Qualification or Portfolio

preciousb

Hey i am really interested in making websites on a freelance basis.

I went for an interview today and the job was to market the website that is to be created. The interviewee told me that they are going to outsource the job of creating a website.

I suggested that if i was to be employed i could make them a website - i have good experience.

They asked to see something that i have made so i showed them.

My question was if i wanted to go into this webs design, creation etc. Would it be best to just have a portfolio of websites to show companies or actually get some form of qualification under my belt to do with web creation? I dont have any formal qualification to do with web design. Just purely on a hobby basis

As i am guessing the firm i went for an interview with was really excited about my proposition.

Benet

A great portfolio is priceless. You can have all the bits of paper in the world, but if you don't have the portfolio to back it up, most companies won't even look at you.

Thats not to say a qualification isn't important... the ideal situation is a nice combination of the two Even a vocational training course with someone like learndirect etc would help.

damian_ohmania

I employee web programmers and designer, qualifications are good but experience far outweighs them.

Build yourself a good portfolio and employers will know you can do the job.

MatJohnson

As a commercial developer with a degree, I find that experience has tought me far more than my degree and MS qualifications.

Get the portfolio done first

Piku

A good portfolio and experience in the industry will seal the deal. However some kind of qualification may not just benefit your CV but improve your skill. If you're becoming a web designer please consider some kind of training in design principles (Colour theory, typography, layout e.t.c)- even if it's part time. Also learn to sketch! It will help you draw diagrams and concepts for your work.