WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems (CMS) in the world, powering over 30% of all websites. That popularity has led to a boom in demand for WordPress developers who can create custom themes and plugins. If you’re thinking about becoming a WordPress developer, there are a few essential skills you’ll need to succeed.
- A Solid Understanding of PHP
PHP is the programming language that WordPress is written in. A solid understanding of PHP is essential for any WordPress developer because you’ll need to be able to understand and edit the codebase. You don’t need to be a PHP expert to be a WordPress developer, but you should have a good working knowledge of the language.
- Familiarity With MySQL
MySQL is the database management system that WordPress uses to store data like posts, pages, comments, and users. As a WordPress developer, you’ll need to be able to write SQL queries to retrieve data from the database. You don’t need to be a database expert, but you should have a good understanding of how MySQL works.
- Ability to Use WP-CLI
WP-CLI is a command line interface for managing WordPress websites. It’s an essential tool for any WordPress developer because it allows you to manage your website without using the WordPress admin panel. WP-CLI is also useful for automating tasks like plugin and theme updates, database backups, and user management.
- CSS and HTML Knowledge
CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and HTML (HyperText Markup Language) are the two languages that are used to style and structure web pages. As a WordPress developer, you’ll need a good understanding of both CSS and HTML so that you can create custom themes and plugins.
- Javascript Knowledge
While not required, knowledge of Javascript will give you an extra edge as a WordPress developer. Javascript is a programming language that can be used to create interactive elements on web pages. Many popular WordPress plugins and themes use Javascript to add features like sliders, lightboxes, and form validation.
- Understanding of Accessibility Standards
Accessibility standards are guidelines that ensure that websites can be accessed by people with disabilities. As a WordPress developer, it’s important to have an understanding of accessibility standards so that you can create themes and plugins that are accessible to everyone.
- Familiarity With the Gutenberg Editor
The Gutenberg editor is the new default editor in WordPress. It’s an important tool for any WordPress developer because it allows you to easily create complex layouts with blocks. Familiarity with the Gutenberg editor will give you an advantage when creating custom blocks for your themes and plugins.
Set realistic expectations.
One of the biggest mistakes that businesses make when working with freelancers is having unrealistic expectations. Remember that your developer is only one person and they likely have other clients that they’re working with as well. Be realistic about what can be accomplished in the timeframe that you’re working with and don’t try to cram too much into one project.
