5 key skills of a future Shopify Developer

Shopify

Shopify is an e-commerce platform that allows users to easily create and manage online stores. With an intuitive interface, users can create and personalize their stores without advanced programming knowledge. Shopify allows users to add, edit and organize products and manage inventory. It supports a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal and other payment systems. The platform allows you to configure various shipping methods, integrate with courier companies and generate shipping labels. Marketing tools and SEO features help increase store visibility and attract customers. Shopify also offers reports and analysis on sales, customer behavior and store performance, provides technical support and takes care of data security.

Who is a Shopify Developer?

A Shopify Developer is a specialist who develops and customizes online stores on the Shopify platform. His tasks include designing and implementing functional, aesthetically pleasing online stores, as well as writing code to extend Shopify's functionality by creating applications and plugins. Shopify Developer integrates the platform with other systems, such as ERP, CRM, payment systems or marketing tools. He or she takes care of store performance, SEO optimization and user experience improvement, as well as solves technical problems, handles store maintenance and updates. Such a specialist must have programming skills (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Liquid), as well as knowledge of the Shopify ecosystem and experience in e-commerce.

Let's see what basic skills a Shopify Developer should have!

1. Knowledge of Liquid

Fundamentals and advanced applications of Liquid

Shopify Liquid is the template language that powers Shopify. It is a tool that allows you to create dynamic and personalized stores. Mastering Liquid allows you to fully customize the look and function of the store to the customer's needs. Sounds complicated? Calm down! To get started, it's worth checking out the official Shopify documentation and the courses available online.

Its simplicity and intuitive syntax allow you to easily create and manage templates. Users can use variables, tags, filters and loops to personalize content, which is especially important for stores operating in international markets. Liquid is also secure, protecting against XSS attacks and allowing integration with various external applications.

Create custom themes and sections

With Liquid, developers can design custom themes that reflect the store's brand. Liquid allows you to create dynamic and responsive templates that can be customized to different devices and user needs. Users can also create custom sections using Liquid variables to insert content such as shipping policy on the product page, which increases personalization and improves customer shopping experience.

Integration of dynamic data into the store

Liquid allows you to easily integrate dynamic data, such as information about products, categories, or orders, allowing you to dynamically generate content based on this data. Developers can use meta-objects to display data in an online store, which allows them to personalize content on store pages based on the customer's geographic location or shopping preferences. Liquid also supports SEO, allowing you to optimize your store pages for search engines, which can significantly improve your store's visibility.

2. GraphQL and REST API support

Basic differences between GraphQL and REST API

The Shopify API is a tool that allows you to integrate with external systems and create powerful features. For example, you can create custom applications that automate various processes in the store. The Shopify API is well documented, so it's a good idea to check out the guides and examples available on the Shopify website. It is also worth playing around creating simple applications to understand how it all works in practice.

Both GraphQL and REST APIs are key technologies used by Shopify Developers to communicate with the back-end of the store. The main difference between them is the way of communication and the structure of the data. The REST API is based on the RESTful protocol and uses traditional HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE, returning data structures in JSON format, where each resource has its own unique endpoint. GraphQL, on the other hand, allows you to specify exactly what data you want to retrieve with a single query, returning data in JSON format that is exactly as defined in the query.

Best practices in using the Shopify API

1. Keep track of changes in API documentation and update integrations to align with new API releases.
2. Authorization: Use authorization tokens to authenticate API queries.
3. Query Optimization: Use selective queries to retrieve only the data you need and minimize the amount of data you upload.
4. Security: Use HTTPS to communicate with the API to ensure data confidentiality and integrity.
5. Error handling: Check API response statuses to verify that the query was executed correctly.

Examples of external integrations

The use of GraphQL and REST API allows integration of external applications with Shopify, which increases the functionality of the store. An example is integration with ERP systems, which allows faster synchronization of customer databases between Shopify stores and ERP systems. Another example is the management of different types of media related to products, which is possible thanks to the GraphQL Admin API, offering greater flexibility and efficiency in data management.

3. Familiarity with the apps available in the Shopify App Store

The Shopify App Store is a mine of add-ons that can expand the capabilities of your store. As a Shopify Developer, you should not only be able to install, but also configure these apps to work at their best. Familiarity with popular add-ons like Oberlo (for dropshipping) or Klaviyo (for email marketing) is essential. Start by browsing available apps and experimenting with them on test stores.

Why should you know the Shopify App Store?

Time saving and automation:
Many applications automate tasks that would normally require a lot of time and effort. For example, inventory management applications can automatically update warehouse status, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of doing business.

Improving customer service:
Apps can also significantly improve customer service. You can install a chatbot that will answer customer questions 24/7, or a ticketing system that will help manage customer requests and solve their problems quickly.

Increase sales:
With marketing apps, you can reach customers more effectively. Tools such as email marketing, advertising campaigns or loyalty programs help attract new customers and encourage existing ones to buy again.

Business Scaling:
As the business begins to grow, the Shopify App Store has apps to help manage more orders, more warehouse, and more advanced operations. We can easily adapt the functionality of the store to your growing needs.

The Shopify App Store is an invaluable source of tools that can make your store more functional, efficient, and customer-friendly. With easy installation and a huge selection of applications, we can quickly and easily adapt our store to our needs, without the need for advanced technical knowledge. It's like having a set of tools that help us run our business more efficiently and with more success.

4. Optimization of performance and SEO

In addition to technical skills, it is also important to take care of the performance of the store and its optimization for SEO. Fast loading pages not only improve the user experience, but also affect search engine positioning. As a Shopify Developer, you should be familiar with optimization techniques such as code minimization, image optimization, and lazy loading. Additionally, knowing SEO principles such as meta tag optimization, URL structure, and internal linking will help you create stores that are both user and search engine friendly.

Fast page loading techniques

• Compress images without losing quality - Using tools like TinyPNG allows you to reduce the size of image files without significant loss of quality, which speeds up their loading.
• Code Optimization - Removing unnecessary CSS and JavaScript code, shortening functions, and combining multiple files into one minimizes and optimizes code, which speeds up page loading.
• Asynchronous loading of scripts - Allows you to load scripts in the background without blocking the rendering of the page, which allows you to display content faster.
• Use of CDN - Content Delivery Network reduces server response time by delivering page resources from the location closest to the user.

SEO Friendly Practices for Shopify

• Optimizing the structure of the site - Maintaining a logical hierarchy of categories and using simple, readable URLs helps search engines index content.
• Descriptive image file names - Renaming image files to descriptive before uploading them to Shopify improves their visibility in search engines.
• Descriptive text for internal links - Using descriptive link text for menu items and internal links makes navigation easier and increases SEO.

Analytical tools and their use

• Shopify Website Performance Dashboard - Reports that use basic web metrics to evaluate store performance from the perspective of users.
• Google PageSpeed Insights - Allows you to run detailed reports for store pages, offering recommendations for optimization.
• Analysis of customer behavior - Tracking navigation paths and analyzing your purchase history helps you refine your shopping experience and increase conversions.

Performance optimization and SEO are key components of Shopify store success, affecting not only customer shopping experiences but also search engine visibility. The implementation of the above techniques and practices will help to achieve better results and increase sales.

5. Communication skills and project management

Finally, do not forget about soft skills. Effective communication with your customers and your team is key. You need to be able to listen, communicate your ideas and manage expectations. In addition, the ability to manage projects will help you plan and execute tasks effectively. Use tools like Trello, Asana, and Slack to make teamwork and organization easier. These skills are especially important if you work with a team, such as at a specialized Shopify agency.

Education and courses - how do I get started?

Starting a career as a Shopify developer does not require formal training in programming, but gaining a solid foundation is key to successfully entering this market. According to the 2023 Developer Skills report , as many as 46% of developers say they are self-taught, showing that practice, not academic degrees, is what matters in this industry.

Recommended learning sources

If you are just starting out, it is a good idea to start with Shopify's official documentation and courses available online. Among the most commonly recommended resources are:

• Shopify Partner Academy - this is a free platform offering courses from the basics to advanced topics such as creating a Shopify app or managing payments.
  
• Udemy, Coursera and LinkedIn Learning - you will find courses covering Liquid, HTML, CSS, JavaScript and the practical aspects of creating a shop on Shopify. Courses on these platforms often offer access to projects where you can learn how to apply the knowledge you have gained.
  
• YouTube - this platform, although free, is a source of a lot of valuable material. Look out for channels run by Shopify developers who share practical tips and code examples.
  

Shopify certifications and affiliate programme

While certifications are not a requirement, they can be useful, especially in building customer trust. Shopify offers its own partner programme, which provides access to educational resources and supports developers in their professional development. Being an official Shopify partner increases credibility and can help you win larger orders.

Self-study vs. online courses

The choice between self-study and online courses depends on preference and budget. Self-study can be more flexible, but online courses offer structured knowledge and a structured approach. It is worth combining both methods, especially as many tools, such as Shopify's documentation or GitHub, are available for free and support self-directed skill development.

How to find a job or assignments as a Shopify developer?

For budding developers, getting their first jobs can be a challenge. According to Upwork's Freelancing in America 2020 report, 59% of freelancers say that getting clients is one of the biggest challenges in their job. However, with the right approach and tools, it is possible to successfully launch a career as a Shopify developer.

Freelance platforms

Popular platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com are places where budding Shopify developers can look for their first assignments. On Upwork, for example, there are more than 10,000 Shopify-related listings in the ‘Web Development’ category. To stand out from the competition, it's a good idea to make sure you have a professional profile, showcasing your skills and sample projects.

Working in agencies vs. working on your own

Starting your career in an e-commerce agency is another option for budding developers. There are many agencies in United Kingdom (or US, Canada or Australia) that specialise in creating shops on the Shopify platform, which can be a great opportunity to gain experience and learn from more experienced colleagues. Working in an agency also allows you to work on larger projects and diverse clients.

Preparing a professional portfolio and CV

A professional portfolio is the key to success in the competitive e-commerce market. According to research by CareerBuilder, 70% of employers review a candidate's portfolio before making a hiring decision. A good portfolio should contain detailed descriptions of projects, presenting challenges, solutions and results achieved. It should also be aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate.

Shopify Developer - Salary

Here’s an overview of expected salaries for Shopify developers at different experience levels. Trends indicate that the rapid growth of the e-commerce sector, coupled with the increasing demand for Shopify specialists, makes this career path appealing in both the UK and internationally.

1. Junior Shopify Developer
   For junior specialists with up to two years of experience, salaries in the UK typically range from €2,000 to €3,000 gross per month. On the international market, remote developers can expect between €1,500 and €3,000 per month.
2. Mid-Level Shopify Developer
   Developers with mid-level experience (two to five years) can expect salaries in the UK to range from €3,000 to €4,500 gross per month. For those working remotely for international clients, salaries increase to between €3,000 and €5,000 per month.
3. Senior Shopify Developer
   Experienced developers with over five years in the field earn between €4,500 and €6,000 gross per month in the UK. Internationally, senior Shopify developers can expect to earn between €5,000 and €8,000 per month, depending on experience and portfolio quality.
4. Shopify Expert / Tech Lead / Programmer
   Expert roles and tech lead positions (Shopify Expert or Tech Lead) can generate salaries exceeding €6,000 gross per month in the UK, with remote international roles often paying over €8,000 per month, especially for high-responsibility projects.

Key Skills and Factors Influencing Salaries:
Desirable candidates bring proficiency in Liquid (Shopify’s templating language), frontend skills such as JavaScript, and experience with REST API or GraphQL. Customizing Shopify Plus stores, developing apps, and integrating third-party tools are also in high demand. A strong portfolio, references, and active participation in the Shopify community further enhance a candidate’s attractiveness, often helping them secure higher compensation.

How to develop your skills as a Shopify Developer

In the rapidly changing world of technology, professional development is essential. Shopify regularly updates its platform with new features and tools to create even more advanced and effective e-commerce solutions. Staying abreast of technological innovations and constantly improving your skills is key to achieving success and gaining a competitive edge.

In e-commerce, adaptation to technological change is key to success.

Karol Polubinski

Head of Hilvec

Keep track of Shopify updates and new features

Shopify rolls out updates that regularly change the platform's capabilities. For example, the introduction of Shopify Hydrogen has opened up new perspectives for more advanced front-end solutions, especially for large e-commerce projects. It is worth following the Shopify blog and their technical documentation, where the company publishes information about upcoming features. As the Software Developers Survey 2022 report shows, more than 70 per cent of developers consider following technology trends an important aspect of their career.

Participation in the developer community

The Shopify community is huge and very active, providing an excellent environment for sharing knowledge and experiences. Forums such as the Shopify Community, groups on Facebook and Reddit, as well as communities on Slack or Discord are places where you can find answers to technical questions, learn best practices and meet like-minded individuals. You should also consider attending conferences such as Shopify Unite, where Shopify announces new features and developments.

Workshops and advanced courses

For those looking to broaden their skills, workshops and advanced courses can be a good option. Shopify offers partner courses and also collaborates with other educational platforms to offer training on the latest e-commerce technologies. Courses on SEO, conversion optimisation and UX design can enhance your offering as a Shopify developer and make your services more comprehensive.

Challenges in a Shopify developer's job and how to deal with them

Working as a Shopify developer is not without its challenges. From having to deal with the technical limitations of the platform to project management to client communication, every aspect of the job can bring unique issues that you need to know how to deal with.

Technical limitations and knowledge of Shopify documentation

Like any platform, Shopify has its technical limitations. For example, in the basic version of Shopify, certain features may be unavailable or limited, sometimes requiring additional work on technical workarounds or the use of third-party applications. Here, theShopify documentation is an invaluable resource to quickly find answers to technical issues. It is worth familiarising yourself with how the API and other features work, which can significantly reduce troubleshooting time and increase efficiency.

Project and schedule management

Many Shopify developers work on a freelance basis, meaning that they manage their own projects and schedules. While this gives a lot of freedom, managing time and multiple projects simultaneously can be a challenge. It is worth using tools such as Trello, Asana or Notion to organise work and monitor progress. According to the Freelancer Report 2023, up to 58% of freelancers indicate that effective time and project management is one of the biggest challenges in their work.

Communication with the client

Effective communication is key to a successful collaboration with the client. A Shopify developer often has to explain complex technical issues in a way that can be understood by someone who is not necessarily familiar with programming. The customer may also not fully understand what the technical limitations of the platform are and have unrealistic expectations. In such situations, it is important to clearly communicate capabilities and delivery times to avoid misunderstandings and ensure better cooperation.

Summary

Embarking on a career as a Shopify developer is an opportunity to thrive in the booming e-commerce sector. The path to success requires gaining technical skills, practice, and building a portfolio that will attract customers. It's worth noting that the path of a Shopify developer doesn't end with winning your first order - constant development, adapting to new trends and working with the community are key elements of the role.

For many, working as a Shopify developer has become not only a way to make money, but also a fascinating journey into the world of e-commerce. Shopify is a platform that opens up a wide range of opportunities and, thanks to the growing interest in online commerce, the demand for specialists in this field will only increase. So it's worth taking the first step now and starting to learn - from the basics, through your first projects, to advanced solutions that will meet the expectations of even the most demanding customers.