Technology today impacts almost every industry.
What was once called “The Internet of Things” has truly become “The Internet of Everything,” and as the demand for newer, sleeker, and more innovative tech increases, so do careers in this egg-citing field.
The Technology industry is currently one of the fastest-growing fields in Canada, making it a great place to start looking for a career. A career in Tech isn’t limited to Computer Science majors – there are positions available to people with experience in the humanities, business, customer service, or sales. If you are creative, analytical, and an excellent communicator, you may be more suited to a career in Tech than you think.
Read on to learn about entry-level Tech jobs and the skills they require to see if one of them is right for you.
Web
Web development primarily targets front-end web design, such as creating intuitive user interfaces and building web content.
Web Developer
Web Developers are responsible for designing and implementing websites, as well as creating, changing, and maintaining software. This relatively new field is in high demand – pretty much every modern business requires an online presence, which provides plenty of opportunity for professionals in this line of work.
There are many facets to a Web Developer’s work. The foundation of this profession lies in understanding programming languages and conducting basic web systems analysis. However, successful Web Developers must also be excellent communicators with top time and self-management skills, which are essential when working with clients. Plus, they are creative thinkers with an understanding of design and emerging technologies.
Software Engineer
As their titles suggest, Software Engineers design software and use coding or programming to instruct a computer to perform a desired function. Much like Web Developers, Software Engineers provide a vital service to businesses by creating or expanding their online platforms. Since an online presence is now a necessity for most industries, people with the following skills are an asset.
First and foremost, Software Engineers need to be fluent in multiple programming languages. If you aren’t sure whether to pursue a career in Tech just yet, it’s a good idea to try your hand at learning a programming language, such as Javascript, or enrol in program certification courses to gain proficiency in coding. Besides these foundational skills, Software Engineers are creative problem-solvers who are quick to adapt to new technological structures. As this line of work is largely client-based, success will come to those who can communicate clearly and complete tasks quickly.
Information Technology
The field of Information Technology analyzes how computers store, receive, and transmit data. Almost all industries rely on telecommunications, and IT roles have become ubiquitous in computer hardware and software development, electronics, internet management, engineering, healthcare, and e-commerce. If you fit the following profile, there are a lot of opportunities in IT waiting for you!
IT Consultant
IT Consultants are basically the doctors of Tech. They diagnose computer problems, monitor processing systems, install software, and perform tests on computer equipment. Of course, a strong understanding of information technologies, including operating and security systems, is essential for this role. Creativity, a love of problem-solving, and patient teaching skills are also key qualities for applicants, as IT Consultants may instruct clients and colleagues how to operate their technology. The ability to be a strict self-manager is a definite bonus for this position, since oftentimes this work is independent.
Tech Careers in Business, Customer Support, and Sales
While web, software, and IT positions require specialized knowledge, the Technology Industry is first and foremost a business that requires multifaceted teams with diversified skills. Technology, like most industries, offers positions in business management, customer service, and sales, which are open to students from a range of disciplines. If your background isn’t in Computer Science, don’t rule out working in Tech! Emphasize the transferable skills that you have gained in your education and work experience, such as self-management and communications skills.
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst surveys and documents how a business operates while assessing the best way for the industry to integrate new technology. People who can analyze the most effective way to add new technologies to existing structures are perfectly suited to this role. Analysts need to be excellent communicators, as they connect the company and its audience by translating client needs to the company and by helping the client understand the business. Fearless public speaking skills and familiarity with technical writing are also great abilities to bring to this position, since these professionals act as translators between the business, the client, and the public. The abilities to listen closely, negotiate, and provide outstanding customer service are key skills to emphasize when applying for this position.
Technical and Customer Support
Customer service is often the make-or-break aspect of a business. People in these positions address their customer’s inquiries and assist them with any issues they are experiencing. Customer Support professionals in the Tech Industry need to have a thorough working knowledge of operating systems, as well as the ability to patiently instruct clients how to use them. Excellent listening skills, a ceaselessly social attitude, and above all, problem-solving skills are foundational to this position and will be valued by any business that wants happy customers.
This department is a great place to start a career for a few reasons. Firstly, it is not program-specific like other Tech professions, meaning that these roles are open to employees with diverse educational and work experience. Secondly, these positions usually include comprehensive training, which provides employees with a unique opportunity to build industry knowledge from the get-go. Furthermore, in terms of diversifying your resume, Customer Service is a core aspect of most industries. Experience in this field will leave you with transferable skills that are valuable across the board.
Project Coordinator
This is another role that does not have highly specialized requirements, but depends more on the individual’s skillset. If you are a strong leader with outstanding organizational and communication skills, you may have what it takes to excel in this position. Coordinators make sure that their team’s projects are completed in an efficient and effective manner, and they correspond with everyone involved to integrate the various tasks. Top time management skills are a secondary requirement for this role – luckily there are tons of scheduling and task management apps that can help you keep your team on track and impress people in Tech at the same time!
Sales Representative
Sales Representatives are a vital part of the Technology industry because they are responsible for driving a business forward. They develop relationships with customers and clients and promote their product to develop revenue, which fuels company growth. Anyone who has experience in sales knows that it’s about more than just selling a product. Employees in these roles represent their company brand and communicate directly with customers to place their products in the real world. Versatile experience in customer service, an outgoing attitude, and unparalleled interpersonal skills are paramount for this position. A genuine enthusiasm for working with people and an in-depth knowledge of your product will further ensure your success in the market.
Still wondering whether you should work in Tech? This emerging industry offers exceptional learning experiences and the opportunity to watch a business grow from the ground up. It’s innovative, creative, and incredibly diverse; this multidisciplinary field is only becoming more relevant to all kinds of businesses. It has never been a better time to get involved with the “Internet of Everything!”