Career Focus: Work at Home as a Web Designer by Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated
November 13, 2009
by Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated
If you’ve got a knack for computers, then web development could be the work-at-home career for you. You don’t need a lot of extra schooling to become a web developer, though it can be helpful. Whether you have a formal education or are self-taught, what matters most to employers and clients is your ability to set them up with an outstanding website.
The Technology
To work out of your home, you will need a computer with Internet access. Since web design projects can be large scale, project management skills are also important. At-home web design can be done on a flexible schedule, making it very family friendly.
Getting Started
Start out by building your own website. Potential clients and employers will expect a web designer to have a top-notch website showcasing her skills. This is a great opportunity to experiment with different ideas, and get a sense of your personal style. Be sure to include your resume and contact information. You never know when a hit on your website will result in a new client.
Building a Portfolio
Showcase your talents through a portfolio. As you build websites, collect a record of your professional experience through examples of the quality work you provide. If you are willing to work hard and give your all to a few friends or organizations free of charge, your portfolio will quickly come together. Don’t know anyone looking for a website? Try volunteermatch.org. The site will pair you with nonprofit organizations looking for volunteers. Not only will you gain experience, but you will also be helping out a cause close to your heart.
Choosing a Niche
Once you have a few jobs under your belt, you may find it beneficial to choose a niche or specialty. Maybe you excel when working with nonprofits, or prefer the informal touch of a personal website. Capitalize on your strengths and interests when choosing a niche market. Specializing will help you gain credibility with your clients. With a little planning, and a lot of hard work, you will be a professional web designer from the comfort of your home before you know it.
www.motherhoodincorporated.com
4 Quick Tips to a Company Ready Home Office by Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated
October 30, 2009
by Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated
If your home business requires occasional client visits, the state of your home office can make or break a business deal. When my husband and I were looking for someone to photograph our wedding we visited a few photographers working out of their homes. One invited us into a poorly lit kitchen to review his portfolio, while the contract-winning operation invited us into a home office that displayed quality and professionalism from the start. I’m not saying that the state of your home office alone will win your clients over, but every interaction leaves a lasting impression. Here are four tips to make sure the impression you leave is a good one:
1. Clear the clutter.
Put away anything that doesn’t need to be out. A disorganized home office will leave your clients wondering if you will drop the ball when it comes to their projects. This is especially important when you are working with multiple clients on proprietary information. Your customers need to know that they can trust you to be discreet.
2. It’s all business.
Your office may be located in your home, but it should reflect a business environment. Though you may enjoy hanging your children’s artwork and other personal effects in your workspace, when clients come around it is time to tuck these items away.
3. Critical cleaning.
Don’t waste time cleaning everything from top to bottom. Focus from the waist up, on the areas that capture the eyes. A quick dust over surfaces should suffice. Do make sure that your guest bath is clean. Wipe the mirror and sink, and run a brush around the toilet bowl. Finish off by emptying the trash cans. We all feel more comfortable in a clean environment.
4. Liven it up.
A few strategically placed plants or a vase of fresh flowers can do wonders to brighten a room. If you are fortunate enough to have a blooming flower garden, cut a few blooms and bring them inside. Adding natural color to your office space will make it calm and inviting, something you can enjoy even after the close of the business day.
www.motherhoodincorporated.com
