React Developer Advice For Your Next Role

Useful tips on what you need to know in order to secure your next React Developer job.

What skills should you focus on for best results when applying?

So, you’re looking to find your next React developer role? Or perhaps to start your path as a developer, and we wanted to help you on your search. Becoming a React developer opens up a lot of opportunities for you. Because it’s used in multiple industries and also worldwide. So the potential to travel with your work is definitely an option if you want it to be!

Knowing skills such as Node.js will benefit your applications to React Developer jobs undoubtedly.

Average React Developer Salary in UK

Salaries are promising for React Developers, and there’s plenty of scope to push upwards with it. Some examples are:

  • Starting salaries for React developers £18-£25,000
  • Junior roles £25-£35,000
  • Mid-level £35-£55,000 
  • Senior React devs are looking at £55-£90,000 plus!

The opportunities as a developer are almost endless. It’s definitely something to take advantage of, as demand for these skills looks to grow each year.

The Social Side

There’s also plenty of networking events with React.js, via the likes of Meetups or online events. Which is perfect for expanding your personal networks within the tech community, but also potentially learn from peers in these groups. It also provides a perfect opportunity to keep updated with industry updates and news and to learn what these may mean for you in your job too. 

Can I Work In An Agency?

Agency roles are plentiful, whether you’re looking at bigger agencies or more close-knit options. It’s worth looking into if they already offer developer options as a solution to clients- but there’s both pros and cons to this. It may be slightly more heavy-duty if you’re going in as the first React Developer! However, it also means that there’s more potential and scope for you to shape it as you go on. 

You could also approach agencies as a freelancer, and there’s a lot of potential for this to be successful. This definitely requires a strategic approach and may not be the ideal starting point. Experience is extremely valuable so it may be something you prefer looking into when you’re comfortable within all of the roles and duties you have. 

Internal roles are probably the most common, though- so working for one company specifically, every day. Companies that are looking for React Developers are almost always newer than competitors. Because React is the newer and “trendier” system, whereas Angular is seen as the enterprise system.

This means that you’d potentially be joining a team that has a more flexible approach to their systems and perhaps an entire work ethos. Which could work in your favour if you prefer keeping on top of all of the newest systems and apps that work alongside React!

How Do You Nail An Interview For A React Developer Job?

It all depends on the level and what specific developer role you’re going for. However, a rule of thumb and definitely worth taking note of are the following:

  1. Case Studies – Display some of your personal projects in React.js. These don’t have to be only commercial, and interviewers often love to see your personal projects. It shows your passion for your work and dedication- both being key assets that employers look for. 
  2. Focus on 3 key industries – you’re looking to get into. For example, this may be along the lines of Fintech, Publishing, and Gaming. This helps in defining your approach to your projects. But also helps in directing where you need to focus on catching your interviewer’s attention. 
  3. Learn and apply – The more that you can learn on the latest tools and features around React.js, the more it will give you an advantage. In essence, learn the most you can and show evidence of this in your projects. From the likes of Gatsby or Storybook, the more you can show- the better!
  4. Know-How – Whilst it shouldn’t be a primary focus for you, it’s certainly going to be beneficial if you show knowledge of legacy systems or older existing systems. This may be something that employers want to be converted to newer development techniques.  
  5. Show your work on APIs – for example, REST or SOAP- which will require a good understanding of Node.js. But without a doubt puts you in a great position for success! 

Try to include these in your interview for the best results. It’s what we tell all our candidates and, 9 times out of 10, it works.

Learning as much as you can about developer programmes will only benefit you!

What React Developer jobs can I get in the future?

There’s a massive opportunity for you when working with React- as it’s a relatively new system still, there’s a lot of growth yet to be made with it. This also means that it’s an avenue that a lot of companies have potentially not explored. Allowing you to work with these companies and build on their React approach.

Many industries are already implementing it, and more seem to be expressing interest- you’re not limited to a one mould sort of situation here- you’re certainly able to take your pick with industries that are to your choosing. 

It’s just at the beginning of it’s technical “life”, so opportunities are truly limitless.

Is there a demand for React Developers in Manchester?

The North West has 17,440 digital tech firms, and in 2020, there was over 200% increase in investments in Health Tech. Similar patterns are also looking to emerge in other areas of tech.

Manchester had incredible growth in 2020. In part due to the expansion of The Hut Group, but also from individual businesses and agencies. There is absolutely a demand for React Developers in Manchester, and it looks like it’s only going to continue increasing!

With digital hotspots in Media City, the Northern Quarter, and Ancoats, you’re not limited to one specific area. What’s more, is a massive variety of industries and companies in each of these areas.  

If you have any other tips you’ve found to be extremely helpful, why not let us know via social media, email or give us a call.