The IT job market is booming, which is why many people are trying to change careers and move into systems development. See how you can begin this transition successfully today
4 tips for entering the IT job market
The information technology market has been extremely buoyant for a long time now. After all, most of our activities today are intrinsically linked to the digital world, which requires a lot of infrastructure and, consequently, a lot of skilled labor. That is why this is a highly sought-after area for those who are looking to change careers and try to enter a new segment.
As there is a lot of free material on the subject and many IT positions prioritize practical experience over formal knowledge, with a lot of study and training, it is possible to enter this market. Here, you will find four essential tips for those who are starting out in the field and want to specialize until they land good jobs. The segment is extremely vast, making it possible to work with apps of various genres, network infrastructure, and even developing casino games for Bizbet.
Start by learning logic
The IT market basically involves programming and systems development. There are many programming languages, and each one has its own“user manual”known as language documentation. This includes specific terms for certain actions that will be used in building systems.
However, all languages follow the same logic, which makes learning programming logic a fundamental step for anyone who wants to enter the information technology market. There are many comprehensive programming logic courses available on the internet, which will prepare anyone to learn a specific language. The main tip for those who want to get started is the course CC50: Introduction to Computer Science, from the acclaimed Harvard University.
As this subject is the basis of everything you will do in your new career, you need to train hard to understand all the content. Therefore, always do several exercises, practicing each step learned in programming logic, which will help reinforce the knowledge in your mind.
Once you understand all the logic, it’s time to choose a programming language to focus on. Once you have mastered it, you can start experimenting and creating a portfolio. Here are the main languages used today and where they are most commonly used:
| Language | Main uses |
| Python | Data analysis, web development, and various other processes |
| C# | Development of PC and web applications |
| C++ | Game and system development |
| JavaScript | Web development |
| PHP | Web development |
Create a portfolio
After understanding all the logic of programming and specializing in a language, you should continue practicing. This has two huge benefits: while you continue learning, you can develop your first systems and build a portfolio. This way, you will already have something concrete to use when applying for jobs and presenting in job interviews.
As we said earlier, many employers in the information technology field value a good portfolio that demonstrates practical experience more than formal qualifications, such as those obtained from a university course. So, during your training, try to build a varied portfolio, with systems used for different purposes, demonstrating versatility to employers.
In some cases, it is worth seeking knowledge in more than one programming language to increase the versatility of your portfolio. You can train in everything from creating smartphone apps, such as Bizbet Android, to games of different genres and internal systems for companies.
Use remote work platforms
One of the best ways to enter the formal job market and gain experience is through remote work platforms. With these platforms, contractors post openings for specific projects, workers send a cover letter and a summary of their professional qualifications, and if they agree, the work is performed and paid for by the platform, providing security for both parties.
In many cases, these one-off projects for contractors can turn into long-term collaborations. Even if this does not happen, these small projects also help a lot in creating a good portfolio. Thus, by gaining experience on remote work platforms, you will also be getting closer to traditional jobs. Check out some of the main platforms available today:
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Workana
- People per Hour
Improve your soft skills
In addition to technical knowledge in the field of information technology, it is also essential to have a good set of soft skills. The main one is, of course, proficiency in English, since most of the jobs available in the IT market are in that language. However, the more languages you master, the more opportunities you will have.
It is also essential to have good communication skills. There is no point in having a lot of technical knowledge and an incredible portfolio if you cannot convey this to employers. Therefore, it is worth learning how to sell yourself and your services. In addition, good communication is still highly valued considering the importance of teamwork, which is natural in this field.
Another characteristic that is highly appreciated in the market is autonomy. In other words, learn to identify and solve problems without waiting for them to become bigger and without depending on other people. Although teams are fundamental, knowing how to work well alone is also essential in these areas.
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