If you thought it was enough to learn the basics of web design to have a successful web design career, you are wrong. The web design industry is changing just as rapidly as information technology is. Where it was once enough to have a single web page with a fancy picture, consumers are now calling for much more.
It is no longer possible for web designers to specialize, especially if they are not part of a large design firm. You need to open yourself up to learning new skills in order to provide your clients with comprehensive services. Consumers today want to get everything from the same vendor. This means that web designers have to expand their knowledge to encompass new areas.
Several skills previously not traditionally associated with the web designer’s role are now becoming more important for web designers to master. These include:
1. Internet Marketing Skills
Web designers previously stuck to the design of the website and nothing more. This was when it was enough simply to have a website. Visitors would come flocking in. However, the online marketplace has become more competitive. It is now important to apply internet marketing to websites to improve their online visibility.
Web designers need to learn more about SEO. They need to be able to apply the basics of SEO in the design stages of the website e.g. Making the website easy to use as well as making it easily accessible.
Web designers should also be in a position to advise their clients on internet marketing techniques such as the use of social media. Many website owners are anxious to engage their customers on social media. They will therefore refer to their web design professionals to help them develop effective strategies for this.
2. Copywriting Skills
Copywriting is one of the most important skills that web designers need to learn for success. Many clients will ask their web designers to provide them with a copy for their websites. However, many web designers are not skilled in this area.
It is important to learn how to write copy that is engaging and informative for the specific target audience. You may lose many clients if you lack this skill.
3. Psychology
If you want to be able to design truly effective websites, it is important to have a good understanding of psychology. This is nothing new. Psychology has been a part of web design for a long time. It allows you to understand how users think and complete their tasks on a website.
It is important to note that although usability is important, it is not the end. Today’s users are looking for websites that elicit passion in them. They want websites that engage them. This requires a deeper understanding of people and on how they operate.
If you are able to understand how people think and how they function within their communities, you are more likely to produce effective websites with engaging copy.
These and many other skills are necessary for building a successful career in web design.