Applying for a part time web design job

[GundamSonicZeroX]

I'm considering applying for a part time position listed in my local newspaper. The only problem is that I'm not sure how to describe my skillset. I don't want to embellish, but I don't want to undersell myself either. I know I can use (X)HTML well, but my skills in CSS are somewhat limited. I can code in CSS, but I can't do it as quickly as I like since it's a pain in the ass to do almost anything. I know I can do the job since it's website maintenance, so the site would be coded for me. If you're wondering, this will be my first time submitting a resume. I really want this job, it would be a good stepping stone for me.

Here's the description:

5 hrs/day - 8-1 or 9-2 $12/hr
- No benefits. Desirable skill set
includes web site maintenance
along with full range of office
skills.

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
~GSZX1337

 

[Crusty]

Depending on how you found the listing I would reply with an email stating your intentions with an attached resume. In the email I would provide links to sample work or attach a hardcopy of the output if they aren't online. A portfolio of work is important for a job doing design

 

[Titan]

Dude, don't feel guilty, that is a complex many programmers feel.

You know CSS, you've used it, you know what you don't like about it. Put it down on your resume.

Just be confident in yourself, and your ability to learn the new technical details. Don't fuss over not being a CSS or whatever technology master, all job descriptions have that and are always over-inflated. Just sell yourself right with confidence. I got my job as a PHP programmer where they wanted sample code in the description and I never wrote a line of PHP in my life, and they didn't ask me for code. Now I'm one of their top programmers.

Don't let job descriptions daunt you. They put a lot of that stuff to intimidate and filter out the weak candidates.

And that is a crap job in terms of pay. I hope that is your stepping stone to something better in the near future.

 

[Markbnj]

If this is your first gig, then I think you've set your sights on something achievable. If you have solid experience at HTML coding and general system administration then you shouldn't feel underqualified for this by any means. They're offering very low wages and no benefits. I think they'd be lucky to get you.

 

[KIAman]

For $12/h they are not expecting much. Sell yourself like crazy and just get the job.

And, I've seen plenty of job descriptions like that and end up being an office helpdesk job with some coding on the side.

 

[aceO07]

Just go for it. I think you're underselling yourself if you are worried about this one. I think they're looking for more of an office assistant.

 

[erwos]

Originally posted by: KIAman
For $12/h they are not expecting much.

This. It's a rare employer who understates their requirements on an employment ad.

 

[GundamSonicZeroX]

Originally posted by: Titan
And that is a crap job in terms of pay. I hope that is your stepping stone to something better in the near future.

I probably should've mentioned that the job is in a small down in Middle Tennessee (Pleasant View, near Springfield). Not sure if that makes it too much better.

Yes, I am using this job as a stepping stone to something better. Also, I'm not dependent on the income, I'm just saving up to move out of my parents' place.

The only thing I'm concerned about is my resume. Sure, I can code in (X)HTML,CSS, MS and Open Offices, but I've only had two jobs before (one at a local Computer Shop back in Clarksville, the other was Taco Bell) and only developed one web site professionally (and that was for my mother's ministry). Yeah, not much to show off.

 

[clamum]

I don't think that's a bad wage for a small down and for those job responsibilities. I live in a small town too, and got a web design job (Classic ASP scripting, Access DBs, XHTML, CSS) and pay was $12.50/hr. No one is going to pay someone $20/hr for doing that job, around here.

Anyway, I was kind of in the same boat as you as for as resumes go, though I did have a 4 year degree in CS when I found the job. Just put down your education, work history, and skills, and go in there confident and prepared and I think you'll be ok.