How to Navigate a Career Change to IT

A career change to IT could be your launchpad to a thriving professional path in a world driven by technology. With so many diverse tech career paths to explore, the IT industry is no longer just for those with a computer science background. Whether you’re a project manager seeking a dynamic workspace or even an SEO expert yearning for a more tech-centred role, making a career change to IT could be the first rung on the ladder to your dream job.

The current high demand for IT professionals provides a whole host of options including bootcamps that guarantee jobs, paid mentor programmes and other resources that can be tailored to your specific needs. So, if you’re weighing up a potential career change to tech, let’s explore the best ways to navigate this exciting transition.

Is A Career Change to IT Right for You?

People are motivated to change career to IT for a variety of reasons. Primarily, the IT sector offers a wide variety of roles with impressive salary potential. What’s more, it’s a career that evolves with innovation. But is IT the right fit for you? The answer depends on your inclination for problem-solving, eagerness to learn new skills and passion for technology, coupled with your commitment to adapt to an ever-evolving landscape.

However, if the IT sector doesn’t resonate with your career aspirations, don’t worry! Various opportunities extend beyond the tech sector’s confines, providing an exciting new professional path for those longing for something different. Whether you stay within tech or move away from IT, it’s important to make sure the switch aligns with your personal and professional goals. A career switch to IT could be a game-changer.

What are the Benefits of Making a Career Change to IT?

Competitive salaries in the tech world undoubtedly serve as a compelling incentive for a career change to IT. However, the allure goes beyond lucrative salaries – the tech industry is one of constant innovation and change, so it promises an engaging, forward-moving, exciting career trajectory. You’ll likely find that your job role evolves with technology, keeping your working life fresh, stimulating and anything but monotonous.

There are so many vastly different IT roles and tech career paths, so you’ll be able to find a niche that resonates with your interests and skills. Whether your career change to tech leads you to a cybersecurity, software development or IT management role, there’s a place for everyone in this diverse sector.

Highest Paying Opportunities for a Career Change to Tech

According to a study by Catenon, a tech-focused multinational recruitment services company, these are the top 10 highest-paying tech jobs in the US and across Europe (in no particular order).

• AI Architect
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Cloud Architect
• Data Specialist (Analyst, Scientist and Engineer)
• Web, Software and Mobile Developer
• DevOps Engineer
• Help Desk and Desktop Support Professionals
• Network or Cloud Administrator
• Security Professionals (Architect, Engineer and Administrator)
• System Administrator

If you’re still only in the early stages of considering a career change to tech, you might not be making those big bucks in the next year or two. But with hard work, determination and staying ahead of the game, there’s no reason why you can’t have one of the job titles on the above list one day!

How to Make a Career Change to IT

Making a career change to IT is a journey that requires not just passion but a carefully charted course. Let’s shine a light on some key steps that can guide you on this path to a fulfilling tech career.

1. Find an IT Job That Interests You

Thinking about a career change to IT is similar to exploring a big forest filled with many different paths. Finding the right job may feel as overwhelming as looking for the most fascinating tree in that forest.

Take the time to stroll through the extensive woodland of opportunities and learn about the different roles that pique your interest. Delve into job descriptions, check out employee reviews and reach out to industry professionals who can help demystify these roles. Once you’ve discovered your passion, changing careers to IT will become a breadcrumb trail leading to professional growth and personal satisfaction.

2. Research Your Chosen Career

Once you’ve identified your dream IT job, it’s time to learn even more about it. Research the key skills required, the trends shaping that niche and what day-to-day work looks like. Look online, join webinars, participate in related workshops or reach out to an IT mentor. Having an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of your desired role will strengthen your resolve to make your career change to tech while giving you the confidence and direction you need to take the next step towards your dream career.

3. Identify Your Transferable Skills

As you map out your career change to IT in more detail, it’s vital to identify your transferable skills. These are abilities that you’ve gained from your previous experience that can add value to your new tech role. You might be surprised to discover how many of your current skills are highly sought-after in the IT sector.

Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, project management and even customer service experience can all be extremely valuable assets in many tech career paths. Assessing your own skills can provide you with a confidence boost and help you articulate your value to potential employers in the IT field.

4. Upskill Yourself

Depending on your chosen path and personal learning style, your approach to upskilling yourself ready for your career change to tech may be a hands-on experience, involve in-depth training or see you working towards industry-specific certifications. For example, if you’re aiming for a software development role, a coding bootcamp could provide you with direct, practical knowledge.

You’ll find value in obtaining certifications from recognised institutions, since the tech industry respects proof of skills, no matter what learning route you’ve taken. The key is to demonstrate your prowess in the relevant areas, stay committed to continual learning and keep pace with the ever-evolving IT landscape.

5. Expand Your Network

In your quest to change career to IT, don’t underestimate the value of a robust network, including a career mentor. Surround yourself with professionals already navigating and thriving in the IT landscape – their insights can prove invaluable. They’ll broaden your perspective on the diverse tech career paths and will provide you with practical advice and insider tips.

Industry gatherings, online communities and tech conferences are great places to engage with experts and learn from their experiences. Your network can be the key that unlocks potential opportunities.

6. Acknowledge Your Motivation

As you navigate your career change to IT, it’s vital to be able to articulate your reasons for your pivot. You’ll be asked about this by everyone you meet throughout your journey, from mentors to recruiters and prospective bosses. Your narrative should be an engaging dialogue, woven with your passion and motivation for your career change to tech. Highlight your vision, commitment, enthusiasm and readiness for your new voyage to elevate your appeal in the eyes of potential employers.

7. Find a Mentor

Switching to a tech career change can feel like a big step, but that’s where finding a mentor makes a world of difference. Imagine having someone to answer your burning questions, ease your fears and discuss your aspirations – that’s exactly what you can get from a mentor-mentee relationship. Mentorship will provide you with valuable insights into the industry, support as you enhance your skills and constructive feedback to help you polish your professional image. Seek out a mentor who mirrors your aspirations and let their experience illuminate your path to a career change to IT.

Find a Career Change Mentor

Thanks to their industry knowledge and first-hand experience, your mentor will be able to guide you, give advice and build your confidence as you begin your new career path. At Career Navig8r, you can search for mentors who have already done the job role you want for access to actual lived insights.

Sign up as a mentee as you navigate your career change to IT.

Do your bit to impress your mentor by reading our guide on how to be the best mentee.