Breaking into Tech: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your First Job

Breaking into Tech: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your First Job

Searching for your first job in tech can feel overwhelming. You may not know where to look, how to tell if a role is truly entry-level, or whether you're actually qualified.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to successfully land an entry-level tech job, even with little to no prior experience.

What Exactly is an "Entry-Level" Tech Job?

Entry-level tech jobs are roles that require some relevant skills or knowledge, but not years of professional experience. These positions are specifically tailored for those just starting out in the industry.

Common entry-level tech job titles include:

• Junior Web Developer
• Associate Software Engineer
• Entry-Level UX Designer
• IT Support Specialist
• Jr. Data Analyst

However, job titles can be misleading. Some companies may not actually include "entry-level" or "junior" in the title.

Instead of fixating on the title, closely analyze the job descriptions. Entry-level roles tend to:

• Emphasize skills training over years of experience
• Focus more on assisting than leading projects
• Have titles like "Associate", "Assistant", or "Junior"

It's also possible to find pseudo entry-level jobs on non-technical teams that make use of coding fundamentals. For example, marketing assistant roles often require managing websites and databases.

The key is to ignore the job title and pay attention to the required qualifications and responsibilities. If they seem reasonable for someone just starting out, it may be an entry-level opportunity even without an official "junior" designation.

Where Should You Look for Entry-Level Tech Jobs?

Cast a wide net across multiple job boards and networks when searching for entry-level work. Good places to start include:

Online Job Boards

• LinkedIn - The world's largest professional networking platform also has an extensive jobs board. You can narrow searches by title, experience level, location and more.
• AngelList - Focused primarily on startups, AngelList is ideal for those seeking roles at early-stage tech companies.
• Dice - A tech-specific job board with listings for roles across engineering, data, security, and more.
• Idealist - Great resource for entry-level jobs at nonprofits and mission-driven organizations.

Also try niche sites like PowerToFly and Tech Ladies catering specifically to women and underrepresented groups in tech.

For additional targeted results, Google "[your city] + [your field] + job board"

Recruiters

Experienced recruiters can help connect you with unlisted jobs and provide insider perspective. Many work on a contingency basis, meaning their payment comes from the employer once you're hired. This incentivizes them to advocate for you.

Vet recruiters carefully, but quality ones provide incredible value in finding the right roles.

Networking

Don't underestimate the power of personal connections for finding work. Reach out to everyone you know, especially those working in tech, and make your job search known.

Networking events, tech meetups, university alumni groups, and social platforms like LinkedIn also present valuable networking opportunities both online and in-person.

Evaluating Your Qualifications

Job posts can make entry-level roles seem completely unattainable, listing long lists of required skills and experience.

But remember - the top skills in the job description are usually the most important. Things further down the list may just be "nice-to-haves".

Also pay close attention to the actual job duties and responsibilities. This helps determine what core competencies are non-negotiable.

For example, a front-end developer role will absolutely require HTML, CSS and JavaScript. However, experience with certain frameworks may not be essential.

As for the dreaded years of experience requirements, omitting applicants without work history is short-sighted. You can gain relevant exposure through side projects, freelancing, internships and more.

The bottom line is don't automatically disqualify yourself because you don't check every box. If you can demonstrate capability to perform the core functions, it may still be worth applying.

Alternative Pathways In: Freelancing, Bridge Jobs and More

Don't limit yourself to just applying for full-time salaried roles either. Consider exploring these other pathways to gain vital expertise:

Freelancing: Registration on sites like Upwork, Toptal and Fiverr costs nothing. Start out offering services like web development, data entry or QA testing for entry-level rates to build initial reviews.

Internships: Interning can provide hands-on experience and lead to a full-time offer. Most are paid now too. Browse listings on platforms like WayUp, Chegg and LinkedIn.

Bridge jobs: Seek adjacent roles utilizing transferable skills from past experience while allowing you to learn new ones. Administrative and marketing roles at tech companies often fit the bill.

Gaining any type of practical experience builds your profile. It also produces "social proof" to reinforce your capabilities so hiring managers take a chance on you.

Interview Prep for Entry-Level Roles

First, congratulations are in order for landing interviews! Stay confident by remembering:

You have skills to offer. Recruiters wouldn't waste time interviewing unqualified candidates. Getting to the interview stage means they see potential.

Interviews are a two-way street. Pay attention to company culture cues and whether you align with their mission. Make sure the role excites you!

Now, on to the actual interviews:

For technical assessments, explain thought processes out loud. Ask clarifying questions if you get stuck. Completing tasks perfectly matters less than demonstrating logical thinking ability.

For conversational interviews, prepare stories highlighting instances of problem-solving, collaboration and perseverance. Practice answering common questions aloud to build confidence.

No matter what, being yourself and asking thoughtful questions makes the best impression. You've got this!

Breaking In During COVID-19

The pandemic has shifted tech hiring priorities in a few key ways:

Increase in remote opportunities: Social distancing necessities have caused companies to embrace remote work. Many roles never considered virtual before now have flexible location options. Broaden geographic searches!

Rise of contract roles: Due to economic uncertainties, more openings start as project-based contract work. But they can provide a foot in the door to prove yourself for salaried placement later.

Changing skill demands: Data, security and infrastructure needs have grown exponentially. Qualified analysts, cybersecurity specialists and cloud engineers have become most in-demand.

While increased competition exists across the board, diligent, patient candidates can still breakthrough, especially if highlighting transferable skills. Utilize the tips in this guide to position yourself above the rest!

Conclusion

The barrier to entry may seem extremely high, but with the right strategy focused on high-quality applications over quantity, newbies can absolutely land an entry-level tech job.

Glean experience however possible through side gigs, networking contacts and alternative arrangements like internships. Stay persistent yet patient while continually investing in your personal growth.

Soon enough, you'll have that breakthrough moment and embark on an exciting career in tech!

I incorporated the suggested topic outline as well as primary and secondary keywords throughout the article. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand on any section!