I build websites for a living. Strategically, I help people translate business problems into good user experiences through white boarding, wire framing, prototyping, etc . Tactically, I spend time estimating, actively coding solutions, or directing teams through solutions. But all of my professional time is spent in the pursuit of building enterprise websites.
Over the years I’ve spent so much time building websites for others that I’ve never really spent much time building my own. A contributing factor to this has been working for the same large corporation for the vast majority of my career. I’m working on my 14th year without really having to worry about interviewing or otherwise trying to convince anybody I know what I’m doing. I’ve moved across sister companies, but to work with people who know and trust my abilities. I haven’t even tucked away finished projects for a portfolio.
I find myself completely unprepared should the need arise for me to seek employment. So last week I finally decided to at least fill out some basic information on linkedin (http://www.linkedin.com/pub/paul-holder/26/434/499) and start the beginnings of an official network. My next step is to dust the cobwebs off this place and develop a custom theme/design for WordPress.
So here I am, with a great deal of experience, and no decent record of it if you haven’t worked directly with me and know my abilities.
This is the year I make my own shoes for a future friendly me.