by Allan Hoffman
Monster Tech Jobs Expert

With the dotcom boom already a fading memory, it's easy to forget the Web is still relatively young. For anyone angling to break into the world of technology jobs, Web technologies continue to offer unique opportunities, especially for self-starters.

From ASP to Java to XML, Web-related standards, technologies and tools now pervade the business world. But the technology is still in flux, making it possible to gain a foothold by demonstrating your skills through internships, volunteer opportunities and other projects.

And because many of today's top technologists gained their Web skills without the benefit of formal training, they may be open to individuals who have taken a similar route.

The Rules Have Changed

Still, make no mistake about it: This isn't the '90s.

When the industry was in its infancy, knowing a few HTML tags was sometimes enough to get a job, start learning new skills and move up the corporate ladder. Now such limited knowledge won't garner your resume even a passing glance. Companies expect budding Web professionals to be familiar with a broad range of programming languages and software tools, such as JavaScript, PHP, Perl, XML and Java.

Consider the following strategies for breaking into the business:

Got Specific Industry Experience?

If you have in-depth knowledge of a specific industry, whether it's healthcare, manufacturing or retail, you may be able to use that background to gain technology experience. Daniel Meyers, director of human resources for consumer electronics e-tailer Hifi.com, says his company is always on the lookout for people with a solid background in consumer electronics. Someone with retail experience, for instance, could be crucial in helping build software for streamlining the online buying process.

Become a Self-Taught Web Guru

Open standards are the heart of the Web and make it possible to learn Web technologies without the expense -- or access to proprietary software -- required to learn other systems. If you have a fair dose of self-discipline, consider working on your own with online resources, such as Builder.com and Webmonkey. "We have a lot of people who are self-taught Web specialists," notes Meyers. For those seeking more guidance, community colleges, continuing education programs and other learning providers offer courses for people looking to gain Web expertise.

Build a Portfolio

Work on your own Web project as a way to hone your skills and demonstrate your knowledge. If your site develops a following, even better -- you're demonstrating your ability to interact with users. If a project of your own seems daunting, look for a nonprofit or community organisation seeking Web site development or maintenance. Companies take such efforts seriously. Expect questions from employers about your role in any sites you helped develop or maintain. Ideally, you will have demonstrated not only your Web skills but also your ability to work on a team.

Seek Out Real-World Experience

Once you're confident about your skills, look for freelance work, even if the pay isn't exactly what you'd like. Luke Stiles, 26, a software engineer, gained technology experience by doing software development for the same rate of pay he was getting for temp work. "I was building my resume," says Stiles, who was a semi-pro bike racer before getting involved in technology. "Based on that, I was able to get a full-time job." He adds, "You need to build a portfolio of experience, and the way you do that is pro-bono work for nonprofits, or anything else you can point to."

Aim High, But Be Realistic

Don't expect to land the perfect job on your first try. The days of frantic job-hopping and wild dotcom titles are long gone. CIOs and hiring managers recommend flexibility in job hunting, with the aim of gaining a foothold in the industry.

Networking is a must. According to Meyers, 36 percent of Hifi.com's hires come from employee referrals. And remember, just because you know Java doesn't mean you're ready for a six-figure salary. "People come in with grand schemes of making £100,000 a year right out of the box," says Meyers. "It doesn't happen that way."

Visit Monster's Technology Information to post questions and get advice.