It’s never too late to make the pivot into tech. The industry is changing, and so are the routes people take to get there. From bootcamp graduates to self-trained software engineering extraordinaires, appetite for the ‘unconventional’ is growing, and it’s good news for the world’s prospective career switchers.
There are pivot-worthy, perfectly attainable jobs out there, and they don’t all require an extensive technical background to navigate. If you’re thinking about making the move, it’s worth thinking about a few key considerations.
Big Tech’s Layoffs are a Red Herring
2023 may have kick-started with rampant tech layoffs, but there’s no need to get too disheartened. Big Tech often grabs the headlines, and it’s important to remember they aren’t the only employers in town.
That’s not to say competition for tech talent isn’t fierce, but the layoffs have opened up opportunities in other sectors, many of which aren’t generally associated with tech jobs (Travel, Investment, and Healthcare are prime examples).
Widespread AI adoption is partly to thank, as is the mass digital transition that got underway at the height of the COVID pandemic.
As a result, the picture of the ideal skillset is changing. The business protection and enablement space is a good example – proficiency in programming languages, cloud computing, data science, and analytical tools are in high demand for governance, risk, and compliance jobs.
Startup investment appetite is growing, especially in emerging areas like FoodTech and Generative AI, so it’s important to keep your eye on the latest developments in this space. Sites like the Silicon Republic, TechCrunch, and Gizmodo are all useful resources to help you stay updated.
What’s the Job for You?
The tech industry commands a certain mystique – what do the roles look like in practice? From the technically complex DevOps and AI engineering roles to the (typically) less code-intensive product management positions, there’s plenty to consider. You can take a career quiz here if you’re on the fence about where to start looking.
Whatever the role for you, it’s worth thinking about your transferrable skills and what they might look like in a tech job. Some of the most sought-after skills include:
Problem-solving – Software engineers, ethical hackers, and security analysts all heavily rely on their problem-solving skills, but it’s a trait that’ll help you in whatever role you decide to pursue.
Interpersonal Skills – empathy and people skills are tech’s secret weapons. As teams become ever-leaner and the ‘break down the silos’ trend continues, interpersonal skills are more important than ever, particularly when it comes to DevOps and coaching roles.
Leadership – the resilience and adaptability required of modern tech professionals is well-recognised. The space is always changing, and leaders need to be equipped to change with it.
Developing the Skills
Bootcamps are better than ever. Code Institute, for example, offer a university-credit-rated certification course in full-stack software development. The Trust in SODA squad has had the pleasure of working with Code Institute to host a range of hackathons over the years, and many of the students have gone on to secure their dream roles in tech. A range of those students were making the pivot from a completely different career path.
The self-taught route is also a more viable option than ever before (we’re all self-taught to some extent). In recent years, skill gaps and fierce talent competition have changed the way companies recruit – their appetite for passionate self-taught engineers is growing as a result.
First things first, familiarise yourself with the basic skills needed to perform a tech role, and don’t be afraid to get specific. YouTube is a wonderful resource for those looking to build their skills, particularly when it comes to learning programming languages.
Hoping to make the move but don’t know where start looking? You might already have the skills needed to take on a role in tech. Tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll connect you with an inclusive opportunity that supports your unique needs. Contact the SODA squad here: https://www.trustinsoda.com/get-in-touch
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