Introduction
In our ever-evolving world, technology has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives. Think of anything, there's a tech space attached to it, from software development to technical writing to product design, cybersecurity, cloud engineering, copywriting and beyond, the tech field offers a vast and exciting array of opportunities. For beginners, diving into the world of tech can be very overwhelming, especially when you do not even understand and even if you do, you do not know where to start. However, fear not! With excitement in my heart, let us embark on this grand adventure together as we unravel the key points that will guide any novice through the remarkable world of technology.
Researching and Discovering Your Passion;
This is maybe the most important step if you do it right, because the tech field is vast and offers a plethora of career opportunities. So, It's crucial to explore different areas and find where your interests lie. Take the time to research various tech fields, and look into the responsibilities, skills required, and potential career paths associated with each field. I found it helpful to consult multiple sources, compare information and seek out current roadmaps like "Frontend Development Roadmap 2023." This approach helped me understand what I needed to learn and whether certain areas aligned with my preferences. For example, if I check a roadmap and I see that I have to write codes and maybe i don't enjoy writing codes, perhaps I prefer managing, or designer, or writing stories, then i know that frontend development is not for me. By understanding the nuances of different tech disciplines, you can make an informed decision about which path aligns best with your interests, strengths, and aspirations.
Choosing Your Path:
Now you know the field you want to get into but why? it's essential to evaluate why you have chosen that specific path. Consider various factors and reasons behind your decision. Are you choosing that field because all your friends seem to be great at it, or because the money is good (I mean money is good source of motivation but if it's only about the money then you will be switching carees in tech very often or maybe not perhaps not wanting to be poor is enough motivation), point is, know your WHY, and ensure it is something that can keep you going when the going gets tough. t this stage, seek out individuals already working in your chosen field and follow their journey. You can learn valuable insights and gain inspiration from their experiences.
Learning Resources and Skill Development:
I have had the privilege of benefiting from sponsored trainings and bootcamp (basically scholarship, all i had to do was apply and convince them that I do indeed need the scholarship). Remember the roadmap from step 1? Yes, that roadmap. If you choose to self-learn, it will be your guiding light. Many platforms such as Udemy, edX, YouTube, Coursera, freecodecamp, W3Schools, and official documentation, offer courses and tutorials to help you learn. Utilize these resources! If self-learning is not your preferred approach, consider investing in courses offered by reputable tech training organizations (reputable, so you don't waste your money on nothing) or/and you can apply for free trainings, bootcamps etc. Additionally, explore free training opportunities and bootcamps provided by organizations like Ingressive for Good, She Code Africa, etc. The goal is to learn and develop your skills. If you feel that you are not making progress, don't hesitate to re-evaluate your approach and make necessary adjustments.
Hands-on Projects and Practical Experience:
One thing I wish I knew earlier is the importance of working on projects as you learn. It's an excellent way to develop your skills. When working on projects, you are challenged to think of problems and solve them, which enhances your learning experience. This is also the time to showcase your work and make noise about your process. Don't be shy like I used to be; share your progress on Twitter, LinkedIn, or any platform where you can showcase your work. You should also embrace collaboration, volunteering, and engaging in practical activities that will help you practice what you learn and solidify your skills.
Networking and Community Engagement:
This is "top secret" tip: Tech is not a solitary pursuit. Engaging with the tech community, attending conferences, joining local meetups, and participating in online forums will help you expand your network and connect with like-minded individuals. I used to be lost in the maze, until i started utilizing community and networking (although, I am still working on being more active but i can tell that indeed i have been shooting myself in the leg all the time I was in alone). By fostering relationships with experienced professionals, you can gain insights, seek advice, get guidance from wise mentors and uncover hidden opportunities within the tech field. I used to joke about the fact that most jobs are filled through referrals (I haven't verified this, so don't take it as a fact, but do foster relationships nonetheless).
Conclusion:
As your journey unfolds, you will discover your true passion within the tech field is a quest of self-discovery and exploration. Armed with these keypoints you will unravel the mysteries of your tech field. With this new found clarity, set forth on your chosen path, ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs that await you. May your story inspire others to embark on their own quests, unearthing their passions and forging their own fulfilling and remarkable journeys in the realm of technology.
print("Wishing you all the best")