Getting started in tech
It isn't all coding
Many people think tech is all about coding but that is a misconception, read on to find out more about the career paths in tech that do not require coding and how to easily get started.
When you first make the decision to pursue a new career in IT, it's important to take a hard look at your prior experience. It might seem like you have none of the skills listed on job postings, but "soft skills" can be surprisingly important and many skills are transferable to IT roles.
For example, suppose you're looking to start in a help desk position (a common entry-level IT role). In that case, things like communication, customer service, community management, familiarity with Microsoft Office, social media, and other common skills can be a huge boost to getting you started. By carefully thinking about your past roles through the lens of the career you'd like to start, you may find a treasure trove of relevant experience.
Some Tech Roles
User eXperience Design (UX Design)
User eXperience Research
User Interface Design
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Specialist
Data Analyst
Growth Hacker
Technical Writer
Technical Recruiter
Product Manager
Technical Project Manager
Mobile Designer
Tech Journalism
Technical Support
Web Analytics Specialist
System Administrator
Software Quality Tester
Information Architect
IT Business Analyst
SAP Consultants
ERP Consultants
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
Full-Stack Developer
Cloud Architect
DevOps Engineer
Blockchain Engineer
Software Architect
Big Data Engineer
Internet of Things (IoT) Solutions Architect
Data Scientist
Most of the roles listed above do not require coding skills to get started, learn more about each role visit here and here
Tips on how to get started
1 . Certification
Getting certified may be the fastest way to break into information technology. While a tech degree can take 1-4 years, certifications can be studied for and earned in just a few weeks. There are many comparisons between getting a degree or earning certifications, but a degree isn’t necessary for entering the IT workforce.
Examples of such certifications are those provided by top players in your career of choice eg Google, Microsoft, Amazon, etc, issued from completing specific courses they provide.
It is also important to know how you learn best and maximize that, some individuals learn faster through books, some through video tutorials, and some others in a physical class. Find out the one that suits you the most and then complement that with others.
2. Your Degree in Another Field May Be a Huge Asset
You may be tearing your hair out with regret, wondering why you used all that time in college on a degree that isn't helping you with your quest for a lifelong career. But don't be too hard on yourself. Many employers are more inclined to offer you a job simply because you were able to accomplish the feat of earning a degree.
Instead of focusing on how your degree may have cost you time and money, focus on the ways that your degree can be applied in moving your life forward into an IT career. For example, an IT worker with a literature degree will be more likely to take a creative approach to problem-solving and have superior writing and communication skills. A philosophy major has a deeper understanding of logic and a unique way of approaching challenges.
With the rapid evolution of IT, there is a huge demand for individuals from diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives.
3. Be Open to Starting at the Bottom
It's important to note that you may have to "start over" in IT. 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 IT is only limited by the work you put in.
If you want a "head start," consider getting a degree or a few certifications. These credentials have the potential to help you out significantly.
Getting educated about your field of interest shows your commitment to your new industry and helps to give you an advantage. It can also prepare you for more advanced opportunities down the line. With no experience, you still won't be able to jump to the top of the ladder. But with so many open positions all across the IT industry, the right credentials can help you quickly climb to higher-paying and more specialized positions in IT.
4. Networking
You may be surprised by how powerful your connections can be. When looking to change career, it is important to attend preferably physical events related to your career of choice, you can get mentors who can help guide you in your career and learn from their experience, and your future referrals for a role can be a result of who you met at an event.
Make sure to use social media, follow relevant players both individuals and firms in your niche, and by simply putting out posts out there letting your connections know your progress and that you are looking to get into tech may bring out an opportunity that you never expected.
5. Look for Crossover Positions
While you might not have any direct experience, there are IT workers in every industry that use networks and computers (practically every industry out there). For example, if you have years of experience in car sales, it might help to look for an IT position at a car dealership. Understanding half of the business can go a long way towards making you a valuable employee right from the start, even if your tech skills aren't top-notch. You'll still have to start at the bottom, but it could be the perfect way to gain your first year or two of IT experience.
All in all, it is not impossible to start a career in IT with no experience — hence the word "start" — but many individuals are still skeptical of making the leap into IT. By arming yourself with the right tools and know-how you can significantly increase your chances of starting a career in tech that will last a lifetime.
Join a community of learners like you at different stages of their tech careers to gain more insights and lead here. Follow us on Twitter for more updates and feedback.