How to Stand Out as a Web Developer: 5 Must-Have Qualifications

Web development is one of the most competitive job market segments in the IT industry, with a number of core skills and qualifications required to land a starting role. Demonstrating these competencies to recruiters is one of the most effective ways you can gain an edge over other candidates, ultimately helping you achieve your first industry role. In this Lumify Learn guide, we will outline five of the most desirable web developer qualifications, which help to create more career opportunities for candidates.

At Lumify Learn, our online IT courses help aspiring candidates to gain the technical knowledge and skills they require in order to start a new career in fields such as web development. Browse our range of web development courses for beginners and enjoy the benefits of recognised qualifications, delivered through flexible, online study plans.

Essential Qualifications to Be a Web Developer

Website development courses equip candidates with the skills and knowledge they require to secure a starting role in the industry. Listing these competencies on your resume is a start, however an ability to demonstrate them to a recruiter will help your application stand out from other candidates.

• Technical proficiency

One of the most critical elements of web development is knowledge of technical elements such as programming and scripting languages. Demonstrating your capabilities in HTML, CSS and JavaScript signals to employers that you understand the fundamentals of website creation. Skills in Python or PHP demonstrate your ability to create dynamic websites in advanced applications.

• Soft skills

Web development involves a combination of technical knowledge and soft skills, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving and interpersonal communication. Candidates who can demonstrate these skills will likely be more valuable in roles where cross-team or client-facing collaboration are necessary.

• Formal education

It is common knowledge that a formal certification is one of the most important web developer qualifications. In fact, Stack Overflow found that nearly 85 percent of professionals believe that formal education is an important part of becoming a successful web developer. Holding a Certificate IV or equivalent education boosts the credibility of your application, enhancing employability and career prospects.

• Certification courses

In addition to formal study programs, there are a range of certification courses that focus on specialised areas of web development. Back- and front end developer courses enable you to further your knowledge in a particular area, potentially leading to more opportunities and a higher starting salary. In 2022, Stack Overflow found that half of all hiring managers preferred candidates with certifications in the field. 

• Practical experience

While theoretical knowledge is important, gaining practical experience before you apply for your first industry role helps you understand first-hand what working full-time in web development is like. Additionally, a portfolio of websites you have created or history of previous work in the field suggests to recruiters that you are familiar with some of the skills needed in real-world projects, including problem-solving and adaptability.

How to Open More Web Development Opportunities in Your Career

There are several practices that you can work on to build your resume and portfolio up to include the types of web developer qualifications that employers and recruiters find desirable.

• Create a portfolio of work

A strong portfolio is one of the easiest ways of showcasing your skills as a web developer, attracting potential employers or freelance clients. Include a variety of projects that you have worked on, which showcase your finest creative ideas, executional skills and problem-solving abilities. It is also best to refer to the industry-specific tools and resources you used throughout these projects.

• Specialise in an in-demand niche

Web development has several niche areas that are in demand with recruiters. Specialising in responsive design, progressive web apps or lead-generation projects can help you stand out from other candidates who are seeking a more general role in web development. Regardless of which niche you choose, stay up to date with any emerging technologies or processes to make your skillset as unique as possible.

• Contribute to open-source projects

Offering your services in open-source projects can be another way of boosting your credibility and visibility to employers. Fixing bugs or adding features to other users’ projects showcases both hard and soft skills, demonstrating your abilities to adapt to different circumstances and deliver high quality services.

• Build a personal brand

As part of your portfolio, set up your own website or account on Dev.to or Medium to showcase your previous work. Create blog content, share video tutorials and include links to your past projects to build a following for your work and potentially attract employers or freelance clients. 

• Expand your network

Networking is one of the most effective strategies for aspiring professionals seeking a start in any field, including web development. Joining online communities and threads, posting on social media and connecting on LinkedIn are all steps you can take to maximise your reach and attract potential employers.

Stand Out in a Crowded Web Development Market With Lumify Learn

Employers and recruiters look for a wide range of web development qualifications that blend technical knowledge with communication skills, formal certification and practical experience. By taking small steps, such as creating a portfolio, networking with others and choosing a specialisation, you can enhance credibility and improve your chances of securing web development opportunities.

With Lumify Learn, you can gain the necessary qualifications to be a web developer. Our courses range from specialised qualifications to full stack developer courses and accredited study plans, all of which are delivered online in a way that suits you. Browse our courses and choose the web developer qualifications that foster growth and employment in your chosen field.