Preparing for your first job in tech. You got this!

Getting ready to land your first tech job can be daunting.

There are a lot of options, from bootcamps to online resources. We have seen so many different people find their way into tech using different methods. You might be worried about the interview process. You might be worried about the job market. You might be worried about whether you are good enough, or whether you are ready to make the leap from non-tech to tech.

Whatever the reason is, we hope this article irons it out.

Firstly, you will need to be able to code if you want a tech role.

You don’t have to go back to school to transition into tech, there are plenty of alternative ways to skill up and prepare your portfolio. There are a lot of options for learning how to code, from bootcamps (usually pricy) to online resources that are free or cost as little as $10/month. If you’re interested in the former, one suggestion would be Le Wagon. They offer an immersive program that teaches web development and data science which are available both online and in person, it all depends on what works for you. If you're more interested in online courses, EaziCode has a few great courses such as Front-End Foundations and Coding Foundations at prices ranging from $17 per course depending on your needs. These are closely linked with general web development so if this interests you then check them out!

Bootcamps are often viewed as the ideal way to get started. While that is true for some people, it may not be your best option if you already have substantial programming knowledge. If you don't have any tech skills and want to start with an immersive program like a bootcamp, this can be a great opportunity for you. However, your goal may be to take the self-directed learning route without spending loads of money and time on programs like that. For this you need to find ways to keep yourself motivated, disciplined and accountable. Volunteering and engaging at coding communities such as WomenWhoCode or Codum are fantastic to surround yourself with like-minded peers and getting into the right mindset!

The internet is home to a large number of free resources, from which you can learn the basics and practice your skills. For example, if you want to learn about the JavaScript programming language before applying for a job, Codecademy offers interactive tutorials that will take you through everything from variables and Boolean logic all the way up to functions and arrays. If you're interested in learning more about HTML5/CSS3 (which are hot topics at tech companies these days), there's always w3schools.com an online resource that offers tutorials on these topics as well as plenty of other helpful information related specifically to web development workflows (e.g., how files are organized). Check out this blog post about 7 amazing free coding resources for newbies that we highly recommend!

When you first start applying, don't be discouraged by rejections. If a company doesn't think you're the best fit for the job, it's not personal! Ask for feedback! The most important thing is to keep looking and learning. Even if your first few applications are rejected, learn from each experience and don't give up! Try again with a new application or resume next time!

Once you are ready to start applying for a job, the first step is to talk to people who work in the field. There are many ways to do this, from speaking with friends and family members who may have connections, to posting on social media or LinkedIn groups that could help you meet others with similar interests. One way to get started is by asking for an informal interview at a company where you’d like to work. A great way of doing this is by sending an email asking whether they have any positions available and whether there is someone on the team who would be able to speak with you about them (and perhaps even give feedback on your resume). Be sure not just emailing everyone at once! Make sure that whoever receives your request has enough time available so they don’t just ignore it—and make sure also that they don’t feel pressured into getting back too quickly because this might make them feel less comfortable answering questions later down the road as well."

Part of the reason you should start small is because it helps you understand how the company works. You’re going to be better at your job if you know what’s going on around you, and that means having a basic understanding of how everything works together. Start with a small role and build up to larger roles over time. It also gives management an opportunity to see how well you do in different situations as well as your ability to work with other departments or teams.

You need to remember that the job market is tough and there are a lot of people who want the same thing. The best way to start building your tech career is by keeping at it and not being discouraged by rejections. You can always ask for help if needed. Don’t be afraid to start small; some of my first jobs were small ones that eventually led me on to bigger opportunities. Lastly, don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes because they will make you stronger in the end!

I hope this post has given you some insight into how to get ready for your first tech job. The first step is to do some research and figure out what kind of role you want in the industry. Then, you should start applying! Don't be afraid if someone says no because there are many more opportunities for anyone willing to put in the effort.

You got this!

Photo by Prateek Katyal on Unsplash