14 answers
Shaina
Student
Bacolod, Western Visayas, Philippines
46
Questions
Updated
6696 views
I had marketing internships but now i am scared to do tech ones. Any advice?
I am an IT senior but my resume is more business-centered focus since I am not a technical type of person. I hate coding but lately, I want to dive into non-tech roles with minimal coding or like other branches of IT but I chickened out. Some of the requirements like python code development. I do not have that skillset. Should I still apply and learn from the internship? or should I beefed up my resume first? Some roles I am interested in: business analyst, project management, product development or ui/ux design.
14 answers
Mark Watkins
Team Leader, Engineering
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Hi Shaina,
I understand your concerns. I’ve been in your shoes. Early in my career, I interned at BMW in a business-focused role, which involved memorizing car specs and discussing them. Later, as I pursued my computer science degree, I also applied for several technology internships. I remember feeling nervous during those interviews because I wasn’t sure what to expect. Some interviews focused on brainteasers, while others asked me to solve coding problems, such as implementing a linked list. Most of the time, the specific programming language was less important than demonstrating problem-solving skills and adaptability.
My first tech internship was in software testing. The interview focused on thinking creatively about how to “break” things. A good example of that is how you might test the limits of a calculator (such as dividing by zero). Getting into a testing role can be a great entry point into tech internships, and it often leads to coding opportunities. That’s how it worked out for me: after joining Microsoft as a Software Test Engineer for a summer, I developed a tool for bulk testing that was adopted by the team for several years. Interestingly, I coded it in a language I hadn't used before.
What impressed my managers most was my willingness to learn and take on new challenges. Companies value adaptability and a proactive attitude, sometimes even more than specific technical skills. I encourage you to focus on demonstrating your eagerness to learn and your approach to problem solving. Opportunities often come from showing those qualities.
I've never been a business analyst, project manager, or been in UI/UX. However, those same attributes apply to them. Be clever. Be proactive. Be willing to give things a shot.
Good luck with your search. You’re on the right track!
Learn the agile process well.
Understand "Given, When, Then" acceptance criteria
Be able to articulate a problem statement
I understand your concerns. I’ve been in your shoes. Early in my career, I interned at BMW in a business-focused role, which involved memorizing car specs and discussing them. Later, as I pursued my computer science degree, I also applied for several technology internships. I remember feeling nervous during those interviews because I wasn’t sure what to expect. Some interviews focused on brainteasers, while others asked me to solve coding problems, such as implementing a linked list. Most of the time, the specific programming language was less important than demonstrating problem-solving skills and adaptability.
My first tech internship was in software testing. The interview focused on thinking creatively about how to “break” things. A good example of that is how you might test the limits of a calculator (such as dividing by zero). Getting into a testing role can be a great entry point into tech internships, and it often leads to coding opportunities. That’s how it worked out for me: after joining Microsoft as a Software Test Engineer for a summer, I developed a tool for bulk testing that was adopted by the team for several years. Interestingly, I coded it in a language I hadn't used before.
What impressed my managers most was my willingness to learn and take on new challenges. Companies value adaptability and a proactive attitude, sometimes even more than specific technical skills. I encourage you to focus on demonstrating your eagerness to learn and your approach to problem solving. Opportunities often come from showing those qualities.
I've never been a business analyst, project manager, or been in UI/UX. However, those same attributes apply to them. Be clever. Be proactive. Be willing to give things a shot.
Good luck with your search. You’re on the right track!
Mark recommends the following next steps:
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Shaina,
With over 25 years of management-level experience in the corporate technology sector, I’ve reviewed countless résumés and understand what truly makes a candidate stand out.
First of all, thanks for being honest, that self-awareness puts you ahead of a lot of people. Here’s the truth: you absolutely can break into non-coding, tech-adjacent roles in IT, especially with your business focused background and marketing experience. You’re not alone in feeling intimidated by the technical side, but that doesn’t mean you’re not qualified or that you don’t belong in tech.
You don’t have to love coding to work in tech. A lot of roles in tech don’t require deep coding skills especially:
Business Analyst – focuses more on communication, data interpretation, requirements gathering
Project Manager – emphasizes planning, leadership, coordination (technical knowledge helps, but no need to code)
Product Development / Product Manager – bridges business, user needs, and engineering
UI/UX Design – creative + user-centric; involves tools like Figma, not Python
My personal thoughts in terms of should you still apply to internships that mention coding? Yes if coding is not the core function of the role, apply anyway.
Many job descriptions are “wish lists,” not strict checklists.
If the coding part is minimal (e.g., reading scripts or working with devs), you can learn enough to get by.
You can mention your willingness to learn in your cover letter or interview. That counts.
Think of internships as learning opportunities, not tests of perfection. You’re not expected to know everything. Should you beef up your resume?
Yes but don’t wait too long. While applying, start small:
Learn basic Python or SQL (free courses on Codecademy or Coursera)
Get familiar with business analytics tools: Excel, Tableau, Power BI, JIRA
Explore beginner UI/UX tools: Figma, Adobe XD, or even Google’s UX Design course on Coursera
Even 1-2 bullet points showing progress or certificates can give you credibility. Bridging your marketing & tech background. Your marketing internships give you a huge edge for user-focused roles like:
Product development
UX design
Business analysis with customer insight
Frame your past work like this:
“Collaborated across departments to improve product messaging based on user behavior data”
“Used data to inform decision-making and customer engagement strategy”
Even if you’re scared, apply before you feel 100% ready. You’ll learn more through the process than just prepping forever. Growth comes through the doing and imposter syndrome is common, even for people in senior tech roles.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
With over 25 years of management-level experience in the corporate technology sector, I’ve reviewed countless résumés and understand what truly makes a candidate stand out.
First of all, thanks for being honest, that self-awareness puts you ahead of a lot of people. Here’s the truth: you absolutely can break into non-coding, tech-adjacent roles in IT, especially with your business focused background and marketing experience. You’re not alone in feeling intimidated by the technical side, but that doesn’t mean you’re not qualified or that you don’t belong in tech.
You don’t have to love coding to work in tech. A lot of roles in tech don’t require deep coding skills especially:
Business Analyst – focuses more on communication, data interpretation, requirements gathering
Project Manager – emphasizes planning, leadership, coordination (technical knowledge helps, but no need to code)
Product Development / Product Manager – bridges business, user needs, and engineering
UI/UX Design – creative + user-centric; involves tools like Figma, not Python
My personal thoughts in terms of should you still apply to internships that mention coding? Yes if coding is not the core function of the role, apply anyway.
Many job descriptions are “wish lists,” not strict checklists.
If the coding part is minimal (e.g., reading scripts or working with devs), you can learn enough to get by.
You can mention your willingness to learn in your cover letter or interview. That counts.
Think of internships as learning opportunities, not tests of perfection. You’re not expected to know everything. Should you beef up your resume?
Yes but don’t wait too long. While applying, start small:
Learn basic Python or SQL (free courses on Codecademy or Coursera)
Get familiar with business analytics tools: Excel, Tableau, Power BI, JIRA
Explore beginner UI/UX tools: Figma, Adobe XD, or even Google’s UX Design course on Coursera
Even 1-2 bullet points showing progress or certificates can give you credibility. Bridging your marketing & tech background. Your marketing internships give you a huge edge for user-focused roles like:
Product development
UX design
Business analysis with customer insight
Frame your past work like this:
“Collaborated across departments to improve product messaging based on user behavior data”
“Used data to inform decision-making and customer engagement strategy”
Even if you’re scared, apply before you feel 100% ready. You’ll learn more through the process than just prepping forever. Growth comes through the doing and imposter syndrome is common, even for people in senior tech roles.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
James Hernandez
Account Manager
20
Answers
Heredia, Heredia Province, Costa Rica
Updated
James’s Answer
In the exciting world of marketing, having practical skills is really important. Internships help you build and sharpen these skills by working on real projects, like doing market research or creating email campaigns. These hands-on experiences often give you an advantage over others.
Aparna Manoj
Technical Product Manager
46
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Aparna’s Answer
Hi Shaina, going for technical roles without much experience can feel tough, but don't let that stop you. Many companies offer co-op opportunities focused on learning, which can help you shine. There are plenty of resources to learn coding, databases, and other skills by yourself. Getting familiar with AI is also a great idea, as it's a sought-after skill. Be honest about your current skills, and use your unique background to stand out. As a marketing major, you have strong soft skills that many others might not. Good luck!
Russ Efendiyev
17
Answers
Updated
Russ’s Answer
I'd say follow your passion and consider the overall job instead of aspects of it. Does your gut tell you that it will be fun? If so, go ahead. At least explore it. And there is so much online that if you feel like you have a gap, then go ahead learn it - and/or do a project on it. If you feel like a field is out of reach maybe do something that's close that could be a great stepping block to project you into a field that you're interested in
Farah Brion
Technical Recruiter
4
Answers
Discovery Bay, California
Updated
Farah’s Answer
Technical roles might seem daunting, but it's important to remember that trying is the first step to discovering your potential. Consider taking LinkedIn Learning courses on topics you often see in job listings, like Python. Completing these courses will boost your confidence. Confidence is crucial, especially during interviews with challenging technical questions. By understanding the basics, you can secure an entry-level position that will help you grow and develop.
a b
Software Development
29
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
a’s Answer
Shaina in the Philippines,
With your background in Marketing, I'd recommend immersing yourself in AI. That will give you an "in" to the tech sector AND strengthen your marketing tool skills. Being good at marketing means you're good at communicating, which is very helpful when doing AI.
I recently used AI to do a marketing project and was very pleased with the text it generated.
Blaine - Portland OR USA
With your background in Marketing, I'd recommend immersing yourself in AI. That will give you an "in" to the tech sector AND strengthen your marketing tool skills. Being good at marketing means you're good at communicating, which is very helpful when doing AI.
I recently used AI to do a marketing project and was very pleased with the text it generated.
Blaine - Portland OR USA
Catie Hoffmann
Customer Success Manager
3
Answers
Hamburg, Germany
Updated
Catie’s Answer
Hi Shaina, your concerns are completely normal. I strongly encourage you to pursue an internship that truly interests you. Internships are a great way to learn new skills and improve the ones you already have. Don't worry about meeting every requirement in the job ad. Focus on what you really want and why. This will help you find the right internships to apply for. Be purposeful in your choices. Good luck! Catie
Mario Mora
Senior Support Engineer
3
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hi Shaina,
I know how you feel because I’ve been there too, even with years in the IT field. The amount of new information and technology can be a lot. Here's some advice if you want to move into IT while using your marketing skills:
1. Choose a technology that fits well with your current career.
2. Make sure it's something you enjoy and can see yourself doing for a while.
3. Focus deeply on that technology. Learn how it works with others, but aim to become an expert. This way, when someone needs a specialist, you’ll stand out.
Mastering one technology often means learning about others too, which helps you apply your skills more broadly without losing focus.
I know how you feel because I’ve been there too, even with years in the IT field. The amount of new information and technology can be a lot. Here's some advice if you want to move into IT while using your marketing skills:
1. Choose a technology that fits well with your current career.
2. Make sure it's something you enjoy and can see yourself doing for a while.
3. Focus deeply on that technology. Learn how it works with others, but aim to become an expert. This way, when someone needs a specialist, you’ll stand out.
Mastering one technology often means learning about others too, which helps you apply your skills more broadly without losing focus.
Puneet Garg
Technology Consultant
21
Answers
Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Puneet’s Answer
You're not alone in feeling both interested and a bit intimidated. You're asking the right question at the right time, so let's break it down and make things easier.
Should You Still Apply?
Yes, go for it if the role excites you and you meet most core qualifications, even if you're unsure about things like Python. Here's why:
- Companies often list ideal, not mandatory, requirements.
- If it's an internship, you're there to learn. Curiosity and a willingness to learn are often more important than being perfect.
- You have valuable business skills that are great for roles like product development, UI/UX, and business analysis.
Should You Improve Your Resume First?
You can do both. Start applying while you:
- Take a beginner-friendly Python course on platforms like Codecademy or Coursera. A few hours a week can help a lot.
- Build a project portfolio that highlights your strengths in strategy, product thinking, and data interpretation.
- Tailor your resume to emphasize skills like stakeholder communication, project coordination, and market/user research.
About the Roles You Mentioned
Business Analyst: Light tech skills (maybe SQL, Excel, basic scripting) with a strong business focus and analytical mind.
Project Management: Minimal coding; organizational skills and communication are key.
Product Development: Varies in technical need; your business and user focus are big advantages.
UI/UX Design: No coding needed; focus on aesthetics, empathy, and research.
If you're worried about coding, that's okay—not all valuable IT roles require it.
Should You Still Apply?
Yes, go for it if the role excites you and you meet most core qualifications, even if you're unsure about things like Python. Here's why:
- Companies often list ideal, not mandatory, requirements.
- If it's an internship, you're there to learn. Curiosity and a willingness to learn are often more important than being perfect.
- You have valuable business skills that are great for roles like product development, UI/UX, and business analysis.
Should You Improve Your Resume First?
You can do both. Start applying while you:
- Take a beginner-friendly Python course on platforms like Codecademy or Coursera. A few hours a week can help a lot.
- Build a project portfolio that highlights your strengths in strategy, product thinking, and data interpretation.
- Tailor your resume to emphasize skills like stakeholder communication, project coordination, and market/user research.
About the Roles You Mentioned
Business Analyst: Light tech skills (maybe SQL, Excel, basic scripting) with a strong business focus and analytical mind.
Project Management: Minimal coding; organizational skills and communication are key.
Product Development: Varies in technical need; your business and user focus are big advantages.
UI/UX Design: No coding needed; focus on aesthetics, empathy, and research.
If you're worried about coding, that's okay—not all valuable IT roles require it.
Mario Ramirez
Leader, Customer Delivery
43
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hi Shaina,
It’s completely okay to feel scared—it’s a natural part of growth. That fear can actually be your greatest ally, pushing you to research, adapt, and rise to the challenges ahead.
Marketing and AI are fascinating areas to work in. While it's true that much of the heavy lifting is driven by AI, machine learning, and automation, your mindset for improvement, sales experience, and innovative ideas are critical assets. These will help you tackle the challenges we face from a global perspective.
I suggest breaking this journey into manageable steps:
Identify your allies: Figure out who and where your key stakeholders or potential partners are—these are the people or companies you can collaborate with.
Set a clear objective: Define what you want to achieve. Having a focused goal will help guide your efforts.
Connect your goals to the global perspective: Consider the challenges your allies or the industry may be facing on a larger scale. Then explore how you can use your marketing expertise to create impactful solutions.
And always remember—failure isn’t the end. It’s simply the First Attempt In Learning. Keep moving forward with confidence and curiosity!
Best regards,
Mario R
It’s completely okay to feel scared—it’s a natural part of growth. That fear can actually be your greatest ally, pushing you to research, adapt, and rise to the challenges ahead.
Marketing and AI are fascinating areas to work in. While it's true that much of the heavy lifting is driven by AI, machine learning, and automation, your mindset for improvement, sales experience, and innovative ideas are critical assets. These will help you tackle the challenges we face from a global perspective.
I suggest breaking this journey into manageable steps:
Identify your allies: Figure out who and where your key stakeholders or potential partners are—these are the people or companies you can collaborate with.
Set a clear objective: Define what you want to achieve. Having a focused goal will help guide your efforts.
Connect your goals to the global perspective: Consider the challenges your allies or the industry may be facing on a larger scale. Then explore how you can use your marketing expertise to create impactful solutions.
And always remember—failure isn’t the end. It’s simply the First Attempt In Learning. Keep moving forward with confidence and curiosity!
Best regards,
Mario R
Raghav Maheshwari
Software Engineer
4
Answers
Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Raghav’s Answer
Hi Shaina,
During my four years in college, I often felt like I wasn't learning anything useful and wondered why anyone would hire me when there were so many better candidates.
Once I started working, I realized that the people I compared myself to were the top 1%. The rest, like you and me, were nervous about their first tech job and worried about making mistakes. From my experience, it can take 6-8 months to feel comfortable in your first tech job, but once you get through that, it becomes really enjoyable.
Good luck!
During my four years in college, I often felt like I wasn't learning anything useful and wondered why anyone would hire me when there were so many better candidates.
Once I started working, I realized that the people I compared myself to were the top 1%. The rest, like you and me, were nervous about their first tech job and worried about making mistakes. From my experience, it can take 6-8 months to feel comfortable in your first tech job, but once you get through that, it becomes really enjoyable.
Good luck!
Flauran Wilz
1
Answer
Updated
Flauran’s Answer
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Steve Basmajian
Designer
15
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Hi Shaina,
I'm a UX/UI designer and I'd say apply anyways. With internships, they're expecting that you'll grow into the role, not that you'll hit the ground running.
Be sure to start building skills for where you want to be. Like if you're leaning towards design, start getting familiar with Figma and look into courses on design thinking.
There's no need to go deep into Python, honestly you could probably offload some of those tasks to AI if you need to.
You're just starting, don't let imposter syndrome steer the wheel. I've pivoted multiple times in my career. Just go into it with an open mind and be curious.
I'm a UX/UI designer and I'd say apply anyways. With internships, they're expecting that you'll grow into the role, not that you'll hit the ground running.
Be sure to start building skills for where you want to be. Like if you're leaning towards design, start getting familiar with Figma and look into courses on design thinking.
There's no need to go deep into Python, honestly you could probably offload some of those tasks to AI if you need to.
You're just starting, don't let imposter syndrome steer the wheel. I've pivoted multiple times in my career. Just go into it with an open mind and be curious.
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