Things you should know while choosing SharePoint Developer as your career

SharePoint is a highly useful and configurable platform. And SharePoint developers manage the task of developing customized SharePoint websites for users. They use SharePoint designers to create SharePoint solutions as per the preferences of clients. 

The aim is to develop a solution that improves business functioning and processes. To become a SharePoint developer, you must have expert knowledge of SharePoint and all the essential development tools. You must also be skilled in building scalable web applications, designing enterprise frameworks, training users, and customizing SharePoint. 

In this blog, we have discussed the roles and responsibilities of a SharePoint developer, their job description, the skills required to become a SharePoint developer, and the certifications that can help you achieve your dream.

Roles and responsibilities of SharePoint developers

The primary role of a SharePoint developer is to customize SharePoint as per the specific needs and requirements of an organization. They help improve business processes and the operational functioning of a business by executing various strategic procedures. To do their job successfully, they frequently interact with clients to understand their needs and goals. 

Their tasks also include ensuring that the website is running efficiently and users get a smooth experience. Let us discuss some of the SharePoint developers' roles and responsibilities in detail.

• Custom developments

This is the primary responsibility of SharePoint developers. They have to create custom features, designs, systems, and intranets for organizations. Some of the things they develop include the following.

• Intranets and portals

• Customized systems such as document management, learning management, helpdesk, etc

• Custom features such as templates, workflows, etc

• Migration

SharePoint developers are also responsible for migrating SharePoint solutions to newer and better versions. They ensure that the system doesn’t lose its customizations during the migration process. 

• Integration

SharePoint works in integration with Microsoft products. To use all of its capabilities, organizations have to integrate it with enterprise systems such as CRM, ERP, etc. SharePoint professionals are responsible for doing this integration. They integrate SharePoint with enterprise systems, email tools, and collaboration solutions. 

• Branding

SharePoint developers customize SharePoint as per the organization’s logos and themes. This is done to enhance user experience and create a feeling of community. The layout of the system is customized according to organizations’ colors and styles.

• Provide training

SharePoint developers are also responsible for providing training to users on how to make the most out of the platform. They help users adopt the system quickly and train them on the basic configuration of the platform. 

• Maintenance 

SharePoint developers’ work doesn’t end after developing and implementing the solution. They also maintain the solution and ensure that it's working properly. They add new features as per the client's needs and provide support for technical issues. 

Related: SharePoint On-Premises vs SharePoint Online

Requirements of SharePoint developers

There’s no one way of becoming a SharePoint developer. However, employers typically ask for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or software engineering. Some developers also go for a Master’s degree. Employers also ask for 2-4 years of hands-on experience in the field. 

Apart from education and experience, employers also look for certifications and additional courses. Certifications, such as MCTS and SharePoint Online Development, come in handy during salary negotiation. Aspiring SharePoint developers must also have the essential technical and soft skills to get a job. 

Skills required to become a SharePoint developer

To become a successful SharePoint developer, you must have several essential hard and soft skills. Let us discuss them in detail. 

Technical skills required for SharePoint developers are as follows. 

• SharePoint

The first and most obvious skill is SharePoint. Even if you are an excellent .NET developer, you will not be successful as a SharePoint developer without knowing the unique features and tools SharePoint has. You should be able to work with Master Pages, Web Parts, SharePoint Ribbon, etc. You should also have a thorough knowledge of SharePoint Designer, PowerShell, Visio, and InfoPath. 

• C#

SharePoint developers must also have stellar knowledge of C# language as most of the documentation is done in it. Only exceptional C# knowledge can help you develop excellent SharePoint solutions.

• .NET

Just like having .NET knowledge without SharePoint knowledge is not useful, knowing SharePoint without .NET is also not beneficial. .NET is essential to implement any developments in SharePoint solutions. It is the foundation of custom developments that are done in SharePoint.

• JavaScript

JavaScript is also necessary to be a good SharePoint developer. JavaScript comes in handy during running scripts and making customizations. It is also useful while creating checklist applications, providing data validations, etc. 

• CSS and HTML

Without knowledge of CSS and HTML, a SharePoint developer cannot develop interactive features in web applications. These languages play an integral role in creating an aesthetically pleasing website and significantly influence the user experience.

• Testing and debugging capabilities 

A SharePoint developer with stellar testing and debugging capabilities is highly beneficial for an organization. The knowledge of unit testing, alpha, and beta testing, Traceback techniques, etc., helps save time and resources for organizations. The developer can assist in saving the system from potential data breaches. 

• Databases and documentation expertise

SharePoint developers must have some degree of database knowledge since all the data related to applications is stored there. They should also know how to store files and data properly. This would help them quickly access any file in the future. 

Apart from technical skills, SharePoint developers must also have some soft skills to do their job successfully. Some of these skills include the following. 

• Communication and interpersonal skills 

SharePoint developers have to interact with many people depending on the nature of their project. They often have to collaborate with other teams. As such, they need to have exceptional communication skills. They should be able to take feedback and translate the technical jargon into simple language for clients. They should have the ability to express their ideas clearly and concisely.

• Collaborative skills

SharePoint development is based on collaboration. A SharePoint developer with good collaborative skills can prove to be the greatest asset to their team. This is because they can work and help their colleagues whenever necessary. They can also be the bridge between the client and the team.

• Patience

Patience is a must for SharePoint developers. SharePoint development involves developing a web application from scratch. This means there are high chances of making mistakes, starting from scratch again and again. Only with patience and passion for their work can SharePoint developers stay in the game and accept failure. 

Salary and career path of SharePoint developers

As they gain experience and learn more skills, a SharePoint developer can go on to become a Senior SharePoint Developer, SharePoint Architect, Senior Information Technology Manager, and even Director Of Software Technology. 

SharePoint developers earn $45.7 per hour in the United States. The best developers can make up to $120,000 a year. 

How to become a SharePoint developer

SharePoint development is a lucrative field. And the job market is expected to grow in the coming years. You can follow the below steps to become a SharePoint developer.

• Education

The first step is to get the necessary education. Most SharePoint developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some also opt for a master's degree to better their prospects. 

• Develop skills

Education alone is not enough to become a SharePoint developer. You should also have the relevant skills. Skills such as JavaScript, CSS, Jquery, SharePoint, and HTML are considered essential. You should also have the necessary soft skills. 

• Do internships and training

SharePoint developers typically go through on-the-job training to understand the requirements of their organization. In these training sessions, they learn the different needs and preferences of their organization and clients. 

• Get certification

Getting certifications can increase your skills, knowledge, and chances of getting a job. They help make your resume stand out from others. Most SharePoint developers have MCTS and SharePoint 2010 certifications. 

• Learn roles and responsibilities

You should have proper knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a SharePoint developer before becoming one. SharePoint developer job descriptions often include responsibilities such as designing solutions, training users, configuring metadata services, and many other things.  

• Prepare your resume and apply for jobs

The last step is to prepare your resume and start applying for jobs. You may require a few years of experience before becoming a SharePoint developer. Get some experience as a SharePoint administrator or NET developer to widen your prospects.

• Certifications 

Certifications are incredibly useful for SharePoint developers. They show your strength, knowledge, skills, and expertise to prospective employers. Getting them is a great way of keeping yourself updated with recent developments. Some of the common certifications SharePoint developers get to include the following:

• Developing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016 Solutions
• SharePoint Online Development
• 50064-C: Advanced SharePoint Development
• Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 3.5, Windows Workflow Foundation Applications (MCTS)
• SharePoint 2010 Certification
• Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
• Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013
• Microsoft SharePoint 2013 Certification

SharePoint is an incredibly useful tool for organizations. Its relevance will continue to increase in the coming years. The career options for SharePoint developers are endless with substantial scope for growth. And the path to becoming a SharePoint developer is not difficult. With the right knowledge, skills, and passion, you can quickly become a successful developer.