Hey everyone! I've been self-taught in web development for almost three years now, focusing on technologies like React, Next.js, Node.js, and React Native. I've been landing weekly interviews for my first software engineering role, so I'm actually not worried about finding a job. Recently, I got a chance to do some freelance work for local businesses after reaching out to marketing and web design agencies in my area about five months ago. They've been requesting websites built with WordPress or Wix. Now, I have limited experience with WordPress—I've mainly used it as a backend—but it seems pretty straightforward. I thought about using tools like ChatGPT to help with the tasks. They seemed pleased when I quoted them $60 an hour, even though ChatGPT suggested $80. I'm considering this freelance work as a way to build my network rather than just for cash, since I'm currently aiming for higher-paying roles. I'm curious if taking on WordPress projects is worth my time and if it'd even be worth putting on my resume. Any thoughts on balancing this opportunity with my main focus of preparing for my SWE interviews?
3 Answers
Honestly, a lot of folks think that WordPress is super easy, but it can have some hidden complexities. If you're not committed to learning it, I’d suggest passing on these gigs and focusing on the tech you want to grow in. It could take longer than you think to deal with those sites, especially when unexpected issues pop up.
Agreed! I’ve worked on my fair share of WordPress sites, and they’re full of their own challenges. It'll take you away from your main goals.
One thing to keep in mind is that WordPress clients generally may not pay top dollar. Most are small businesses or individuals with tighter budgets. If you're looking for higher-paying gigs, it might be better to focus on clients with bigger budgets who want more custom solutions.
Since you're freelancing, just mention your work without listing every individual WordPress site on your resume. You could register an LLC if you plan to keep this going long-term, but for now, just emphasize your freelance work overall. It sounds like you’ll mostly be fixing small issues rather than building from scratch anyway.
That's good advice! Just keeping it simple and focusing on examples from your freelance work should work well.
I've totally been there! I’ve stepped in to fix too many sites that people thought were easy to handle, only to find out they were quite the mess.