RE: Job Advert

Selected job advert http://www.technojobs.co.uk/job.phtml/164876/web/developer/view.html

Why did I select this job ?
From the adverts I researched, I identified this particular advert because it opened the opportunity to do both website design and graphic design. The job would enhance my web design skills while retaining graphic design and links with the printing industry. Based in Sheffield, with a direct train link from Doncaster to Sheffield, I would be able to use public transport.

Skills and knowledge required
The technical skills required for the job include the ability to work across both Windows/Mac platforms and to use software applications including: Adobe Photoshop, Flash and Illustrator -Swift 3D, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, expertise web languages: -Html -JavaScript -ASP –XML and have a solid knowledge across web and print media.

What skills do I currently possess?
As an experienced graphic designer, I am proficient at using many of the applications listed above, across both Windows and Mac platforms. Possessing years of print experience and the ability to use Photoshop and illustrator at an advanced level, I have a sound understanding of design for print.

I feel confident that with my current XHTML/CSS knowledge using Dreamweaver and my knowledge to validate a website would be an asset to the communications team.

Skills still need to acquire
In relation to this advert, I need to use Flash, Swift 3D, Dreamweaver, Fireworks and a understanding of web languages that include: JavaScript, ASP and XML.

Before I start applying for jobs, I would like to develop a thorough understanding of xhtml/css, and create two online portfolio’s (one for web and the other for print) to showcase my works.

In conclusion
I am concerned that the advert fails to mention CSS or PHP, and Indesign a pre-requisite required for graphic design. The lack of these skills makes me wonder if the job advert is just set up to attract designers to be on the books of Evolution Recruitment Solutions Ltd. http://www.evolutionjobs.co.uk/

Learn today, work tomorrow

Ultilising my first year results as a benchmark, I seek to continue personal improvement. I will achieve my goals and fulfill my learning potential by dedicating my spare time to the course. Completing each assignment to the highest standard empowers my belief that all my aspirations are achievable.

I am really looking forward to the prospect of creating an online portfolio to showcase both digital and online works. A year ago even the thought of creating a website was unthinkable. Bewildered by web terminology I thought Perl was a found in a shell and PHP must be some sort of new qualification.

I hope the planned assignments will stretch and expand on my existing knowledge, focusing on new web technologies I am looking forward to enhancing my portfolio of skills, learning CSS, PHP and become fluent at the art of hand coding.

Despite possessing a challenging job I am not convinced I have achieved my full potential. My original intension for joining the course has not altered; in fact my thirst for learning has increased. I am now able to converse with professionals in the Industry at a technical level, when a year ago all this talk about div’s, XHTML and CSS seemed a foreign language. I feel confident that by completing the course will fulfill my learning goals and add another string to my bow. The year ahead will be an intense learning curve, an invaluable asset in preparation for future employment in the Design Industry.

I feel apprehensive but excited at the prospect of completing the course and gaining essential web skills. If the opportunity for completing a degree should present itself that fits into my current work situation then I would defiantly consider it. Enhancing on my curriculum vitae today will improve my chances of employability tomorrow.

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