

For front-end developers, proficiency in frameworks like React or Angular is highly valued by employers. Back-end developers should focus on learning Django (Python) or Node.js (JavaScript) for building robust server-side apps. Full-stack developers should learn a combination of frameworks.

Version control 

Understanding Git and platforms like GitHub will help you collaborate on projects. Mastering version control will also help you manage your codebase more efficiently.

Tools & platforms

You should feel comfortable using tools like Docker for containerization, which allows for consistent environments across development and production. 

You should also learn about Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, which is a two-part process that refers to the testing and delivery of code changes. Many developer teams now use this method.

How should you learn a programming language?

If you feel like you can teach yourself with online tools, lean on YouTube and other free resources. However, you might waste your time trying to find the best tutorials, and it can be hard to push past the inevitable obstacles without any support.

For this reason, you might want to learn with the help of an online course. They're usually worth the investment. This is because you'll have a more structured learning program and can contact the teachers when you need support. 

Zero To Mastery has excellent courses in all the major programming languages, and they have dedicated Discord channels for every course. This means you can reach out to the instructors or other students directly if you encounter any problems.

Another option is to attend a coding bootcamp. These are often more expensive than courses, but they're a lot more intense as you'll be learning to code like a full-time job – sometimes eight hours a day.

How to start your career in web design

Arguably the best start you can make to your web design career is an entry-level position at a specialist web design agency. You'll get to work with a range of clients directly – both SMEs and large-scale enterprises – and design real-world solutions. 

You'll also be able to lean on the support of more experienced developers, which is vital for your development skills.

"As a recent graduate, it's crucial to focus on developing the technical skills that match the demands of the digital industry. Whether you're aiming for web development, UI/UX design, or SEO, refining these abilities will make you a strong contender in an increasingly competitive job market." – Christopher Baker, Founder & Director of Creative Brand Design.

If you struggle to land a job at a specialist web design agency, your next best option might be to freelance. You could offer your services on a platform like Upwork or help out your family and friends. 

Again, you'll get to solve real-world problems and develop your skills, but you might not get the support from more experienced developers. There's also a good chance you won't get to work on big projects until you get more experience. But it can be hard to get that experience without working on bigger projects. 

It's a classic Catch-22.

Another option is working in-house for a company looking to hire a web developer. This is worth considering once you've gained experience and have a more complete portfolio to show employers. These sorts of roles typically compensate you the best, too. It just depends on how much experience you have.

If you're struggling to secure a job, consider contributing to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub. This will show employers you're willing to put your skills to use, solve real-world problems, and work in a team – all of which will make you a more competitive candidate.

2. UI/UX Design

If you like the idea of ​​designing websites but you don't want to physically code one, UI/UX design might be for you. UI/UX designers work with developers on the aesthetics of websites and how users navigate around them.

But just because it's a more artsy role doesn't mean you get to avoid numbers! UI/UX designers are increasingly being asked by clients to help them make more sales. This means using tools like Crazy Egg to track conversions, look at heatmaps, and analyze how users are interacting with websites.

To succeed in this field, you need to combine your creative abilities with a solid understanding of the technical tools and methodologies that guide user behavior.

Skills to develop

 

Design tools 

One of the best things you can do is master tools like Figma , Sketch , or Adobe XD to create visually striking websites.

See if you can go beyond the basics and learn how to prototype interactive elements that can be tested with users.

Wireframing & prototyping

Wireframing lets you map out the structure of a website or app. Prototyping tools like InVision or Marvel will help you create interactive mockups, giving clients and developers a clear vision of the final product.

User research & testing 

Understanding user research methods and usability testing is something all design agencies are looking for. Tools like Hotjar , Crazy Egg, or Google Analytics can help you analyze user behavior to help you make data-driven design decisions.

Information architecture & user flow

Understand how to organize content in a way that guides users effortlessly through a website. Mastering the art of user flow will help you make designs that not only look good but function seamlessly.

 

How to start your career in UI/UX design

Similar to web design, applying for jobs as an entry-level UI/UX designer at a specialist agency is a great place to start. 

It's well worth building your portfolio as you do this. 

This doesn't mean you have to work with clients in the beginning. Simply follow your curiosity, make cool designs, and share them with the world on somewhere like X. You could also collaborate on GitHub projects.

 

3. SEO

Search Engine Optimization is the art and science of ranking websites higher on Google. 

Despite the rise of ChatGPT, Google is still the first place the majority of people turn to when looking for help. And if your website is the one they land on, there's a good chance you can make a sale.

That's why the demand for SEOs is on the rise. Companies need help being visible online, and SEOs can help them do this.

To excel as an SEO specialist, you need a blend of creative and technical skills.

Skills to develop

 

SEO tools 

Being able to use tools like Ahrefs , Semrush , and Moz will help you stand out to employers. This is because conducting keyword research, competitor analysis, and tracking SEO performance are the bread and butter for SEO specialists. 

Master these tools and you'll be able to give data-driven insights and strategies to clients.

Technical SEO

Understanding the technical aspects of SEO, such as site architecture, page speed, and implementing structured data (Schema markup) is crucial for improving a website's ranking.

Content optimization

Learn how to optimize content for both users and search engines. This includes on-page SEO techniques, like keyword placement and optimizing meta tags, as well as off-page strategies, like building high-quality backlinks.

Analytics & reporting

Being able to analyze and report on SEO performance using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console is vital. These tools help you measure the impact of your SEO efforts and refine strategies for better results.

How should you learn SEO?

Once again, Zero To Mastery has an excellent SEO Bootcamp course that will teach you everything you need to know about SEO. 

Backlinko is also a treasure trove with a bunch of tutorials.

How to start your career in SEO

An entry-level position at a specialist digital marketing agency will put you in good stead. So too will work at a web design agency. That's because most web designers now have to think about SEO elements when building new websites.

Working at a specialist agency also means you'll get to learn from experienced SEOs.

So there you have it! Hopefully, one of these career options will appeal to you as you enter the working world. The good news is you're perfectly positioned to take them. Recent graduates like you have the natural ability to learn new skills.

Go get it!