How to Prepare for Your First Job in IT

If you ask people on the street where they work, a significant percentage would likely mention the IT field. And it makes sense—IT offers high salaries, it's not overly difficult to get into, and the industry is rapidly evolving.

However, when we say "not overly difficult," we don't mean you have to obtain a prestigious university diploma :) Of course, many nuances are involved: you need to choose a specialization, decide whether you want to be a technical specialist or perhaps lean towards marketing or HR, select courses, learn English, navigate taxes and self-employed status, and that's just scratching the surface. In this article, we'll outline the stages to help you prepare for this process, so let's get started!

Choose Your Specialization in IT

Before embarking on your journey toward your first job in IT, it's essential to determine your specialization. The IT industry comprises numerous fields, including web development, mobile app development, databases, networking, cybersecurity, and more. Research and assess your interests and aptitudes to understand which direction resonates with you the most. Consider the education requirements and skills necessary for your chosen specialization and focus on acquiring them.

Once you've chosen your specialization, delve into an in-depth study of that domain. Enroll in courses, attend webinars, and read specialized literature. Immerse yourself in the world of your chosen specialization, grasp its core concepts and practices, and acquire the necessary skills. Alongside theoretical learning, practical projects are crucial to solidify your knowledge and abilities.

It's also important to remember that not all courses will be beneficial; many offer surface-level knowledge without the necessary hard skills. Such training won't help you. Additionally, seeking guidance from a career consultant specializing in IT can be helpful. They can assist you in defining your direction and offer insights into what you need to do to flourish in it.

Develop Technical and Soft Skills

A successful IT career demands strong technical skills. Depending on your chosen specialization, you may need to develop programming skills, database management skills, website development skills, network administration skills, and more. The best way to enhance technical skills is through practice. Attempt to create your own projects, solve problems, and participate in hackathons or workgroups. Engaging with real-world tasks will enrich your experience and showcase your potential to future employers.

Moreover, stay open to new technologies and trends in the IT field. Read blogs, participate in forums, engage with professionals, and attend conferences and other events related to your chosen specialization. Given the rapid evolution of technology, staying updated on the latest trends and changes is crucial.

Don't forget to focus on developing soft skills as well! Abilities such as teamwork, effective communication, time management, etc., are crucial in IT, as effective performance relies on them.

Understand Taxation

Working as a self-employed individual (sole proprietor) in the IT sector is common. It's vital to understand all the nuances of taxation, correctly categorize your business, and select the appropriate classification for tax purposes. Engaging a tax consultant specialized in this field can significantly ease the process and prevent any issues with tax authorities. Recommended our tax & legal partner in Tech Finevolution.

Prepare for Interviews

Even those well-versed in their specialization can stumble during their first interview. Often, this happens not due to technical questions but due to more general inquiries. For instance:

• Why do you want to work for this company?

• What aspects of the role do you think you'll enjoy or dislike?

• How long do you anticipate staying if we offer you the job?

• How would you react if a colleague took credit for your work?

• How did you handle situations when you had to work with someone you didn't get along with?

• What are your immediate career goals?

• Can you discuss an instance where you didn't fulfill a commitment you had taken on?

Questions like these are commonly encountered in interviews across various companies, so planning your responses in advance is prudent. Read resources on interview techniques, consult friends already working in the field, and research the company you're aiming to join.

Learn English for IT

English is the primary language of communication in the IT industry. Many technical documents, resources, and instructions are available exclusively in English. To excel in your IT role, enhancing your English skills is crucial. It's recommended to study specific IT-related terminology, comprehend technical texts, and communicate clearly and effectively with foreign colleagues.

Determining the exact level of English proficiency required for an IT job is challenging, as it varies based on specialization, market, and work experience. However, one thing is sure – the higher your English proficiency, the better.

To learn English in the context of IT, use specialized resources offering courses and materials focusing on IT terminology. Through online classes, language-learning applications, or even enrolling in English courses tailored for IT professionals, you can enhance your skills and confidently communicate professionally.

The first step toward a successful IT career is adequate preparation. Choose your specialization, develop technical skills, engage in real projects, and keep up with the latest trends. Additionally, don't underestimate the importance of learning English, as it's a key factor in communicating with colleagues and accessing resources. By following these strategies, you'll be well-prepared for your first job in IT and poised for a successful career.