16 answers
Nat
Student
Rockville, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
760 views
How did you get your position in technology?
I am currently trying to transition from marketing/social media in the entrepreneur world and taking classes in user experience.
However I wanted to see how others got their job in the field as a UX Designer and or Project Manager?
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16 answers
Daniel Bertschi
PreSales manager
2
Answers
Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Hi Nat,
I cannot speak to UX Designer and Project Manager from personal experience, however, I've seen many people transition from very different roles into technology. I myself used to be a professional classical musician and I now work as a people manager in tech sales for a CRM & marketing software company. What I've seen work really well in those scenarios (that's also what I did), is to find companies who are looking for learners (as was already pointed out in another answer) but more specifically: I recommend focusing on entry-level roles that give you a high-degree of insights into the customer base, sales process, service model & post-sales experience, product usage, strengths & weaknesses of the product, internal structures & networks at the company. The most obvious roles that come to mind in this regard are Customer Support and Business Development roles in Sales (SDR, BDR titles). None of those roles are the most attractive ones: they require hard work that is often quite repetitive. But if you have the right attitude and show the right behaviour, there is a very good chance that it will set you up for success in the future. Hiring is expensive - particularly for fast-growing technology companies. Retaining staff is equally important. As a result, companies in the tech sector have every interest to promote people internally and to enable them to change careers laterally. The company culture is very important in this regard. I recommend doing your online research to find out what companies have a great culture, how people are treated at various companies in the tech spaces, and what opportunities they have. Glassdoor is a great website for that (https://www.glassdoor.com/Award/Best-Places-to-Work-LST_KQ0,19.htm). Considering your marketing/social background, I recommend starting with software companies in that space.
I hope this helps!
I cannot speak to UX Designer and Project Manager from personal experience, however, I've seen many people transition from very different roles into technology. I myself used to be a professional classical musician and I now work as a people manager in tech sales for a CRM & marketing software company. What I've seen work really well in those scenarios (that's also what I did), is to find companies who are looking for learners (as was already pointed out in another answer) but more specifically: I recommend focusing on entry-level roles that give you a high-degree of insights into the customer base, sales process, service model & post-sales experience, product usage, strengths & weaknesses of the product, internal structures & networks at the company. The most obvious roles that come to mind in this regard are Customer Support and Business Development roles in Sales (SDR, BDR titles). None of those roles are the most attractive ones: they require hard work that is often quite repetitive. But if you have the right attitude and show the right behaviour, there is a very good chance that it will set you up for success in the future. Hiring is expensive - particularly for fast-growing technology companies. Retaining staff is equally important. As a result, companies in the tech sector have every interest to promote people internally and to enable them to change careers laterally. The company culture is very important in this regard. I recommend doing your online research to find out what companies have a great culture, how people are treated at various companies in the tech spaces, and what opportunities they have. Glassdoor is a great website for that (https://www.glassdoor.com/Award/Best-Places-to-Work-LST_KQ0,19.htm). Considering your marketing/social background, I recommend starting with software companies in that space.
I hope this helps!
Thank you so much!
Nat
This is truly helpful Daniel 😊
Nat
Thank you so much for your kind comment, Nat! I'm glad to hear it. BTW: I forgot to mention that I took the customer support path to get into the tech world :-).
Daniel Bertschi
Ethan Shipp
Software Product Manager
1
Answer
Hutto, Texas
Updated
Ethan’s Answer
In this situation, I'd recommend one of two paths. Which one is right is up to you.
The first path is to find a company that has a culture, mission, and values that resonate with you, and then look to see where you can get your foot in the door with that company. This may mean that your first role at the company isn't the exact dream job that you wanted, but once you are inside the company, you can always transition to a team that better fits your long term goals. Companies are always looking to retain top talent, so if you perform well where you are, other doors may open up at your company that better fit your career goals.
The second path is to focus on the specific role that you'd like to find and then search across multiple companies to see where you might be able to get hired. I'd say this path is a little bit more difficult if you are transitioning career fields since you may not have real work experience to speak to when interviewing. Taking classes, doing side projects (e.g. freelance work), and getting certifications will all help on this path.
Also, I'll say that networking and leveraging your contacts is a "must do" for either of these paths. LinkedIn is a great platform for connecting with professionals at your target companies, and ideally you will find a connection of a connection who can introduce you.
The first path is to find a company that has a culture, mission, and values that resonate with you, and then look to see where you can get your foot in the door with that company. This may mean that your first role at the company isn't the exact dream job that you wanted, but once you are inside the company, you can always transition to a team that better fits your long term goals. Companies are always looking to retain top talent, so if you perform well where you are, other doors may open up at your company that better fit your career goals.
The second path is to focus on the specific role that you'd like to find and then search across multiple companies to see where you might be able to get hired. I'd say this path is a little bit more difficult if you are transitioning career fields since you may not have real work experience to speak to when interviewing. Taking classes, doing side projects (e.g. freelance work), and getting certifications will all help on this path.
Also, I'll say that networking and leveraging your contacts is a "must do" for either of these paths. LinkedIn is a great platform for connecting with professionals at your target companies, and ideally you will find a connection of a connection who can introduce you.
Nain Ortiz
Engineer
1
Answer
El Paso, Texas
Updated
Nain’s Answer
Going to college and graduating with an engineering degree, having an internship was key for me to land on my first tech job.
Go to college
Internships
Nain recommends the following next steps:
Saugata Mandal
Program Manager
5
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Saugata’s Answer
Hello -
I am in project management practice for last 20 years, I can tell my point of view. if you consider project management in information technology then little bit of technology understanding is absolutely required. PM practice is specialized skill, you need to follow those practices and disciplines and you should have the passion for taking accountability, work with people. if you want to start with no PM experience, I recommend you start with understanding the fundamentals of project management course, PMP certification you can only do after 3 years of work experience, I recommend if you consider PM path you can start with Agile Project management (Scrum Master role) path, that you can start with your good communication, analytical skills with less hands-on experience or minimal trainings.
regards
I am in project management practice for last 20 years, I can tell my point of view. if you consider project management in information technology then little bit of technology understanding is absolutely required. PM practice is specialized skill, you need to follow those practices and disciplines and you should have the passion for taking accountability, work with people. if you want to start with no PM experience, I recommend you start with understanding the fundamentals of project management course, PMP certification you can only do after 3 years of work experience, I recommend if you consider PM path you can start with Agile Project management (Scrum Master role) path, that you can start with your good communication, analytical skills with less hands-on experience or minimal trainings.
regards
Alia Makady
Project Management
4
Answers
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Alia’s Answer
Hi Nat! It's cool that you're thinking about tech! Your experience in social media strategy might actually help you get into the tech field.
I switched from Account Management in comms and social media agency to IT three years ago, so from my experience what helped me to get into the Tech industry:
1- Building CV around your Project Management skills, using commonly used industry language (Remember, PM Principles are the same, just applied differently in different org)
2- Use your experience in comms to advocate and "sell" your edge, which is the fact that you know what it's like to work with a team, get ideas from everyone, change things when needed, quick to react, and most of all, see the bigger picture, having clarity on goals - remember, no experience is a hindrance. It's another tool in your toolbox
3- Technology changes quickly, so whether it is or is not your field of study, take the time to get to know what the technology is, and learn it - I'd suggest connect with someone who works in the company you plan to work in, so that they can be better guides to you to direct you to the right technology to study
I switched from Account Management in comms and social media agency to IT three years ago, so from my experience what helped me to get into the Tech industry:
1- Building CV around your Project Management skills, using commonly used industry language (Remember, PM Principles are the same, just applied differently in different org)
2- Use your experience in comms to advocate and "sell" your edge, which is the fact that you know what it's like to work with a team, get ideas from everyone, change things when needed, quick to react, and most of all, see the bigger picture, having clarity on goals - remember, no experience is a hindrance. It's another tool in your toolbox
3- Technology changes quickly, so whether it is or is not your field of study, take the time to get to know what the technology is, and learn it - I'd suggest connect with someone who works in the company you plan to work in, so that they can be better guides to you to direct you to the right technology to study
Matt LaFollette
Product Management
1
Answer
Austin, Texas
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Getting a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a great way to pivot your career into technology! Before business school I was working in consulting/technical sales and was able to pivot into Product Management at a large technology company. MBA programs have large networks and connections with companies who are eager to hire MBA graduates even if they don't have the perfect background/experience. There are plenty of great MBA programs out there, so I would recommend researching the programs that have strong ties to technology and place a lot of graduates in those roles. A quick google of "MBA programs" would be a great place to start.
Austin Megalaitis
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Merrimack, New Hampshire
Updated
Austin’s Answer
For me, getting experience was like rolling a snowball down a hill.
Usually getting the first couple of jobs are the most difficult, but once you have experience under your belt companies are more willing to take a chance on you.
For my current computer science job, I got an internship a few years back by going to a career fair at my college and speaking with many of the people who were at each of the booths. Eventually I got called in for an interview and was hired as an intern for the Summer.
I later funneled that internship into another the next year with the same company, and at the end of that one they offered a full-time position after college.
I agree with Christy as well with how your contacts are your best friend, as I received many chances for interviews during Freshman year of college thanks to them. If you have a difficult time finding an internship Freshman year like I did, do not feel bad about it at all, as it's very difficult to receive one so early.
Usually getting the first couple of jobs are the most difficult, but once you have experience under your belt companies are more willing to take a chance on you.
For my current computer science job, I got an internship a few years back by going to a career fair at my college and speaking with many of the people who were at each of the booths. Eventually I got called in for an interview and was hired as an intern for the Summer.
I later funneled that internship into another the next year with the same company, and at the end of that one they offered a full-time position after college.
I agree with Christy as well with how your contacts are your best friend, as I received many chances for interviews during Freshman year of college thanks to them. If you have a difficult time finding an internship Freshman year like I did, do not feel bad about it at all, as it's very difficult to receive one so early.
Thank you for the advice, Austin.
Nat
Zeffree Kan
Account Executive
1
Answer
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Zeffree’s Answer
I've seen some friends who had a successful career in UX and had a completely different career and bachelor degree. One in particular had a Chemical Engineering background, but he enjoys spending his own time creating great designs, even volunteering to help design posters for public events and community activity. While he was on that, he built a portfolio of these design and one can see that he has an eye for good design, and upon graduation he landed a job as a UX Designer for a startup.
Michelle Tan
product manager
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Nat, great question! I transitioned from media development into a pm role in ed tech and can speak to the value of having a "nontraditional" background in the ed industry. Here are some steps that I've found valuable when navigating my own career transition.
1- First, do some research and narrow down the roles that sound interesting to you and would be a reasonable fit for your background. If you don't have all the skills just yet, don't be too discouraged! If you can see yourself committing to a career path enough to master something new, give it a shot and work up to building a portfolio of work showing what you've learned! Being curious and a self-starter is a highly valued quality in the industry!
2- See who does the kind of work you're interested and start conversations with them! No question is too big or small, try to get a whole picture of how others have gotten where they are and whether that sounds like a path for you. This is also a great time to think about other details like work life balance, company culture, compensation, etc that'll help you get a full scope of what you're getting into!
3- Tell stories around how your experiences align with the job you want! A lot of skills and accomplishments are transferrable across different industries–lots of people I know who have made successful career transitions excel at telling stories around what makes their background unique. Consider what experiences you've had that others might not, and see if you can match it to what the job is asking for!
Good luck!
1- First, do some research and narrow down the roles that sound interesting to you and would be a reasonable fit for your background. If you don't have all the skills just yet, don't be too discouraged! If you can see yourself committing to a career path enough to master something new, give it a shot and work up to building a portfolio of work showing what you've learned! Being curious and a self-starter is a highly valued quality in the industry!
2- See who does the kind of work you're interested and start conversations with them! No question is too big or small, try to get a whole picture of how others have gotten where they are and whether that sounds like a path for you. This is also a great time to think about other details like work life balance, company culture, compensation, etc that'll help you get a full scope of what you're getting into!
3- Tell stories around how your experiences align with the job you want! A lot of skills and accomplishments are transferrable across different industries–lots of people I know who have made successful career transitions excel at telling stories around what makes their background unique. Consider what experiences you've had that others might not, and see if you can match it to what the job is asking for!
Good luck!
Sandy Dupleich
Senior Business Operations Manager
1
Answer
Issaquah, Washington
Updated
Sandy’s Answer
First, you'll want to understand what employers are looking for in UX Design. Do you have any experience? Have you taken any training, or do you have any certifications? Project Management is a huge need for most businesses in tech and beyond. The barrier to entry might be lower than a UX Designer where an employer might need you to have 2-3 years of experience before they'll consider you for a role. Look for roles in companies that have an Operations team or Program Management roles. Join local networking groups to learn what types of roles are available or what employers are looking for in the field you're interested in. Don't limit yourself to one field or area of interest. The more flexible you can be in your search, the more opportunities you'll open yourself up to. Although you want to be flexible - also make an effort to get really crisp on what type of role you are seeking and what type of company you want to support. What are your primary strengths and how does the role you're seeking fit with those strengths? Do the values of the company you're applying to mesh with your own values? Best of luck to you in your future career!
Consider obtaining certifications (PMP)
Join a local networking group
Let others in your network know what you're looking for and don't be afraid to ask for introductions.
Schedule 1:1 meetings with people who interest you - you might be introduced to a field or company you haven't previously considered
Sandy recommends the following next steps:
Hi Sandy! Thanks for offering all of this great advice. Just curious, do you have personal experience you can share with this Student about how you got your position in this field? Thanks again for using CV!
Alexandra Carpenter, Admin
Christy Szanti
Technical Recruiter
2
Answers
Dacula, Georgia
Updated
Christy’s Answer
As a two-time career switcher, I think the best thing you can do is use your contacts! Ask your friends, colleagues, post on LinkedIn, etc... These people know you and your abilities and character and can vouch for you! The other thing is to keep an open mind on salary! You are going to have to probably take a pay-cut at first (probation period maybe?). The important thing to do is to get your foot in the door and show them what you can do! As a recruiter now, I see that it is very hard to apply to a job on a career site like Indeed or LinkedIn when you are trying to switch careers. We are usually looking for someone that has specific experience in that position, not just the skills in general. This is where an "inside" contact really a valuable person!
Nagam Qanadilo
Product Manager
4
Answers
Vineyard, UT
Updated
Nagam’s Answer
One path is to get an MBA to learn about business from a variety of perspectives (Marketing, Design Thinking, Finance, Operations), and then you can easily apply to big tech companies as a program manager because of the perspective you would have combining business and design thinking. Those skills are highly desired in the tech field especially with the big focus on customer experience and the customer journey.
Nandini Krishna
Manager
34
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Nandini’s Answer
Hello Nat,
Hope this helps -
1. How did you start your career in consulting?
a. I was an experienced hire. My previous organization was a technology service center. I was a Test Lead/ Manager in that organization.
2. What are some things that made you stand out in the application pool
a. Technology Acumen - You don't have to know everything about the latest technology advancement - but being curious and showing an aptitude to learn will go a long way with your interviewer.
b. Client exposure/ experience - I felt that really helped my application. Many of the interview questions were also around client experience.
c. Soft skills - Goes hand in hand with client experience. Soft skills and communication is crucial in consulting.
Hope my answers help you out. Have a great rest of your day!
Hope this helps -
1. How did you start your career in consulting?
a. I was an experienced hire. My previous organization was a technology service center. I was a Test Lead/ Manager in that organization.
2. What are some things that made you stand out in the application pool
a. Technology Acumen - You don't have to know everything about the latest technology advancement - but being curious and showing an aptitude to learn will go a long way with your interviewer.
b. Client exposure/ experience - I felt that really helped my application. Many of the interview questions were also around client experience.
c. Soft skills - Goes hand in hand with client experience. Soft skills and communication is crucial in consulting.
Hope my answers help you out. Have a great rest of your day!
Catherine Davis
User Experience Designer
3
Answers
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Hi Nat,
I can’t speak to transitioning to UX from another field, since this is my first career out of college. However, I can speak to how I got into the field from my experience. I would say the two most important things about getting a job in UX is 1) networking and 2) having a portfolio that showcases your communication, collaboration and problem solving skills.
Because UX is quite a competitive field to break into (particularly for entry level positions), having connections to people in the field is extremely helpful. They can share what their experiences are like with you, give you a heads up on any job postings that haven’t been posted publicly yet, and refer you to positions within their company which increases your chances of getting that first interview. It’s also a great idea to seek companies where you share similarities in backgrounds. For instance, both of the jobs I have had had alumni from my college, which provided as a great way to connect with some of the employees there.
Additionally, on top of having design skills, showing that you’re able to collaborate with others and work through solving problems in your own portfolio is a huge factor in being able to get a job in UX. Coming from marketing/social media, you can absolutely use some of the skills you’ve obtained from your previous jobs and showcase that in addition to any design work you’ve done from your classes. Many people in UX come from other backgrounds, and coming from marketing/social media may actually be a benefit!
Wishing you luck!
I can’t speak to transitioning to UX from another field, since this is my first career out of college. However, I can speak to how I got into the field from my experience. I would say the two most important things about getting a job in UX is 1) networking and 2) having a portfolio that showcases your communication, collaboration and problem solving skills.
Because UX is quite a competitive field to break into (particularly for entry level positions), having connections to people in the field is extremely helpful. They can share what their experiences are like with you, give you a heads up on any job postings that haven’t been posted publicly yet, and refer you to positions within their company which increases your chances of getting that first interview. It’s also a great idea to seek companies where you share similarities in backgrounds. For instance, both of the jobs I have had had alumni from my college, which provided as a great way to connect with some of the employees there.
Additionally, on top of having design skills, showing that you’re able to collaborate with others and work through solving problems in your own portfolio is a huge factor in being able to get a job in UX. Coming from marketing/social media, you can absolutely use some of the skills you’ve obtained from your previous jobs and showcase that in addition to any design work you’ve done from your classes. Many people in UX come from other backgrounds, and coming from marketing/social media may actually be a benefit!
Wishing you luck!
Grace Maisey
Marketing
3
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Grace’s Answer
Hello Nat, I too, have navigated my way into the tech sector from a non-conventional route, beginning my journey in the hospitality industry. The most valuable suggestion I can offer is to seek out a tech firm that resonates with your personal beliefs and principles. Try to secure an entry-level position where your existing skills can be put to good use. Many tech firms are in need of social media marketers! This could potentially serve as your stepping stone, eventually leading to opportunities for internal progression later. Based on my personal experience, securing an entry-level position as a Project Manager or UX Designer can be challenging. Hence, starting in a role where you can showcase your proven skills and demonstrate your potential could be a viable way forward.
Camille Beck
Optimization Manager
3
Answers
East Hanover, New Jersey
Updated
Camille’s Answer
Hi Nat, I transitioned from employee communications/PR to web dev/coding while I was finishing up my degree. Within the same company, I asked if I could spend a couple of hours a week shadowing folks doing the work I was interested in and then take on small projects for "free" to help build my experience. Reach out to contacts (or try to make new contacts) at companies or within the industry you are interested in, and see if you can spend some time shadowing or interning to help build your experience. It will also help you figure out what you enjoy doing within the field too. Good luck!