Simple Guide to Secure a Place in the Technology Industry • The Havok Journal

Technology has evolved to the point where living without it seems unimaginable. That said, the technology sector has become one of the fastest growing industries in existence. There are so many different career fields you can work in and each one has its own rewarding experience. Are you someone who has a knack for web development? Do you want a position where you’ll be managing online security systems? Or perhaps you want to aim big and become a data scientist.

Regardless of where you see yourself, the tech industry is filled with enough opportunity for everyone. However, tech isn’t an easy field to get into, especially when it comes to the senior positions. You need to know what you’re doing, what you’re getting into and have a passion for the field. If you’re ready to immerse yourself into the world of technology, then you’ve come to the right place. Here is a simple guide to help newcomers get into the technology industry.

Earn Your Technology Degree

Don’t let the word fool you as there are many types of technology that have their own unique function today. Some may have a degree in cybersecurity while others in software development. You’d be surprised how many people often think that a technology degree is one in the same. That said, it’s important for you to do your research on the various degrees before choosing. Now, let’s go over the cost.

College isn’t exactly the most affordable thing in the world unless you secure a scholarship. If you’re able to get a scholarship that covers the entire cost, then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about except receiving good grades. However, not everyone is able to get one, which is why they turn to student loans. Student loans can help you afford your degree, but the downside is having to pay back all the debt once you graduate. To be a little more specific, you may have a six-month grace period after you graduate, so you’re not obligated to immediately pay off the debt. You must use that time to secure a job and build up your savings.

Build Up Your Skills

Just like every other attempt to step up your career, you must have the appropriate skills and master them. When it comes to securing a position in the technology sector, the skills you need will vary on the career you’re pursuing. Let’s say you’re aiming to be a computer programmer. A successful computer programmer is efficient in debugging programs, have a strong understanding of mathematics, and know how to handle algorithms. Despite each career in this sector having their own unique skills, there are various soft skills every practitioner of technology should have. Below is a brief list of all the soft skills you need to have:

Proper communication skills
Being well organized
Effective time management
Adapting to any situation
Using every and all resources available
Working well with others

Unless you’re a freelancer, you’re most likely going to be working with a team, which makes time management, teamwork, communication, and organizational skills even more important.

Invest in a High-Quality Computer

As you’re going to be working in the sector, you’ll need to invest in your own technology. More specifically, you need to procure a high-quality computer. The programs and software you’ll be using throughout your career are massive and can cause weaker computers to malfunction. You have two options: buy an expensive computer outright or build one of your own design.

If you choose the latter, it’s a great way to introduce yourself to being a successful computer builder. Both options are expensive, and you might not have enough personal finances to spare. So, what can you do to circumvent this issue? The best way to get the money you need is to take out a personal loan. It used to mean jumping through hoops during the application process to get a loan, but these days, there are online personal loans you can apply for. Being able to apply for these loans online can reduce how long you must wait to receive your funds.

Diversify Your Portfolio

In the technology industry, experience can make the difference between beating your competition and not being hired at all. Excluding entry-level positions, technology companies will only hire those that have an appropriate amount of experience. Depending on the specialty you’ve chosen, you can build a wealth of experience through internships, apprenticeships, personal ventures and even job shadowing. Another way you can diversify your portfolio is to obtain certification. What certification you need will depend on your niche. Here’s a list of certifications you can aim for: