Hey. I've been learning and practicing web developing for about a year now... I feel that I'm ready to start working and building up experience with a portfolio. So could I get any tips on how to start? Since it's so hard to start being unknown and not having done previous work to show.
You could build up a small portofolio. Most companies ask for that. Or freelance on the web and add your work in the portofolio.
How does one approach those said companies? And if I'll go for a portfolio what website I should create for an example Since I'm not really interested in running normal sites, would only do as an example of my skills. I pretty much want help on approaching possible employers, how to and where. And if freelancing how to start.
You said you don't want to do "normal" sites. So what kind of sites do you want to do? Then start hunting down those kinds of clients and offer your services. 10 "no"s and "1" yes, is still a YES and in the right direction. It takes about 6 months to a year to start seeing the rewards of your efforts... so don't get discouraged.
Don't misunderstand me. For a job, I don't care what type of site I'd be doing. For myself, well I'd like to develop a browser game (I'm doing so in my free time and it will take a huge amount of time). I was only asking what type of site would be the best for a portfolio example.
find a company that is hiring and design a site that will reflect something along the lines of their business. As far as examples, u can try a services site or a social site w/ blogs etc just to showcase your skills
If you want a suggestion, you may start offering small things on sites like Fiverr.com and then build a portfolio with that. Mind, building a portfolio is not enough. Try local ads like leaflets in shops, the paper, and classified ads too.
Firstly you need to build up your portfolio. You can offer to create websites on forums such as this at a discount rate so you can raise your profile and get testimonials. Once you have a good selection of these then you can start to contact businesses and possibly go offline too.
Create any type of site that you like corporate/professional, creative, portal, ecommerce, or a mix of the above. What counts is that you have working examples in your portfolio. This shows potential employers that you can actually do the work instead of just saying that you can. Most students or newbies could start off working for a company as an intern to get the hang of things. Then as they see you progress they will give you more responsibilities and pay.