Things You Need to Know to Find Your First Tech Job

If you’re just starting out in your search for your first tech job, there’s probably a good chance you’re starting to learn that many “entry-level” roles actually require at least two years of previous experience. In fact, research found that 61 percent of all full-time jobs seeking entry-level employees required at least three years or more of experience.

 This harsh reality is the cause of a lot of frustration for many first-time job seekers. The good news is there are things you can do to overcome these roadblocks.  In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into a few things you’ll need to know that will help you avoid getting discouraged during your job search.  

 Experience doesn’t always equate to previous full-time positions

Companies aren’t always looking for you to have several years of similar work experience. Internships or apprenticeships typically don’t require any experience and are great ways to learn some of the basic knowledge you’ll need in your next role. Additionally,  relevant tech certifications can help enhance your skillset and resume and show employers that you’re capable of being successful in the roles you’re applying for.

 Another requirement we often see for many entry-level IT positions, is having a basic understanding of operating systems, computer security, networking principles, and troubleshooting. If software or web development is a path you’re considering, a versatile and popular object-oriented programming (OOP) language like Python, can be good to learn. If your degree isn’t in a computer science or STEM-related degree, boot camps or training programs like SkillStorm’s are great alternatives to gaining this knowledge.

 Non-tech experience is also relevant and can help you land a job

Just because you don’t have experience in tech does not mean that your experience is not relevant. It is important to identify your transferable skills and learn how to highlight them. Transferable skills are exactly what they sound like — skills that can be used in different professional settings no matter the industry or job position.

 There are two types of non-tech experience you can add to your resume:

 – Non-paid experience: Adding non-paid projects can be a great way to highlight your experience and bridge any skill gaps your resume might have. Your non-paid experience may be volunteer projects, freelance projects, or even class projects if you are a recent grad. What matters is that your projects help prove to employers that you have relevant experience for the role.  

 – Non-tech experience: Research shows that 85% of job success comes from having strong soft skills, so adding in-demand soft skills to your resume is another way to leverage any missing tech skills. Some of the most in-demand skills in tech are communications, time management skills, leadership, ability to work well in a team, and creativity

There are many career paths in tech.

Working in IT can mean a variety of different things. You can work in computer support, cybersecurity, data, cloud computing, and other areas. No matter where you start in IT or which capacity, there are countless opportunities for career growth.

 IT provides some of the best careers for moving up the ladder and expanding professionally. Just because you start off as a software developer doesn’t mean you’ll code your entire career. If you want to benefit from the growth opportunities that careers in information technology offer, the key is committing yourself to expand your knowledge and being versatile.

 Recruiters will be your best friends

If you’re on the hunt for work, there’s a good chance you’ve been in contact with a recruiter. Given they are ideally placed to help find you work, it is important that you build a good relationship with them. Recruiters know about roles through their networks that are not advertised, helping you access hidden opportunities. 

 Etiquette plays a very important role in your relationship with recruiters. Treat them the same way you expect them to treat you. Be as responsive as possible to their inquiries and be respectful of their time. Your recruiter will have much more respect for you in the long run if you communicate professionally, preserving your relationship and chances for employment.

 SkillStorm can help you accelerate your tech career!

Our programs are designed to help you strengthen your skills and help you get your tech career started. If this sounds like something you are interested in, we would love to share with you more about how you can become a Stormer! Just shoot us an email at apply@skillstorm.com.