How I got 50 job offers with zero experience
Landing a job in tech is hard. But this guide are proven strategies and frameworks that will make breaking into tech easier as a designer and product manager..
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Breaking into the tech industry can be a daunting task for designers and product managers. With so much competition and a preference for existing experience, it can feel like an impossible challenge.
As someone who has successfully made the transition into the tech industry, I know firsthand the challenges and struggles that designers and product managers face.
This newsletter share some of the top challenges and strategies that many mentors (and I) have learned along the way.
[A complete guide] How I got 10 job offers with zero experience.
Along with my experience and talking with mentors who offered their advice for overcoming the five biggest challenges of the entry-level job search world.
The 4 biggest challenges for people breaking into tech:
Challenge #1: Lack of technical skills
Challenge #2: Limited entry-level positions
Challenge #3: Need for a portfolio
Challenge #4: Lack of network and connections
With those worries in mind, let’s dive into each of them and how you can overcome it with proven strategies and framework.
1. Challenge #1: Lack of technical skills
Designers and PMs face a challenge of limited hands-on skills when transitioning into the tech. While they may have basic experience, it may lack deep knowledge necessary to work in such role.
Companies are paying $150K+ for these positions and they expect A LOT.
📌 How you can overcome it:
Take online courses: Online courses can provide you with access to the latest information and emerging technologies. Sites like Coursera, Udacity, YouTube, ADPList or edX to learn new skills and stay up-to-date.
Work on personal projects: Working on personal projects is be a great way for you to gain hands-on experience. These projects can demonstrate your skills at play for employers.
Collaborate with peers: Ask professionals to learn from them and gain a better understanding of technical concepts. You can partner with peers or volunteer for NGOs/startups.
2. Challenge #2: Limited entry-level positions
This is seriously such a bad trend. While there are some entry-level positions available for designers and PMs, these positions can be highly competitive.
📌 How you can overcome it:
Networking: Networking is an essential part of breaking into tech. You can attend industry events, join communities (ADPList), or connect with folks on LinkedIn to expand your network.
Custom job applications: You should tailor your job applications to each specific opportunity. Research the company and position, and highlight relevant experience and skills.
Freelancing/Personal Projects: Even if you do not have direct experience, you can gain relevant experience through personal projects/freelance work to demonstrate your skills.
3. Challenge #3: Need for a portfolio
One of the biggest challenges for new designers and PMs is the need for a portfolio to showcase actual work (without actually having a full time job prior).
📌 How you can overcome it: