Navigating the tech industry: how to kick start your career as an IT professional?

If you are a recent graduate or a young professional and want to kick start your IT career but you are not sure where to start, there are numerous paths available that you can choose from. Cybersecurity, software development, networks and systems, data, and cloud computing are just a few of the areas an aspiring IT professional can go into.

Here, we provide an overview of some of the most in-demand roles, including skills and responsibilities. We also explore useful tips that can help you stand out as a candidate when looking for your first role in the tech industry.

Which tech role is for you?

Before stepping onto the tech playing field, it’s necessary to assess what drives you and which role appeals to you most. We’ve outlined some of the most in-demand tech roles and the skills required to do them:

• Software developer

Responsibilities: Building software programs, applications, networks and operating systems.

Skills: Maths, engineering and computer science knowledge, good communication, critical thinking.

• Information security analyst

Responsibilities: Planning and executing cybersecurity measures, monitoring and maintaining networks.

Skills: Understanding of cybersecurity threats, networks and computer systems, communication, collaboration, critical thinking.

• Data analyst

Responsibilities: Analysing and interpreting data using AI, ML, and predictive modelling.

Skills: ML and deep learning, data visualisation, statistics, communication and collaboration.

• .NET developer

Responsibilities: Designing need-based software programs, upgrading existing systems, providing technical support.

Skills: Knowledge of .NET languages, Agile methodologies, and architecture styles; detail-oriented, problem solving, communication.

• Cloud architect

Responsibilities: Designing, developing, and managing an organisation’s cloud infrastructure.

Skills: Knowledge of IT ecosystems, cloud design, and cloud environments; interpersonal skills, written and verbal communication, and leadership.

• Project manager

Responsibilities: delivering, and completing IT projects on time, to brief, and within budget.

Skills: Broad computer science and technical skills, knowledge of current market trends and technologies, time management, strategic thinking, organisational ability, leadership, communication, and collaboration.

How to stand out as a candidate?

As tech roles increasingly spread across the UK & Ireland labour market, the race to hire talent is accelerating. And with the variety of opportunities in the industry growing rapidly, competition among candidates is becoming increasingly fierce.

To make sure you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of getting hired, you might need to think about some initial actions you can take.

• Assess your current experience and understand what the job requires

While many tech roles don’t require a degree, you may want to consider one to either gain broad knowledge in an area like computer science, or for a specific role such as software engineer.

• Take training courses, attend webinars on your specialism, and get certified in certain skills

This will develop you as a well-rounded candidate and demonstrate your motivation to employers. Some of the most sought-after tech skills today are AI, machine learning, UX, cloud computing, cybersecurity analytics, data analytics, and software development.

• Gain experience by working on an open-source project

This enables you to enhance your coding skills while connecting with a community that shares knowledge and expertise. You can highlight open-source projects you’ve worked on when applying for your role – many employers are looking for this type of hands-on experience, as it shows the technical skills you have, as well as your ability to work in a team.

If you are considering a career in technology, get in touch with our team of experts to discuss how we can support you in finding the right role for you.

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