HOW TO GO INTO TECH WITHOUT A TECH BACKGROUND.

In an era dominated by technology, the ability to navigate the digital landscape has become a crucial skill for individuals of all backgrounds. However, for those without a tech background, diving into the world of technology might seem like an intimidating task.

As an Education Accounting graduate who transitioned into core tech (Web and App Development) with just the idea of how a computer works, I know how hard it can be to get into tech for someone like you even without any idea of Coding and STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, and Mathematics). It can be a big struggle, especially because of the diverse tech professions.

The dynamic nature of technology has prompted new professions to spring up, which often leads many people to be confused about what tech skills to learn or careers to venture into.
From Software Engineering to Web Development, Mobile App Development, Dev Ops, Cloud Engineering, Web Design, Product Design (UI/UX), Graphic Design, Product Management, Content Development, Digital Marketing, Data Analytics, IT Support….you name it.
So, to make the right choice on what tech skills to go for, I’ll recommend the following proven steps that have worked for me and others I have mentored.

1. Get a good computer: A computer is essential equipment in your journey to gaining tech skills and becoming a techie, so get not just anyone but a good one.

2. Be prepared to make financial commitments: Acquiring a tech skill will require you to incur some expenses, so, be financially ready. You will need money for internet data, online courses, coaching, and consultations.

3. Do your research: Explore employment sites like Jobberman, Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn to see what skills employers are really looking for, make a list, and then consider which one works for you.

4. Talk to someone who’s already in the field you’re interested in: Once you’ve decided on what skills to acquire, look out for someone in your field of interest and send them an email or direct message about why you find what they do interesting and then you can talk about your interest and how you need help in getting started. You can find this person on open spaces like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube.

5. Explore learning schools and sites: Thanks to the internet, we can now learn from the comfort of our homes and at our own pace.

At Edubeta, we have launched our online learning platform Akademy for tech newbies and it’s a great place to start your tech journey.
Also, explore sites like YouTube, Udacity, Udemy, Coursera, Freecodecamp, and Edx to know what courses they have regarding the skill you’re interested in, then check the reviews of the tutorials you’ll be choosing from the list of existing courses, because this would really help you pick the right tutorial.

6. Get yourself a coach: Yes, you need a coach to help you on this path, so that you can avoid some mistakes and get it right from the start, and this is why I’m here as your tech clarity coach. By the way, coaching isn’t always free.

7. Join a tech community/Meetups: Lookout for tech communities or communities dedicated to the skill you’re interested in and join; from these communities, you’ll be able to connect with like minds and learn what’s happening in the tech ecosystem and this would help you stay updated.
Also, look out for meetups around you to attend, this would help you get connected to tech people around you.

Now you see getting started in tech as someone without a tech background might seem like a Herculean task, but the good news is that with the right mindset, the right guidance, passion, and drive to learn and get better with tech, you can get the right results.

See you at the top.