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What can I do to change careers into tech with no experience?

I have no experience and no education in computer science but I'm miserable at my job and I find computers fascinating I've applied to over 100 jobs that are listed as "entry level" or "no experience required" and I'm either ghosted or turned down, what can I do to get my foot in the door?

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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Anthony !

I admire how ambitious you have been and would like to share some advice that hopefully can be useful for you. It's never pleasant to have to look for a different job and I must say that I am impressed with your steadfast action to improve your job satisfaction.

One of the main things with applying for work is to reflect qualifications for the jobs that you are applying for. With the positions you have not heard back from, it may be that the other applicants have Bachelors Degrees in IT or Computer Science. I am not sure that there are good jobs in IT or computer science fields that require no experience, as I think all fields of work want some evidence that the applicant understands and can do the job duties. When it comes to IT or computer work, there are certain programs that employers expect applicants to be familiar with and know how to use. Many of the other applicants may also have certain certifications in the field of work that indicate their ability to do certain things with computer work.

My suggestion is to keep looking for a different job and don't quit your current job until you are hired at the next one. Whichever field of work you are working in now, apply for jobs in that field so you can at least leave the environment that is causing you misery. The next position you obtain may have tuition benefits and you can start taking Computer Science or IT courses so that you can one day obtain work in the filed that you are interested in. Your experience and skills that you have in your current job can lead to better opportunities if you stay within your skill set.

Once you change jobs, you can consider taking online courses, but I would recommend in-person courses as this would be your first time and to get a good introduction for it, I believe in-person courses would be best.

You didn't mention what skills you have otherwise I could suggest where you can transfer those skills to a different job. Have you been applying to Data Entry and Customer Service positions because those are a couple of jobs that you can use computers for most of the work. You can even probably obtain remote work for these, too. Even though entry level may mean no education or experience history, maybe employers are just choosing people that have just graduated college or have worked for some years in the computer science and IT field. Whatever you do, don't give up.

Do you have a resume ? Make sure you are including a resume when you apply for work. I would suggest registering at Linked In and following some tech companies and read the jobs on Linked In and Indeed. I would advise that you keep at it because there's nothing worse than being miserable at a job.

I hope that this helps and I wish you all the best. Hang in there. You will get a different job and see that all the applying was well worth it !
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Aengus’s Answer

Hello there! I've been immersed in the tech industry for the past three years, but my sales experience spans two decades. My most recent role prior to tech was in online content sales.

I would recommend that you delve into the tech business you're interested in. Get to know their products or services, the markets they cater to, and so forth. Many tech firms are open to hiring fresh graduates or those with relevant sales experience. They usually start in entry-level roles like Sales Development Representatives (SDRs). These roles provide you with the opportunity to learn about the business while gaining practical experience. If you excel, you could progress to a Business Development Representative (BDR) and then to an Account Executive (AE).

The tech sales field is generally fiercely competitive, so being resilient is crucial. You should maintain a positive outlook and be open to feedback from your colleagues without letting your ego interfere. If you succeed, you'll find the role extremely rewarding and potentially very lucrative. Keep pushing forward, and you might just find yourself thriving in this exciting industry!
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Joe’s Answer

Even when experience isn't a prerequisite, your education and background can make a difference. Regardless of your current experience level or educational background, there's always room for growth. Consider broadening your knowledge by enrolling in a local college or vocational school. Pursue courses that align with your tech interests. Many high schools and colleges offer internships with various tech companies. If traditional education isn't feasible, there are numerous online platforms, like YouTube and Udemy, that provide valuable courses. This will not only enhance your conversations with recruiters and companies, making you sound more informed, but it will also give your resume a significant boost. Remember, every step you take towards learning is a step closer to your dream job in tech.
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Michael’s Answer

Hello Anthony,

It's fantastic to hear about your interest in computer science. Remember, it's completely normal to face challenges when venturing into a new field, so don't let any setbacks discourage you. As you embark on your job search, carefully review the job listings of the companies you're interested in. Pay close attention to the job requirements and qualifications, and tailor your application accordingly to align with these specifications. This strategy will help your resume shine and increase your chances of landing an interview.

During your interview, aim to answer questions in a way that highlights your unique qualities and skills. For instance, when discussing your background, frame your response in a way that positions you as the ideal candidate for the role. Keep in mind that this process may require patience and practice, but every hurdle you overcome is a valuable learning experience that you can apply to future opportunities. I'm confident that you'll achieve great success!
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Cliff’s Answer

Hi Anthony,

There are a few things I'd like to add:

Have you thought about an apprentice program? There are some companies that offer this. You interview as an apprentice and you spend a year learning on the job with people who are helping/training you. After a year, you are assessed and if you have made enough progress you will be given a full time position. You can do a search to find these programs near you.

There are intensive (6 months or so) programs that will teach you various skills in IT. My nephew had 3 jobs trying to make a career in music and finally decided it wasn't working. He did a 6 month program and now has a job at an insurance company making more money and having more free time. Again, a search can find a number of these.

Anyway, there are options for you.

I wish you the best of luck!
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Doris’s Answer

I recommend enhancing your resume and gaining relevant experience. The specific steps you take will depend on the type of role you're seeking in the tech industry. Some entry-level positions to consider include customer experience (CX), sales, and similar roles.

Here are some strategies to develop your skills and experiences:
- Participate in an intensive training program or online courses
- Earn applicable certifications
- Undertake a personal project
- Volunteer in related areas
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice, but would you know any platforms that are good to find relevant volunteer work? Anthony
Thank you comment icon Check out: https://www.volunteermatch.org Doris Hu
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Teddy’s Answer

Apart from directly applying for advertised jobs, I suggest you also take the initiative to contact individuals on LinkedIn who are in charge of hiring for these positions. Additionally, make sure to establish a direct connection with recruiters.
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Jordan’s Answer

Here are several strategies you can employ to transition into a technology-based role even with minimal experience:

- Consider employment at a tech startup: This opportunity provides you with a wealth of conversation topics, especially about the versatility required in handling various tech stacks and the overall development process.

- Conceive and develop your own tech startup: Create a unique tech startup idea and build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with some assistance. This will offer valuable hands-on experience.

You can turn these possibilities into reality with the help of www.Partunity.com. This platform can assist you in creating or pairing with technical co-founders to work on tech startups. It comes highly recommended for those eager to dive into the tech world.
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Chuqi’s Answer

Securing an entry-level role in the tech sector can be challenging, but don't be discouraged. The best thing you can do right now is to equip yourself as thoroughly as possible and let your enthusiasm for the tech world shine through on your resume and during interviews. Given that you've indicated you lack experience and formal education in computer science, why not kick-start your journey with some online courses to establish a solid foundation in computer science? After completing a few courses and gaining a firm grasp of the field, you can begin to participate in tech communities. For instance, if your goal is to become a software engineer, you could get involved in an open-source project and start making contributions. This will not only enhance your programming abilities but also provide you with invaluable experience in team collaboration. Furthermore, as your technical skills grows, consider volunteering to teach introductory coding courses for beginners. Through regular practice and active involvement in tech communities, you'll acquire the experience and skills necessary to land a job in the tech industry.
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Elle’s Answer

Go for it! If you come across a company that sparks your interest, don't let your background deter you. Companies are always on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals who are eager to be a part of their team. Make the most of LinkedIn and connect with as many people as possible at various levels within the company. Don't hesitate to ask about their roles, the skills they utilize, and if there are others in the company who have unconventional backgrounds. More often than not, they will extend a helping hand at the end of the conversation. Don't shy away from accepting their help! Ask for introductions!

Choose a company that resonates with your personal interests. Even if you lack the typical background, you might possess unique skills that could set you apart. For instance, in-depth customer insights could be your ace in the hole.

Consider exploring early-stage startups as they often have a more flexible approach towards their candidates' backgrounds.
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Jacqueline’s Answer

1. Kick-off with Complimentary Certifications: Embark on free learning platforms such as Facebook Blueprint or Google Digital Garage. These will equip you with pertinent skills and give your resume a significant lift.

2. Leverage Your Existing Abilities: Seek tech roles that align with your current skill set. For instance, if you're a social media enthusiast, aim for tech firms operating in that domain.

3. Embrace Sideways Progression: You may have to initiate your tech journey from a lower tier. This is perfectly fine as it aids in accumulating the necessary experience.

4. Develop a Portfolio: Engage in personal projects or freelance assignments to showcase your talents.

5. Foster Connections: Build relationships with tech professionals via LinkedIn or local gatherings. This will open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable advice.
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Vera’s Answer

Hey Anthony, first of all, it is not uncommon for folks (even with years of relevant experience) to submit and be rejected for dozens if not hundreds of applications, so don't be discouraged.
From my personal experience transitioning to Tech with no prior Tech experience nor "traditional" degree, showing a transferrable skillset and relevance is the key. Specifically,
- analyze job descriptions for the roles you are targeting
- identify which core skills overlap with your prior courses, projects, and internships, etc.
- craft a story: rewrite your resume, and prepare interview responses that use terms/language from the JDs while leveraging your real experiences.
In other words, speak the language of the industry and job function, and show how what you've done/learned in another field is similar to what your target employer is looking for.
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Muhammad’s Answer

Follow this and you can do whatever you want:
In this era ! every one should learn the field of computer science side by side with their major education.

1-So, if you want to switch, first try to search about niche in computer science specifically what you want to do (Web development, App development, Date scientist or analyst, large languge model engineer, Software Developer etc) bcz this field is very vast.

2-After that learn this for three months and try to make projects as complex as you can .

3-It will take 3 to 6 months based on your learning and execution ability.

4-When you have 2 to 3 good projects make graphical representation of these with your resume like a ppt presentation to showcase. Or use websites like github to make your profile and show your work to recruiters.

5-In my opinion strong profile in github is better also you can see what the top people in your niche are doing and you can copy them.

6-One more thing when you are good in programming try to participate in programming competition it will make you confident.

7-Do this in next six months bcz world is moving fast, and trust me in my friend group the peolpe who don't have a degree in Computer science and selflearn are the best in this profession.
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Lauren’s Answer

Hello Anthony! Shifting gears into the tech industry from different fields might seem challenging, but it's entirely achievable. You can kick-start this journey by embarking on self-learning, grasping the fundamentals of programming via free courses or online platforms like Coursera or Codecademy. Once you've mastered the basics, you can begin creating small applications or side projects. These projects will serve as tangible proof of your newly acquired skills and dedication, which can be a game-changer for potential employers, even for entry-level roles.

After you've compiled a modest portfolio, it's time to refresh your resume with these projects and venture into the world of interviews. Initially, this might seem intimidating as tech interviews often differ from those in other industries. However, there's a wealth of free resources available to help you prepare, including YouTube channels like Neetcode and insightful books like "Cracking the Coding Interview". Best of luck on your journey!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Anthony!

Changing Careers into Tech with No Experience

Transitioning into a tech career without prior experience or formal education can be challenging, but it is certainly achievable with the right approach and resources. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your foot in the door.

1. Identify Your Interests and Goals

Before diving into the tech field, take some time to identify which area of technology interests you the most. The tech industry is vast, encompassing fields such as software development, web development, data analysis, cybersecurity, IT support, and more. Understanding where your passion lies will help you focus your efforts effectively.

2. Learn the Basics

Start by acquiring foundational knowledge in your chosen area. There are numerous online platforms offering free or low-cost courses that cover essential skills:

Codecademy: Offers interactive coding lessons in various programming languages.
Coursera: Provides courses from universities on topics like data science and programming.
edX: Features courses from institutions like MIT and Harvard on computer science fundamentals.

Focusing on self-paced learning allows you to build skills at your own pace while gaining confidence.

3. Build Practical Skills

Once you have a grasp of the basics, start working on practical projects. This could include:

Creating personal projects (e.g., building a website or developing a simple app).
Contributing to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub.
Completing coding challenges on websites like LeetCode or HackerRank.

These activities not only enhance your skills but also provide tangible evidence of your abilities that can be showcased to potential employers.

4. Create a Portfolio

As you complete projects, compile them into a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and creativity. A well-organized portfolio should include:

Descriptions of each project.
Technologies used.
Links to live demos or code repositories (e.g., GitHub).

A strong portfolio can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed by employers.

5. Network Actively

Networking is crucial in the tech industry. Engage with professionals through:

LinkedIn: Connect with people in your desired field and participate in discussions.
Local meetups or tech events: Attend workshops or seminars to meet others who share similar interests.
Online communities: Join forums such as Stack Overflow or Reddit’s r/learnprogramming to ask questions and share knowledge.

Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

6. Tailor Your Resume and Applications

When applying for jobs, tailor your resume for each position by highlighting relevant skills and experiences from your learning journey. Focus on transferable skills from previous jobs (e.g., problem-solving, communication) that are applicable in tech roles.

Consider including keywords from job descriptions in your resume to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by many companies during their hiring process.

7. Prepare for Interviews

If you land an interview, prepare thoroughly by practicing common technical interview questions related to the role you’re applying for. Resources such as “Cracking the Coding Interview” can provide valuable insights into what employers look for during interviews.

Additionally, practice behavioral interview questions that assess how you handle challenges and work within teams.

8. Consider Internships or Apprenticeships

If possible, look for internships or apprenticeships that offer hands-on experience even if they are unpaid or low-paid initially. These positions can provide valuable industry exposure and often lead to full-time employment opportunities once you’ve demonstrated your capabilities.

9. Stay Persistent and Keep Learning

The job search process can be discouraging; however, persistence is key. Continue learning new technologies and stay updated with industry trends through blogs, podcasts, webinars, and online courses.

By following these steps diligently while maintaining a positive attitude towards continuous improvement, you’ll increase your chances of successfully transitioning into a tech career despite having no prior experience.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used

Codecademy A popular online platform offering interactive coding lessons across various programming languages suitable for beginners looking to learn coding fundamentals quickly.

Coursera An educational platform providing access to courses from top universities around the world covering diverse subjects including computer science and data analysis tailored for learners at all levels.

edX An online learning platform featuring high-quality courses from prestigious institutions like MIT and Harvard focused on computer science principles designed for individuals seeking foundational knowledge in technology-related fields.

Probability the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless You!
JC.
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Jairo’s Answer

Hi Anthony!

Transitioning into Tech is not easy, but it is doable. If you'd like to get your foot in the door - consider looking for a Sales role at the company you're looking to get into. Sales opportunities are a great way to kick start a career in Tech. Starting a career in Sales helps you understand customer needs and how to continue innovating on the existing products. As you move around in your career at the company, you'll always keep the customers needs top of mind as you consider what new products or exisiting products work best and how to continue making it easy for them to use. Hope this helps!
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