If you're reading this, it's probably because you're interested in knowing how to get a job in tech. And "tech" doesn't mean getting a career as a software engineer. Tech is a vast field with a wide variety of roles.
Related: 5 Alternative Career Options For Software Engineers
This article will explore five ways to get a job in tech, whether you have a degree to not.
Let's start.
1. Graduate Programmes
This is one of the most common ways for those with a degree to break into tech.
What is a graduate programme?
A graduate programme, also known as a "graduate scheme", is a program organized by a company (usually large-size companies) where a set number of graduates straight out of university go through a 12-month/24-month training to be placed in a division of the company.
I'd say most companies offer a role at the end of the programme, but many other companies don't guarantee a position by the end of the scheme.
From my experience, many companies run "Technology Graduate Programmes", and despite the name, I saw people with non-tech degrees getting into a tech-related graduate programme. So it is possible to break into tech this way.
A graduate programme is fully paid. You get the same benefits as a regular employee.
Graduate programmes are highly competitive. Indeed, recruitment starts almost a year in advance. Getting on one is challenging, mainly because they often ask for psychometric tests, which are not easy to pass.
Note that a graduate programme is different from an internship. You can do an internship while still a student. To be eligible for a graduate programme, you'll need to have a degree or be on your way to be graduated.
Related: Top 10 Websites For Internship Opportunities
2. Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a real-world job with training incorporated.
Apprenticeships are designed to build up your skills and advance your career.
Apprenticeships are aimed at everyone over 16 (at least here in the UK, I hope in your country too). During an apprenticeship, you usually work about 30 hours per week for a year.
3. Bootcamps
Bootcamps are short-term, intense programs that allow students to gain high-in-demand skills.
Bootcamps in tech usually cover programming languages such as Javascript and Python.
The challenge with bootcamps is that they're expensive. You're the one who has to pay for a BootCamp, and in the end, it's not fully guaranteed you'll get a job. Indeed, you'll have to spend quality time picking the right one by researching and asking around.
According to a Career Karma report, top companies like Google, Amazon, JP Morgan Chase have hired many people straight from coding bootcamps.
4. Content Creation
Content creation is one of the most creative ways to land a job in tech.
More than "creating content", I'd say document your journey online.
If you do that consistently over a long period, there is a high chance that some opportunities will come your way.
Related: 13 Best Reasons Why Developers Should Blog
Content creation helps you stand out from the crowd. With content creation, you attract opportunities instead of actively applying for jobs.
By creating content online, important stakeholders at your dream companies get to notice you. Content creation drives the much-needed visibility to help you land your dream job without actively applying. [Wonsulting]
5. Volunteering
Volunteering is an underrated way to land a job in tech (or any other field).
Volunteering is an excellent way to gain new skills for free while helping your community and building a network. It's a win-win situation for you, the charity you're helping and society.
Related: 4 Easy Ways To Get Coding Experience
Volunteering helps you learn skills you otherwise wouldn't be able to gain via your employer.
From writing newsletters to maintaining computer networks, the best way to get a new job is often through experience and the right volunteering opportunity is a rewarding way to achieve this.[Reed]
CONCLUSION
This article taught you five ways to get into the tech industry.
I hope you've found this helpful and inspiring.
Which one of these methods have you used to get a job in tech?
Let me know in the comments!
Until next time!
🙋🏾♀️
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