9 answers
Shaddai
Student
Lexington, Kentucky
1
Question
Asked
863 views
What's the tech industry like? What technical as well as soft skills are relevant to be successful? How would you better prepare yourself in such a high demanding field?
I'm an incoming freshman majoring in computer science. I'm industry certified with basic knowledge in python, java and web development.
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9 answers
Nolan Draus
Consultant
2
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Nolan’s Answer
Truth is it is becoming very competitive. The ideal scenario is to find something niche that you feel passionate about applying your tech skills to. Either become an expert or be able to offer a unique perspective. Soft skills will set you apart and drive up your value. If you are talented from the tech perspective and can supplement that by being able to relate and communicate tech speak well to non tech audiences you will be more valuable. Developers and pure tech only roles are sadly becoming more and more outsourced (as the cost of quality in my opinion) so being able to stand out will only strengthen your position.
If I had to summarize - learn the tech stuff, and think harder about how to apply it so that you can take a wider variety of jobs beyond just sitting behind a desk and crunching code.
If I had to summarize - learn the tech stuff, and think harder about how to apply it so that you can take a wider variety of jobs beyond just sitting behind a desk and crunching code.
Dr. Drew Lehman
Consultant
26
Answers
Updated
Dr. Drew’s Answer
This is a tough one to answer since the tech industry is very diverse in skills. Since your skills seem to be focused on coding, I'll try to address that area. Generally, when entering the field, you will want to focus on a particular language and become skilled in that language. This will give you a good start in the field. Python is an in-demand language at the moment and could be a good place to start. That being said, Python has a wide variety of applications and focusing on some particulars in Python such as Django, React, FLASK, Machine Learning, or Amazon Web Services (AWS) will make you a stronger candidate for some employers. Keep in mind that the list is partial and not mutually exclusive. You may also want to look at skills like SQL and Docker, depending on what you want to do. Take a course in cybersecurity if you can. Writing proper, secure code is a rare trait as most people simply focus head down on a language and don't look at how it interacts with things outside the project at hand. You may also want to look at C or C++ and object oriented coding if you are not familiar with it already. While you may never use C again, it is a good way to understand what happens "under the hood" of more high-level programming languages and why certain best practices are used.
Soft skills are always a good idea. While I have seen people go quite well coding with very few social or soft skills, those people are usually tolerated because they are extremely good at what they do. However, it will severely restrict your upward mobility and limit what companies are willing to hire you. Understanding how to write well and communicate clearly are highly sought skills especially in management.
There is a reason colleges have general ed requirements. Jobs and life are not narrowly focused and mastering skills such as communications and budgeting can make you stand out and show companies you are more than just a "code monkey". These skills will also help you outside the job.
Soft skills are always a good idea. While I have seen people go quite well coding with very few social or soft skills, those people are usually tolerated because they are extremely good at what they do. However, it will severely restrict your upward mobility and limit what companies are willing to hire you. Understanding how to write well and communicate clearly are highly sought skills especially in management.
There is a reason colleges have general ed requirements. Jobs and life are not narrowly focused and mastering skills such as communications and budgeting can make you stand out and show companies you are more than just a "code monkey". These skills will also help you outside the job.
Sara Fernandez
project manager
9
Answers
Costa Rica, Valle del Cauca
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Even though strong technical abilities are essential for IT and tech positions, companies are giving more importance to soft skills when looking for technical professionals. Hard skills involve your capacity to meet the technical demands of a job, like coding or creating software, while soft skills focus on the personal qualities that help you succeed at work, such as teamwork and communication abilities.
Soft skills matter in tech-related jobs because being able to use new technology is not enough if you don't have the soft skills needed to work well with others, communicate clearly, and handle challenges. Employers want IT and tech experts who have a good mix of both soft and hard skills, as both types of skills are key to a new employee's success in their position and long-term contribution to the company.
Communication, our most in-demand soft skill, has many parts, but it mostly deals with your ability to talk, listen, and understand information. You might be great at "talking code," but how skilled are you at explaining complex tech ideas or data findings to coworkers in the finance department? Sending emails, leading client meetings, working with teammates, presenting your thoughts, and listening to feedback are some ways you'll need strong communication skills to do your job well.
If you don't have good communication skills, you and your coworkers could miss crucial details, leading to technical mistakes and projects that don't go as planned. It might also result in less innovation because you couldn't properly share your ideas with important decision-makers.
Critical thinking is evaluating information, data, ideas, and more to develop an objective, logical judgment or analysis. A large part of your IT or tech professional work will be solving problems through developing and implementing technological solutions.
To effectively solve these problems, you must be able to think critically and make a fully informed decision based on the information you have. Critical thinking enables you to see challenges from a different perspective and approach problems with a creative mindset, leading to innovative solutions - essential in the tech world.
Collaboration is the ability to work efficiently with your colleagues to achieve a specific business outcome or goal.
Having good collaboration skills is of the utmost importance in a tech workplace environment, as there will be very few technical projects you alone will manage from concept to completion.
It is often the case that tech staff achieve more when working together, as each project benefits from the experience, unique talents, and insights from several diverse professionals rather than one.
Collaborating with others on your team enables you to delegate tasks in a way that plays to people's strengths, minimizes information falling through the cracks, and helps keep your workflows running smoothly.
Proactive is the opposite of reactive. So instead of taking action after something has happened, being proactive is about taking action before something happens.
In a tech workplace setting, being proactive means looking for opportunities to excel and going for them without being told to do so. Proactive individuals don't wait for instructions; they know what needs to be done and do it.
Proactiveness is an essential soft skill for tech and IT roles because it means you can self-motivate, work on your own initiative, and require less "management."
Being proactive fosters a more productive work environment, resolves minor issues (before they become more complex problems), encourages innovation, and produces faster results.
Soft skills matter in tech-related jobs because being able to use new technology is not enough if you don't have the soft skills needed to work well with others, communicate clearly, and handle challenges. Employers want IT and tech experts who have a good mix of both soft and hard skills, as both types of skills are key to a new employee's success in their position and long-term contribution to the company.
Communication, our most in-demand soft skill, has many parts, but it mostly deals with your ability to talk, listen, and understand information. You might be great at "talking code," but how skilled are you at explaining complex tech ideas or data findings to coworkers in the finance department? Sending emails, leading client meetings, working with teammates, presenting your thoughts, and listening to feedback are some ways you'll need strong communication skills to do your job well.
If you don't have good communication skills, you and your coworkers could miss crucial details, leading to technical mistakes and projects that don't go as planned. It might also result in less innovation because you couldn't properly share your ideas with important decision-makers.
Critical thinking is evaluating information, data, ideas, and more to develop an objective, logical judgment or analysis. A large part of your IT or tech professional work will be solving problems through developing and implementing technological solutions.
To effectively solve these problems, you must be able to think critically and make a fully informed decision based on the information you have. Critical thinking enables you to see challenges from a different perspective and approach problems with a creative mindset, leading to innovative solutions - essential in the tech world.
Collaboration is the ability to work efficiently with your colleagues to achieve a specific business outcome or goal.
Having good collaboration skills is of the utmost importance in a tech workplace environment, as there will be very few technical projects you alone will manage from concept to completion.
It is often the case that tech staff achieve more when working together, as each project benefits from the experience, unique talents, and insights from several diverse professionals rather than one.
Collaborating with others on your team enables you to delegate tasks in a way that plays to people's strengths, minimizes information falling through the cracks, and helps keep your workflows running smoothly.
Proactive is the opposite of reactive. So instead of taking action after something has happened, being proactive is about taking action before something happens.
In a tech workplace setting, being proactive means looking for opportunities to excel and going for them without being told to do so. Proactive individuals don't wait for instructions; they know what needs to be done and do it.
Proactiveness is an essential soft skill for tech and IT roles because it means you can self-motivate, work on your own initiative, and require less "management."
Being proactive fosters a more productive work environment, resolves minor issues (before they become more complex problems), encourages innovation, and produces faster results.
Arjita Singh
Consultant
9
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Arjita’s Answer
The technology sector is vibrant and ever-changing, presenting a wealth of possibilities for those who possess technical abilities and a zest for innovation. Here's an overview of the tech world and the skills that can aid you in achieving success:
Technical Abilities:
1. Coding Languages: Being adept in languages such as Python, Java, and web development languages lays a strong foundation. As you advance, think about broadening your expertise in other languages like JavaScript, C++, or Ruby, based on your preferences and desired career trajectory.
2. Data Structures and Algorithms: Grasping data structures and algorithms is vital for efficiently tackling intricate problems. This knowledge aids in crafting effective software solutions and excelling in technical interviews.
3. Database Management: Get acquainted with database principles, SQL, and NoSQL databases. Knowing how to design, query, and manage databases is crucial in numerous tech positions.
4. Cloud Computing: Familiarity with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform is advantageous. Learn about cloud services, deployment, scalability, and management to remain competitive.
5. Software Development Lifecycle: Acquire knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile or Scrum. Comprehending the development lifecycle and best practices for collaboration, version control, and testing will prove valuable in real-world projects.
Soft Abilities:
1. Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Tech positions frequently necessitate analyzing complex issues and devising innovative resolutions. Cultivating robust problem-solving and critical thinking abilities will enable you to effectively tackle challenges.
2. Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication skills are essential for teamwork, conveying technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and collaborating successfully. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and actively pay attention to others.
3. Adaptability and Learning Agility: The tech sector progresses swiftly, so being adaptable and possessing a growth mindset is crucial. Embrace new technologies, stay informed about industry trends, and commit to ongoing learning.
4. Time Management and Organization: Juggling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines is critical. Develop solid time management skills, establish priorities, and maintain an orderly workflow.
5. Teamwork and Leadership: The ability to work well in a team and make positive contributions is highly valued. Furthermore, cultivating leadership skills and the capacity to motivate and inspire others can open doors for growth and advancement.
To better equip yourself in this challenging field:
1. Keep Learning: Remain inquisitive and never cease learning. Utilize online resources, tutorials, forums, and coding challenges to bolster your technical abilities. Investigate open-source projects or contribute to coding communities to gain practical experience.
2. Develop a Portfolio: Compile a portfolio of projects that display your skills and demonstrate your capacity to resolve real-world issues. Employers often seek practical experience, so working on personal projects or participating in hackathons can be beneficial.
3. Pursue Internships and Networking Opportunities: Obtain hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs. These opportunities offer practical experience and valuable industry connections. Attend tech conferences, meetups, and career fairs to network with professionals in the field.
4. Collaborate on Group Projects: Participate in group projects with fellow students to simulate real-world collaboration situations. This will help you hone teamwork skills, learn from others, and develop a diverse skill set.
5. Find Mentorship and Guidance: Connect with industry professionals who can offer mentorship and guidance. They can provide insights, career advice, and help you successfully navigate the tech world.
Keep in mind that success in the tech industry is a blend of technical expertise and soft skills. Continually enhancing your technical knowledge, along with strong communication, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, will enable you to flourish in this high-demand field.
Technical Abilities:
1. Coding Languages: Being adept in languages such as Python, Java, and web development languages lays a strong foundation. As you advance, think about broadening your expertise in other languages like JavaScript, C++, or Ruby, based on your preferences and desired career trajectory.
2. Data Structures and Algorithms: Grasping data structures and algorithms is vital for efficiently tackling intricate problems. This knowledge aids in crafting effective software solutions and excelling in technical interviews.
3. Database Management: Get acquainted with database principles, SQL, and NoSQL databases. Knowing how to design, query, and manage databases is crucial in numerous tech positions.
4. Cloud Computing: Familiarity with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform is advantageous. Learn about cloud services, deployment, scalability, and management to remain competitive.
5. Software Development Lifecycle: Acquire knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile or Scrum. Comprehending the development lifecycle and best practices for collaboration, version control, and testing will prove valuable in real-world projects.
Soft Abilities:
1. Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Tech positions frequently necessitate analyzing complex issues and devising innovative resolutions. Cultivating robust problem-solving and critical thinking abilities will enable you to effectively tackle challenges.
2. Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication skills are essential for teamwork, conveying technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and collaborating successfully. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and actively pay attention to others.
3. Adaptability and Learning Agility: The tech sector progresses swiftly, so being adaptable and possessing a growth mindset is crucial. Embrace new technologies, stay informed about industry trends, and commit to ongoing learning.
4. Time Management and Organization: Juggling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines is critical. Develop solid time management skills, establish priorities, and maintain an orderly workflow.
5. Teamwork and Leadership: The ability to work well in a team and make positive contributions is highly valued. Furthermore, cultivating leadership skills and the capacity to motivate and inspire others can open doors for growth and advancement.
To better equip yourself in this challenging field:
1. Keep Learning: Remain inquisitive and never cease learning. Utilize online resources, tutorials, forums, and coding challenges to bolster your technical abilities. Investigate open-source projects or contribute to coding communities to gain practical experience.
2. Develop a Portfolio: Compile a portfolio of projects that display your skills and demonstrate your capacity to resolve real-world issues. Employers often seek practical experience, so working on personal projects or participating in hackathons can be beneficial.
3. Pursue Internships and Networking Opportunities: Obtain hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs. These opportunities offer practical experience and valuable industry connections. Attend tech conferences, meetups, and career fairs to network with professionals in the field.
4. Collaborate on Group Projects: Participate in group projects with fellow students to simulate real-world collaboration situations. This will help you hone teamwork skills, learn from others, and develop a diverse skill set.
5. Find Mentorship and Guidance: Connect with industry professionals who can offer mentorship and guidance. They can provide insights, career advice, and help you successfully navigate the tech world.
Keep in mind that success in the tech industry is a blend of technical expertise and soft skills. Continually enhancing your technical knowledge, along with strong communication, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, will enable you to flourish in this high-demand field.
Charlie Foxx
Recruiter
3
Answers
Mooresville, North Carolina
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
The Tech industry is always evolving. There is high demand for technical talent in all major industries. Getting a BS and a Masters Degree in Computer Science or some other technical field will certainly help build a foundation for entry level positions. I've been a Technical Recruiter for over a decade, and I've learned that application developers are the hardest skill set to find. Learning to code in Python, Java, .NET...any of these major languages will give you a leg up on the competition. Second to this, any skill sets in the data space is always desirable by top employers. All key business decisions are based on data, which means companies need people who know how to use data tools to gather, sort, analyze and model data. Learning how to write code and/or analyze large data sets are valuable skill sets.
From a soft skill perspective, communication skills (email, text, video, in person) are extremely important. A lot of organizations allow for remote work which means that face to face communication may be limited with your peers. Understanding how to speak the "corporate language" in all communication forms will be a huge benefit to your credibility. Networking and building relationships by being genuine will build your reputation as someone who can be trusted.
You can prepare yourself by staying up to date on what technologies companies are using in your field of interest. For example, AI is the big topic right now. Most organizations are working to figure out how to use ChatGPT as an assistive tool to help improve task efficiencies. Staying in the loop on current technology, how it's being used, who is using it and who is investing in it (follow the money) will help keep you informed.
From a soft skill perspective, communication skills (email, text, video, in person) are extremely important. A lot of organizations allow for remote work which means that face to face communication may be limited with your peers. Understanding how to speak the "corporate language" in all communication forms will be a huge benefit to your credibility. Networking and building relationships by being genuine will build your reputation as someone who can be trusted.
You can prepare yourself by staying up to date on what technologies companies are using in your field of interest. For example, AI is the big topic right now. Most organizations are working to figure out how to use ChatGPT as an assistive tool to help improve task efficiencies. Staying in the loop on current technology, how it's being used, who is using it and who is investing in it (follow the money) will help keep you informed.
Thank you for the advice.
Shaddai
Lotan Vigiser
Hybrid cloud sales
9
Answers
Petah Tikva, Center District, Israel
Updated
Lotan’s Answer
Hello!
Absolutely think about diving into LinkedIn to search for internships or entry-level roles. Pay attention to the qualifications they desire. Keep in mind, every job you undertake will offer priceless learning opportunities.
It's challenging to identify the exact skills required for all jobs, but being flexible, committing time to learning, gaining knowledge from seasoned coworkers, and inquiring about your tasks are consistently advantageous.
Don't hesitate to check out LinkedIn profiles of accomplished professionals to discover what they've learned. Moreover, you can locate valuable educational resources on both YouTube and LinkedIn. Keep doing an amazing job!
Absolutely think about diving into LinkedIn to search for internships or entry-level roles. Pay attention to the qualifications they desire. Keep in mind, every job you undertake will offer priceless learning opportunities.
It's challenging to identify the exact skills required for all jobs, but being flexible, committing time to learning, gaining knowledge from seasoned coworkers, and inquiring about your tasks are consistently advantageous.
Don't hesitate to check out LinkedIn profiles of accomplished professionals to discover what they've learned. Moreover, you can locate valuable educational resources on both YouTube and LinkedIn. Keep doing an amazing job!
George Vasquez, CISA
IT Audit and Governance Professional
1
Answer
Pahrump, Nevada
Updated
George’s Answer
Great question Shaddi. I hope I can add to the excellent answers already provided. I’ve seen the IT profession change quite a bit over the last 20 to 25 years. I think the biggest change is that the comfort level with technology has greatly increased with stakeholders who we are working with. From the business department data owners to the C-suite executives, most of them are very comfortable with technology and expect things to work. We can thank our friends at Apple and Samsung for creating these amazing computers that fit into our pockets. Due to this, IT professionals will be called to come to meetings to explain things, be asked for better functionality, and expected to understand the concerns of the stakeholders more now than 20+ years ago. No longer can you be the “IT wizard” who is left alone as long as the server doesn’t blow up. Good interpersonal communication skills, empathy, and an ability to work well with others will be important as the profession continues to evolve.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Shaddai
Taryn Donaldson
Security Strategy Consultant
26
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Taryn’s Answer
Find ways to be different, stand out, and know people at your end destination
I highly recommend getting certs to stay relevant, joining clubs to show that you go above and beyond as far as your passion for tech, going to events and conferences to stay relevant and up to date with new and evolving technologies. Lastly, I recommend picking your top 3 companies and going to every event, conference booth or club meetings they have! I knew I wanted google, IBM or Delta and I went to every event they would throw. Eventually in my IBM interview, I saw an interviewer that remembered me from all of the events I went to.
I highly recommend getting certs to stay relevant, joining clubs to show that you go above and beyond as far as your passion for tech, going to events and conferences to stay relevant and up to date with new and evolving technologies. Lastly, I recommend picking your top 3 companies and going to every event, conference booth or club meetings they have! I knew I wanted google, IBM or Delta and I went to every event they would throw. Eventually in my IBM interview, I saw an interviewer that remembered me from all of the events I went to.
Thank you!
Shaddai
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
550
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Shaddai, I appreciate your initiative in seeking guidance about the technology field and the necessary soft skills. I trust that the following information will offer some clarity and assistance.
Your curiosity about the tech industry is an excellent start to readying yourself for a career in this fast-paced, ever-changing field. The tech industry is a vast umbrella, encompassing various sectors such as software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. It's marked by swift innovation, continuous learning, and a high demand for talented individuals.
To excel in the tech industry, you'll need a mix of technical know-how and soft skills. From a technical perspective, being proficient in programming languages like Python, Java, and web development languages is a great start, especially since you already have industry certifications in these areas. However, it's crucial to keep broadening your technical skills by staying informed about the latest tech advancements, exploring new programming languages or frameworks, and gaining practical experience through projects, internships, or open-source contributions.
Besides technical skills, soft skills are just as important for success in the tech industry. These include communication skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, adaptability, and creativity. Good communication is key as it enables effective collaboration with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, and allows for clear expression of ideas and solutions. Problem-solving skills are vital for addressing complex technical issues and finding innovative solutions, while teamwork and collaboration allow individuals to excel in interdisciplinary environments and contribute to shared success. Furthermore, adaptability and creativity are important traits in a rapidly changing industry, requiring individuals to think critically, adjust to new technologies and methodologies, and approach problems with a fresh perspective.
To better equip yourself for the tech industry's demands, there are several steps you can take. First, you should continue to enhance your technical skills by pursuing advanced coursework, certifications, or specialized training in computer science areas that interest you. This could involve exploring topics like machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or software engineering, depending on your career goals. Additionally, you should actively look for opportunities for practical experience, such as internships, co-op programs, or freelance projects, to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain practical skills that employers highly value.
You can also improve your soft skills in various ways, such as participating in extracurricular activities, joining tech or entrepreneurship student organizations, attending networking events, or taking communication and leadership workshops. Engaging in activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving can help you develop a comprehensive skill set and prepare you for the collaborative nature of the tech industry.
Finally, you should foster a growth mindset and embrace the concept of lifelong learning. The tech industry is always changing, and success often depends on adapting to change, learning new skills, and staying updated on emerging trends and technologies. By staying curious, proactive, and open to new opportunities, you can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding career in the dynamic and continually expanding field of technology.
Your curiosity about the tech industry is an excellent start to readying yourself for a career in this fast-paced, ever-changing field. The tech industry is a vast umbrella, encompassing various sectors such as software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. It's marked by swift innovation, continuous learning, and a high demand for talented individuals.
To excel in the tech industry, you'll need a mix of technical know-how and soft skills. From a technical perspective, being proficient in programming languages like Python, Java, and web development languages is a great start, especially since you already have industry certifications in these areas. However, it's crucial to keep broadening your technical skills by staying informed about the latest tech advancements, exploring new programming languages or frameworks, and gaining practical experience through projects, internships, or open-source contributions.
Besides technical skills, soft skills are just as important for success in the tech industry. These include communication skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, adaptability, and creativity. Good communication is key as it enables effective collaboration with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, and allows for clear expression of ideas and solutions. Problem-solving skills are vital for addressing complex technical issues and finding innovative solutions, while teamwork and collaboration allow individuals to excel in interdisciplinary environments and contribute to shared success. Furthermore, adaptability and creativity are important traits in a rapidly changing industry, requiring individuals to think critically, adjust to new technologies and methodologies, and approach problems with a fresh perspective.
To better equip yourself for the tech industry's demands, there are several steps you can take. First, you should continue to enhance your technical skills by pursuing advanced coursework, certifications, or specialized training in computer science areas that interest you. This could involve exploring topics like machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or software engineering, depending on your career goals. Additionally, you should actively look for opportunities for practical experience, such as internships, co-op programs, or freelance projects, to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain practical skills that employers highly value.
You can also improve your soft skills in various ways, such as participating in extracurricular activities, joining tech or entrepreneurship student organizations, attending networking events, or taking communication and leadership workshops. Engaging in activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving can help you develop a comprehensive skill set and prepare you for the collaborative nature of the tech industry.
Finally, you should foster a growth mindset and embrace the concept of lifelong learning. The tech industry is always changing, and success often depends on adapting to change, learning new skills, and staying updated on emerging trends and technologies. By staying curious, proactive, and open to new opportunities, you can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding career in the dynamic and continually expanding field of technology.