Top 5 Must-Know New Salesforce Developer Skills

Understanding the Salesforce Data Model

The foundation of effective Salesforce development is a thorough understanding of the Salesforce data model. Many developers transitioning from other platforms often overlook this aspect, leading to inefficiencies and misapplications of code. Salesforce offers a variety of built-in tools for business logic and automation, which should be leveraged before resorting to custom code. Key tools include:

• Flows
• Approval processes
• Old tools like work rules and process builders which are now deprecated

For beginners, Trailhead provides excellent resources to grasp these foundational elements. However moving into developer topics often aren’t covered well on Trailhead.

Mastering Salesforce Triggers

Apex triggers are indispensable for automating actions within Salesforce. Developers must not only understand how to write basic triggers but also adhere to best practices such as:

• Using logic-less triggers
• Employing trigger frameworks
• Ensuring bulkification
• Preventing recursion to avoid governor limits

To master triggers you can find affordable courses like the Ultimate Guide to Salesforce Triggers.

Lightning Web Components (LWCs)

LWCs are crucial for creating custom user interfaces in Salesforce. Built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, they are accessible to front-end developers. LWCs simplify the manipulation and presentation of Salesforce data, enabling developers to create sophisticated and user-friendly interfaces. Key points for beginners include:

• Using out-of-the-box components
• Sticking to the Lightning Design System for consistency

Trailhead and mentor courses provide valuable resources for learning LWCs.

Importance of Testing

Writing test classes and debugging are essential for ensuring code quality and functionality in Salesforce. Testing is mandatory for deploying code to production. Best practices include:

• Using data factories
• Creating meaningful tests

Learning to write effective test classes can be daunting, but resources like Trailhead, Apex documentation, and developer programs can provide the necessary guidance.

Salesforce Object Query Language (SOQL)

Proficiency in SOQL is vital for querying data efficiently without relying on cumbersome reports. Advanced techniques can optimize data retrieval and enhance workflow. Key techniques include:

• Using parent-child relationships in queries
• Employing the WHERE clause, LIMIT, and ORDER BY clauses for efficient queries

For more information on learning SOQL try out the comprehensive guide to Salesforce SOQL.

What’s Next – Free Resources to Learn More

If you’re ready to start learning development here are some great free resources:

• The 5 Day Developer Challenge: This is just what it sounds like. 5 days of learning Salesforce developer basics to kickoff your learning journey.
• Trailblazer Mentorship Platform: Everyone needs a good Mentor! With this platform you can get a free 1:1 mentor that you hand select to guide you on your Salesforce path.
• Trailhead: Salesforce’s own learning platform offers beginner trails to get started with Salesforce, however it often lacks on developer topics specifically. Which is why my next recommendation is Camp Apex. 
• Camp Apex: This could simply be called “Trailhead for Salesforce Developer”, it includes comprehensive lessons to help learners transition from novices to proficient coders.

Conclusion

Salesforce development requires a balanced focus on:

• Understanding the data model
• Mastering triggers
• Developing with LWCs
• Implementing robust testing practices
• Leveraging SOQL for data queries

Utilizing available resources like Trailhead and specialized courses can significantly aid in mastering these essential skills. Aspiring developers can also benefit from structured programs like the Developer Kickstart Program, which provides hands-on learning and community support. By focusing on these key areas, Salesforce developers can enhance their capabilities and advance their careers.