Insider Tips for Breaking Into the Tech Industry

Written by: Nicola Watson, HR Manager, TribalScale

Originally published at https://tribalscale.com.

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In an era defined by rapidly advancing technology, the tech industry has become a powerhouse of innovation, transformation, and opportunity. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so do the hiring trends and requirements for professionals aspiring to break into this dynamic field. Whether you are a recent graduate, someone pursuing a career change, or someone eager to upgrade their skill set, understanding the current tech hiring landscape is crucial to carving your path towards success.

In this blog I’ll be sharing my top insights from Digital Nova Scotia’s recent panel I attended on hiring & tech trends. We’ll explore the emerging technologies that are shaping the industry, unveil the sought-after skills and qualifications recruiters crave, and provide you with invaluable insights and strategies to help you break into the tech scene!

Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

Growing Hiring Trend—Culture Fit

The most interesting hiring trend that I’ve noticed is the increasing emphasis on company culture and values during the recruitment process. While skills and qualifications are still essential factors, more and more companies are realizing the importance of hiring individuals who align with their values and are a good fit for their culture. This approach not only ensures that new hires will be more likely to succeed and thrive within the organization, but it also helps to foster a positive and cohesive workplace environment.

To assess a candidate’s cultural fit, some companies use behavioral or situational interview questions, team assessments, and even social activities as part of the interview process. It’s a trend that I believe will continue to grow and become even more prevalent in the future of recruitment.

Recommended Hard/Technical Skills

As someone who works in the technology industry, I can say that there are many technical skills that can help individuals break into this field. Here are a few that stand out:

1. Programming: Having proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, or C# is a must. These skills are the foundation of software development and are crucial for building and maintaining technology products.
2. Cloud Computing: With the rise of cloud computing, there is a growing demand for professionals with skills in cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Familiarity with these platforms, including how to deploy, manage and maintain applications on them, is an important skill to have in the technology industry.
3. Data Science: With the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making, skills in data science, including machine learning and data analysis, are highly sought after. Understanding the principles of data science, including programming languages such as R or Python and data visualization tools such as Tableau, can be a valuable asset for individuals looking to break into the technology industry.
4. Cybersecurity: As technology advances, so do the risks of cyber attacks. Cybersecurity skills such as network security, threat analysis, and risk management are in high demand. With the increasing number of high-profile data breaches, companies are investing more in their cybersecurity infrastructure, making this a valuable skill set to have.

Overall, the technology industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay current with the latest technologies and trends. Developing these technical skills can help individuals break into the industry and stay competitive in a rapidly changing job market.

Recommended Soft Skills

While technical skills are important in the technology industry, soft skills are equally critical, if not more so. Here are a few top soft skills that I recommend our participants develop:

1. Communication: Effective communication is essential in the workplace, especially in the technology industry where collaboration and teamwork are key. Developing strong verbal and written communication skills, including active listening and concise messaging, can help individuals effectively convey their ideas and work effectively with others.
2. Adaptability: In a constantly evolving industry, being adaptable to change is crucial. Being able to quickly adjust to new technologies, processes, and work environments can help individuals stay ahead of the curve and excel in their roles.
3. Problem-solving: The technology industry is all about solving complex problems. Developing strong problem-solving skills, including critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and creative thinking, can help individuals approach challenges in a systematic and effective manner.
4. Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence, which includes self-awareness, empathy, and relationship management, is increasingly valued in the workplace. Being able to understand and manage one’s emotions and build strong relationships with colleagues can help individuals navigate challenging situations and be more effective in their roles.
5. Leadership: Even for individual contributors, leadership skills are essential in the technology industry. Developing skills in delegation, coaching, and conflict resolution can help individuals become effective leaders and drive success within their teams.

Overall, developing these soft skills can help individuals stand out in the hiring process and excel in the technology industry.

Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out

As someone who has reviewed many job applications over the years, I can say that there are several things that can make an application stand out from the rest.

1. Tailor your application: Take the time to customize your resume and cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the company’s needs.
2. Show your personality: Companies want to hire individuals who not only have the right skills but also fit well with their culture and team. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and passion for the industry in your application and during the interview process.
3. Highlight your achievements: Rather than simply listing your job duties, highlight specific achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and experience. Use metrics and specific examples to showcase your impact.
4. Keep it concise: Keep your application concise and to the point. Use bullet points and short sentences to make it easy for the reviewer to quickly scan and understand your qualifications.
5. Pay attention to details: Ensure that your application is error-free, including spelling and grammar. Pay attention to formatting, font size, and overall presentation to make a good impression.

Overall, making your application stand out requires a combination of relevant experience, strong skills, and a tailored and engaging presentation. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of catching the reviewer’s attention and securing an interview.

Resources for Job Seekers

There are many websites and resources available for job seekers to find potential job opportunities in the technology industry. Here are a few that I recommend:

1. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional social network that allows job seekers to connect with professionals in their field, search for job opportunities, and build their personal brand.
2. Glassdoor: Glassdoor is a job search website that not only lists job openings but also provides information about salaries, company reviews, and interview questions from past candidates.
3. Indeed: Indeed is a job search website that aggregates job postings from multiple sources, making it a one-stop-shop for job seekers.
4. AngelList: AngelList is a job search website that focuses on startup and tech jobs, making it a great resource for those interested in the technology industry.
5. Hired: Hired is a job search website that matches job seekers with potential employers based on their skills and preferences, making it a more personalized job search experience.
6. Your network: Don’t underestimate the power of your network. Let your friends, family, and professional contacts know that you are looking for a job and ask for referrals or recommendations.

Overall, these websites and resources can be helpful in finding potential job opportunities in the technology industry. However, it’s important to remember that networking and building relationships with professionals in your field can also be a valuable way to learn about job openings and secure interviews.

Nicola is the HR manager here at TribalScale and is focused on leading and driving all HR initiatives across the organization. She is originally from Ireland and moved to Toronto in 2019. Outside work she likes to workout with her friends and spend time with her dog Gemma.

TribalScale is a global innovation firm that helps enterprises adapt and thrive in the digital era. We transform teams and processes, build best-in-class digital products, and create disruptive startups. Learn more about us on our website. Connect with us on Twitter, LinkedIn & Facebook!