
Considering a Career in Tech? 6 Steps to Make the Right Decision
So, you've been considering a making a career shift but you are not sure if tech is your next move? Let’s break it down and find out.
Why Tech Could Be Your Next Big Opportunity
You’ve probably heard the buzz: tech jobs are in demand, well-paid, and often offer perks like remote work and flexibility. But is it right for you? Spoiler: it’s not just for coders or engineers. Tech is full of opportunities for people with diverse skills, from project management to customer success.
Before you dive in, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on your goals, interests, and what you truly want out of your career. This guide will help you explore whether a tech career aligns with your strengths and aspirations—while addressing some of the common fears about joining the tech world.
1. Reflect on Your Motivations
Start by asking yourself why you’re considering tech. Is it the salary? The flexibility? The chance to solve meaningful problems?
Questions to Consider:
- What do I hope to gain from a career in tech?
- Am I drawn to the problem-solving, the people, or the perks?
- Does the idea of working in a fast-paced, innovative environment excite me?
Understanding your motivations is key to making a decision that aligns with your values and long-term goals.
2. Evaluate Your Transferable Skills
One of the biggest myths about tech is that you need to be a coding whiz to break in. The truth? Nearly half of tech roles are non-technical, and many rely on skills you might already have.
Examples of Transferable Skills:
- Communication and relationship-building (great for customer success or account management).
- Organization and multitasking (ideal for project coordination).
- Creative thinking and problem-solving (perfect for marketing or operations).
Think about the skills you’ve honed in your current or past roles. How might they fit into the tech world?
3. Acknowledge Your Concerns
It’s natural to feel hesitant about a career pivot, especially with headlines about AI replacing jobs or tech layoffs. Here’s the reality: while these challenges exist, they’re not the whole story.
The Truth About AI and Layoffs:
- AI isn’t here to replace all jobs—it’s here to change how work gets done. Many non-technical roles focus on managing, optimizing, or complementing AI-driven tools.
- Layoffs happen in every industry, but tech also offers growth and innovation. Non-technical roles often center on critical functions like customer relationships and operations, which remain essential even during downturns.
Remember, the key is to position yourself in roles that emphasize adaptability, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills—areas where humans will always have the edge.
4. Research Non-Technical Roles
Tech is more than programming. Roles like Customer Success Manager, Product Marketing Specialist, and Learning and Development Specialist rely heavily on transferable skills and don’t require a technical background.
What you can do now:
Check out job descriptions for non-technical roles in tech. Look for patterns in the skills and experiences employers value, and see how they align with your own.
5. Assess Your Willingness to Learn
While many non-technical roles don’t require coding, they do require a willingness to learn. For example, you might need to get comfortable with tools like CRM systems or project management software.
Ask Yourself:
- Am I open to learning new tools and systems?
- Do I enjoy staying curious and exploring new challenges?
Tech is an ever-evolving industry, and a growth mindset is your best asset.
6. Dip Your Toes In
Before making a leap, test the waters. Join online communities, attend virtual tech conferences, or take a short course to explore the industry without committing fully.
Suggestions:
- Join LinkedIn groups related to non-technical tech roles.
- Attend webinars or free industry events.
- Try skill-building platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning.
The Bottom Line: Is Tech Right for You?
Deciding if tech is right for you isn’t about fitting into a specific mold—it’s about finding a path that aligns with your goals, skills, and interests. If you’re excited about leveraging your existing strengths in a fast-growing, innovative industry, tech might just be the perfect fit.
And if you’re still unsure? That’s okay! Exploring is part of the journey. Keep learning, connecting, and taking small steps toward clarity.
Need help figuring out where to start? Explore more reflective resources like this or subscribe to our newsletter ⬇️ for ongoing guidance on navigating your career pivot.