How to find your first IT job in 2023
One of the most frequently asked questions before embarking on an adventure with programming is: how to find your first job in IT? Will I find a job without a higher education? The answer is simple – absolutely yes! The IT industry is constantly evolving and is open to everyone. Find out how to find your first IT job with no experience.
First job right after the IT course!
During the IT course, it is worth thinking carefully about your professional plans and how you would like your first job in IT to look like. It is especially worth to compare to your actual opportunities on the labor market, i.e. checking the available offers and employers’ requirements.
The candidate should be aware that some advertisements on job portals are addressed only to people with experience (mainly at the Mid level), but there will also be attractive opportunities for Juniors.
It is also worth contacting IT companies directly with questions about the possibilities of gaining experience – not all job offers are visible on the websites.
It is worth starting the process of sending your CV and attending job interviews immediately after completing the programming course. This is a perfect moment when knowledge and practical skills are consolidated and motivation is still high. But that’s not all! According to some specialists, the best time to look for the first job is the turn of September and October, when various internships of students and graduates end, as well as the beginning of the year, i.e. January and February, when new budgets are established.
Support of specialists and mentors
The programming course is not only about learning practical skills and gaining knowledge in the field of the IT industry. In addition to the main part, students learn what the first job looks like and how to get it. They’ll also write their own CV, and go through the entire recruitment process.
HR specialists indicate the importance of a profile on various industry portals (e.g. LinkedIn), as well as how to prepare for a job interview.
It is also worth knowing that in some academies, the student can choose a version of the course that involves helping graduates find their first job. In SDA, it is the “Job Guarantee” package, which is based on the assumption that within 3 months of completing the course, specialists from the programming school will find a job for the graduate. This solution is very attractive and can be a great idea for those who are concerned about their future.
Internship and first job, i.e. gaining experience is important
The search for the first place of employment can be started with an internship or a trial period on a junior position. Usually, at the beginning, you should not expect very high earnings, but focus on gaining work experience.
During the next few years, it is very easy to be promoted to a higher position and quickly increase your salary. The first job is to be mainly an area for improving one’s skills, gaining experience, learning the specifics of working in the industry, as well as expanding social contacts and acquaintances.
So how do you find your first job in IT without experience?
77% of companies in the EU report difficulties in finding employees with the necessary digital skills, which is why it is so important to acquire these skills in the near future and not worry about the future. At the same time, it is a signal that a job in IT is at your fingertips. However, whether you manage to get it, depends on your commitment.
We have prepared a few tips that will help you achieve success in this field faster!
- Think about what you want your IT career path to look like.
The technology industry is not only programming, but a number of other development options. In addition to the career of a programmer, you can develop towards a software tester or UX/UI Designer.
- Learn and develop your skills.
Nowadays, to get a job in IT, it is necessary to have the right skills. Beginners should start with the basics of programming and building websites. Gain knowledge of popular tools and technologies used in the industry. And best of all -you can do this with the help of experienced mentors who run SDA courses!
- Build your portfolio.
A portfolio is a collection of projects you do to showcase your skills and abilities. It will be very helpful when applying for a job in IT, and recruiters will look at your CV more favorably if you can boast of at least beginner experience at the time of submitting your CV. The Software Development Academy course will provide you with such an entry in your portfolio!
- Get involved in Open Source projects.
Joining Open Source projects is a good way to gain practice and develop your skills. You will have the opportunity to work with other programmers and show your skills.
- Search for internships and apprenticeships.
Look for internships and apprenticeships in IT companies that offer a chance to gain experience and learn about working in the industry. Some companies offer paid internships, which can be a good source of income while also allowing you to gain valuable experience.
- Adapt your CV and cover letter to the requirements of the job offer.
Before sending an application for a job in IT, carefully read the requirements of the offer and adapt your CV to the requirements. This will help you stand out from other candidates and show that you are the best person for the job.
Starting in the IT industry or deciding to change your current employment is a great adventure and an introduction to a completely new life. If you are here, it means that you have already taken the first step to take up this challenge. Don’t stop, you’re doing great!
Remember that while you may not always get it right the first time, going all the way to the end is incredibly rewarding and will give you benefits that will last a lifetime.
However, we know that embarking on a new career path can be overwhelming at first, and as with any journey, sometimes you need a map to get where you are heading. We will help you achieve it. Sign up for a free webinar on a topic of your choice to learn more about working in the IT industry and how to join it.
