Does anyone do web design?

[NocturnalDaze]

I'm starting classes (tomorrow in fact) for a web design degree. Just wondering if anyone with experience can give me some insight. I guess my biggest question is does it pay well?

Is it a viable stay at home job or is it better for someone who works for a company? How do you solicit clients? How much time do you spend with one client?

If you could tell me anything else helpful I'd really appreciate it!

TIA!

[Erin Pavlina]

It's a pretty impacted field, but it does pay well.

In 1997 I started doing web programming and design. I started out by charging $55/hour. Today I charge $50 per hour for my low end clients and $90/hour for my high end clients.

It's fun once you get into it too. I love programming! Finding clients is challenging, and people are learning web design on their own a lot now.

However, the best part of all this is being able to program your own site. If I had to pay a programmer to handle the Vegfamily .com updates each month, I'd probably be out of business.

[sparklemum]

i agree with Erin, it is very impacted - there are a lot of really qualified folks out there competing for few jobs...

if that hasn't detered you (and it shouldn't if you are passionate) there is always a way to develop a niche...i target small businesses and non-profits in my community - if you are in a smaller community it can be easier to break into the market and build a reputation...

i charge $45/hr. for design/marketing/development/project management and $90/hour for programming...I NEVER pad my invoices and folks appreciate my fair pricing...If you are a beginner and it takes you an hour to do what an experienced person could do in 15 mins., charge 1/4 hour...clients should never have to pay for the learning curve...

your personality, interest and local committment will sell your skills...get involved in your community - networking can never be underestimated! good luck