From tech career to software development

One thing we all know by now is that the tech industry is vast. However, just because somebody works in the tech industry, or works with computers, doesn’t necessarily mean that they have the skills as a software developer. Roles range from call centre operatives to sales and customer support. However, if you already have a tech career, then you have an advantage over others who are considering a switch to software development. How so? Read on. 

Lingo

First and foremost, by now, you are well versed in the lingo that surrounds technology. You’ve spoken to customers about it. You’ve argued with other teams about it, and you can probably tell the differences between what front-end is and what back-end is. Maybe you even have some basic HTML or CSS skills. 

Automation

If you currently work for a tech firm, then most likely you’re familiar with automation processes already. For example, if your company uses a CRM tool like HubSpot or Zoho, you’ve possibly automated some process like email workflows or data collection. This doesn’t mean you’re a coder, but you certainly have a firm understanding of the fact that it is the code behind these processes that make them so darn useful. 

Dogfooding

As I’ve already said, the tech industry is vast, so this may not necessarily apply to you. But tech firms usually produce something, and if for example you work in sales and have to sell that product, you’ve probably tried and tested it. This would make sense, I mean, after all, you have to sell how brilliant it is to potential clients. If you’re like many salespeople that I know, you’ve spoken to the developers behind the product, and you’ve asked them to tell you how it works. 

Similarly, if you’re in tech or customer support, the same conditions apply. You need to know so you can answer questions and advise accordingly. When you test the product that your company sells, it’s called eating that companies dog food. Sounds gross, but I kind of like analogy.

Familiarity

You’re already familiar with the run of things. You know how developers are treated, and you understand the perks of the position. The chances are that you are familiar with salary scales, and you might even know how best to rise through the ranks. For many people who currently work in tech and want to upskill in tech, they may be aware of opportunities existing within their current workforce.

Another thing is that the tech industry like their developers to have a broad range of skills, and who can understand other parts of the business world. So, for example, if you happen to work in sales in the tech industry, then you will have a certain understanding of what customers actually want. You will have heard both the positives and the negatives of the customer journey. If you have coding skills on top of the knowledge of what customers want, then you’re onto a winner. 

Tech career to software development

With the enormous impact of COVID-19, digital skills have become more important than ever. Companies that were forced to shut their doors during lockdown never want to that again. Many are still struggling to rebuild their workforces. These companies are now looking to technologies like AI, Automation, Robotics and more to safeguard their futures. The problem is, there are not enough developers to fulfil their needs. This is why there has been a reported 15.5% increase in the number of software developer ads. 

If you want to sample what it’s like to be a developer, try our free 5 Day Coding Challenge today. Otherwise, Code Institute holds regular online events where we discuss the vast opportunities available to software developers. We also talk about our support structures, and we introduce you to our careers team. They are there to help new developers find their first job in software development. Register now through the form below.