help for beginner at web dev/design

Question

I was wondering, how does a web designer/developer start out in his buisness with nothing to show (in the sense of a portfolio,) and only his word to show he does good work? How are those people supposed to get buisness?

Answer 1

If you don't have a portfolio and want business, it is best to make your own site look incredible. Show people what you can do with your own site. Once your site is incredible, network with companies in your area, friends, family and offer your services cheap if they'll let you use their site as a portfolio example.

Once your portfolio is up, referrals should be coming in and folks seeing your site should be even more interested.

EDIT Per Martin's request, when you build your own site, please don't grab a run of the mill template like every other web developer out there. If you do take a template, make it yours, modify the heck out of it.

Answer 2

The best thing you can do for an empty portfolio is personal projects. I was hired for my first job out of college because I had created a website for my personal business. I was able to show that I had talent because I was in charge the entire site. You shouldn't ever rely on "your word" to get you jobs.

If you need ideas for a personal project, you can see if any friends/family need help, but that can be limiting. Still, it's another project to put in your portfolio to help you get more professional work.

I'd also recommend reading up on online articles dealing with starting a business. Some recommended reading:

alistapart.com/articles/startingabusiness/

alistapart.com/articles/business1/

freelanceswitch.com/general/101-essential-freelancing-resources/