Highlight Your Current Skill Set

Before I was a web developer, I was an elementary school teacher for 5 years. Changing careers into tech takes a lot of work, but it can be easier with the right approach.

I won’t lie. There are many things that computer science majors were taught that you weren’t.

The good news? The reverse is also true.

You have gained so many skills throughout your life from jobs, school, and other activities.

Some of these skills will be more relevant than others when transitioning into tech, but don’t discount any of them.

As a teacher, I learned how to communicate well, how to be patient, how to work well with others, how to adapt under pressure, and how to have empathy.

If you’ve worked in customer service, you know how to provide excellent support and resolve problems. Or if you’ve been a project manager, you’re used to juggling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines. These are all skills that can be transferable to a web development role.

Any skill that requires problem-solving, critical thinking, or working with a team will be helpful. Being able to communicate clearly and effectively is essential in any job - but especially in tech.

If you’re able to break down complex problems and explain them to people who don’t have the same background knowledge, that’s a huge plus.

So don’t try to run from your past career. Embrace the skills you have - even if they’re not directly related to coding - and use them to your advantage when applying for jobs in tech.