Don’t think you have what it takes to transition to a career in IT? I’m here to tell you that you’re probably wrong. The fact that you’re even reading this article shows your interest and initiative, which already puts you ahead of many others who have yet to take that crucial first step.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common barriers to entering the tech industry and strategies to help you overcome them. Understanding these challenges and knowing how to work through them will set you on the right trajectory as you pursue a new career path.
Four (Surmountable) Barriers to Transitioning to a Career in Technology
- Barrier 1: Lack of Tech Skills: Yes, roles in IT generally require specific competencies, like programming languages, data analytics, or system management. While acquiring these skills may seem unachievable, they can, in fact, be learned. Many online platforms offer courses in everything from basic coding to advanced data science. You can even explore boot camps, such as Codecademy or General Assembly, that provide accelerated learning to expedite the process.
- Barrier 2: The “Wrong” Educational Background: While at one time a degree in computer science or a related field was generally preferred for technology roles, this is no longer the case. More and more, employers in the tech industry are looking for talent based on skills and practical experience over specific degrees. Many successful IT professionals today come from diverse educational backgrounds, from philosophy, art, and history to biology, economics, and sociology. Look beyond your academic course of study and focus more on transferable skills that you can build upon, such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and a willingness to learn.
- Barrier 3: Fear of Failure: Nothing will hold you back more than your own mind. Fear is a powerful emotion, capable of convincing you that you’re not good enough, smart enough, or brave enough to take the leap. Build up your confidence by setting strong, achievable goals. Acknowledge and celebrate every win, no matter how “small.” The more you step outside your comfort zone—and find success there—the more you’ll believe in yourself.
- Barrier 4: Limited Professional Network: It’s no secret that “landing the job” is largely who you know. However, when moving into a new industry, you may not have the connections you need to get your foot in the door. Start by engaging in tech community events and online platforms to build up that professional network. Also consider partnering with a professional IT staffing company like J2 that connects candidates with key industry players and exclusive job openings.
Switching careers at any stage in your professional journey can be scary—but it may be exactly what you need to reignite your career. Your willingness to learn is your greatest asset as you consider a career change. Follow this curiosity and see where it takes you. At J2, we work with both seasoned and emerging IT talent to help them find work that supports their career goals and aligns with their competencies, attributes, and aspirations for growth. Not sure where to start? Contact us here and we’ll help you figure it out.