Employers are not just looking for technical skills—they want candidates who can learn, adapt, and contribute to their teams.
Understanding what employers prioritize can help you tailor your applications, portfolio, and interview preparation.
Here’s a breakdown of what employers look for in junior tech hires and how to position yourself effectively.
Foundational Technical Skills
Even at a junior level, employers expect a solid foundation in relevant technologies:
- Programming languages: Know the basics of languages relevant to your role, such as Python, JavaScript, Java, or C#.
- Frameworks and tools: Familiarity with popular frameworks (React, Node.js, Django) or design tools for UX/UI roles.
- Problem-solving and algorithms: Ability to think logically and approach problems systematically.
- Version control: Basic knowledge of Git/GitHub to collaborate effectively.
SheCanCode offers coding challenges to help junior talent build these foundational skills.
Portfolio and Project Work
Employers want to see tangible evidence of your abilities:
- Personal projects: Websites, apps, or design projects that demonstrate practical application of skills.
- Open source contributions: Participation in open source shows initiative and collaboration.
- Case studies: Highlight challenges, your approach, and results.
A strong portfolio often outweighs limited professional experience. Here are some examples to get you hired!
Eagerness to Learn
Junior hires are expected to grow quickly. Employers value:
- Curiosity: Interest in learning new technologies, tools, and frameworks.
- Proactivity: Seeking feedback and improving continuously.
- Adaptability: Willingness to take on varied tasks and adjust to changing requirements.
Demonstrating eagerness to learn can be as important as technical skills in early-stage roles.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Employers look for candidates who can:
- Break down complex problems into manageable parts
- Think analytically and creatively
- Troubleshoot issues independently before seeking help
Coding challenges, and hackathons, help junior candidates develop and showcase these skills. If you’ve never attended a hackathon, try one of ours! Not all of our attendees are coders, so come and try something new in a fun and supportive environment.
Communication and Teamwork
Technical skills alone are not enough. Employers want team players who can:
- Communicate clearly: Explain ideas, solutions, and progress effectively.
- Collaborate: Work well in team settings, share knowledge, and support peers.
- Take feedback constructively: Apply suggestions to improve work quality.
Soft skills can differentiate junior candidates and demonstrate potential for growth.
Cultural Fit and Alignment
Employers seek candidates who align with company values and culture:
- Adaptable mindset: Comfortable with the company’s workflow, tech stack, and team dynamics.
- Positive attitude: Eagerness to contribute and learn from others.
- Diversity and inclusion awareness: Respectful, collaborative behavior that supports an inclusive workplace.
SheCanCode’s Corporate Ambassadors provide insights into inclusive company cultures, helping junior hires find environments that support their growth. Take a look at our partners here and find which companies are currently hiring talent.
Initiative and Self-Motivation
Even at an entry-level role, employers value candidates who:
- Take ownership: Manage tasks proactively and meet deadlines.
- Seek out challenges: Volunteer for projects or responsibilities beyond basic requirements.
- Demonstrate passion: Show commitment to tech through learning, personal projects, or community involvement.
Taking initiative signals that you’re motivated and capable of growth, key qualities in junior hires.
How to Position Yourself as a Strong Junior Candidate
- Build a portfolio: Highlight projects, open source contributions, and personal achievements.
- Leverage mentorship: SheCanCode mentors can guide skill-building and interview preparation. Join our free community and find a mentor in our programme today!
- Tailor your applications: Align your resume and cover letter with the company’s needs.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice coding challenges, problem-solving exercises, and behavioral questions.
- Engage with inclusive employers: Use SheCanCode’s job board to target companies that support women in tech. Discover the partners who support us in our mission and are interested in hearing from women in tech like you.
Final Thoughts
Employers hiring junior tech talent are looking for a combination of foundational technical skills, a strong portfolio, eagerness to learn, problem-solving abilities, communication, teamwork, and cultural fit. Demonstrating initiative, motivation, and alignment with inclusive companies can significantly boost your chances of landing your first tech role.
SheCanCode provides events, mentorship, guidance, community, and access to inclusive employers to help junior women in tech prepare, apply, and succeed in their first roles. By focusing on skills, preparation, and community support, junior candidates can enter the tech industry confidently and thrive.
