How to Get a Tech Job With no Experience

Technology talent is in high demand and there’s no time like the present to kickstart your career in tech. In fact, a grand total of 350,000 tech jobs have been created within the past three years and 56% of digital leaders expect their technology team headcounts still to rise. This means that anyone with a natural flair for computers or a degree in STEM has plenty of career opportunities available to them. Does that mean you need experience to start a job in tech? Absolutely not!

So, how do you get a tech job with no experience? If you don’t have a background in tech, there’s no need to worry. The world of technology is still at your fingertips. The great thing about tech roles is that you don’t always require previous experience, a STEM background, or even previous training. There are multiple routes to entry and various steps you can take to secure your job in IT. Let’s explore how to get a job in tech with no experience in more detail so that you can break into this booming industry.

10 Tips for getting a job in technology with no experience

1. Build a strong personal brand
2. Learn and showcase relevant skills
3. Work on personal projects
4. Build your professional network
5. Tailor your CV
6. Apply for internships and entry-level positions
7. Seek guidance from mentors
8. Keep up with industry trends
9. Gain industry-recognised certifications
10. Show enthusiasm and willingness to learn

1. Build a strong personal brand

Building a strong online presence and personal brand has become imperative in today’s professional landscape. If you want to boost your image and show yourself off to prospective employers, it’s advisable to establish a compelling online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, GitHub, and personal websites or portfolios. On these platforms, you can showcase your skills, projects, industry interest, and achievements, creating a personal brand that reflects your passion and expertise. So, why not start using your LinkedIn profile to post your opinion about relevant updates in your chosen industry or contribute your thoughts on other professionals’ posts?

2. Learn and showcase relevant skills

Upskilling yourself is one of the most effective ways to start a tech career with no experience. Invest time in acquiring in-demand tech skills, leveraging online learning platforms and resources. While you may not have an academic or professional background in technology, there are many IT skills that can be learnt later in life and without formal education. And remember: don’t underestimate the value of soft skills!

Having the skills is one thing, but showcasing them to potential employers is another important step. During the job application process, make sure to communicate your transferable and new-found skills clearly on your CVs and cover letters, and during interviews.

It can also be useful to look for roles in an industry you already have transferable skills  in, for instance if you work in education, you could look into EdTech, or if you are a keen environmentalist, you could look at Green or CleanTech.

3. Work on personal projects

When you don’t have any professional experience to talk about or to use to demonstrate your skills in job interviews, it’s important to find alternative means of doing so. Personal projects are a fantastic way to put your skills into practice and have tangible examples to demonstrate to recruiters and employers, serving as a testament to your competence and passion. If you’re looking to get into Software Development, for instance, you could spend some time building your own web or mobile application to show your abilities. This is a good way to practise and refine your skill set too!

4. Build your professional network

Building your professional network is invaluable. Actively network by attending industry events, joining online forums, and connecting with professionals in your chosen industry or role. Networking opens doors to mentorship, advice, and potential job opportunities in the tech community. LinkedIn is one of the best social platforms for professional networking, so make sure to get your profile in check! Need some more networking skills? See our top networking advice for job seekers.

5. Tailor your CV

When applying for tech roles, craft a targeted CV that highlights transferable skills, impressive coursework, and personal projects that are relevant for the job you’re after. Tailoring your CV makes it easier for employers to identify your strengths and potential contributions to the role at hand. There are a lot of things you can talk about on your CV instead of experience, such as extra-curricular activities, transferable skills, volunteering work, and educational achievements. If you need some more advice, read our tips on how to write a CV with no experience.

6. Apply for internships and entry-level positions

It can be extremely difficult to start a tech job with no experience, especially if you’re trying to dive straight into high-demand, niche roles. It’s a good idea to seek internships and entry-level tech positions aligned with your skills and interests as these are typically more suited to those without previous experience. Internships and entry-level jobs provide valuable hands-on experience with lots of training opportunities, and can serve as stepping stones to a full-time or more senior role in the tech industry.

Another way to get your foot in the door is to start in a non-technical role at a tech company, and work your way across from there.

There is absolutely no shame starting from the bottom and working your way up and, in many cases, entry-level roles and graduate schemes come with fast-tracked progression and ample opportunities for growth. Take the FDM Technical Graduate Programme for example, where consultants with no experience at all gain the opportunity to launch a successful tech career with expert training and competitive work placements.

7. Seek guidance from mentors

Connect with experienced professionals or mentors in the tech field. Seeking guidance and insights from experienced mentors can provide valuable perspectives, advice, and opportunities for growth. All of this can help you decide whether technology is the right path for you, the best route to get to where you want to be, and give you the chance to learn from other peoples’ mistakes. You can find mentors while networking online or at in-person events.

8. Keep up with industry trends

The tech industry is always changing and it’s imperative that you keep pace. Stay informed about the latest developments in the tech industry and make sure you are able to demonstrate your awareness during your job interviews. Displaying awareness of current trends during interviews showcases your commitment to continuous learning and staying relevant, despite your lack of experience in the job itself. There are a few ways to keep on top of trends, such as through email alerts, on social media, industry blogs, or subscribing to relevant magazines.

9. Gain industry-recognised certifications

While not always necessary, obtaining certifications that validate your skills and knowledge can be helpful when it comes to applying for tech roles without experience. Industry-recognised certifications can enhance your credibility and increase your marketability to potential employers. Some courses or university degrees also give you hands-on experience, which can be desirable to potential employers. However, if this is something you don’t have, don’t fret – you don’t need a STEM degree to start a job in tech!

10. Show enthusiasm and willingness to learn

Ultimately, your attitude plays a huge part in the recruitment process and not all employers will hire solely based on experience, or skills for that matter. Be sure to communicate your passion for technology during interviews and emphasise your eagerness to learn, adapt, and contribute to the dynamic tech landscape. This positive attitude is likely to resonate with potential employers and make you shine among other candidates, who could possibly have more experience than you. Check out our interview preparation advice for more information.

Are you ready to start a career in technology?

At FDM, we have a saying: no STEM, no problem. We believe your attitude, transferable skills, and personal qualities are more important than your previous experiences. That’s why we offer graduates the opportunity to gain industry-leading training with our Technical Graduate Programme, and then go on to work for our esteemed clients across industries.

We also offer summer internships and apprenticeship programmes for school finishers who are also keen to get started in a tech career.

If this sounds right up your street, get in touch with us and start your journey to success today.