Hey, I've been working with Java a bit, and I think I'm getting the basics, but I want to be able to use it effectively as a job. Are there any specific things that every Java programmer should know? Are there any specific things that really help? Or any technologies that complement Java?
I've wanted to "break into the business," but I'm a bit overwhelmed. I've looked at freelancing sites such as oDesk, but for every job I find there already seems to be half a dozen professionals ready to jump on it. To get a job, I need experience, to get experience, I need a job. How does one get started?
As you can see, I'm quite green and would appreciate any advice I could get!
Thanks!