Technology companies are no longer a group of engineers in a ‘startup’, in fact, this sector is a coveted place to work, with high salaries and great benefits. You do not have to be a technology worker to get a job in Silicon Valley or anywhere else in the technology industry.
About 43% of all vacancies in technology companies are for non-technological roles, according to a survey by Glassdoor.
“Technology companies are no longer a group of engineers in a startup” said Andrew Chamberlain, chief economist at Glassdoor. As they mature, they have to do sales, marketing and strategy, and manage intellectual property.
The most common non-technological roles listed on the job search website are account executive, project manager, sales representative and operations manager. So landing a job in tech companies for non-technical person is highly possible.
It’s where all the growth is in the business world,” said Marc Cenedella, CEO and founder of the racing website, Ladders. “New things are being invented in the technology industry every day and it’s exciting, energizing and exciting to be a part of it.”
But that does not mean it’s a good option for everyone. Working in the technology industry can be a difficult transition for workers from more traditional industries, such as finance and law.
“Technology has a faster pace, at least in smaller companies, more focused on innovation, disruption and rethinking,” Chamberlain said. “While in traditional industries, there is more emphasis on going slow and getting all the right details.”
If you have decided to pursue your
career in a technology sector,
then following are some tips that can help you in landing a job in an
IT company.
1. Get an idea of the company’s culture
Before starting to look for a job in a company, research everything about it: its mission, values, culture and history.
“Investigate a lot, see how these companies are and how they behave”, recommended Cenedella. “If you feel overwhelmed in the interview process, it may not be the right place, if you find informality, speed and modern, unprofessional and youthful, it’s probably not a good option for you.”
We recommend: Leave emotions out of negotiation
2. Stand out from the rest
Once you have chosen certain companies that seem right for you, you need to get their attention. Since you may not have the same type of contacts in the industry as technology workers, take the initiative to establish them.
Make connections in the industry through online networks, conferences and networking events.
“If you see a published work, go directly to the company and introduce yourself,” said Roy Cohen, career coach and author of “The Wall Street Professional’s Survival Guide.”
3. Project an image
Before going to an interview, make sure you have an idea of the office dress code.
“If you show up in a full suit, employers may worry that you’re not comfortable working with shirt and tennis engineers,” Chamberlain said.
But getting a job interview with a shirt and tennis might not be the right approach either. Try to find a medium term with an outfit that conveys a sense of professionalism without appearing too stifling.
4. Be a problem solver
Demonstrating your ability to work independently and being open to solving problems in new and creative ways can help you break through.
“He tries to position himself as an entrepreneur and a problem solver who does not always need to be told what to do,” Chamberlain said.
Connect the points to potential employers about how your past experience is relevant and valuable to them, said Cohen.
For example, he suggested that marketing professionals provide an idea of the clients with whom they have worked and successful proposals.
“Give examples in your CV that demonstrate not only your experience, but how good you are and the ability to transfer those skills to a technological environment.”
5. Show that you are flexible
Many technology companies take a hands-on approach to doing things.
“Technology company employees are often expected to be ready to do everything, they usually do not depend on consultants or have a large staff to work for them,” Chamberlain said.
Try to show your ability to be flexible in the interview and give specific examples of your work history.
“Technology companies tend to look for more flexible and adaptable people,” Cenedella said.
6. Shows something of technological interest
Nobody expects an account executive to know how to program, but it helps to show their interest in the technology and use it to promote productivity.
“Technology companies want to hire people who show that circumstances change and can be maintained and adapted,” Cenedella said.
It is also useful to highlight your skills in the data.
“It shows evidence that you can work with data in some way,” Chamberlain advised.
“Decision making in technology companies tends to focus on data, especially when you monitor performance and quantify all your objectives, and any evidence that can be given of what has been done before will be very useful.”
Be the first to comment on "6 Tips if you are looking for a Job in the Technology Sector"