Most of the work done by a backend developer usually goes unnoticed by the public but is an essential piece in the gear of any company. In simple terms, a backend developer will design, build, modify, repair, and support software applications or information systems, among other services, ensuring easy and trouble-free use for customers or visitors.
If you’re interested in making things work, you don’t also care so much about how it looks, and you love solving puzzles, you should consider becoming a backend developer. If so, these six steps will lead you to success.
1. Learn the basics of data structure and algorithms
Sometimes, people learning web development move on immediately to frameworks and their functions. Unfortunately, most are unaware of the importance of acquiring knowledge about the data structure and the basic concepts of the algorithm. Therefore, any developer who wants to specialize in backend must have a solid idea about these processes. Part of the duty is to review the basic data structures: the queue, the linked list, the tree, the hashing, classification and search algorithms, and other vital notions.
2. Master a programming language and choose a framework to specialize in
A developer is not born overnight; it takes time to become a full developer. Therefore, you should take as much as you need to properly learn a programming language, choosing those most wanted these days, such as C#, Python, Java, Ruby, and JavaScript.
While you can learn several programming languages simultaneously, it is advisable to focus on one; this will give you a better chance of mastering a framework based on that language.
3. Acquire a solid database knowledge
To become a backend developer, it is essential to grasp how databases work. For example, all non-static websites rely on a storage system, so it is necessary to have a solid understanding of how a database works.
There are several types of databases, but starting your learning journey with a relational database might be your best choice. In this case, soaking up the SQL programming language will open the doors to great job opportunities for you. This type of language allows you to communicate with an RSDMS and perform access operations and manipulate the stored information.
The SQL programming language allows not only to perform tasks of selection, insertion, updating, and deletion of data but also administrative chores on the databases.
4. Manage the frameworks to perfection
Depending on the programming language you specialize in, you should choose a framework to become an expert. Whether it is Django or Ruby on Rails, a framework will help you write the application’s code since you are working under the MVC (Model-View-Controller) principle. A framework will help you create templates and code that can be reused later.
5. Start practicing, creating, and innovating
After practicing with the programming language and framework you chose, it only remains to take the step to create and innovate in an increasingly competitive field. Write down all the project ideas you have, however “silly” they may seem, and then think about how to create them, their functionalities, and how they would apply to the real world.
6. Build problem-solving skills
Technical skills are the first thing an employer looks for in a job candidate, but coding isn’t everything. Backend developers must be good problem solvers. They need to be flexible and find creative solutions to problems that may arise.
If you’re looking for a backend development job, be prepared to talk to an interviewer about how often you solved problems in your previous web development work or during your internship.
PRO-TIP: Do some networking!
The stereotypical programmer spends hours working alone in front of a computer, and there’s no doubt that that’s a big part of the assignment. However, consider that eventually, you’ll begin to promote yourself. This is key to taking significant steps.
LinkedIn is an excellent place to start looking for web development jobs.
78% of developers say it’s where they look for job offers. It is also the platform most used by recruiters. You can check out our listings at linkedin.com/company/mahisoft
Networking is always important. Hackathons and other tech events can put you in touch with your next backend developer job.
In conclusion, backend development is a fun and fast-growing professional field. There are many reasons to love it. As long as people need websites, developers will be needed too. You can learn the skills yourself, envisioning a great career path for your future.
