We speak to
freelance iOS developer, Thanh Than Dang about his experience working as a freelancer in Ho Chi Minh City, what he loves about iOS and the future of
tech in Vietnam.
Tell us a little bit about your background and experience.
I’m a mobile developer expert in iOS with about five years of experience in software development. My passion is truly
mobile development. I’m always trying to expand my knowledge as a freelance iOS developer to a higher level any chance I get.
What has your experience as a freelancer iOS developer been like? How long have you been a freelancer?
I first started out as an IT freelancer four years ago with a project in Germany. A friend of mine had a contact there who wanted to expand a project with a remote developer and he ended up choosing me. This was how it all began. And since then, I’ve wanted to work as a freelancer.
What type of projects have you been working on?
At the moment, I’m working on an entertainment application with some clients from Sweden. I must say, it is a pretty cool application. We’re planning to develop it both of iOS and
Android platforms. But that’s all the details I can give to you for now. You will just have to wait until it comes out!
What do you love about iOS?
Apple has become more and more advanced over the years with a lot of technical developments. Ever since the beginning, I’ve always had a strong interest in iOS.
What is it like freelancing in Vietnam?
There are a lot of freelancers in Vietnam, most of whom are working remotely for different types projects around the world. Many of these tech experts want to work as a freelancer. There are many different kinds of freelancers in Vietnam as I know and most of them are not working directly with the client. I would say because of this, the rate has gone down quite a bit.
How is the tech industry changing in Vietnam?
The tech industry is changing day by day, not only in Vietnam but all over the world. As an iOS developer, I learn something new every day and I continue to see new updates to come in the future. There are a lot of
tech startups in Vietnam and they are vastly growing with new products, innovation, and so much more. A lot of which is ironically created from freelance projects.
What type of advice would you give other freelancers starting out?
Try to learn as much as you can in the technical side of development and be sure to highlight these skills on your profiles such as LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.
Try to improve your
technical skills and keep learning everyday. When you are working with a customer, it’s important to keep in touch with them and to ask for feedback as much as possible. This will help keep the communication open throughout the whole project.
When it comes to freelance work, we all tend to work long nights to get projects done. Remember that yes, everyone works for money, but it’s important to keep your health up and to always remember to take a break.
What skills are most important for you to have in the tech industry?
Research
Communication
Be knowledgeable in the technical side as much as you can. Always learn more.
Do you see yourself moving to another country to work in tech? If so, where would you go?
It’s hard to leave the family but if I had the opportunity to work in another country like Australia, Canada, U.S. or England, I’d love to try it out!
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working?
I love playing football, enjoying coffee with friends and of course, traveling.
