Validating your knowledge

Graphic Design: Coquilles

So what to do once you've learnt how to code? If I only know the code I'm immediately employable, right? 

Wrong! The code is only the first step. Then you need to validate your work so that people in the industry know what you can and can't. 

One way to validate your work is through OpenSource-projects. There are numerous ways to participate in those, but the important thing is that you do something.

You will get credit for the work that you have done and this you can show your potential employers.

Another tip is to join one of the open forums like StackOverflow.com There you can build your reputation by answering questions other people post on the board.

My third tip is to network. Don't just sit at home in front of your computer. Instead, get out and meet people. Give seminars for the local business community about what you do and the skills that you have.  

These are my three most valuable tips for making a career as a freelance developer. The last tip is of course to blog about it.

Blogs that we have read throughout the week: Mia is a geek.