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I'm a self-taught frontend developer with 1,5 - 2 years of experience in JavaScript / Vue.js development. Pretty cliche in 2023 and I can actually feel this now when it comes to the job market. It's brutal at the moment.I moved to Germany for a specific job but got laid off a few weeks ago due to a lack of projects and actual things to do. And here I am right now: tons of job applications, 4-5 interviews a week, zero success.

I'm thinking about getting some warehouse job or anything for the time being, and start freelancing in my spare time. Instead of this oversaturated JavaScript landscape, I would get into PHP (not as "hip" so less competition, backend, no new tools every 6 months), SQL, or hyper-specialize in CSS - something I like quite a bit but have seemingly zero value to employers.

I actually made a simple website for a small business when I was getting started with frontend, and he was super happy with the end result. I also did some language tutoring, that was quite rewarding as well. So freelancing is definitely fun, I enjoyed it much more than fearing layoffs or trying to force a fake-ambitious attitude on my 30th interview that most probably won't lead me anywhere. :D

Is the frontend job market really this oversaturated? (I know, I know... It's not difficult for competent, skilled, and experienced devs with CS degrees) Is being a CSS specialist, PHP-developer, or SQL-magician on fiverr/upwork/etc. a viable freelancing path? I've heard good and bad about these platforms, the competition there, etc. If not, where should I start?

What do you think? Any input is much appreciated. :)

Comments
  • 1
    Avoid Fiver and Upwork at all cost. They suck ass and it's not as straight forward and nice as it seems on the outside. Don't even get me started on Upwork's cut after each job and their "availability system" that'll ultimately make you put in money in order to be visible by clients. Those mofoking leeches. Ugh !

    Now regarding freelancing I think the first thing to consider is your market. Who are your clients ? What services do they need and how you can fullfil those needs.
    It's a PITA finding clients (at least on my area code) let alone handling them. But other than that working for yourself can be nice.
    Work on your portfolio and on your own projects if you find time, that's a must imho.

    Wish you good luck mate.
  • 3
    Here’s my advice specifically for you. Become a shopify expert. Know it backwards. How to build out themes and the template engine. You will be in demand. Millions of companies use the platform and they need help and expert advice. Set up a business as a shopify expert. If I was at your stage this is what I would do right now. Fuck the interviews. Focus and do some shit job while you learn.

    https://shopify.com/uk/partners/...
  • 0
    @helloworld all eggs in one bag?
  • 0
    @joewilliams007 Absolutely, be great at something and you will have a great career. Especially if you are self taught with limited experience. You won’t stand a chance trying to get a foot in the door anywhere.
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