If you have a pulse and access to a computer, you know that tech is all the rage right now. Everyone and their mama is trying to get into the industry because of the growth opportunities, the ability to work remotely and most importantly, the money! On Twitter, I’m regularly seeing salaries of $150,000 for those transitioning into tech. While everyone talks about their salary, people rarely explain how they got there.
SkillHat is an organization that I partnered with to discuss this further. They help people launch their careers in tech. The average graduate from their program received an increase in salary of $45,000 after just 4 months of training. We recorded a video together to learn more about how to get into tech and here are the 9 steps to get into tech that were shared.
1. Learn The Skills
Figure out which skills you need for the role you want and go out and get those skills. This can be through self-paced courses or instructor-led courses. If you’re transitioning from a non-tech role it’s typically recommended to do an instructor-led course or a mix of both.
2. Learn The Tools
Tech is very hands-on and employers want to know that you know how to use the tools they use. If you’re going to be a project manager for example, learning JIRA is a necessity. If you’re going to be a UX designer, learn Figma.
3. Apply The Skills/ Build Your Portfolio
Again, employers want to see what you have done. Build up your portfolio of work by working on projects.
4. Get Coached On Building Your Resume & Interview Prep
It is hard to transition without a coach. Get someone who knows the industry and can help you prep your resume for applications and can prep you for interviews. A coach will help you learn how to story-tell in an interview and explain your value effectively.
5. Gain Industry Insight
Reach out to others in the industry to learn more about what the current trends in the industry are.
6. Get Certified
Tech jobs often times (but not always) come down to the certifications you have beside your name. If you want to be a project manager, being PMP certified is beneficial and will open a lot of doors for you.
7. Receive Mentorship
Mentors make all the difference, no matter what industry you are in. They can have strategic conversations with you about the direction you are headed, and provide guidance into what steps you should take next.
8. Build A Community/Network
There is no doubt that community is valuable in all industries. This is why #BlackWomenInTech or #WomenInStem or #BlackInTech are constantly trending on Twitter. We thrive when we are surrounded by likeminded people who understand us and can not only support us but connect us with opportunities. If you’re trying to transition into tech, find your community!
9. Get Job Success Support
Once you’ve landed the job, getting continued support is important. Often times we get into tech and have imposter syndrome or forget all we’ve learned. Having someone to encourage you once you get into the role is key.
This seems like a lot right? 🥵 Thankfully, SkillHat provides all of this in one place through their programs – from Agile & Scrum to Business Analysis, Project Management & UX, they’ve got you covered.
Here is our full conversation to learn more:
If you sign up for a course over the next 4 months, you can use my code ‘xoreni’ for $$ off 🤑
If you have any questions, please leave them below.
xo,
Reni
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