Uncovering Your Ideal Role and Where You Fit in the Tech Industry: A Guide for Women Making a Career Change

A new week, another discovery call this evening with a lovely lady who is wanting to make a drastic change in her career and life.

She was recommended to consider tech as a career for her to focus on by someone I met at a networking event last year. He encouraged to reach out about tech career coaching and getting a potential place on the confidence coaching programme and work out what a role in tech could look like for her and how to go about achieving it, having never done anything tech related before, except using a computer to correspond to other colleagues by email in her current day job.

For many women seeking to make a career change into tech, the journey may seem both exciting and daunting, but in the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry, the possibilities are vast, and the opportunities are endless.??

The key lies not just in finding a role but in discovering where you truly fit, aligning your values and personality with your chosen tech path.?

As a Tech Career Coach and Tech professional with experience in many different roles (more recently as an Application Development Manager and former Mobile Developer), I've witnessed the transformative power of this alignment.? Here's 8 things to focus on when trying to work out a suitable tech related role and where you fit in the tech industry.

1. Self-Reflection: Unveiling Your Transferable Skills

Before diving into the multitude of tech roles, start by recognizing and celebrating your transferable skills.? Coming from a different industry doesn't necessarily mean starting from scratch.? Consider your experiences in project management, communication, problem-solving, customer service and leadership. These skills are highly transferable and sought after in the tech world.

2. Identifying Core Values: Your North Star in Tech

Tech isn't just about code; it's about values. Identify your core values, the principles that guide your decisions and actions. Are you passionate about innovation, collaboration, or social impact? Understanding your values will help you align with tech roles and organisations that share your vision.

3. Exploring the Tech Landscape: Beyond Coding

Tech is a vast ecosystem with roles that extend far beyond coding. Explore areas such as product management, user experience design, project management, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more. Each role requires a unique set of skills, and finding the right fit involves understanding your strengths and interests.

4. Networking: Learn from Those Who've Walked the Path

Connect with women who have successfully transitioned into tech roles. Attend networking events, join online communities, and seek time to have a chat with someone.? Learning from others' experiences can provide valuable insights and guide you in making informed decisions about your tech career.

5. Skill Development: Closing the Gap

Identify the skills required for the roles that resonate with you. Leverage online courses, workshops, and bootcamps to upskill. Many resources offer flexible learning options to accommodate career changers. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.

6. Personality Fit: Balancing Passion and Proficiency

Consider your personality traits and working preferences. Are you detail-oriented and enjoy problem-solving? A role in quality assurance or data analysis might be a great fit. If you thrive on creativity and human-centric design, exploring user experience or product management could align with your strengths. If you are a people person, a role as a scrum master may be right up your alley.

7. Test and Iterate: Embrace the Learning Journey

Making a career change is a dynamic process. Don't be afraid to test the waters. Engage in projects, internships, or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience. As you navigate your journey, be open to iterating your path based on your evolving interests and insights.

8. Invest in yourself: Get the Right Support to Achieve Your Goal Quicker Than You Would Do On Your Own

If you are really not sure what role is for you and how to achieve your tech career goals or struggling to create a realistic plan to keep yourself focused, find a reliable career coach to support you on your journey.? Ideal a career coach with experience in the tech industry who can share those lived experiences and willing to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly, and guide you in the right direction. Rather than it being another cost to folk out, you look at the results and value they are providing and see this as an investment in yourself and your future career and lifestyle.

The tech industry is not a one-size-fits-all landscape. It's a diverse ecosystem that thrives on the unique contributions of its professionals. Your journey into tech is a story waiting to be crafted—one that reflects your values, utilises your transferable skills, and aligns with your passions.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that the tech industry should be enriched by diversity and welcomes those who bring a fresh perspective. Your unique background and experiences are assets, and by working out where you truly fit in tech, you're not just changing your career—you're contributing to the vibrant tapestry of innovation.?

If you need the support of a good career coach feel free to reach out and book a discovery call via the link in the comments. Only a few slots left now up to the end of the year, so book in as soon as possible to ensure this time next year your career potential looks a lot different than 2023.

Here's to discovering your unique place in the world of tech!?

#TechCareerChange #WomenInTech #CareerTransformation