The technology sector is among the fastest growing in terms of job opportunities. Just scroll through the various job boards online and you’ll see dozens of tech-related openings. For non-techies, this can be frustrating. The good news is, many of those roles aren’t as inaccessible as you might think. In fact, more and more organizations are recognizing that technical skills, which can be learned, are secondary to other skillsets, like leadership and communication. If you’re thinking about taking the leap, here are five ways to get your foot in the door:
Do your homework
Figure out which types of tech jobs you might be most interested in. Go through the various job descriptions to get a feel for what types of skills employers are looking for. By gaining a clear understanding of the skills that are in demand for tech positions in your area, you can identify which of your strengths might be transferable. For instance, some roles may call for excellent problem-solving skills, strong communication or the ability to collaborate as part of a team.
Identify and address gaps
If you don’t have a background in tech, there will likely be certain preferred skillsets that you lack. This doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. You just need to be proactive about taking the necessary steps to close those gaps. There are a number of ways you can do this, whether it’s taking on technical projects with your current employer or seeking additional training and certifications. Many training programs are available online, through sites like Technology Certifications and Codecademy.
Stand out from the crowd
Without a ton of hands-on experience or technical know-how, it’ll be even more challenging to break into the industry. The good news is, many hiring managers are looking for more than just what is on your resume. They want candidates that are motivated and have a strong desire to learn and grow. Figure out your unique value proposition and then incorporate that into your proposals to employers.
Be flexible
Understand that transitioning into an entirely new field may require you to take a position that is below your experience level. In some instances, you may need to start at the bottom and work your way up. For example, a help desk support role may be a great entry-level position for someone who isn’t yet fully tech proficient but does possess other key skills, like problem-solving and customer service. Sometimes you have to take a few steps back to make a big leap forward.
Think outside the box (and look for employers who do as well)
Startup companies are known for their unique or innovative approach to business. Finding a company that is willing to take chances and go against the grain can often be the key to breaking into a new career sector. Being open to opportunities that may not align with your previous work history can help you find prospective employers who prefer a cultural fit and are willing to train for skills.
The tech industry presents a tremendous opportunity for those seeking a career change. While some roles require formal education, there are some great tech-related positions you can work toward with little to no experience. The five steps above should help get you on the right path to a new and exciting career.
If you’re looking to expand your job search, get in touch and we can discuss how Betts can help get you on the tech career path!