35 answers
Tien
Student
Tampa, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What should I choose between Technology or Business , I prefer both but which is more benefit and easy to get the job irl ?
I always chasing my dream since it no more my dreams then it will be my goal #success #business #technology #career
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35 answers
Desiree Brown
Business Architect
2
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Desiree’s Answer
There are several job opportunities that combine both. I am a business analyst and data architect for Fannie Mae. In my position, my work group is a liaison between the technology team and the business operations team. I have to have knowledge of the technology side and use that regularly (programming, ETL, database work) and have to understand how the business works in order to effectively support them (so in this case, the mortgage operations).
I would encourage you to look for a MIS (management information system) or data architect position because those will often combine the two sides.
I would encourage you to look for a MIS (management information system) or data architect position because those will often combine the two sides.
Kana Raghavan
Loan Operations Specialist
8
Answers
Chantilly, Virginia
Updated
Kana’s Answer
I would recommend hybrid of business and technology . If you browse courses , currently there are many universities offering management courses in Business and technology. There are several BI tools ( Tableau , Alteryx, TS, Microsoft BI )that helps with this as well.
Business Intelligence (BI) is a a perfect example of the crossover of business, analytics, and technical tracts. It bleeds into strategy and operations as well.
Terence Cheung
Terence Cheung
Business Operations
78
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Terence’s Answer
You absolutely don't need to pick between one or the other, they're both viable and they overlap for sure. My example would be that I knew, growing up in the SF Bay Area, that I wanted to work on the business side of tech. My main comment would be that there are jobs across the entire gradient from "technical" to "non-technical", and everything in between, at every gradient. Simplifying it, you could be a 1-10 on either side, technical or business, you could be 5-5 on both or 7-3, or every permutation in between.
"10" on a technical scale, could be a programmer or a Quality control person that's looking only at the screen, coding all day
"10" on a business side, could be a pure operations or business analyst role, that has nothing to do the programming side
"5-5" on both, could be a product manager or something that blends both sides, requiring technical knowledge, or at least the ability to communicate with techies, and an understanding of where the business is going.
"7-3" might be a engineering manager, that requires deeper development knowledge, but some level of people/project management
There are shades everywhere in-between these roles, so you can really blend both. I encourage you to figure out the following:
1) what do you like to do?
2) what do you not like to do?
3) what are you good at?
1-2 are related to your personality, say you're detail oriented, or you hate the details. Disliking massive structure and details would not match well with being a programmer, since that is all about set structure and minutia. #3 is related more to your professional skills, which is where your work experience may come into play more. Do you gravitate to building solutions to big problems, or figuring out the most detailed, precise issues? Do you thrive with less structure and detail? or Do you need that structure to move forward?
Understanding these may help you decide whether you're more 60%/40% business/techie, or vice versa. Bottom line, there is a job in the workforce for you for whatever shade you are in this mix! You don't need to decide!
"10" on a technical scale, could be a programmer or a Quality control person that's looking only at the screen, coding all day
"10" on a business side, could be a pure operations or business analyst role, that has nothing to do the programming side
"5-5" on both, could be a product manager or something that blends both sides, requiring technical knowledge, or at least the ability to communicate with techies, and an understanding of where the business is going.
"7-3" might be a engineering manager, that requires deeper development knowledge, but some level of people/project management
There are shades everywhere in-between these roles, so you can really blend both. I encourage you to figure out the following:
1) what do you like to do?
2) what do you not like to do?
3) what are you good at?
1-2 are related to your personality, say you're detail oriented, or you hate the details. Disliking massive structure and details would not match well with being a programmer, since that is all about set structure and minutia. #3 is related more to your professional skills, which is where your work experience may come into play more. Do you gravitate to building solutions to big problems, or figuring out the most detailed, precise issues? Do you thrive with less structure and detail? or Do you need that structure to move forward?
Understanding these may help you decide whether you're more 60%/40% business/techie, or vice versa. Bottom line, there is a job in the workforce for you for whatever shade you are in this mix! You don't need to decide!
Alisa Liebowitz
Technical Operations
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Alisa’s Answer
I would recommend technology. Often candidates that focus on technical skills can actually get hired for business focused jobs. However, you will not encounter the reversed. If I were to go back in time I would focus developing the technical skill sets in university. Hope that helps.
Eric Barnum
Sr Recruiting Manager
1
Answer
Morgan Hill, California
Updated
Eric’s Answer
There are degree programs at colleges and universities that combine both technology and business practicum. If you prefer both, then I would suggest you pursue both. Having both in a degree or degrees will benefit you with different view points.
Austin Shelpuk
Recruiting Manager
7
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Austin’s Answer
You could double major. Or you could pick a major and minor in the other. Major in engineering and minor in business would be my suggestion. If you have the education and skills in business and engineering/technology you will have many many career options!
Nadia Goharian
Business Analyst at Fannie Mae
16
Answers
Bethesda, Maryland
Updated
Nadia’s Answer
There are plenty of job opportunities in both business and technology fields. Some jobs that require both skills to allow you to work as a liaison between IT and Business. I recommend that you find your passion first and then decide on the field. Also, keep in mind that many people's career and interests evolves as time goes on. You can always double major in IT and business if you have passion for both but also expect more work ahead in college. Best of luck!
Jason Starkman
Student
3
Answers
Albany, New York
Updated
Jason’s Answer
I major in finance and computer science. I had a similar outlook when I was choosing what to accomplish in college. I completely understand how the advice "do what interests you most or that you're most passionate about" is very unhelpful at the stage you're at. If you're a hard worker getting a job won't be difficult no matter which you choose to major in. Remember that club activities and what you do outside of your academics is also very important to possible employers. I recommend researching actual jobs you would like to hold in the future and seeing the prerequisites for those. Really think about what each job would entail and visualize yourself working in each one. Work towards that goal by choosing the major that would best suit that. Good luck!
Syed Ferdous
Program Manager
100
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Syed’s Answer
Hi Tien,
You don't necessarily need to pick between Business and Technology because the fields are so intertwined these days. Here are just some jobs that are at the intersection of business and technology:
1. Venture Capitalist
2. IT Consultant
3. Digital Strategy Consultant
4. Technology Sales
5. Product Management
6. Product Marketing
7. Business Operations at a tech company
You don't necessarily need to pick between Business and Technology because the fields are so intertwined these days. Here are just some jobs that are at the intersection of business and technology:
1. Venture Capitalist
2. IT Consultant
3. Digital Strategy Consultant
4. Technology Sales
5. Product Management
6. Product Marketing
7. Business Operations at a tech company
Nick Oliver
Consulting
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Nick’s Answer
I would agree with Julie that choosing a passion is key, but sometimes it can be hard to find that passion before you have had the chance to experience different jobs and roles.
I work as a consultant for technology companies and in that role, I get to advise clients on how to run their business and ensure that their products meet customer needs. This lets me see different parts of both the tech industry and the business problems companies within it face, which is a very stimulating experience.
To get a job in consulting, it is helpful to have an internship so plan ahead and work with your career management office to identify opporunities early.
I work as a consultant for technology companies and in that role, I get to advise clients on how to run their business and ensure that their products meet customer needs. This lets me see different parts of both the tech industry and the business problems companies within it face, which is a very stimulating experience.
To get a job in consulting, it is helpful to have an internship so plan ahead and work with your career management office to identify opporunities early.
James Anderson
Project Manager
9
Answers
Plano, Texas
Updated
James’s Answer
Austin and Desiree have good advice for you. It is incredibly smart to pair a technology degree with a business degree. Your resume will be a real powerhouse if it has a tech degree, say focused on cyber-security and you also have a business degree, especially an MBA. That requires a lot of school but those kind of educational credentials will make your resume stand out.
Also, I worked my way through college, especially during my MBA. This meant it took me a little longer to graduate, but when I did not only did I have an MBA, but I had real work experience. Employers generally like to see that you already have some work experience. Good luck!
Also, I worked my way through college, especially during my MBA. This meant it took me a little longer to graduate, but when I did not only did I have an MBA, but I had real work experience. Employers generally like to see that you already have some work experience. Good luck!
Alison Thornton
Marketing
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Alison’s Answer
The great news is business needs technology, so you can do both to use those skills together. If you must choose and are concerned about finding your first job, check out the local job market where you want to live and see which jobs/companies are hiring for what positions. School and your career are a journey, you'll pick up knowledge and experience along the way. With that in mind, if you have to choose one, think about which education is better learned in the classroom from your school and which knowledge can you pick up after graduation (on the job, reading books, or in online classes).
I initially thought I wanted to be an accounting major with a science minor, but liked marketing classes more and technology classes were limited. My first career step was working for a venture capital firm which was a great way to learn more about business in different technology industries. Then I got into marketing for a technology company, there my two passions came together. I'm by no means as technical as technology major or a technology specialist, but I have a pretty good awareness of the basics and the latest trends based on what I've picked up along the way.
Like several other responders above I'd recommend both if you can, at minimum check out classes for both and see which you like better. That will help guide you to your passion. Work is work, sometimes it's hard, but when you get to use skills you enjoy using in your day to day, it makes work fun.
Take classes in technology and business before declaring a major
Try to double major
If you picked one major, keep up on the other topic after graduation (reading books, taking online classes, working in a role where you learn more)
I initially thought I wanted to be an accounting major with a science minor, but liked marketing classes more and technology classes were limited. My first career step was working for a venture capital firm which was a great way to learn more about business in different technology industries. Then I got into marketing for a technology company, there my two passions came together. I'm by no means as technical as technology major or a technology specialist, but I have a pretty good awareness of the basics and the latest trends based on what I've picked up along the way.
Like several other responders above I'd recommend both if you can, at minimum check out classes for both and see which you like better. That will help guide you to your passion. Work is work, sometimes it's hard, but when you get to use skills you enjoy using in your day to day, it makes work fun.
Alison recommends the following next steps:
John von Stein
Head of Device Planning & Marketing, Visible
2
Answers
Golden, Colorado
Updated
John’s Answer
Tien, you should definitely consider a career in Product Management. Product Manager (PM) roles in tech companies incorporate both business and technical experience into one job. Many PMs started their career on either the business side (marketing, operations, etc.) or technical side (engineering) and found their way into product management over time. Companies are always looking for strong PMs who have technical chops and sound business acumen.
Sometimes it can be tough to jump straight into a PM role right out of school, but another good way to get started is find a company/product you are passionate about, get started in a business or technical role, and work your way into a PM role over time.
Best of luck!
Sometimes it can be tough to jump straight into a PM role right out of school, but another good way to get started is find a company/product you are passionate about, get started in a business or technical role, and work your way into a PM role over time.
Best of luck!
Gabriela Sevciuc
Technical Analyst
7
Answers
Reston, Virginia
Updated
Gabriela’s Answer
Hi Tien,
The great news is that you don't have to pick among the two :) There are many universities that offer majors combining both business and technology. I personally graduated with a Computer Information Systems degree from James Madison University, and the JMU CIS curriculum involved both 15+ business classes (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Strategic Management, Business Law, Management, Operations etc.) and 12+ technology classes (Database, Java Programming, Python Programming, Network, Cyber Security, Web Design etc.) Universities usually offer the MIS / CIS degree as part of their College of Business, comprising a strong core foundation in business along with developing technical skills.
There is a high demand for professionals who understand both Business and Technology as the gap between the two becomes narrower.
The great news is that you don't have to pick among the two :) There are many universities that offer majors combining both business and technology. I personally graduated with a Computer Information Systems degree from James Madison University, and the JMU CIS curriculum involved both 15+ business classes (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Strategic Management, Business Law, Management, Operations etc.) and 12+ technology classes (Database, Java Programming, Python Programming, Network, Cyber Security, Web Design etc.) Universities usually offer the MIS / CIS degree as part of their College of Business, comprising a strong core foundation in business along with developing technical skills.
There is a high demand for professionals who understand both Business and Technology as the gap between the two becomes narrower.
Riley Carr
Business Analyst
179
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Riley’s Answer
I'm not sure which field would land you a job quicker, because this would depend on the specific major you choose and the degree of education that you pursue. However, I might have a good major for you to choose from. I have always had a passion for technology, so I entered college as a software engineer. After a few years, though, I felt that it was too heavy on math classes for me and I wasn't interested in this. I decided to change my major to Computer Information Systems, which is a major in the business field that has a focus on technology. This major set me up very well to be open to more positions because I am not only proficient in most business concepts, but also in technology. If you are having trouble deciding between the two fields, this might be a good option for you.
Simeon Snow
Risk Assurance
1790
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
The key to finding a good job with a business degree is getting much more specific about the type of work you want to do and the industry you want to do it in. The tech industry already has a few pretty select paths to choose from, so there's more clarity there. But with business, it's easy to drift around throwing resumes to the wind if you don't focus it down and find your specialty (i.e. accounting, finance, marketing, etc). You're probably not going to break into a large company through a general admin or secretarial position.
Peter Vaccaro
Technology
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Peter’s Answer
What is extremely valuable in the work environment today is being able to translate technology in business terms to the business. My recommendation is try to find that balance with major / minors while in college to position you have to have this unique skillset.
Cathy Wingrove
Accountant
4
Answers
Rogers, Minnesota
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
Hi Tien,
Great question! You did not mention specifically what in Business you are looking at. I personally went to college for accounting. I did not do a second major. In my current position i am an accountant that uses technological skills to work with and analyze large datasets. We believe that the future of accountants/financial analysts will also require them to be capable of using technological skills. When looking at resumes we tend to lean towards a person that has an accounting/finance major with a minor in MIS.
Great question! You did not mention specifically what in Business you are looking at. I personally went to college for accounting. I did not do a second major. In my current position i am an accountant that uses technological skills to work with and analyze large datasets. We believe that the future of accountants/financial analysts will also require them to be capable of using technological skills. When looking at resumes we tend to lean towards a person that has an accounting/finance major with a minor in MIS.
Carlos Bortoni
Sr. Associate at PwC
14
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Carlos’s Answer
Hi Tien - I would agree with several of the earlier posts suggesting a combination of both, when possible. Regardless on whether you major/minor in one or both, I would prioritize classes that allow you to develop technical skills (coding, data analysis, presentation/communication skills, etc.) as well as opportunities to leverage them in a real world setting (e.g., internships, volunteering, partnering with local businesses).
At a more tactical level, I would suggest you spend some time thinking about what parts of a job/career you (think you might) enjoy most. Do you like interacting with clients? Problem-solving? Designing and coding a solution? Selling it? Figuring out what is the best market/approach? All of the above? You've got a lot of time to figure it out so definitely take advantage of the classes and opportunities at your school and through your network and you'll be off at a great start. Good luck!
At a more tactical level, I would suggest you spend some time thinking about what parts of a job/career you (think you might) enjoy most. Do you like interacting with clients? Problem-solving? Designing and coding a solution? Selling it? Figuring out what is the best market/approach? All of the above? You've got a lot of time to figure it out so definitely take advantage of the classes and opportunities at your school and through your network and you'll be off at a great start. Good luck!
Stephen Genoff
Business Architect
4
Answers
Columbia
Updated
Stephen’s Answer
Good question, Tien! I feel that all of the responses here provide solid advice. One thing I'd like to add is that business and technology are tightly coupled - especially as you progress in your career and move into more senior roles.
From a business viewpoint, it has become increasingly important over the years to understand the basics of technology. Technology enables the business, and especially in this era of digitization having at least a contextual understanding of how the technology supports the business work you're doing is critical. From a technology viewpoint, it is important to understand what the business is doing with your product or service so that you can address business requests.
Obtaining a dual degree in business and technology is one option you may want to consider. Another is to obtain a technology degree as an undergrad, get a few years of work experience, and then return for an MBA to understand the business side. Many employers will offer financial assistance to obtain degrees. It may take longer, but often having relevant work experience is required for an MBA.
Hope this helps, and best wishes!
From a business viewpoint, it has become increasingly important over the years to understand the basics of technology. Technology enables the business, and especially in this era of digitization having at least a contextual understanding of how the technology supports the business work you're doing is critical. From a technology viewpoint, it is important to understand what the business is doing with your product or service so that you can address business requests.
Obtaining a dual degree in business and technology is one option you may want to consider. Another is to obtain a technology degree as an undergrad, get a few years of work experience, and then return for an MBA to understand the business side. Many employers will offer financial assistance to obtain degrees. It may take longer, but often having relevant work experience is required for an MBA.
Hope this helps, and best wishes!
Graham Kosich
Inside Sales Intern
6
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Graham’s Answer
If you are choosing between one or the other, I would go with business. I say this because there are many more avenues in business than there are in tech. You can't go wrong with either though, as both are super exciting and pay well.
I would advise you to get a job that entails both if these are truly your interests. There are many different occupations you would like, and there's no reason why you shouldn't pursue.
Cheers,
Graham Kosich
I would advise you to get a job that entails both if these are truly your interests. There are many different occupations you would like, and there's no reason why you shouldn't pursue.
Cheers,
Graham Kosich
Misako Mcewan
Business analyst
2
Answers
Prosper, Texas
Updated
Misako’s Answer
I suggest that you pursue both. There are opportunities to use both skill sets. Also, if you get into a job in one field and find that you are unhappy in that field, you have another option available.
Michelle Gallagher
3
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Tien,
I too am very interested in both. I have my Masters degree in Business but an currently looking at getting a degree in IT, just trying to figure out the right one.
With a Business degree you are able to work in just about any industry, adding the technology aspect only adds more diversity and options for your future.
Best of luck to you!
I too am very interested in both. I have my Masters degree in Business but an currently looking at getting a degree in IT, just trying to figure out the right one.
With a Business degree you are able to work in just about any industry, adding the technology aspect only adds more diversity and options for your future.
Best of luck to you!
Brian McCloskey
Real Estate Appraiser
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Brian’s Answer
I would say technology. Technology skills are easily transferrable between many different business types. Good Luck!
Brian Michaud
President
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Technology is the business, it's only old paradigms that separate them into different disciplines. Seek your passion first, always. You are most likely to experience success early in your career when you are doing something you love or that you enjoy learning about. Other opportunities or pathways will open up throughout your career where you will be able to lean in to either new technologies or business management disciplines.
It's great to see you on CareerVillage!
Flor Wickham
Julie Coucoules
Staffing Director
1
Answer
Novato, California
Updated
Julie’s Answer
You should choose whatever you are most passionate about, which will mean work won't feel like work. Technology drives almost everything we do these days, so there's certainly a ton of opportunity there. Good luck!
Sethu Madhavan
Senior Business Architect
4
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Sethu’s Answer
Hello Tien,
You don't need to trade one for another. Technology is an enabler for all businesses, however in the recent past you may have heard about technology disrupting / transforming businesses (e.g. Uber, AirBnB etc.,) or making traditional business models obsolete. The combination of business and technology know-how can give you an advantage over your peers. As you progress through your career you can choose to toggle between the two or continue to add value by applying the right business - technology combination.
You don't need to trade one for another. Technology is an enabler for all businesses, however in the recent past you may have heard about technology disrupting / transforming businesses (e.g. Uber, AirBnB etc.,) or making traditional business models obsolete. The combination of business and technology know-how can give you an advantage over your peers. As you progress through your career you can choose to toggle between the two or continue to add value by applying the right business - technology combination.
Stewart Katz
innovation
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Stewart’s Answer
Think of a company that you admire or who's products you're a fan of and then look on LinkedIn for the leaders of that company. See what they majored in. I know many strong business leaders with technical degrees and vice versa. The degree isn't as binding and doesn't dictate your career as much as it might seem.
Emily Heacock
Recruiter
5
Answers
Campbell, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
I am here to say that I work corporately within in a technology company and it's been great. I am passionate about new technology but also get the benefit of furthering the business on the corporate side. I don't think you can go wrong either way!
Lucy Njeru
Project Analyst
4
Answers
Bedford, Texas
Updated
Lucy’s Answer
Those 2 areas go hand in hand most of the time. If you can, i would say take a major in one and minor in the other. They are both very marketable in my opinion.
Patty Mikels PMP
Global Program Manager at Dell
5
Answers
Updated
Patty’s Answer
I believe you can double major in Business and IT. There are many technology options within the Business major and these 2 go quite nicely together.
Cristina Matos
Auditor
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Cristina’s Answer
Hey Tien! That is a really great question! So there are a lot of opportunities to utilize technology in business and it's super important to develop technological skills within Excel, Alteryx, and Tableau. You can pursue a career in Accounting where we utilize Tableau, Alteryx, and Excel daily! I would definitely consider taking classes in MIS (Management Information Systems) and accounting classes to see what you're interested in!
Sena Suh
Sales
2
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Sena’s Answer
Hi Tien,
Good question! I'd do both if i could go back to uni.
Because I'm in Sales in IT where appreciate both!
If you have knowledge in both, you could do much more which means you could have a lot more opportunities.
You might do double majors or start with one in major, the other one in minor. :)
Good question! I'd do both if i could go back to uni.
Because I'm in Sales in IT where appreciate both!
If you have knowledge in both, you could do much more which means you could have a lot more opportunities.
You might do double majors or start with one in major, the other one in minor. :)
Ashwin Jiwane
Software Engineer / Technical Product
4
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Ashwin’s Answer
Hi Tien,
Great question. I remember having similar dilemma 10 years ago. I'm not sure if double major is possible for you and how difficult it would be. It could be too much to ask. Don't be too hard on yourself and enjoy this journey :)
My best advice is to follow your passion which in simple words is follow what you enjoy doing. Read little bit more about what is involved in IT and Business to get some ideas. Both IT and Business are big areas and there are too many opportunities in each of them.
None of them (IT/Business) are going away anywhere and there would be still jobs in both fields.
In general, switching careers from core IT to core Business is easier than moving from Business to IT.
However, these days everything involves some version of IT even if you major in business you would have to know some IT (if not core computer science algorithms/development skills).
Great question. I remember having similar dilemma 10 years ago. I'm not sure if double major is possible for you and how difficult it would be. It could be too much to ask. Don't be too hard on yourself and enjoy this journey :)
My best advice is to follow your passion which in simple words is follow what you enjoy doing. Read little bit more about what is involved in IT and Business to get some ideas. Both IT and Business are big areas and there are too many opportunities in each of them.
None of them (IT/Business) are going away anywhere and there would be still jobs in both fields.
In general, switching careers from core IT to core Business is easier than moving from Business to IT.
However, these days everything involves some version of IT even if you major in business you would have to know some IT (if not core computer science algorithms/development skills).
Kyle Stewart
Tax Associate
10
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
Most jobs in business involve technology. Educating yourself in technology (such as tableau and alteryx) and being able to use technology to bring value to business will help you stand out as a candidate for a job in business.