Moving Into a Tech Career

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The technology industry is a booming area, and it doesn't look set to slow down soon. In fact, many of us are relying more heavily than ever on technology and the internet. They make our lives easier, connect us to the world, and help us both socialize and work from the comfort of our homes. Understandably, then, careers in tech are some of the most lucrative paths to pursue, as well as providing plenty of job opportunities as companies look for those with specialist skills. Unfortunately, many people realize this too late – you might already have an unrelated degree, a stuttering job in a different area, and a family to take care of. Given the technical requirements, changing careers into this industry might feel overwhelming. However, it is certainly possible, after following just a few simple steps.

Choose a Path

It isn't enough to know you want to move ‘into tech'. Like every other industry, the tech world is huge and varied, with plenty of specialisms to choose from. Do you want to be a software developer? A network engineer? A website designer? A technical sales manager? These roles are all very different, with different pay grades, and different levels of technical expertise needed in order to pursue them. Don't make the mistake of wasting time pursuing one path before realizing you actually want to build a career in the opposite field. Make sure you do your research and pick a role based on your current skills, the type of work you enjoy, and your ability to pick up new information.

Re-Educate

Speaking of picking up new information, you will almost certainly need to pursue further education before moving into a tech career, especially from an unassociated workplace. For many, this can feel overwhelming and impossible to fit in with their current lives. However, there are flexible options out there. Institutions such as Suffolk Online offer MBA programs in accountancy and finance for those looking to move into these areas, and there are plenty of ways to study either part-time, online, or through intensive courses that can get you highly qualified as soon as possible! Have a look for evening classes or local enterprises, then expand your search online for the highest possible training.

Get Experience

It can be one of those awful catch-22s when you are trying to get started in a new career; no one will hire you unless you already have experience working in the area. But how are you meant to build this experience? If you can, it's worth applying for placements and even emailing companies of varying sizes, asking if you can come in for some work experience. Another option is to set yourself up as a freelancer for a short while and gain experience by completing jobs for friends, colleagues, and the wider business world. It might take a few months to a year, but eventually, you'll build up an impressive portfolio to help you get hired by a company in a full-time role. You might even find you enjoy the self-employed tech lifestyle so much that you stick with it forever!