You’re not alone if you have been considering a career change and have been curious about the tech world. Known for impressive salaries, excellent perks, and a fast-growing landscape, it is a booming industry that you can get a slice of.
Before you shake your head and think, ‘I still need help figuring out my Apple ID,’ let us stop you. Sarah Liu, founder and managing director of diversity, equity, and inclusion consultancy, I picked only five super simple ways to get the job you’ve been dreaming about.
⦿ Start to navigate your career
When it comes to approaching where you fit into the tech world, it’s about zooming out rather than zooming in. Technology companies are aiming to solve big problems, so focus on their larger mission when considering a new role and assess how your current skills and strengths can help these companies achieve or further their mission, I left school at 16 with no major qualifications, and I really had to carve my own path in an industry that had no clear path.
Pull out a few positions that seem interesting to you (and remember to save them using Teal’s Job Tracker so you can easily get back to them when you need to!) and look specifically at the qualifications.
What do those requirements have in common? Do you need a specific type of degree or certification? Are there certain skills you see mentioned across the board? Make a note of the common threads you spot. That’ll be helpful as you figure out your next steps.
⦿ Get crystal clear on your unique value proposition
Next, you want to find a way to stand out successfully in the competitive tech space. The most effective way to do this is to identify and own your fabulousnesses. In other words, you want to communicate what sets you apart from other job seekers who are applying and interviewing for the same companies and roles as you.
Eventually, if you want to ensure high-tech recruiters and hiring managers are aware of your unique value proposition. Communicate your fabulousness in your cover letter and résumé, on your LinkedIn profile, and while networking and interviewing.
⦿ Be Open to Starting at the Bottom
It’s important to note that you may have to “start over.” You may have been a manager or an advanced professional in your old industry, but remember — you’re leaving it for a reason. Be prepared to start with an entry-level position and work your way up. The experience you get working at the bottom of the ladder will be valuable as you grow into a more challenging position.
Don’t worry too much, though – the earning potential you will have in a new position is only limited by the work you put in. On the low-end, you are looking at starting out right in a help desk position. But within a few years in the industry and a couple of cybersecurity certifications, you could be looking at around $65K minimum in a Cybersecurity Analyst role. It really depends on your willingness to move forward and the extra learning time you put in to master your craft.
⦿ Build a Portfolio That Stands Out
Once you have learned a skill or two, start building your portfolio by working on small projects. Don’t seek perfection but experience and development. Implementing your skills and building your experience are key at this point. There are tons of freelance opportunities and small businesses that offer applicants one-time assignments and projects.
These projects can lay the foundation of your portfolio and show recruiters your capabilities. Evidence of learning and qualification is essential, but ultimately, the practical translation of your skills is going to be hugely important when securing an employment opportunity.
⦿ Find the Right Company
Not all tech companies are created equal. There are some amazingly awesome tech companies out there, and there are some awful ones. But even among those that are wonderful, they’re not perfect for everyone.
There are a few things to consider when you’re trying to find a company that’s a good fit.
First, think about the kind of company culture that works best for you. Some people prefer to work at really large companies with tons of employees and amazing perks. Places like Google or Apple. Other people prefer startups where things are changing all the time, and there’s a certain level of uncertainty. Think about which one you’d prefer and then go from there when looking for jobs.
Don’t Limit Your Search! You know what kind of job you want. You know the kind of company you want to work for. And you’ve been sending out tons of resumes and applying to tons of jobs with no luck.
If you’re wondering where to start learning tech skills so you can find your dream job right away, it is the perfect time to begin your baby steps!
