How To Make The Most of Your Qualifications

 If you’re reading this, you’re either considering our coding bootcamp, you’re in the thick of it, or you’ve just graduated and you’re the proud owner of a diploma in software development. 
But what happens afterwards? After you’ve celebrated, it’s time to take a look at the next steps to land your dream job. The good news is that our graduates have a desirable skill, and there are employers crying out for someone like them. But – even before graduation – you do have to take a few steps to let them know that you’re out there. Here are a few reasonably simple things you can do…

1- Update LinkedIn
We’ve discussed this elsewhere, but if you’re not on LinkedIn, join it today! If you already have a LinkedIn account and you’re studying with us (or you’ve just graduated), update it immediately with your Code Institute education.
It’s a relevant, in-demand skill and you want people to know about it. LinkedIn is a hugely efficient way to get that information in front of as many people as possible.

2- Sign up for work-related emails
You should be getting notifications on appropriate jobs into your email inbox. Firstly, they should be arriving from LinkedIn, and then you should register with indeed, monster, Jobbio and GlassDoor (for a start). Also, search for local versions of these sites and for sites exclusive to your territory.
If you’re unsure of what job titles and keywords to register or look out for, we’ve written a blog post about exactly that!

3- Network
Plenty of jobs are still filled by reference and recommendation, so you should maintain a healthy network to keep in the loop. Start by keeping in touch with fellow students through Slack and LinkedIn, and then keep an eye out for relevant events such as tech and coding meetups.
Google for coding meetup and tech meetups in your area – some are even coding language-specific.
If you’re shy or don’t know anyone at these meetups, try to establish a connection online (on the group’s site, social media or message board for example) before going. Failing that, make a point of introducing yourself to at least two people at the meetup. They’ll likely be grateful you took the first step!
And remember, these meetups often fill up weeks in advance, so act fast!

4- Work on your Portfolio
Your projects are, of course, a showcase for your work. And a beautiful thing about coding is that your knowledge and skills snowball. Regular tweaks on your portfolio will reflect your growing skillset and accumulated knowledge.
New projects can be an even better way to show what you can do, so don’t be afraid of starting an exciting and fresh portfolio piece from scratch.

5- Expand your social media reach
As well as LinkedIn, you should be making the most of all online resources available. Join Twitter and follow people you admire, recruiters, tech news and those who work in tech in your home country and city.
Consider posting thought-leadership posts on LinkedIn or even on your own blog. Also, Facebook isn’t considered a work tool, but it’s handy for groups for devs, tech and jobs in those areas.
Of course, always be polite and professional: A good rule of thumb is to not post or say anything online that you wouldn’t want your mother or boss to see!

Want to Ask us a Question?