Web designers are key in the creation of websites. These websites can range from a small business’ online presence to online stores dealing with thousands of visitors a day.They can work alongside project managers, marketers and web developers to design a successful website. Essentially, they are the creative brain, creating both the visual graphical aspects (UI) of the website and the way the website works and how users interact with it (UX) graphical aspects of a website and how the site works. They will work to establish the target audience for the website and with this information, they identify the type of content that will be best optimised for that audience.

They can work alongside project managers, marketers and web developers to design a successful website. Essentially, they are the creative brain. Creating both the visual graphical aspects (UI) of the website and the way the website works. They also look at how users interact with it (UX) graphical aspects of a website. They will work to establish the target audience for the website and with this information, they identify the type of content that will be best optimised for that audience.

Typically, you don’t have to have qualifications to be a web designer, as long as you have a keen interest for design and good knowledge of coding languages like HTML, CSS and software like Photoshop and Illustrator then you will be able to work as a website designer.

University route

University can give you the time and formal education to learn the craft of web development and design fully. Having lectures and seminars on a different aspect of design improves your knowledge on a detailed level. Also, at university, some courses offer placement and job opportunities to students. This is a beneficial part of university in terms of career because it can open many doors for you. Showing off your work at end of year events gives you a chance to network and gain contacts of people in the industry.

College/Course route

In the UK, there are college courses specialising in design. Colleges offer a wide range of courses where you gain qualifications including level 2 or 3 NVQ Diplomas. These are great stepping stones in developing your knowledge and skills in web design.

There are also online courses that you can easily enrol onto. These courses can cost but are still a convenient and easy way to gain qualifications or learn processes.

Self-taught route

This path can be difficult, but if you have determination it’s definitely not impossible. Being self-taught, you have to be motivated to not only teach yourself about a complex software but also have the interest to update yourself on the ever-changing trends of the design industry. The internet is a great source for material with tutorials and instructions to help you learn features and tools on design software. This can take a lot of time and energy to become a confident individual in design.

Showing that you are a good designer is key if you are self-taught. You will always need to show current work on your profile to build a positive and well-known reputation. One of the best ways to showcase your talents is to utilise an online portfolio. This way your work is easily viewable.

Personal skills required

Personal skills can come with experience or it’s something you can naturally carry out.

• Creative skills;
• The ability to pay attention to detail;
• The ability to explain technical matters clearly;
• Time management to work to deadlines.

As you gain more experience, you can move into bigger design teams and expand your skills to become a manager in web design. You could also work as a freelance web designer, or set up your own web design business. Whatever career pathway you decide to choose you will be able to go far. As long as you have the determination to keep improving yourself and your skills.

If you are currently looking for a job in web design, JobsTrackR has many job opportunities that are located in the UK. JobsTrackR also has a job alert option that will allow us to find the jobs for you.