16 answers
Troy
Student
Laurel, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
1127 views
What’s the best advice for someone transitioning to tech with bare experience?
After years of working in customer service & warehouse work, I believe a dead end jobs started to take fulfillment out of me. What are the best jobs to apply to get my foot in the tech world while acquiring certifications.
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16 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6308
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Troy!
Embarking on a Tech Career: An Actionable Guide for Novices
Venturing into the tech sector can be a gratifying experience, particularly if you're transitioning from customer service or warehouse roles. Here's a practical guide to help you effectively navigate this career shift.
1. Pinpoint Your Tech Interests and Abilities
Before you start applying for jobs, spend some time pondering which technology areas fascinate you the most. The tech industry is broad, including fields like software development, data analysis, IT support, cybersecurity, and more. Think about:
Technical Skills: Do you have any computer or software experience? Are there particular technologies that pique your curiosity?
Soft Skills: Your customer service role has likely given you valuable soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These are easily adaptable to tech roles.
2. Explore Entry-Level Job Opportunities
Once you've pinpointed your interests, explore entry-level jobs that match them. Some typical entry-level tech roles include:
Help Desk Technician: This role entails providing technical support to users and troubleshooting problems.
Data Entry Specialist: This role involves managing and entering data into systems.
Junior Web Developer: If coding interests you, consider learning HTML/CSS and applying for junior developer roles.
Quality Assurance Tester: This role involves testing software for bugs and ensuring quality before launch.
IT Support Specialist: This role involves assisting with hardware/software issues within an organization.
3. Pursue Relevant Certifications
Certifications can greatly boost your resume and show your dedication to acquiring new skills. Here are some certifications to consider:
CompTIA A+: A basic certification for IT professionals that focuses on hardware and software troubleshooting.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate: An online program that teaches vital IT support skills.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: If cloud computing interests you, this certification offers a foundational understanding of AWS services.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: A good starting point if you're exploring Microsoft's cloud services.
4. Expand Your Professional Network
Networking is vital in the tech sector. Connect with professionals via platforms like LinkedIn or local gatherings. Participate in tech-related discussions or seek guidance from those already in the field.
5. Obtain Hands-On Experience
Consider internships or volunteer roles that offer practical experience. Websites like GitHub can be handy for showcasing any projects or contributions you make while learning new skills.
6. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter
When job hunting, tweak your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your customer service experience as it shows your ability to interact with people—a crucial skill in many tech roles.
7. Get Ready for Interviews
Research typical interview questions for the role you're applying for and rehearse your answers. Be ready to discuss how your past experiences can contribute to success in a tech role.
8. Keep Up with Industry Developments
The tech industry evolves quickly; keeping abreast of new technologies will help you stay competitive in the job market. Follow industry news sites, blogs, or podcasts related to your interest area.
Conclusion
Switching to a tech career from a different field might seem challenging initially; however, by pinpointing your interests, pursuing relevant certifications, networking effectively, obtaining practical experience, customizing your application materials, preparing for interviews, and staying updated on industry developments, you'll be well-prepared to successfully make this career shift.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
CompTIA - Provides detailed information on IT career-relevant certifications.
Coursera - Offers access to various professional certificates, including Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate.
LinkedIn Learning - Offers courses designed to build technical skills needed for entry-level positions in tech fields.
Blessings to you!
JC.
Embarking on a Tech Career: An Actionable Guide for Novices
Venturing into the tech sector can be a gratifying experience, particularly if you're transitioning from customer service or warehouse roles. Here's a practical guide to help you effectively navigate this career shift.
1. Pinpoint Your Tech Interests and Abilities
Before you start applying for jobs, spend some time pondering which technology areas fascinate you the most. The tech industry is broad, including fields like software development, data analysis, IT support, cybersecurity, and more. Think about:
Technical Skills: Do you have any computer or software experience? Are there particular technologies that pique your curiosity?
Soft Skills: Your customer service role has likely given you valuable soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These are easily adaptable to tech roles.
2. Explore Entry-Level Job Opportunities
Once you've pinpointed your interests, explore entry-level jobs that match them. Some typical entry-level tech roles include:
Help Desk Technician: This role entails providing technical support to users and troubleshooting problems.
Data Entry Specialist: This role involves managing and entering data into systems.
Junior Web Developer: If coding interests you, consider learning HTML/CSS and applying for junior developer roles.
Quality Assurance Tester: This role involves testing software for bugs and ensuring quality before launch.
IT Support Specialist: This role involves assisting with hardware/software issues within an organization.
3. Pursue Relevant Certifications
Certifications can greatly boost your resume and show your dedication to acquiring new skills. Here are some certifications to consider:
CompTIA A+: A basic certification for IT professionals that focuses on hardware and software troubleshooting.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate: An online program that teaches vital IT support skills.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: If cloud computing interests you, this certification offers a foundational understanding of AWS services.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: A good starting point if you're exploring Microsoft's cloud services.
4. Expand Your Professional Network
Networking is vital in the tech sector. Connect with professionals via platforms like LinkedIn or local gatherings. Participate in tech-related discussions or seek guidance from those already in the field.
5. Obtain Hands-On Experience
Consider internships or volunteer roles that offer practical experience. Websites like GitHub can be handy for showcasing any projects or contributions you make while learning new skills.
6. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter
When job hunting, tweak your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your customer service experience as it shows your ability to interact with people—a crucial skill in many tech roles.
7. Get Ready for Interviews
Research typical interview questions for the role you're applying for and rehearse your answers. Be ready to discuss how your past experiences can contribute to success in a tech role.
8. Keep Up with Industry Developments
The tech industry evolves quickly; keeping abreast of new technologies will help you stay competitive in the job market. Follow industry news sites, blogs, or podcasts related to your interest area.
Conclusion
Switching to a tech career from a different field might seem challenging initially; however, by pinpointing your interests, pursuing relevant certifications, networking effectively, obtaining practical experience, customizing your application materials, preparing for interviews, and staying updated on industry developments, you'll be well-prepared to successfully make this career shift.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
CompTIA - Provides detailed information on IT career-relevant certifications.
Coursera - Offers access to various professional certificates, including Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate.
LinkedIn Learning - Offers courses designed to build technical skills needed for entry-level positions in tech fields.
Blessings to you!
JC.
Edward Carr
Commercial Director
3
Answers
Leatherhead, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Edward’s Answer
Hi Troy,
Great question. Transitioning to the Tech industry is a super wide subject - but here goes. My role in tech is more towards the commercial and sales side of the house - however, I often see graduates, and employees like. yourself transitioning into the tech space through a few roles - here goes: Sales Development, and Business Development - these roles are a couple of great starting positions. They are customer facing, but sometime take the position of email or virtual call first approach. It can be a volume game, and the days are packed, but the experience and learning in Sales and Customer delight can be super rewarding.
From the SDR, BDR role, there's always a shot at Commercial Sales - again, this can be high volume; software and tech companies can ask you to find new customers that match the needs of the product or service, but also service and maintain the existing relationships with a customer base. Both challenging but with subtle differences in the plays or approach as you become a trusted advisor to the customer or prospect base.
Transitioning from the sales world in tech, I have seen and developed sales people into Customer Success Managers - this role is charged with maintaining the customer's momentum on the product or service - this could be users, functionality, or consumption based, to name a few. Either way, the objective is to keep the customer and their journey on the product fresh, but also maintain or grow revenue as a partnership to sales.
I trust this is useful.
Check out the SDR and BDR roles in Software or Tech Companies - don't be afraid of asking about career progression steps on these roles....
Great question. Transitioning to the Tech industry is a super wide subject - but here goes. My role in tech is more towards the commercial and sales side of the house - however, I often see graduates, and employees like. yourself transitioning into the tech space through a few roles - here goes: Sales Development, and Business Development - these roles are a couple of great starting positions. They are customer facing, but sometime take the position of email or virtual call first approach. It can be a volume game, and the days are packed, but the experience and learning in Sales and Customer delight can be super rewarding.
From the SDR, BDR role, there's always a shot at Commercial Sales - again, this can be high volume; software and tech companies can ask you to find new customers that match the needs of the product or service, but also service and maintain the existing relationships with a customer base. Both challenging but with subtle differences in the plays or approach as you become a trusted advisor to the customer or prospect base.
Transitioning from the sales world in tech, I have seen and developed sales people into Customer Success Managers - this role is charged with maintaining the customer's momentum on the product or service - this could be users, functionality, or consumption based, to name a few. Either way, the objective is to keep the customer and their journey on the product fresh, but also maintain or grow revenue as a partnership to sales.
I trust this is useful.
Edward recommends the following next steps:
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
139
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Hello,
There is many free online certifications to reach your next goal. I would see what is currently offered by your employer. They may offer training for the Help Desk role you are seeking. See what they offer first.
There is many free online certifications to reach your next goal. I would see what is currently offered by your employer. They may offer training for the Help Desk role you are seeking. See what they offer first.
Melissa Ghazal
Technology Sales
4
Answers
Waterford Township, Michigan
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
I had success entering the tech field through a start-up company. While I did not have direct experience for the role at the time, I focused on how my skills would translate. Start-ups can be easier as a point of entry and they're typically fun environments too. An Account Manager role or BDR/SDR is a great place to get started!
The Trade Desk, Salesforce, and Google all have great (free) learning programs!
Spend time looking at roles at a few companies you admire or would want to work for, and work towards strengthening your skills & learning for the roles that most closely align to your interests.
Melissa recommends the following next steps:
Darren Brady
Sales
3
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Darren’s Answer
Fantastic query! Based on your background, an ideal stepping stone into the tech industry could be a role such as a Lead Development Representative or Business Development Representative (BDR/LDR). These roles might go by different names, but essentially, they involve reaching out to current clients and potential ones, gathering valuable information to pass on to a Tech Sales Representative for sealing the deal. Your experience already includes a sales component, so leverage that to understand your interaction style and how to extract information from people.
As a BDR/LDR, you're primarily on the lookout for four key elements to determine if a customer genuinely has a project:
1. NEED - Identify if the customer is dealing with a real problem. What probing questions can you ask to reveal this issue? How does it impact the business and the individual? Is the problem severe enough to prompt action?
2. AUTHORITY - Are you conversing with someone who has the power to influence a buying decision?
3. TIMELINE - Discover when they need to finish a specific project and why. Is there a crucial deadline? How pressing is this deadline?
4. BUDGET - Do they have the necessary funds or have they allocated money for payment?
Once you've determined these factors, you can pass the information to a sales representative. Tech companies will gauge your performance based on the number of successful conversations you have and how many sales representatives accept your "leads".
As long as you demonstrate ambition, motivation, and understanding of the above points (and you've done your homework on the company you're applying to), you'll begin to see doors opening in tech companies. The potential career trajectory from here is virtually limitless. You might find the sales aspect appealing and aim to become a sales representative or a sales manager. Alternatively, you might be more captivated by the technology itself, and tech companies will support your skill development in this area.
Research which Tech Companies are in your area
Join linkedin and try to understand who their recruiters are, and connect with them
Spend time on creating a professional CV
Apply for roles, and continually ask for feedback. You wont get the first, second, third fifth job etc, but people will be happy to give you advice on what specific actions you can do to better your chances next time, so dont beat yourself up if you get knocked back on the first few tries. Perseverance, tenacity and a willingness to learn are all skills needed for a successful career in tech sales.
As a BDR/LDR, you're primarily on the lookout for four key elements to determine if a customer genuinely has a project:
1. NEED - Identify if the customer is dealing with a real problem. What probing questions can you ask to reveal this issue? How does it impact the business and the individual? Is the problem severe enough to prompt action?
2. AUTHORITY - Are you conversing with someone who has the power to influence a buying decision?
3. TIMELINE - Discover when they need to finish a specific project and why. Is there a crucial deadline? How pressing is this deadline?
4. BUDGET - Do they have the necessary funds or have they allocated money for payment?
Once you've determined these factors, you can pass the information to a sales representative. Tech companies will gauge your performance based on the number of successful conversations you have and how many sales representatives accept your "leads".
As long as you demonstrate ambition, motivation, and understanding of the above points (and you've done your homework on the company you're applying to), you'll begin to see doors opening in tech companies. The potential career trajectory from here is virtually limitless. You might find the sales aspect appealing and aim to become a sales representative or a sales manager. Alternatively, you might be more captivated by the technology itself, and tech companies will support your skill development in this area.
Darren recommends the following next steps:
Fred Birsner
Tech Support Supervisor
1
Answer
Abingdon, Maryland
Updated
Fred’s Answer
Great question!
The truth is, we use technology in our day to day lives. I believe this transition will be easier than you suspect. To share a personal experience, I was once in the same boat. Working as a cashier in an office supply store that also sold technology solutions for it's customers. I was able to talk with customer & employees in the technology department about some of the things that I used in my day to day life. You will find that this is most commonly where people need help when it comes to technology. In down time I studied & asked questions to learn daily what they did in our technology department. Because we sold the same products I use in my daily life, this was an easier transition. I asked & observed what they would do in instances where they did not know what to do. What I have learned is that working in technology is about being resourceful. Not memorizing every detail, but knowing how to use it in a way to find what you need.
I would look for things you do daily that involve technology. How do you react when things do not work as they should? What do you do before buying a new piece of technology?
Look at the other skills you have & relay them over a technology field. Do you have customer service experience? Are you process/structurally driven? Do you enjoy learning on your own? These are just a few things that can relay over greatly into the technology field.
The specifics & the technical details can be learned...
The truth is, we use technology in our day to day lives. I believe this transition will be easier than you suspect. To share a personal experience, I was once in the same boat. Working as a cashier in an office supply store that also sold technology solutions for it's customers. I was able to talk with customer & employees in the technology department about some of the things that I used in my day to day life. You will find that this is most commonly where people need help when it comes to technology. In down time I studied & asked questions to learn daily what they did in our technology department. Because we sold the same products I use in my daily life, this was an easier transition. I asked & observed what they would do in instances where they did not know what to do. What I have learned is that working in technology is about being resourceful. Not memorizing every detail, but knowing how to use it in a way to find what you need.
I would look for things you do daily that involve technology. How do you react when things do not work as they should? What do you do before buying a new piece of technology?
Look at the other skills you have & relay them over a technology field. Do you have customer service experience? Are you process/structurally driven? Do you enjoy learning on your own? These are just a few things that can relay over greatly into the technology field.
The specifics & the technical details can be learned...
Gustensen Dabresil
College Student in Computer Science
13
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gustensen’s Answer
## Breaking into Tech: A Simple Guide
### Find Your Path
What interests you? Do you like fixing things, analyzing data, or creating software?
Build skills: Learn coding (Python, JavaScript), data analysis, or IT support basics online.
### Get Your Foot In
Start small: Look for entry-level jobs like tech support, data entry, or customer service in a tech company.
Learn while you work: Many companies offer training and certifications.
Network: Connect with people in tech to learn about opportunities.
Keep Growing
Practice: Build projects to show off your skills.
Get certified: Prove your knowledge with certifications.
Never stop learning: Tech changes fast, so keep up-to-date.
Remember: It takes time. Be patient, persistent, and focus on learning.
### Find Your Path
What interests you? Do you like fixing things, analyzing data, or creating software?
Build skills: Learn coding (Python, JavaScript), data analysis, or IT support basics online.
### Get Your Foot In
Start small: Look for entry-level jobs like tech support, data entry, or customer service in a tech company.
Learn while you work: Many companies offer training and certifications.
Network: Connect with people in tech to learn about opportunities.
Keep Growing
Practice: Build projects to show off your skills.
Get certified: Prove your knowledge with certifications.
Never stop learning: Tech changes fast, so keep up-to-date.
Remember: It takes time. Be patient, persistent, and focus on learning.
Betsy Walters
Technical Writer
25
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Betsy’s Answer
Troy,
Numerous companies provide internship opportunities. These are excellent platforms to discover your preferred tech field and establish valuable connections. Completing an internship might even lead to a job offer from the same company. However, I believe it's crucial to first identify how your unique personality aligns with a tech career. Once you've done that, you can pursue further education or secure an internship as previously mentioned.
Wishing you all the best!
bw
Numerous companies provide internship opportunities. These are excellent platforms to discover your preferred tech field and establish valuable connections. Completing an internship might even lead to a job offer from the same company. However, I believe it's crucial to first identify how your unique personality aligns with a tech career. Once you've done that, you can pursue further education or secure an internship as previously mentioned.
Wishing you all the best!
bw
Jason French
Sales
1
Answer
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Jason’s Answer
An effective method to improve your skills and earn valuable certifications is by registering with Salesforce's Trailhead. This platform is free to use and offers a plethora of badges to earn in areas such as CRM administration or email content creation. These qualifications are important and attractive to potential employers.
Yvonne Sellons
Customer Success/Relationship Management
1
Answer
Mission Viejo, California
Updated
Yvonne’s Answer
Your question is fantastic! It's clear that many individuals are eager to break into the tech industry, yet they're uncertain about the best approach. I'd suggest exploring the educational resources provided by Microsoft and Google Learning. Both platforms offer complimentary courses, and there's even the potential to earn certifications.
Consider identifying professionals on LinkedIn who hold the job title you're aspiring to. Don't hesitate to connect with them and seek their guidance. Ask them about their journey into the tech field, their first job, and any tips they might have. Remember, people are generally willing to lend a hand, but it's up to you to reach out and ask.
Best of luck on your exciting journey!
Consider identifying professionals on LinkedIn who hold the job title you're aspiring to. Don't hesitate to connect with them and seek their guidance. Ask them about their journey into the tech field, their first job, and any tips they might have. Remember, people are generally willing to lend a hand, but it's up to you to reach out and ask.
Best of luck on your exciting journey!
Steve Munoz
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Hello, good steps when transitioning to tech is get as many of certifications as possible and surround yourself in alot of tech info and pinpoint what in the tech field you would like to do
IBM Employee Impact
59
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
IBM’s Answer
Hi Troy, I entered the tech industry with very little technical experience, and I still have much to learn, but ask lots of questions. Set up informal interviews with people, show up prepared with questions and ask away. People are always willing to share their knowledge and it's the best way to learn. You can also use YouTube, find a channel that explains things the way you need (aka visually or with charts, with data, etc). I've also started using platforms like Chat GPT to answer my questions. I'll say, explain xyz to me as if I was a 5 year old, and it'll give me the simplest answer to the question, I use that as a base of knowledge and go deeper. In addition, get hands on experience, do free demos, or trials, and really get into it. Don't be afraid to ask questions, it'll get you so far in life!
IBM Employee Impact
59
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
IBM’s Answer
Fantastic question, you're definitely thinking ahead! As several people have suggested in this discussion, aim to locate easy-to-understand educational resources that provide a smooth learning journey, complete with certificates to commemorate your progress. IBM offers an excellent free learning platform named IBM Skills Build, which you can find at https://skillsbuild.org/.
On this platform, you can acquire knowledge in AI, Data Science, Security, Cloud, and other areas. Additionally, it offers training in problem-solving and design strategies like Design Thinking, which are extremely beneficial in putting your newfound skills to use.
I recommend beginning with the 'Getting Started with badges' section and gradually advancing your learning from there.
go to https://skillsbuild.org/
On this platform, you can acquire knowledge in AI, Data Science, Security, Cloud, and other areas. Additionally, it offers training in problem-solving and design strategies like Design Thinking, which are extremely beneficial in putting your newfound skills to use.
I recommend beginning with the 'Getting Started with badges' section and gradually advancing your learning from there.
IBM recommends the following next steps:
Anthony Tran
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Hello Troy!!!
Great question. I actually get this question a lot from peers and family members looking to transition into tech. My advice to them is to try some online tutorials of software projects. And then once you've completed simple tutorials, use them as a template and try slowly expanding off of that and building your own changes and improvements. Doing this would show you have an interest in computer science and can go beyond just running a simple tutorial.
Great question. I actually get this question a lot from peers and family members looking to transition into tech. My advice to them is to try some online tutorials of software projects. And then once you've completed simple tutorials, use them as a template and try slowly expanding off of that and building your own changes and improvements. Doing this would show you have an interest in computer science and can go beyond just running a simple tutorial.
IBM Employee Impact
59
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
IBM’s Answer
Embrace curiosity and welcome the opportunity to learn something new. Yes, it may seem challenging at times, but remember, that's simply a part of the learning journey. Stay committed to it. It's also beneficial to engage in conversations with diverse individuals in the tech field. They can provide valuable insights and spark innovative ideas that you might not have considered before. Finally, seek guidance from God, or whichever higher power you believe in, to lead you on your path.
Lisa Olsson
Sales
1
Answer
Malmö, Skåne County, Sweden
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Hi Troy,
Transitioning into the tech world can seem intimidating, especially when you’ve spent years in a different field. However, tech offers tons of opportunities, and with the right approach, you can absolutely make a smooth transition.
A great entry point is Salesforce. It’s one of the biggest CRM (Customer Relationship Management) platforms out there, and it offers a wide range of career paths. Starting out as a Business Development Representative (BDR) is a smart move. BDRs focus on sales prospecting, and this role can give you valuable exposure to tech sales processes, customer relations, and product knowledge. Keep in mind, many tech sales jobs (especially BDR roles) may require you to relocate, so being open to moving could really boost your chances of landing a job.
Before you start applying, though, I highly recommend getting familiar with sales psychology and sales methodology. This will give you insight into how customers think and how best to approach them, which is key in sales-related roles. A couple of books or courses on the subject will really set you apart.
Also, don’t miss out on Trailhead, Salesforce’s own learning platform. It’s free and offers guided learning paths on everything from basic Salesforce concepts to more advanced topics. By taking a few courses there, you’ll get a good understanding of what Salesforce is all about, and it’ll make you stand out to recruiters.
In summary:
Consider BDR roles as a great foot-in-the-door option.
Read up on sales psychology and methodology to build your foundational sales knowledge.
Complete a few Trailhead courses to learn Salesforce and show initiative.
You’ve already got the customer service skills, which are valuable in any tech job—just be ready to learn, and you’ll do great!
Best of luck! :)
Transitioning into the tech world can seem intimidating, especially when you’ve spent years in a different field. However, tech offers tons of opportunities, and with the right approach, you can absolutely make a smooth transition.
A great entry point is Salesforce. It’s one of the biggest CRM (Customer Relationship Management) platforms out there, and it offers a wide range of career paths. Starting out as a Business Development Representative (BDR) is a smart move. BDRs focus on sales prospecting, and this role can give you valuable exposure to tech sales processes, customer relations, and product knowledge. Keep in mind, many tech sales jobs (especially BDR roles) may require you to relocate, so being open to moving could really boost your chances of landing a job.
Before you start applying, though, I highly recommend getting familiar with sales psychology and sales methodology. This will give you insight into how customers think and how best to approach them, which is key in sales-related roles. A couple of books or courses on the subject will really set you apart.
Also, don’t miss out on Trailhead, Salesforce’s own learning platform. It’s free and offers guided learning paths on everything from basic Salesforce concepts to more advanced topics. By taking a few courses there, you’ll get a good understanding of what Salesforce is all about, and it’ll make you stand out to recruiters.
In summary:
Consider BDR roles as a great foot-in-the-door option.
Read up on sales psychology and methodology to build your foundational sales knowledge.
Complete a few Trailhead courses to learn Salesforce and show initiative.
You’ve already got the customer service skills, which are valuable in any tech job—just be ready to learn, and you’ll do great!
Best of luck! :)