The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Tech

Do you want to start a career in tech but aren’t sure how or when to begin? Then believe me when I say that this post is written specifically for you. Continue reading, and I am confident you will find exactly what you require.

You most likely fall into one of these categories if you’re reading this. Category 1: You’re already a tech guru, and you’re simply curious about what’s new that I’m not aware of. Category 2: You’re about to embark on your tech journey and don’t know where to begin.

In any case, you’re already here, and I’ll just go by the adage that “no knowledge is a waste.” “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” according to a popular saying. Relax….. I’m not attempting to be a motivational speaker here, but in reality, it’s the truth.

I’ve always been fascinated by technology, ever since I was in secondary school. It was like magic to me when I saw a movie in which a woman played the role of a hacker. Then I promised myself that one day I would be a hacker, but that day never came. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I began my tech adventure, and believe me when I tell it wasn’t exactly as smooth as I had hoped.

Here are a few guides for you if you’re thinking of starting a journey in tech.

You’ve probably heard that technology is the way of the future, and the first thing that comes to mind is programming. Well, I used to think like that. However, technology does not have to be limited to programming; there are many other fields in which you do not need to write a single line of code. User interface/user experience (UI/UX), digital marketing, content creation, technical writing, and so on. You do not need to know how to program in order to work in these areas. If you don’t think you have a passion for programming, concentrate on something else. Instead of building your skills around a trend, focus on your passion and strive toward becoming extremely relevant in what you do. Just because your colleague is a web developer and constantly tells you, “Oh, there’s a lot of money in web development,” or “Web development is extremely simple,” doesn’t mean you should do it. Well, web development could be simple, but keep in mind that your definitions of simple are likely to differ. Your friend might take a month to grasp the concepts of HTML and CSS, while you’re still trying to figure out how to print Hello World in the same amount of time.

2. Draw out a roadmap for your learning process.

It is critical to have a roadmap, especially as a newbie. It not only keeps track of your learning progress, but it also motivates you to achieve your goal or finish line. Make a roadmap and assign time frames to each step so that you don’t waste too much time on one. Make sure your plan is both practical and achievable. As I already stated, do what works best for you.

3. Build projects.

If you’re already into tech, you’re probably aware of the significance of building projects. Building projects allows you to assess your abilities while also bolstering your portfolio. You can begin by looking at projects that have already been completed and thinking of ways to improve them, then gradually go to creating your own initiatives. Showcase your accomplishments. Don’t let Imposter Syndrome get the best of you. Even if someone else can do it better, you should still exhibit what you’ve got. It can be a way for you to get your first job.

4. Put service first, not finance.

I know right!!! You’re probably thinking to yourself, “What exactly does she mean? Is she unaware of the country’s economic situation? “. I’m a Nigerian myself, so I understand. Trust me if you go into tech just because you want to make money, without even understanding the basics and requirements, you’ll run out of it, especially when cash is not even showing its face. Nowadays, even money does not come easy. Try to improve your skills and think of solutions to solve problems in the global trend utilizing the skills you’ve learned. If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, it’ll be easy to keep the financial aspect going because companies will start coming to you for employment openings before you know it. You will undoubtedly be rewarded for the value you contribute to your environment.

5. Learn how to go after opportunities.

Opportunity they say, comes but once. Some opportunities present themselves directly in front of you, but you hesitate to accept them for various reasons, most likely because you believe you are not good enough and that they are only for those with more experience. That, however, is no longer the case. Even the most seasoned professionals may not be as good as you. You must learn to seek out chances rather than waiting for them to come to you.

6. Network! Network!! Network!!!

I am not referring to Glo or MTN 4G LTE network. By network, I mean connecting with people that can provide you with the necessary resources and mentoring that you need to get better. Look for communities around that do what you do. For undergraduates, I recommend joining communities like Developer Students Club (DSC). Check out this article for more communities: https://bit.ly/3u8AzA4

Okay, folks, I hope you’ve chosen a few points and are working on putting them into practice. Starting a career in technology is never too early or too late. Tech is always ready to welcome you with open arms. Please keep in mind that I am not a computer whiz. I merely wanted to provide a few tips based on the difficulties I’ve encountered so far. I truly hope I was able to assist someone with this.

Keep cool and look forward to additional articles and postings from this author as she continues her tech adventure. XOXO………..