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Breaking into tech after the age of 35 can be challenging. Usually, most tech companies look for young talent because their age suggests they are up-to-date with current trends. This goes to show that there is a lack of age diversity in the industry. But, who says you can’t learn tech skills if you are older than 35? Mature employers can bring other things to the table, such as a big network of connections. If you’d like to know how to land a tech job and break into the industry, read it on.
Learn a New Skill
To transition into a new career in tech, you may need to update your skills and learn everything there is to know about new opportunities. It may sound not easy, but you can do it.
If you do not feel comfortable studying a complicated programming language, you can start learning some of the more accessible programming languages such as HTML or Ruby.
It all depends on the career path you’ve chosen. You don’t need to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science if you want to land a job in tech. University is a great path, but if you are looking for a shorter one, you can try out coding boot camps. They will provide you with all the tools and knowledge you need to get a tech job while also showing you the most in-demand trends in the industry.
Build Your Network
If you are worried about starting a career in tech, you need to start networking. This is a crucial step for most professionals, and it can lead to exciting opportunities.
The process doesn’t have to be awkward, and it’s not like you’re trying to sell yourself. You can start by going to meetups, tech conferences, and other events in the industry. Building a network is crucial because it will give you referrals, which are powerful ways to get a tech job.
Improve Your Online Presence
If you would like to get into the tech industry, you need to be visible to recruiters. Most recruiters will go online to look for new talent.If you have a weak online presence, you will likely be ignored. Optimize your LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Upwork profiles. Most importantly, you need to create a personal website. Although most do not consider it crucial, having your website enhances your presence online.
Forget about Your Age
Being older than other members of the company does not reflect on your capability. Keep in mind that your age does not define your skill level. Don’t think about your age and always perform the tasks assigned to you to the best of your ability.
If you are confident in your work, your coworkers will consider you a capable teammate. Age will not affect the quality of your work age is irrelevant when it comes to results.
Be Flexible and Open to Learn New Methods
The tech industry is continually evolving, so always stay on top of new trends and become lifelong learners. Always be open to learning new methods, tools, and ways to do your work. The ability to continually update yourself is more valuable to companies than youthfulness.
Conclusion
Don’t ever let your age discourage you from taking on new adventures. Switching careers can be a decision that turns your life around for the better, and age is irrelevant to this decision. It is no longer necessary to engage in a five-year education journey to start a new career. Take advantage of new learning methods such as coding boot camps—they can help you break into the tech industry in a matter of months!
Artur Meyster is the CTO of Career Karma (YC W19), an online marketplace that matches career switchers with coding bootcamps. He is also the host of the Breaking Into Startups podcast, which features people with non-traditional backgrounds who broke into tech.