6 answers
Jasmine
Student
New Brunswick, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
1575 views
How to get Shadowing Opportunities in Tech?
As a black woman, the job search is already difficult but I’m trying to get internships and not landing any due to inexperience. Any advice on getting the skills needed to land tech roles?
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6 answers
Marsha Bexley
Inside Sales Verizon Business
2
Answers
O'Fallon, Missouri
Updated
Marsha’s Answer
Ms Jasmine
This is a great question. I am also a minority in this industry as well with color and age. I wholeheartedly agree with Ms Barbara and Mr Randys answers.
Here are a couple of things that I worked to help me get hired in this industry 10 years ago at 44 years of age.
Keep your GPA high.
Communicate with your career counselors at your school.
Check for campus opportunities.
Participate in school and community and virtual events (Get your name out there)
Make sure that you have a strong POWERFUL resume that speaks volume. List your volunteerism as experience.
I wish you the very best.
This is a great question. I am also a minority in this industry as well with color and age. I wholeheartedly agree with Ms Barbara and Mr Randys answers.
Here are a couple of things that I worked to help me get hired in this industry 10 years ago at 44 years of age.
Keep your GPA high.
Communicate with your career counselors at your school.
Check for campus opportunities.
Participate in school and community and virtual events (Get your name out there)
Make sure that you have a strong POWERFUL resume that speaks volume. List your volunteerism as experience.
I wish you the very best.
Thank you so much for your reply! I have a question, is GPA extremely important in the tech industry? I have been getting A’s, B’s, and C’s yet my GPA is 3.3 (I have transferred credits and just completed my senior year).
Jasmine
It all depends on the interviewer. A leader shared with me me that she was getting turned down for different opportunities in our company. She went back to school and applied for the role again. She got it and now she is a successful manager. No one told her but she feels like it helped her. Your GPA is fine . You will do great.
Marsha Bexley
Thank you! It’s my senior year now so I’m trying my best to keep the grades high.
Jasmine
Randy Tolentino
UX Engineer
19
Answers
Updated
Randy’s Answer
Jasmine,
Thank you for asking this question and for having interest in tech. The tech industry NEEDS you, your perspective, and your talents, so please continue to pursue this field if you feel called to it.
I'm not sure if you've already done this, but searching on YouTube for keywords such as "woman in tech day in the life" , will give provide you with a healthy set of results where you can watch and see what it's like, for women in tech. There are quite a few women who share their experiences, daily routine, insider advice, and stories on how they got into the industry as well.
As a minority myself, it's so important to have you and others who are under-represented, join the field and make an impact on how technology is used in the world.
I wish you the best.
YouTube 'day in the life of women in tech'
Join LinkedIn and search for diversity and inclusion groups to join
Connect with your local college or junior college counselors to see if they provide mentorships that you can take part in
Have faith and never give up! 🙏
Thank you for asking this question and for having interest in tech. The tech industry NEEDS you, your perspective, and your talents, so please continue to pursue this field if you feel called to it.
I'm not sure if you've already done this, but searching on YouTube for keywords such as "woman in tech day in the life" , will give provide you with a healthy set of results where you can watch and see what it's like, for women in tech. There are quite a few women who share their experiences, daily routine, insider advice, and stories on how they got into the industry as well.
As a minority myself, it's so important to have you and others who are under-represented, join the field and make an impact on how technology is used in the world.
I wish you the best.
Randy recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much for your response! Lots of valuable information here. I really appreciate it!
Jasmine
barbara k
Sr. Director
20
Answers
McLean, Virginia
Updated
barbara’s Answer
Jasmine, you have identified one of the key barriers to getting your foot in the door! I am so glad you are asking this question. I would suggest two tracks:
(1) Look for programs designed to boost entry for "nontraditional" groups in tech. Visa's Black scholars and jobs program is one example: https://www.tmcf.org/students-alumni/corp-scholar-programs/visa-black-scholars-jobs-program/ Other companies offer programs aimed at getting more women in tech. Many of these will take you even with little experience and train you (google tech training for black girls and apply to at least 3 of the programs that pop up)
(2) Experience. What type of job are you looking for? Find out the basic skill set and work on that. Many community colleges offer really practical courses such as coding or computer maintenance that get you skills at less than traditional college credits fees. Programs such as https://www.launchcode.org/ are aimed at training nontraditional tech workers and matching them with jobs.
Good luck! Be persistent, believe in yourself and keep at it. We need more black women in tech! I know you will make it!
- Barbara
(1) Look for programs designed to boost entry for "nontraditional" groups in tech. Visa's Black scholars and jobs program is one example: https://www.tmcf.org/students-alumni/corp-scholar-programs/visa-black-scholars-jobs-program/ Other companies offer programs aimed at getting more women in tech. Many of these will take you even with little experience and train you (google tech training for black girls and apply to at least 3 of the programs that pop up)
(2) Experience. What type of job are you looking for? Find out the basic skill set and work on that. Many community colleges offer really practical courses such as coding or computer maintenance that get you skills at less than traditional college credits fees. Programs such as https://www.launchcode.org/ are aimed at training nontraditional tech workers and matching them with jobs.
Good luck! Be persistent, believe in yourself and keep at it. We need more black women in tech! I know you will make it!
- Barbara
Omg thank you so much for the detailed response and good wishes! I wish you the best as well, thank you!
Jasmine
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jasmine!
How to Get Shadowing Opportunities in Tech
Securing shadowing opportunities in the tech industry can be a strategic way to gain experience, build your network, and enhance your skills. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively pursue these opportunities:
1. Leverage Your Network
Start by reaching out to your existing network. This includes friends, family, professors, and classmates who may have connections in the tech industry. Let them know you are looking for shadowing opportunities and ask if they can introduce you to professionals in their circles. Networking events, both virtual and in-person, can also be great places to meet industry professionals.
2. Utilize Online Platforms
There are several online platforms where you can find shadowing opportunities or connect with mentors:
LinkedIn: Create a professional profile highlighting your skills and aspirations. Use LinkedIn to search for professionals in roles you’re interested in and send personalized connection requests explaining your interest in shadowing.
Meetup: Look for tech-related groups or events in your area that focus on networking or skill development. Participating in these gatherings can help you meet potential mentors.
Twitter: Follow industry leaders and engage with their content. Twitter is often used by tech professionals to share insights and job openings.
3. Attend Workshops and Conferences
Participating in workshops, hackathons, or tech conferences can provide exposure to the industry while allowing you to meet potential mentors or employers. Many of these events offer networking sessions where you can express your interest in shadowing.
4. Volunteer for Projects
Consider volunteering for non-profit organizations or community projects that require technical assistance. This not only helps you gain practical experience but also allows you to work alongside experienced professionals who might be open to mentoring or allowing you to shadow them.
5. Reach Out Directly
Identify companies or individuals whose work interests you and reach out directly via email or social media. Craft a concise message expressing your admiration for their work, your desire to learn more about their role, and your request for a shadowing opportunity.
6. Join Professional Organizations
Many professional organizations offer resources for students seeking internships or shadowing experiences. Joining groups such as the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) or Women Who Code can provide access to exclusive job boards, mentorship programs, and networking events tailored specifically for underrepresented groups in tech.
7. Build Relevant Skills
While seeking shadowing opportunities, it’s essential to build relevant skills that will make you a more attractive candidate:
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udacity offer courses on programming languages (Python, Java), web development (HTML/CSS), data analysis (SQL), etc.
Personal Projects: Work on personal projects that showcase your skills—this could be anything from building a website to creating an app.
Open Source Contributions: Contributing to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub can help demonstrate your coding abilities while connecting with other developers.
8. Prepare Your Resume and Portfolio
Even though you’re looking for shadowing rather than formal internships initially, having an updated resume and portfolio showcasing any relevant projects will help when approaching potential mentors or companies.
9. Stay Persistent and Positive
The process of finding shadowing opportunities may take time; however, persistence is key. Keep applying what you’ve learned through networking efforts and skill-building activities while maintaining a positive attitude throughout the journey.
By following these steps diligently, you’ll increase your chances of landing valuable shadowing opportunities that will pave the way toward securing internships and ultimately launching a successful career in tech.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
LinkedIn Learning
A platform offering various courses aimed at enhancing professional skills relevant to technology careers.
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
An organization dedicated to supporting Black engineers through networking opportunities and resources tailored towards career advancement.
Women Who Code
A global nonprofit organization focused on inspiring women to excel in technology careers through mentorship programs and community support initiatives.
God Bless You!
JC.
How to Get Shadowing Opportunities in Tech
Securing shadowing opportunities in the tech industry can be a strategic way to gain experience, build your network, and enhance your skills. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively pursue these opportunities:
1. Leverage Your Network
Start by reaching out to your existing network. This includes friends, family, professors, and classmates who may have connections in the tech industry. Let them know you are looking for shadowing opportunities and ask if they can introduce you to professionals in their circles. Networking events, both virtual and in-person, can also be great places to meet industry professionals.
2. Utilize Online Platforms
There are several online platforms where you can find shadowing opportunities or connect with mentors:
LinkedIn: Create a professional profile highlighting your skills and aspirations. Use LinkedIn to search for professionals in roles you’re interested in and send personalized connection requests explaining your interest in shadowing.
Meetup: Look for tech-related groups or events in your area that focus on networking or skill development. Participating in these gatherings can help you meet potential mentors.
Twitter: Follow industry leaders and engage with their content. Twitter is often used by tech professionals to share insights and job openings.
3. Attend Workshops and Conferences
Participating in workshops, hackathons, or tech conferences can provide exposure to the industry while allowing you to meet potential mentors or employers. Many of these events offer networking sessions where you can express your interest in shadowing.
4. Volunteer for Projects
Consider volunteering for non-profit organizations or community projects that require technical assistance. This not only helps you gain practical experience but also allows you to work alongside experienced professionals who might be open to mentoring or allowing you to shadow them.
5. Reach Out Directly
Identify companies or individuals whose work interests you and reach out directly via email or social media. Craft a concise message expressing your admiration for their work, your desire to learn more about their role, and your request for a shadowing opportunity.
6. Join Professional Organizations
Many professional organizations offer resources for students seeking internships or shadowing experiences. Joining groups such as the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) or Women Who Code can provide access to exclusive job boards, mentorship programs, and networking events tailored specifically for underrepresented groups in tech.
7. Build Relevant Skills
While seeking shadowing opportunities, it’s essential to build relevant skills that will make you a more attractive candidate:
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udacity offer courses on programming languages (Python, Java), web development (HTML/CSS), data analysis (SQL), etc.
Personal Projects: Work on personal projects that showcase your skills—this could be anything from building a website to creating an app.
Open Source Contributions: Contributing to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub can help demonstrate your coding abilities while connecting with other developers.
8. Prepare Your Resume and Portfolio
Even though you’re looking for shadowing rather than formal internships initially, having an updated resume and portfolio showcasing any relevant projects will help when approaching potential mentors or companies.
9. Stay Persistent and Positive
The process of finding shadowing opportunities may take time; however, persistence is key. Keep applying what you’ve learned through networking efforts and skill-building activities while maintaining a positive attitude throughout the journey.
By following these steps diligently, you’ll increase your chances of landing valuable shadowing opportunities that will pave the way toward securing internships and ultimately launching a successful career in tech.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
LinkedIn Learning
A platform offering various courses aimed at enhancing professional skills relevant to technology careers.
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
An organization dedicated to supporting Black engineers through networking opportunities and resources tailored towards career advancement.
Women Who Code
A global nonprofit organization focused on inspiring women to excel in technology careers through mentorship programs and community support initiatives.
God Bless You!
JC.
Gaurav D. Bhatia
Career and Business Coach
8
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Gaurav D.’s Answer
Hi Jasmine & Fellow Readers,
Getting opportunities in the Technology world revolves around networking appropriately.
-Many professionals are very willing to help students, but a great first place to start is to connect with your counselor and ask to find out who are alumni that are currently working in the tech space.
-Another great way is to reach out to directly go onto the organizations websites as they typically have dedicated "internship" opportunities. Now I understand, that this is slightly different than shadowing, however this is an easy way to understand the culture of the organization.
-Lastly, reach out to individuals on LinkedIn directly via a direct message. You would be surprised after a conversation or two with individuals in the Tech Space many are willing to help you out with a shadowing opportunity.
That being said Jasmine, please feel free to reach out to me directly via LinkedIn and I would be happy to help out!
-Gaurav Bhatia
Getting opportunities in the Technology world revolves around networking appropriately.
-Many professionals are very willing to help students, but a great first place to start is to connect with your counselor and ask to find out who are alumni that are currently working in the tech space.
-Another great way is to reach out to directly go onto the organizations websites as they typically have dedicated "internship" opportunities. Now I understand, that this is slightly different than shadowing, however this is an easy way to understand the culture of the organization.
-Lastly, reach out to individuals on LinkedIn directly via a direct message. You would be surprised after a conversation or two with individuals in the Tech Space many are willing to help you out with a shadowing opportunity.
That being said Jasmine, please feel free to reach out to me directly via LinkedIn and I would be happy to help out!
-Gaurav Bhatia
Thank you so much! I’d be more than happy to connect with you!
Jasmine
Lauren Gallant
Manager, Technical Support Innovation
17
Answers
Plymouth, Michigan
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hi Jasmine,
Some of the most sought-after skills in tech are being able to problem solve, think critically, adapt to changes, and execute projects. You could invest in some very specific skills such as Google Ads, Salesforce, or Agile methodologies. These are very prominent in tech, but relevance varies depending on your desired role. I have found that doing online tutorials through youtube, linkedin, or through the program itself (such as Salesforce Trailhead) are great for getting noticed but you'll also have to be able to speak to what you learned or apply it in the job.
I would also recommend getting someone in tech to review your resume and provide feedback on it. There are usually college resources that assist with this or endless online paid services (hopefully not too expensive). This could also come from your professional network if you are able to find someone in a networking group!
Some of the most sought-after skills in tech are being able to problem solve, think critically, adapt to changes, and execute projects. You could invest in some very specific skills such as Google Ads, Salesforce, or Agile methodologies. These are very prominent in tech, but relevance varies depending on your desired role. I have found that doing online tutorials through youtube, linkedin, or through the program itself (such as Salesforce Trailhead) are great for getting noticed but you'll also have to be able to speak to what you learned or apply it in the job.
I would also recommend getting someone in tech to review your resume and provide feedback on it. There are usually college resources that assist with this or endless online paid services (hopefully not too expensive). This could also come from your professional network if you are able to find someone in a networking group!