The job of a web developer and designer can be very interesting. If you work for a design agency then you will often get the opportunity to work on a number of different projects for different types of industries.
Some developers decide to go self-employed so they can run their own business but it is important to ensure that you have the skills and confidence to gain sales too. Some developers are great at programming and designing, but struggle to sell their business to others and do not like pitching for work. If this is the case then you may need to hire a sales consultant or subcontract to a third party who will find the work for you.
Networking can work wonders within the web design industry as many business owners like the opportunity to meet with their programmer/designer face to face before agreeing to a project. Social media is often another way in which you can gain more work. Lots of businesses now have a presence on the social media sites and if you can advertise on there too, you have a good chance of being able to gain a few enquiries through Facebook or Twitter etc.