Are you considering becoming a WordPress developer? This year is WordPress’ 20th anniversary. With that in mind, becoming a WordPress developer after it has been around for so long could be a daunting idea but I believe with the right skills and dedication, anyone can become a WordPress developer.
If you are serious about becoming a WordPress developer in 2023, there are some key skills you need to acquire before you begin.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what a wordpress developer actually does.
What is a WordPress developer?
A WordPress developer is a skilled professional who specializes in building websiteson the popular WordPress platform. WordPress developers are experts in the intricacies of the platform, understanding how to tweak and customize it to create tailored websites. The role includes using a variety of programming languages, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP, as well as plugins and themes, to create more complex sites.
A WordPress developer should be proficient in HTML, CSS and JavaScript to create WordPress themes and plugins. Learning and mastering these languages is essential if you want to be an effective WordPress developer.
Once you have a good understanding of the underlying technology, the next step is to learn how to use WordPress tools. This includes the WordPress dashboard, plugins, and themes. You need to understand how to set up a WordPress website and configure settings so it works to your client’s specifications.
What don’t you need to know?
That’s quite a strange cross head, right? But a lot of people seem to think that WordPress developers need to know absolutely everything about web coding. As a WordPress developer myself, I understand that it’s a complete lie. You don’t need to know GIT, React, Angular, SASS, Gulp or any other load of rubbish. You simply just need the basic tools (HTML, CSS, jQuery, PHP). Some jobs may require you to learn the more advanced skills as they tie into the companies workflow but it is not essential. If you are looking to get started, keep it simple and work your way up.
So what do I need to do to get started?
Jump in the deep end. That is the best advice I can give to anyone that is looking to get started with WordPress. Create your own website, explore HTML, CSS, PHP and jQuery to your hearts content. Try and break things and fix them. Watch a million videos on Youtube.
Breaking things. I often tell my co-workers, the best way to learn is by breaking things. Without breaking something in the first place, you’d never understand how to fix it and more importantly what caused the error in the first place.
Get involved. WordPress users and developers are always sharing tips and tricks on forums, blogs and social media. Knowing how to communicate and network with other WordPress developers can open up opportunities and help you become a more successful WordPress developer.
With the right skills and a passion for learning, anyone can become a WordPress developer in 2023. By understanding the underlying technology behind WordPress, developing the technical skills required and getting involved with the WordPress community, you can become an effective and successful WordPress developer.