As the tech industry continues to grow, you might want to get your foot in the door as soon as possible.This industry can be competitive, so it’s important to make yourself stand out during the application process. However, with so many companies and positions available, you might not know where to start.
This guide will break down some essential steps to take to get your first job in tech. No matter your degree or skill set, an exciting and lucrative career path likely is available for you. You simply need to find your in and sell your experience.
1. Consider where your skills can fit
Many people interested in the tech industry might be worried about their lack of tech experience. But you don’t need to be a programmer or engineer to work in tech. Professionals with experience in finance, business administration, design, marketing, research, and more can still get a job in the tech industry. These non-tech roles are just as essential to the organization as those building products. It takes an intricate behind-the-scenes team to keep the business running and market the deliverables.
2. Build a portfolio
Once you figure out where your skills might fit in within tech, you need to build a portfolio to demonstrate these skills. Without these materials, you will seem inexperienced and not prepared for the job. If you don’t have previous jobs where you can pull portfolio pieces, try doing some freelance work in the meantime. Offer your services to clients or simply create a series of mockups. Whether you’re developing basic websites or photographing print ads, a high quality portfolio can elevate your application.
3. Get training if necessary
You generally need some level or education to work in the tech industry, so be proactive about going back to school if necessary. For example, if you want to pivot your career to be in engineering, you should make the investment and get a degree. You should then receive any certifications, like taking the CCNA exam, before sending in any applications. These lines on your resume could make or break your tech career.
4. Learn about your prospective employers
Once you are ready to start interviewing, be sure you make a list of the companies you want to apply to. A relevant staffing agency such as ENSER can help you explore your options. You should learn what the companies do, what your responsibilities would be in your desired role, and what the culture is like. This will help you decide which companies might be a good fit for you and what you need to do to prepare for an interview. Making this effort and doing your homework will show that you are serious about working for the employer.
5. Talk to someone on the inside
Whenever you’re interested in entering a certain industry, it can be helpful to network. Find someone who works in your desired role and ask them to get coffee. This might be a friend or someone you find on LinkedIn. Talk to them about their background, how they entered the industry, and what employers typically look for when hiring. They will likely have some tangible advice, and you can learn valuable insight as you pursue a job in tech.
The tech industry is growing rapidly, so there is a constant need for new talent. Throughout this process, be sure that you’re showcasing your unique skills and why you’re the ideal candidate for the job. And of course, be patient. It can take time to find a suitable role. With persistence and tweaks to your resume, you will eventually find a job that’s ideal for you.
