The tech industry is fast-paced and competitve. As 2021 and 2022 have shown us, it can also be cutthroat. Whether you're fresh out of school, considering a career switch, or just trying to break into the field, if you're currently in the job market, you're probably thinking "How do I stand out in this saturated market?" The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, but here are some tried and true strategies to consider.
1. Update and optimize your resume
This one is obvious. You should always have a great updated resume at any given time because you never know when you'll need to jump back into the market or when the perfect opportunity for you might become available. In my opinion, a great resume alone will not be enough to secure your next role.
2. Networking, networking, networking, networking!
But what even is networking? Networking, by definition, is just interacting with others to share information and develop professional or social connections. There are a number of ways to network with others.
How do you network?
There are a number of ways that you can network, both in-person and virtually. One way is to join tech meetups, conferences, and volunteer experiences. These events often help individuals establish meaningful relationships with individuals who are already involved in the field that you're interested in. If you live in a major hub, there may be local events. If not, a quick google will help you find some virtual events. A second way network is to leverage social media. Popular social media platforms used in tech include LinkedIn, Twitter, and GitHub. Post on these platforms, share knowledge, and engage in friendly discussion. You can join and engage in online tech communities, like Stack OverFlow, Reddit's r/programming, or Slack communitities like Product Manager HQ. These communities are full of people-just like yourself-looking to share knowledge and network! Lastly, you can try to build an online presence by starting a blog, contributing to newsletters on LinkedIn, or contributing to open-source.
3. Specialize in a niche
If you have a specific skillset or passion for a certain area, specializing in a specific niche might help set you a part. While being a jack-of-all-trades can be beneficial in some organizations, others may be looking for someone who is a subject matter expert (SME) in a particular area.
4. Work on those soft skills!
Tech isn't all coding. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are crucial. You can highlight these skills in your resume, but during interviews is where you will really have a chance to shine! Be sure to work on your interviewing skills, too, so you can crush those interviews when you get the chance!
5. Stay Consistent!
Job hunting is not for the faint of heart. It can be soul-sucking. But, consistency really is key. Come up with a strategy when job searching, apply regularly, ask for feedback, and, while you continue to search, keeping learning! Don't just wait for opportunities to come to you.
6. Be Adaptable
Regardless of what you might hear, there is no one-size-fits-all for advice in today's market. What works for you very well may not work for me, and what works for me, may not work for anyone else. The key is stay consistent and adapt your strategy to what is working for you. Be patient. Give yourself grace. And, pivot where you need to.
