You're eyeing a tech-related career shift. What key considerations should you ponder?

When shifting to a tech career, consider these key points: Skill Transfer: Identify which of your current skills, like project management or problem-solving, apply to tech roles. Address any gaps with courses or certifications. Learning Curve: Be prepared for continuous learning as tech evolves rapidly. Focus on in-demand skills like coding or data analysis. Industry Trends: Align your shift with growing fields such as AI or cybersecurity. Networking: Build connections in the tech industry to uncover opportunities. Financial Planning: Plan for potential short-term sacrifices in salary with long-term growth potential. Work Environment: Assess whether you’ll thrive in tech's dynamic and often remote work settings.

Always think about "Transferable Skills" when you think about transitioning a career shift in your respective field. In my personal experience, when I transitioned to a higher role like Enterprise Architect, Holistic problem solving skills, Stakeholder maangement, critical thinking skills were always there in my earlier role but not in the same rigor. I had to enhance and upskill those areas which helped me in my current role. So always think about "Map My Skills " in a holistic way where you can utilise your transferable skills

As an ex-recruiter, this is my best tip. Start by evaluating which of your current skills can be applied in the tech industry. Many non-tech skills, such as project management, communication, or analytical thinking, are highly valued in tech roles. Actionable Strategy: Identify overlapping skills between your current role and the tech role you’re eyeing. For example, if you’re in marketing, your experience with data analysis can transfer well to a role in digital marketing or data science. Specific Example: "If you’ve been working in finance, your proficiency with Excel and data analysis can be a strong foundation for learning SQL or Python, which are critical in tech roles like data analysis or business intelligence."

To stay ahead in the curve, always upskill yourself. Life Long Learning is the mantra irrespective of your industries. I personally invested LinekdIn Premium Learning, Coursera Plus, Udemy Premium, SAP Learning Hub Professional edition, Josh Bersin Academy, Academy to Innovate HR Premium and several other premium Online resources . Also remember "Connection over Content" - Ensure you have Social component to your Learning Platform - ability to network with fellow cohort, mentors in the community to enhance your learning experience - which will make it more practical.

As a ex-recruiter, I know that the tech industry often requires specialized knowledge that might be new to you. Understand the necessary depth of learning and plan accordingly. Actionable Strategy: Start by taking online courses or earning certifications in critical areas such as coding, data analysis, or cybersecurity. Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to beginners in tech. Specific Example: "Enroll in a coding bootcamp to fast-track your learning in languages like Python or JavaScript. This hands-on approach will help you build a portfolio quickly, showcasing your ability to prospective employers."

Tech is a fast-evolving field, so it’s crucial to stay informed about current trends and emerging technologies that might influence your career shift. Actionable Strategy: Follow industry blogs, subscribe to tech newsletters, and join relevant forums to keep up with trends. Consider areas like AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, which are currently in high demand. Specific Example: "Start following industry influencers on platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn, and join online communities like GitHub or Stack Overflow to stay connected with the latest developments in tech."

O setor de tecnologia pela sua dinamicidade faz com que o profissional esteja sempre atualizado e acompanhe o que é importante em seu nicho e mantenha um olhar agu?ado nas tendências que poder?o causar transforma??es e ditar um novo caminho ou redefinir algo já existente. Manter um networking com setores e pessoas chaves em áreas estratégicas é primordial para o crescimento profissional e numa iminente mudan?a de carreira, ajudando, inclusive, a se posicionar antecipando-se a novos cenários que surgir?o neste intrincado e fascinante universo da indústria tecnológica.

Networking in tech can open doors that formal applications can’t. Building connections with professionals in your target industry is critical. Actionable Strategy: Attend tech meetups, webinars, or conferences to expand your network. Engage with tech communities online, such as those on LinkedIn or Reddit, and seek informational interviews to learn from insiders. Specific Example: "If you’re transitioning into UX design, join a local UX design meetup group or participate in online communities like Designer Hangout. Networking with professionals can provide insights into job openings and industry expectations."

Consider the financial implications of your career shift, including potential pay cuts, education costs, or the time it might take to reach your desired salary in tech. Actionable Strategy: Research the salary range for entry-level positions in your target tech role and compare it with your current earnings. Create a financial plan that accounts for any short-term sacrifices needed to achieve long-term gains. Specific Example: "If you’re moving into a junior developer role, understand that your starting salary might be lower than in your current role. However, tech salaries typically grow quickly, so plan for an initial period of financial adjustment."