To help us answer these questions is coach, Fiona Hatton.
As a coach, Fiona supports women to live a happier life: through prioritising their wellbeing, doing more of what they love, and focusing on what really matters to them. She has worked with women who’ve gone on to change career, leave a toxic workplace, and make big life decisions about where (and how) they want to live.
Join the Yoco Studio community for free resources, useful tips and offers. Find out more about her coaching and yoga packages at http://www.yoco.studio.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR US – WHETHER IT BE ABOUT WORK RELATIONSHIPS, GAINING CONFIDENCE, OR TAKING THE LEAP INTO TECH – YOU CAN ASK US ANYTHING.
Hi SheCanCode,
Hope you are well and thanks for creating this series/opportunity!
I’m looking to transition into the tech industry, but I have no coding experience. Do I necessarily need to be super technical? Should I be enrolling in a bootcamp?
I was hoping you had some advice, or could point me in the right direction of resources etc.
Thanks so much,
Learning to Code
HEY LEARNING TO CODE,
There’s something very exciting about choosing a new career, and the tech industry is a great place to be. Moving into it may not be as difficult as you think. Roles are really varied and although you have no coding experience, I’m betting you have transferable skills that would make the move easier.
But with so many different routes you could take, the choice can become overwhelming, so why not drill down into what you’re really after from a new role? Then you can spot your skills gaps and find the right kind of training or experience.
I have a few questions to ask yourself to get you started:
Why do I want to make the move?
This will help you to understand what motivates you – perhaps it’s learning something new, being involved in a landmark project, or earning more. Whatever it turns out to be, this can act as a compass for you when you’re looking at potential roles.
What interests me?
This is an opportunity to choose a new path that will take you closer to what you really want to do – something that will make you excited to get up in the morning. So really consider what you love, and what you don’t. And ask yourself why. Think about what you’re interested in outside work too.
What job opportunities are out there?
Now you have a better understanding why you want to make a change and what interests you, take a look at the different tech roles on offer. SheCanCode has a great job board to get you started. See any that tick your boxes? Find out what experience and skills each role is asking for. Perhaps you already have them (hooray!). If not, don’t despair. Make a note of the skills you need to develop so that you can be more purposeful about the bootcamps and training you sign up to.
What is my budget for training?
By setting a spending limit, and by deciding how much time you’re prepared to devote to this, you immediately have to be a bit more careful about the training you sign up to.
As well as looking for training that helps to fill your skills gaps, try to go for that offers recognised qualifications and well-respected providers. To kick-off, you’ll find some useful resources at SheCanCode.
Moving into a whole new industry can seem daunting, but setting your own direction gives you something to aim for. Something that you really want. Good luck! I’m wishing you all the best in your new adventure.
