Thanks to the Internet there is now a whole segment of creative jobs that simply did not exist fifteen to twenty years ago.  One such job is that of a web designer.  Life as a web designer involves synthesizing artistic talent, technical skill, marketing know-how and business savvy.

Many web designers work in-house in salaried positions.  Their job involves daily upkeep and maintenance of a company’s website as well as creating and redesigning web pages as needed.

Many other web designers work freelance.  This allows them to enjoy the freedom of working from their home office and being able to largely set their own hours.  At times freelancers are required to report to the office, either for meetings or to work with an in-house web design team.

Working as a web designer can be a very lucrative and rewarding career.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projected income and job prospects for web designers are both above average.

Life as a web designer can be all about the freedom of self-employment.  However it can also involve working in the creative, fun environment of a multi-media or marketing firm.  The work one does as a web designer will be seen by people all over the world.

Unlike other media-centric jobs, web design is fairly decentralized these days.  Practically all businesses, big and small need a website to stay competitive.  This means there are possibilities for employment as a web designer all across the country.  The freedom of the digital era even allows web designers to work abroad or for clients that may be thousands of miles away.

However web design can be a high pressure and at times competitive field.  In addition to technical skills, web designers must have a solid understanding of both design and marketing principles.  They must deliver their work on time and on budget.

There are now many degree programs available for people interested in web design.  However due to the competitive nature of the business a 4-year degree may not be enough.  Many aspiring web designers also participate in an internship of one sort or another.

Mentoring programs are an excellent way to gain firsthand experience.  They allow students to study web design while working in a professional web environment, under the tutelage of real, working web professionals.  Internship programs also afford students the opportunities to make the connections, which can prove integral to launching one’s career as a web designer.

If you have the artistic and design talent, as well as the drive to succeed, then life as web designer might be a perfect career for you.

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1. Careers in Web Design
2. Careers in Graphic Design
3. Life as a Fashion Designer
4. Careers in Animation
5. Life as a Game Designer