Entering the world of tech as a newbie can be a daunting task in Nigeria. With the tech industry still growing rapidly, there are endless opportunities for those who are willing to learn, work and grow. However, the challenge is knowing where to start, what skills to acquire, and how to navigate the industry. This is my first write-up in a while and in this article, I will share some practical tips on how to enter the tech industry in Nigeria as a newbie.
- Identifying Your Area of Interest
The tech industry is a very vast one with various fields such as software development, web design, digital marketing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, and more.
Identifying your area of interest is an important step towards building a successful career. To do so, start by thinking about the activities you enjoy doing in your free time, as this may indicate potential areas of passion. Consider your skills and what you are good at, as these may translate into transferable skills for tech roles.
Look at job descriptions and talk to people in the industry to gain a better understanding of different tech roles. Finally, taking online courses in different areas of tech can help you develop your skills and determine your areas of interest. Remember, it’s okay if you’re not sure what your area of interest is right away, as exploring different areas and talking to people can help you discover what you’re passionate about.
If you are unsure of what interests you, take time to explore the different fields and learn about their requirements, job prospects, and growth potential.
- Acquiring Relevant Skills
After identifying your area of interest, acquiring the necessary skills is the next step. Many online platforms offer free or affordable courses in tech-related fields. Some popular online learning platforms include AltSchool, Udemy, Coursera, edX and even the Almighty Youtube. Joining a tech community can also provide you with access to experienced professionals and resources that can help you learn and develop your skills.
Consider volunteering or interning at a tech company or startup to gain practical experience as you learn and go up the ladder. Don’t forget, acquiring relevant skills takes time and dedication, but with the right mindset and resources, you can do it! - Building a Portfolio
As a newbie in the tech industry, it is essential to have a portfolio that showcases your skills and expertise. Your portfolio can include projects you have worked on, freelance work, or personal projects. This will help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs and demonstrate your ability to deliver quality work.
When creating your portfolio, it’s important to choose relevant projects that showcase your skills, whether it’s website development, mobile app development, or data analysis projects. Be sure to show your process and include your resume and contact information so that potential employers can reach out to you. To make your portfolio stand out, use clean design elements, a consistent color palette, and high-quality images.
Lastly, get feedback from others in the tech industry to ensure that your portfolio is effectively showcasing your skills. Remember to keep your portfolio up-to-date as you gain new skills and work on new projects. With a well-crafted portfolio, you can demonstrate your abilities to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job in the tech industry in Nigeria. - Networking
Networking is crucial for entering the tech industry as a newbie in Nigeria. To get started, attending industry events such as tech-related conferences, meetups, hackathons and join tech communities. Joining online tech communities and utilizing social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn can also help you connect with like-minded individuals and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends.
Additionally, leveraging your personal network and reaching out to friends, family, and acquaintances who work in the tech industry can help you gain valuable advice and introductions. Finally, volunteering for tech-related projects or participating in open-source projects can help build your skills and provide networking opportunities with experienced professionals in the industry. - Applying for Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
As a newbie, it may be challenging to get a high-level job in the tech industry. Consider applying for internships and entry-level positions to gain practical experience and build your skills. These opportunities provide a stepping stone for growth within the industry.
In conclusion, entering the tech industry as a newbie in Nigeria requires hard work, dedication, and patience. Identify your area of interest, acquire relevant skills, build a portfolio, network, and apply for internships and entry-level jobs. With these practical tips, you can start your journey towards a successful career in tech.