How to Become a SharePoint Developer (From Bytes to Brilliance)
If you’ve ever been intrigued by the idea of developing software solutions that revolutionize workflows or wondered what it takes to become a SharePoint Developer, you’ve landed on the right page.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the SPECIFIC steps necessary to kickstart your career as a SharePoint Developer. We’ll delve into:
- The essential skills you need to master.
- The education that can accelerate your journey.
- Strategies for securing your first job as a SharePoint Developer.
So, whether you’re new to coding or a tech enthusiast seeking to enhance your skills, stay with us.
We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a SharePoint Developer.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Before pursuing a career as a SharePoint Developer, it’s crucial to understand what the role entails.
A SharePoint Developer is a professional who designs, creates and customizes SharePoint websites, applications and solutions.
They are responsible for configuring and adjusting SharePoint settings to meet the business needs and requirements.
This role requires proficiency in languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Besides these, SharePoint Developers must also be familiar with .NET frameworks and SharePoint APIs as they are often used to create more complex solutions and integrations.
Moreover, SharePoint Developers should be able to analyze user needs and business processes to ensure the SharePoint site serves its purpose effectively.
They must have strong problem-solving skills as they are often faced with challenges that require innovative solutions.
It’s also important to note that SharePoint Developers work closely with other IT professionals, like system administrators and software engineers, so excellent communication and teamwork skills are a must.
Understanding the role will guide your learning path and give you a clearer vision of what skills and knowledge you need to acquire.
It will help you decide if you are genuinely interested in this career and if it aligns with your career goals.
Step 2: Gain a Strong Foundation in Web Development
As a SharePoint Developer, having a solid understanding of web development is essential.
This means that you should be familiar with different coding languages, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which are the building blocks of web development.
You should also have an understanding of .NET, ASP.NET, and SQL Server as these are commonly used in SharePoint development.
Start by taking courses, whether they are online or in-person, to learn these languages and technologies.
Consider obtaining certifications, as they can boost your credibility and demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
Furthermore, you should also understand the principles of web design and user experience.
This knowledge will enable you to develop SharePoint solutions that are not only functional but also user-friendly.
Practicing your skills by building your own projects or contributing to open-source projects can also be beneficial.
This gives you a hands-on experience of dealing with real-world scenarios, debugging, problem-solving, and learning to work as part of a team.
Remember, learning web development is a continuous journey as technology is always evolving.
Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements to keep your skills relevant and competitive.
Understanding the fundamentals of the SharePoint platform is crucial for anyone pursuing a career as a SharePoint developer.
This step involves learning about SharePoint’s architecture, concepts, and the various technologies used in its implementation.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the SharePoint platform’s basics, including its functionality, capabilities, and the user interface.
Learn how to create, manage, and configure sites, lists, libraries, and other SharePoint components.
Understanding the core features of SharePoint such as workflows, forms, security models, data integration, and content management is essential.
Move on to learning SharePoint development techniques.
This includes programming with SharePoint Server Object Model, Client Object Model, and SharePoint REST APIs. It’s also important to learn how to develop, debug, and deploy SharePoint solutions and add-ins.
Understanding web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and jQuery is also essential as they are often used in SharePoint development.
You should also learn about Microsoft’s .NET framework, as well as programming languages like C# and ASP.NET, which are often used in the development of SharePoint applications.
There are many resources available for learning SharePoint, including online tutorials, courses, books, and Microsoft’s own documentation.
Microsoft also offers a SharePoint certification which can help validate your skills and increase your job prospects.
Remember, SharePoint is a robust and complex platform.
Therefore, gaining a solid understanding of its fundamentals can take time and practice.
This step is crucial as it forms the foundation for your future work as a SharePoint developer.
As a SharePoint Developer, it is crucial that you master specific skills and technologies that are unique to the SharePoint platform.
This includes understanding the SharePoint Framework (SPFx), which is the new development model for SharePoint.
The SPFx is a Page and Web Part model that provides full support for client-side SharePoint development and easy integration with SharePoint data.
You should also familiarize yourself with other SharePoint technologies, such as SharePoint Designer, Visual Studio Code, and SharePoint Powershell, which can all be used to create and manage SharePoint sites.
Additionally, you should learn how to use the Microsoft 365 core technologies, such as Teams, and the Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI), as these are often integrated with SharePoint in business environments.
Furthermore, knowledge of web development languages such as JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, and HTML5 is essential, as these are commonly used in SharePoint development.
You should also understand SharePoint’s data storage and management capabilities, including knowing how to work with lists, libraries, and data queries.
Understanding how to implement security and permissions within SharePoint is also key.
Additionally, learning how to design and implement SharePoint workflows, which automate business processes within SharePoint, can be a valuable skill.
You can acquire these skills through self-study, online courses, or by gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions.
This mastery will not only equip you with the necessary tools to develop SharePoint solutions but will also make you more marketable to potential employers.
SharePoint Framework (SPFx) is an essential tool that every SharePoint Developer must master to succeed in the field.
It is a page and web part model which enables full support for client-side SharePoint development, easy integration with SharePoint data, and support for open-source tooling.
To become proficient in SPFx, start by understanding its fundamental concepts, such as components, modules, and libraries.
You can then move on to understanding how to create, debug, and deploy SharePoint client-side web parts.
Once you have a good understanding of how SPFx works, you can start building your own web parts, extensions, and applications.
This practice will help you develop strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of the SharePoint platform.
In addition to self-learning, consider taking online courses or attending workshops, which can provide structured learning and hands-on practice.
Look for resources that are up-to-date and relevant to the latest version of SharePoint.
Finally, engage in online communities of SharePoint developers where you can share your queries, learn from others’ experiences, and stay updated with the latest trends in the industry.
This ongoing learning will help you continuously improve your SPFx skills and stay competitive in the job market.
Becoming proficient in SPFx not only adds a valuable skill to your resume, but it also opens a wide range of opportunities for you in the SharePoint development field.
Step 6: Get Familiar with Microsoft 365 Ecosystem
As a SharePoint Developer, it is critical to become well-acquainted with the Microsoft 365 Ecosystem.
SharePoint is a part of this extensive system, and to effectively develop and design solutions using SharePoint, you need to understand how it interacts with other components of the ecosystem.
You should familiarize yourself with various Microsoft 365 offerings such as Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, Power Automate, Power Apps, and Yammer, as these services are often used in conjunction with SharePoint in most business environments.
Understanding how these applications integrate with SharePoint can help you create more efficient and impactful solutions.
Apart from the applications, make sure to understand the concepts of Microsoft 365 groups and Microsoft 365 security and compliance, as they play a significant role in SharePoint development and administration.
You may consider taking certification courses and exams, such as the MS-600: Building Applications and Solutions with Microsoft 365 Core Services, to validate your skills and knowledge on Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Remember, as a SharePoint developer, you’re not just building SharePoint solutions, but solutions that seamlessly work within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
To further enhance your career prospects and credibility as a SharePoint developer, consider obtaining SharePoint certifications.
Microsoft, the creator of SharePoint, offers several certification programs that are highly valued in the industry.
These include the Microsoft 365 Certified: Teamwork Administrator Associate and the Microsoft 365 Certified: Developer Associate exams.
Each certification has specific prerequisites and exam requirements, so it’s important to understand these before you begin the process.
The exams will test your ability to design, develop, secure, and manage SharePoint environments, so it’s crucial that you have hands-on experience and deep knowledge of the SharePoint platform before sitting for them.
These certifications not only validate your skills and knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the profession, making you more attractive to potential employers.
They can provide you with a competitive edge in the job market and may open up opportunities for higher-level positions and better pay.
Remember that the technology field is constantly changing, so it’s essential to keep learning and updating your certifications to stay relevant in the industry.
This could involve taking refresher courses or sitting for new exams as Microsoft updates its certification programs.
Obtaining a SharePoint certification is a significant step in your career development, marking you as a professional who has demonstrated competency in one of the most widely used platforms in business today.
As a SharePoint developer, having a portfolio with SharePoint projects is essential.
This not only proves your expertise but also gives potential employers a view of what you can bring to their organization.
Your portfolio can include SharePoint solutions you’ve implemented in your past jobs, projects done during internships, or even personal projects.
While creating your portfolio, ensure that it clearly demonstrates your understanding and proficiency in using SharePoint to create business solutions.
The projects should highlight your ability to use Microsoft SharePoint’s server-side and client-side object models, your skills in developing and deploying SharePoint apps, and your proficiency in using SharePoint Designer and Visual Studio.
It’s also important to show your process.
Detail the problem you were trying to solve, the steps you took in your development process, and the end result.
This will help potential employers understand your problem-solving skills and how you approach tasks.
Don’t forget to highlight any collaborative work in which you’ve been involved, as SharePoint development often requires teamwork.
Remember, your portfolio is your chance to showcase your skills and expertise.
Spend time carefully selecting and presenting your best work in a professional, organized manner.
If possible, provide access or viewing options to your live projects.
If not, use screenshots and detailed descriptions to give the viewer a thorough understanding of each project.
Step 9: Gain Practical Experience Through Internships or Freelancing
As a SharePoint Developer, it is essential to gain practical experience to build your technical skills and understand real-world applications of SharePoint development.
This could be through internships, junior roles, or freelance work.
Internships often provide an excellent opportunity to learn and grow in a structured environment.
They offer a chance to work on real projects and tasks under the supervision of experienced professionals.
You will be able to apply the theories and principles you’ve learned in your studies and understand how they fit into the wider business context.
Freelancing offers another practical path to gain hands-on experience.
It also enhances your portfolio by working on a variety of projects.
Freelancing allows you to tackle different kinds of problems and find solutions, thereby strengthening your problem-solving abilities and technical skills.
No matter what path you choose, remember to document your work.
This will help you build a strong portfolio, which you can present to potential employers.
This practical experience will not only boost your confidence but also give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Remember, the goal is to gain experience with the SharePoint platform, including developing custom web parts, building SharePoint solutions, and implementing SharePoint applications.
These experiences will help you understand the nuances and complexities of SharePoint development, preparing you for your career ahead.
Being a part of SharePoint Developer communities is a significant step in advancing your career.
These communities provide a platform for professionals to network, share experiences, learn from each other, and stay updated with the latest developments and trends in SharePoint technologies.
You can participate in SharePoint Developer user groups, forums, and online communities.
Websites such as Stack Overflow, SharePoint Stack Exchange, and the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) are excellent places to connect with other developers, ask questions, and discuss problems.
These communities often organize webinars, meetups, and conferences, which provide opportunities to learn from experts in the field, share your knowledge, and establish professional relationships.
Involvement in these communities can also make you more visible to potential employers.
Frequently participating in discussions and contributing solutions can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, enhancing your professional reputation.
Remember, the objective of joining these communities is not just to take but also to give back.
As you grow in your career, consider contributing by answering questions, sharing your projects, or even giving talks or presentations.
Your active involvement in these communities can significantly influence your growth as a SharePoint Developer.
In the ever-evolving field of technology, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest changes, trends, and updates in SharePoint technology.
SharePoint, like other Microsoft products, is regularly updated with new features, functionalities, and security enhancements.
Staying current with these updates will ensure that you can design, develop, and manage SharePoint solutions that are in line with the latest industry standards.
Additionally, staying current with SharePoint trends will help you understand the emerging needs and preferences in the SharePoint ecosystem.
For example, the shift towards SharePoint Online and Office 365 indicates a growing preference for cloud-based solutions, and staying aware of such trends can help you better align your skills and solutions with market demands.
You can stay current with SharePoint updates and trends by subscribing to SharePoint and Microsoft blogs, attending SharePoint conferences, webinars, and workshops, and participating in SharePoint developer communities and forums.
These platforms can provide you with valuable insights, advice, and best practices, and help you stay connected with the global SharePoint developer community.
Remember, staying current is not just about understanding the new features or functionalities.
It’s about understanding how these changes impact the SharePoint ecosystem, how they can be best leveraged to create effective SharePoint solutions, and how they can help you become a better SharePoint developer.
Step 12: Network and Connect with Industry Professionals
Networking is a vital step in advancing your career as a SharePoint Developer.
Making connections with industry professionals allows you to stay informed about the latest trends, insights and developments in the SharePoint ecosystem.
You can also gain firsthand knowledge from experienced SharePoint developers who can provide advice and guidance on career progression.
To start networking, join SharePoint developer communities on platforms like LinkedIn, GitHub and Stack Overflow.
Attend SharePoint conferences, webinars and workshops where you can meet professionals and experts in the field.
Always be open to learning from others and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek advice.
You can also consider becoming a member of professional SharePoint associations.
These organizations often host networking events and provide members with resources for continuous learning.
They can also offer opportunities to collaborate on projects, which can enhance your practical skills and expand your professional network.
Remember that networking is a two-way street.
As you gain more experience and knowledge, be sure to contribute back to these communities and help others who are starting their journey in SharePoint development.
This will not only build your reputation as a SharePoint expert but also strengthen your relationships within the industry.
Once you have gained the necessary skills, education and certifications required to become a SharePoint developer, the next step is to apply for SharePoint Developer positions.
Job postings for this role can be found on various job boards online, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor.
Also, look out for job openings in companies that use SharePoint extensively.
In your application, ensure your resume clearly highlights your SharePoint development skills, experiences, and certifications.
Include any relevant projects you’ve worked on, showcasing your ability to create, manage, and customise SharePoint environments.
Prepare for your interviews by reviewing common SharePoint interview questions.
These might include technical questions about SharePoint as well as questions about past experiences and how you have used SharePoint to solve problems.
Remember, every interview is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and role.
Ask questions about the company’s use of SharePoint, their challenges, and how your role as a SharePoint Developer will contribute to the company’s goals.
Don’t be disheartened if you don’t get the job immediately.
It’s a competitive field and you may face rejections.
However, each application and interview experience is a learning opportunity.
Use the feedback to improve your skills, application, and interview techniques.
Keep learning, building on your SharePoint skills, and applying for positions.
With determination and persistence, you will land a role as a SharePoint Developer.
Preparing for SharePoint Developer interviews is a critical step to secure your desired role.
Typically, these interviews will require you to demonstrate not only your understanding and proficiency in SharePoint development but also your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and understanding of the business and user requirements.
Start by brushing up on your knowledge of SharePoint’s latest updates and features.
Be prepared to answer questions on the development of SharePoint applications, workflows, and web parts.
Familiarize yourself with SharePoint’s integration with other Microsoft services and the broader Office 365 ecosystem.
Next, practice your problem-solving skills.
You may be asked to solve hypothetical problems or provide solutions for potential SharePoint issues.
Be prepared to explain your thought process and rationale behind your solutions.
Also, be ready to discuss your past projects and experiences in SharePoint development in detail.
Potential employers will want to see examples of your work, understand the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.
They might also ask how your solutions improved business processes or user experiences.
Finally, remember that SharePoint Developer interviews aren’t just about technical skills.
Your soft skills, like communication, teamwork, and adaptability, are equally important.
Be prepared to demonstrate these through your responses and examples from your past experiences.
Remember, the goal of the interview is to demonstrate how your skills, knowledge, and experiences make you the right fit for the role.
By preparing thoroughly, you can ensure you present yourself in the best possible light.
Step 15: Continuously Improve and Diversify Your Skill Set
As a SharePoint Developer, your learning journey should never end.
The tech world is constantly evolving and as a developer, you need to be flexible and adaptive.
You must continually enhance your skills, keep up with new SharePoint versions and updates, and master different programming languages.
Getting comfortable with a certain set of skills isn’t enough.
SharePoint itself is quite diverse and is used across various industries which may have different requirements.
Diversifying your skills can make you versatile and open up more job opportunities.
You can take up online courses, attend workshops or tech conferences to stay updated.
Look out for SharePoint-specific or Microsoft-specific events as they can be a valuable resource for learning about new features and getting tips from other developers.
Also, keep practicing.
The best way to become proficient in SharePoint development is to use it regularly, to experiment and create your own solutions.
Consider contributing to open-source projects or creating your own side projects to put your skills to the test.
In conclusion, a SharePoint Developer must view their education as an ongoing process, constantly striving to learn more and grow professionally.
This continual improvement and diversification of skills will be a major asset in your career advancement.
SharePoint Developers are professionals who use their knowledge in Microsoft SharePoint platform to design, develop and implement business solutions.
They work in coordination with project managers and other software developers to provide SharePoint solutions that suit the needs of the company.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
- Design, code, test, and maintain SharePoint applications.
- Develop clean, efficient, and maintainable code.
- Utilize SharePoint API and object model to accomplish business requirements.
Problem Solving
- Analyze complex technical problems and propose SharePoint-centric solutions.
- Debug and troubleshoot issues in SharePoint systems.
- Optimize SharePoint solutions for better performance.
System Architecture
- Participate in architectural design discussions for SharePoint solutions.
- Collaborate with system architects to define SharePoint architecture.
Testing and Quality Assurance
- Write unit tests, integration tests for SharePoint applications.
- Ensure SharePoint solutions meet quality and security standards.
- Perform automated and manual testing on SharePoint solutions.
Documentation
- Create technical documentation for code, SharePoint APIs, and systems.
- Maintain documentation and keep it up-to-date.
Collaboration
- Work closely with cross-functional teams (designers, project managers, QA engineers).
Version Control
- Use version control tools to manage SharePoint code repositories.
- Understand branching, merging, and conflict resolution.
Agile/Scrum
- Follow Agile methodologies for SharePoint project management.
- Participate in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.
Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
- Set up and maintain CI/CD pipelines for SharePoint for automated testing and deployment.
- Ensure SharePoint code is integrated and deployed efficiently.
Performance Optimization
- Identify and resolve SharePoint performance bottlenecks.
- Optimize SharePoint solutions for efficiency.
Security
- Be aware of SharePoint security best practices and potential vulnerabilities.
- Implement security measures to protect SharePoint software and data.
Maintenance and Updates
- Provide ongoing support for deployed SharePoint solutions.
- Apply updates, patches, and bug fixes to SharePoint systems as needed.
Technical Research
- Research and evaluate new SharePoint tools, libraries, and frameworks.
Mentoring and Knowledge Sharing
- Conduct SharePoint code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
Communication
- Communicate SharePoint technical information effectively to non-technical stakeholders.
- Document and communicate SharePoint project progress and issues.
Continuous Learning
- Maintain and improve SharePoint technical skills and knowledge.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and training programs related to SharePoint.
SharePoint Developers work in a variety of industries, often as part of an organization’s IT or software development department.
They can also work independently as consultants or freelancers.
They specialize in developing and designing applications and solutions using Microsoft SharePoint, a web-based collaborative platform that integrates with Microsoft Office.
They work closely with other IT professionals such as system administrators, software engineers, and business analysts to create and implement customized SharePoint solutions that meet the business needs of their organization.
Their primary tasks involve creating SharePoint sites and applications, writing and modifying code, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the performance and reliability of the SharePoint environment.
They use languages such as ASP.NET, C#, and JavaScript to build features and applications.
SharePoint Developers are also responsible for configuring SharePoint systems according to company requirements, designing SharePoint infrastructure, and maintaining and updating SharePoint systems.
They may also be tasked with creating user manuals and training staff on how to use the implemented SharePoint applications and features.
Their role requires a deep understanding of the SharePoint platform and strong problem-solving skills to address any technical issues that arise.
Ensuring user satisfaction and meeting project deadlines are also essential parts of their job.
- SharePoint Knowledge: A SharePoint developer needs to have a deep understanding of SharePoint capabilities, features, and architecture. This includes SharePoint Server, SharePoint Online, and Office 365.
- .NET Framework: Proficiency in .NET Framework, especially ASP.NET, is crucial. This includes understanding concepts like MVC, Web API, and Entity Framework.
- C#: SharePoint Development heavily relies on C#, therefore, proficiency in C# programming language is a must.
- JavaScript: A SharePoint developer should be proficient in JavaScript and its libraries, particularly jQuery and React JS, as SharePoint extensively uses JavaScript for custom development.
- PowerShell: Knowledge of PowerShell scripting is essential for tasks related to automation, deployment, and server administration.
- HTML and CSS: Understanding of HTML and CSS is vital for customizing the look and feel of SharePoint sites. This includes creating custom site templates and layouts.
- SQL Server: A SharePoint developer should have a solid understanding of SQL Server as SharePoint uses SQL Server as its data storage system.
- Version Control Systems: Familiarity with version control systems like Git is necessary for managing source code and collaborating with other developers.
- Web Services: Knowledge of Web Services (REST and SOAP) is vital for integrating SharePoint with other systems or third-party applications.
- Problem-Solving: Given the complex nature of SharePoint environments, problem-solving skills are crucial for diagnosing and addressing issues.
- Communication: SharePoint developers often work with end-users, administrators, and other stakeholders. Therefore, excellent communication skills are required to understand needs, explain technical concepts, and collaborate effectively.
- Workflow Development: Proficiency in developing and managing SharePoint workflows is essential for automating business processes within SharePoint.
- Testing and Debugging: Ability to conduct thorough testing and debugging is essential to ensure the reliability and efficiency of SharePoint solutions.
- Project Management: SharePoint developers often manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Thus, project management skills, including time management, and familiarity with Agile methodologies, are beneficial.
- SharePoint Designer: Experience with SharePoint Designer is essential for creating custom SharePoint solutions, including workflows and page layouts.
The journey begins as a Junior SharePoint Developer, where your role primarily involves developing and maintaining SharePoint sites, and gaining hands-on experience.
Your responsibilities may include customizing SharePoint solutions, developing web parts, and fixing bugs.
To excel at this stage:
- Continuous Learning: Master SharePoint development basics and stay updated with the latest SharePoint features.
- Seek Guidance: Request assistance from senior developers when necessary and learn from their experiences.
- Active Participation: Be proactive in your duties and take full responsibility for the tasks assigned to you.
As you become more comfortable in your role, you will progress to the SharePoint Developer position.
In this role, you will be expected to design and develop business solutions on SharePoint platforms.
Here’s how to thrive at this stage:
- Problem Solving: Develop your problem-solving skills by dealing with complex SharePoint development tasks.
- Collaboration: Work closely with team members and stakeholders to deliver efficient solutions.
- Code Quality: Focus on writing clean, maintainable code that follows SharePoint best practices.
Next, you may progress to a Senior SharePoint Developer role, where you will be recognized as a SharePoint expert within your team.
You might take on leadership roles, guide architectural decisions, and lead projects.
To excel at this stage:
- Mentorship: Help junior developers enhance their SharePoint development skills.
- Architectural Thinking: Take into account the overall system design and architecture in your work.
- Leadership: Demonstrate leadership by driving projects to completion and setting a high standard in your work.
As you continue to progress, you may opt to specialize in architectural roles, such as SharePoint Architect, where you’ll be responsible for the strategic design and management of SharePoint environments.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Technical Leadership: Guide technical initiatives and influence the strategic direction of your SharePoint projects and teams.
- Management Skills: Enhance your leadership and communication skills to lead your team effectively.
- Innovation: Keep abreast of the latest trends in SharePoint and broader technology landscape.
At the highest level, you may land roles like SharePoint Practice Lead or Chief Technology Officer.
In these positions, you will be responsible for defining the organization’s technical strategy, making key decisions, and leading large teams.
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- Entry-level SharePoint developers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in computer science or related fields. They are primarily responsible for creating and configuring SharePoint websites.
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $110,000 per year
- Mid-level SharePoint developers have 2-5 years of experience and often have responsibilities that include developing software solutions for SharePoint systems, managing SQL Server databases, and training other staff.
- Median Salary: $110,000 – $140,000 per year
- Senior SharePoint developers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for designing, coding, and implementing SharePoint applications, as well as leading projects and mentoring junior developers.
- Median Salary: $140,000 – $180,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve technical leadership, project management, decision-making, and setting up governance for SharePoint deployments.
- Median Salary: $170,000 – $250,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep technical expertise in SharePoint development. They often involve setting technical strategies for SharePoint usage within a company and managing a team of developers.
SharePoint Developers primarily work in office settings, where they collaborate with IT teams and other stakeholders to design, develop, and deploy SharePoint applications.
They may work for a variety of businesses and industries that require SharePoint solutions, including technology firms, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations.
SharePoint Developers typically work full-time, standard business hours, but there may be instances where they need to work outside of this timeframe to resolve technical issues or meet project deadlines.
Remote work is also a possibility for SharePoint Developers, as the role mostly requires a computer and an internet connection to perform tasks.
With sufficient experience, a SharePoint Developer may advance to roles like a SharePoint Architect or a SharePoint Consultant, or even choose to freelance, providing their expertise to multiple clients.
Becoming a SharePoint Developer involves the mastery of a number of skills.
You should have a solid understanding of SharePoint itself, along with proficiency in .NET framework, ASP.NET, C#, and JavaScript.
A good understanding of HTML and CSS is also crucial.
Additionally, a working knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server, REST APIs, and PowerShell could be beneficial.
Most SharePoint Developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, although practical experience is equally important.
The timeline to become a SharePoint Developer varies based on your starting point and how quickly you learn.
If you’re starting from scratch, earning a bachelor’s degree typically takes four years.
However, if you already have a foundation in computer science or a similar field, you could become proficient in SharePoint in a shorter timeframe.
Hands-on experience is key, and you can acquire this through internships, self-study, and real-world projects.
While a degree can be beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement to become a SharePoint Developer.
Many employers prioritize practical experience and a demonstrable understanding of SharePoint and related technologies over formal education.
You can develop your skills through self-study, online courses, tutorials, and hands-on experience.
Building a portfolio of projects can also showcase your capabilities and make you attractive to potential employers.
SharePoint Development, like many technical roles, can have its stressful moments.
Challenges can arise from dealing with complex problems, working under tight deadlines, or managing multiple projects at once.
However, the level of stress can be managed by maintaining a good work-life balance, staying organized, and continuing to develop problem-solving skills.
Despite these challenges, many find the job rewarding due to the tangible impact they can make on business operations.
The demand for SharePoint Developers is expected to remain steady or even increase in the next decade.
As many businesses continue to use SharePoint for their internal and external websites, workflows, and document management, the need for skilled SharePoint Developers will persist.
Additionally, as Microsoft continues to evolve and enhance SharePoint, developers with up-to-date knowledge and skills will be in high demand.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Stepping onto the path to become a SharePoint Developer may seem daunting, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making significant contributions in the realm of digital solutions.
The journey may be tough, but the possibilities are limitless. Your innovations could lead to the next breakthrough that reshapes how businesses and teams collaborate and operate.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop developing.
Because the world is anticipating what you can innovate.
If you need personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a SharePoint Developer, consider our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to effectively navigate your career path.
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