There’s no shortage of companies looking to hire delevopers to join their team. Read our tips and use your coding skills to get your new job!
There are an estimated 26.4 million software developers in the world. What does it take to join them?
You don’t need a degree in computer science or software engineering. Sure, it helps, but if you’re proficient in coding, you can land a job without a degree. You should want to, too: programmer salaries handily beat the national average.
We’re here to help you land that dream job. A job where you can be creative, can often work from home, and are generously rewarded for your efforts.
Ready to turn your coding skills into a steady, well-paid job? Then read our list, and find out how to find jobs in coding!
1. Practice Your Coding Skills
What can you do with coding? It depends on your skill level. Practice is important, and you should make time to program in your free time.
Build up your skills in a number of different languages. You should especially focus on the following languages, which are in high demand:
- Python
- Java
- Javascript
- C#
- PHP
Your top priority should be building a portfolio, particularly if you don’t have a degree. Having finished coding projects that you can show prospective employees will help you a lot when it comes to landing jobs in coding.
We’d recommend that you don’t apply to developer jobs until you have a strong portfolio.
2. Work on Open Source Projects
One surefire way to develop your coding skills is by working on open source projects like Ubuntu, Firefox, or Libreoffice. These projects largely exist thanks to volunteers and give you fantastic industry experience.
By working on one or more of these projects, you will gain experience of working in a team. You’ll also get feedback from more experienced developers, who can give you pointers to help you out.
What’s more, if you’re active on Stack Overflow or Github, you may get headhunted for a job. Hiring managers will often use these sites to source enthusiastic young talent.
There really is no reason not to take part in open-source projects.
3. Read, Read, Read
Just starting to develop your coding skills? Read every magazine, book, and website that you can. There’s no better way to become familiar with the development process’ stages and terminology than by reading about them.
Even if you’ve got a computer science degree, you should still be reading journals and magazines. They help you stay up to date with the latest developments so that you don’t get left behind.
The knowledge that you’re going to get from reading books and magazines will help you a great deal in interviews. Take it seriously, as though you were studying for an exam.
4. Join a Bootcamp
While a bootcamp is never going to give you the level of knowledge that you’d get from a degree, they’re a great way of developing your skills.
Coding bootcamps often require you to complete a few hundred hours of coding over a number of weeks. This isn’t an easy task. It will throw challenges at you and teach them how to solve them.
It’s unlikely to land you a job directly, but you’ll be a better programmer after you’ve been through bootcamp.
5. Network with Prospective Colleagues
Before you’ve got a job in programming, build up a network of friends who code.
This has two main advantages. Firstly, you’ll be more likely to hear about job openings at their companies. Secondly, you’ll have gained a mentor, who can stop you from making mistakes and teach you new techniques.
Ask your mentor questions about coding, and find out how they’d solve any problems you’re having. The world of programming is built upon the mutual exchange of information. Networking will improve these communication skills.
6. Go to Local Coding Events
Want a superb way to showcase your coding skills to employers? Get involved in the coding scene in your area.
If you live in a city, there will likely be local programming events. These could be hackathons, game jams, or conferences. Head to these events, and talk to everyone you can.
Getting your name known in the scene is a huge part of getting hired. Build up your reputation as a competent, skilled programmer.
7. Specialize to an Extent
You should build up a well-rounded skill set but focus on your main passion. If you want to get into software development, building your Python skills should be your main focus. If you’re more interested in web development, focus on PHP.
Your passion will shine through in the work that you do! You’ll also be more likely to persist if your coding skills are being put to use on a project you care about.
8. Develop an App or Game
Are you interested in app or game development? Then get started today! These are projects that one person can complete alone.
There are a lot of tools out there, like GameMaker Studio and AppyPie that make development easy. When the project is complete, release it onto app and game stores!
By doing this, you’ll develop your coding skills, make a bit of extra cash, and build your reputation in the industry.
9. Stay Persistent
We get it, rejection sucks. You’ll likely get a lot of rejections when you start applying to jobs.
Don’t be discouraged.
Keep your chin up, and stay focused on your end goal. If you’ve got a good portfolio, and a strong reputation as a coder, you’ll find that job. It will take time, but stay confident in your abilities and keep applying, no matter what.
Final Thoughts on Landing a Job
The keys to landing jobs in coding are persistence and improving your coding skills. Practice a lot, stay up to date with the latest developments, and make a name for yourself in the local area.
It’s not easy to land a job, but it’s not impossible. Remember how many programmers there are, and know that you can do what they did.
Ready to test your programming skills? Check out our article on the best coding techniques!