Navigating the Tech Terrain: How to Land Your First (or Next) Job
by Daryl Lukas
Hello, fellow techies!
So, you’ve got your coding skills up to scratch and are ready to leap into the tech industry, or maybe you’re seeking a change with a new role? Job hunting can sometimes feel like a daunting maze, but don’t worry, I’ve got you! Today we’re talking about how to navigate this terrain and land that coveted job in tech.
Understand your ideal role
First things first, be clear about what you’re looking for. Frontend? Backend? QA? Knowing your focus area can streamline your job hunt. Understand the role you’re interested in, its responsibilities, and the required skills. This knowledge should be reflected in your resume and cover letter.
Build a standout portfolio!
Proof of what you can do is essential for potential employers. Here’s where a well-crafted portfolio comes in. Include examples of your best work or projects. New to the industry? Create projects around the job you want. Contributing to open source projects is another fantastic way to boost your portfolio. Not only does it show off your technical skills, but it also demonstrates your ability to collaborate and work on real-world problems. Remember, coding is not just about writing lines of code; it’s about contributing to solutions that make a difference.
Craft a tech-specific resume and cover letter
Remember, you’re not applying for a generic job, so don’t send a generic CV or cover letter. In your resume, highlight your skills, experiences, and projects relevant to your ideal role. In your cover letter, let your passion for technology and your problem-solving abilities shine beyond your technical skills. Use cover letters to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements relevant to a specific job description. E.g., if the job description includes working with AWS, highlight similar experience from previous roles or side projects.
Network, network, network
It’s not just about what you know, but also who you know. Attend local meetups, tech talks, and conferences. Engage in online tech communities. LinkedIn can be a game-changer here. Connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and share interesting articles. Show off your knowledge, and don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality too! These connections might provide inside information about job opportunities and could even result in referrals.
💡 Learn how to make your LinkedIn profile stand out by watching Danny Thompson’s LinkedIn Series
Ace the Interview: Preparing Like a Pro
Congratulations! You’ve got an interview. It’s your time to shine! Go beyond showcasing your technical skills; demonstrate your adaptability and understanding of the tech industry, and talk about your projects and how you’ve handled challenges. Preparing well is crucial. Use tools like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Pramp to practice your coding and problem-solving skills under interview-like conditions. Use Interview Warmup by Google to practice interviews.
Lastly, be ready to discuss not just your solutions but your thought process. Show them that you’re not just a coder; you’re a problem solver, an innovator, and a potential team player.
Never stop learning
The tech industry is ever-evolving. Show potential employers that you can keep up by continually learning. Whether it’s mastering a new language, attending webinars, or reading up on industry trends, lifelong learning is the name of the game!
Remember, the job hunt is a journey with its ups and downs. But keep pushing, refining your skills, and reaching out. The tech world needs what you have to offer. You’ve got this!
That’s it for now. Share if you found this post helpful. Until next time, happy coding!