https://www.michaelpage.com.hk/advice/career-advice/career-progression/start-tech-career-with-no-experience
Technology hasn’t only changed how we live, consume and interact. It has also radically advanced and increased the number of career options in the tech industry. Digitalisation has become a key driver of growth.
Choosing an area to get into can be overwhelming as technology is a broad field. Some major areas include computer science, web development, big data, mobile apps development, product management, technical writing, UI/UX design, product design, data analytics, data science, software engineering and cyber security.
“It’s a career defined by constant evolution, innovation and progression,” says Joshua Ferris, Regional Director at Michael Page Japan, who does tech recruitment.
“Technology is constantly changing, and once you master one technology, it is typically out-of-date, so you always need to study and learn new things. You are also solving business problems. Each problem is unique, and multiple technologies and methodologies can be applied to solve the problem. Hence, things have to stay fresh.”
There is a great demand for tech candidates in every job market globally. On top of that, there is not just a demand for techies in tech companies. Many industries are competing over this limited tech workforce. And that is also why a career in technology would likely provide you with opportunities to fast-track your career and get a highly competitive salary.
Besides a wide range of tech jobs and industry options, the tech industry is also one that is diverse and inclusive. Until recently, the tech industry was regarded mainly as a male domain.
While the stereotype of the young, male coder dies hard, women are now pursuing technology careers in record numbers, encouraged by forward-thinking companies who understand the advantages of building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Michelle J Ma, Director at Michael Page Hong Kong, says, “It is still quite male-dominated for most functions, especially the more technical roles. I see more women taking up tech roles in business analytics, product management and transformation. The progression has been slow but steady in Hong Kong, compared to other markets and regions that are more vocal about having women in tech.”
Ferris adds that it is also still quite a male-dominated sector in Japan, but more female professionals are joining tech. For that same reason, older professionals and people from historically disadvantaged groups are warmly welcomed and included in the technology sector.
Another reason for moving into tech is that you’ll be picking up tech skills the market is desperate to access. “There’s a shortage of tech talent everywhere now,” says Ma. “And the demand is for all tech functions, not just software-related.”
Excited by the idea of a tech career but unsure where to start? Or are you worried you might get into an area you might dislike in the future?
The great thing about a tech career is that you can switch specialisations. The tech career path is not defined by your first tech role. We’re not saying that you should keep changing roles but that you can if you develop a new interest down the road. To get hired in the tech industry, here are some ways to get you started.
From project managers to cybersecurity administrators, many IT personnel spend more time interacting with people than with machines.