The technology sector is well-known for its competitiveness. According to recent research by Insider Monkey, software, general electronics, and biotechnology all rank within the top ten most competitive industries worldwide. Not only do tech giants like Apple, Google, Samsung, and Huawei compete for market share, but job hunters face fierce competition for sought-after roles.
How can you overcome this struggle and land the tech job you want? One method is to collect achievements. Much like reaching milestones in a video game, stats, certifications, side projects, and on-the-job training can supercharge your career. Keep reading to find out how.
Keep Track of Your Stats
It is important to keep track of quantifiable data about your own work, your team or department, and the company as a whole so that you can create a resume with metrics. These may include:
- Increases in production or sales
- Growth percentiles that you helped realize
- Revenue growth percentages
- Waste reduction
- Financial or time savings
- Increased conversions or engagement rates
- Decreased bounce rates
- Better SEO rankings
- Number of customers served or staff measured per unit of time
- Number of tasks completed in a given time
You may need to keep track of some stats on your own, but you can also look for investor reports published by the company. Just be careful not to share any confidential information.
Tech Certifications
An interest in continuing education or lifelong learning is a sought-after soft skill, especially in the ever-evolving tech industry. Gaining certifications shows your passion for technology and your willingness to continue learning. In 2024, universities like Vanderbilt and DeVry recommend the following certifications as being the most in-demand:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Certified Agile Leadership (CAL)
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Cisco Certified DevNet Professional
- Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA)
- Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP)
- Coding Bootcamps
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CyberOps Associate
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate
- Google Professional Cloud Architect
- Microsoft 365 Certified
- Microsoft Azure certifications
- Professional Scrum Master (PSM)
- Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
Most certifications can be obtained online and completed according to your unique schedule.
Advanced Technology Degrees
If you want to take your educational advancement a step further, you might consider going back to school for an advanced degree. Consider, for example, a master’s degree in technology innovation, technology management, computer science, data science, information management, artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud computing, telecommunications, or other related topics. You may even progress to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Technology.
How will advanced degrees help your career? Some positions, such as analyst, engineer, data scientist, or upper-level management may require a post-graduate degree.
Many technology degrees are offered completely online or with a hybrid schedule catering to working professionals. In this way, you won’t need to take a career break while pursuing your next degree.
Personal or Open Source Projects
When you have a passion for technology, you will likely find yourself tinkering with various projects—coding your own games or apps, building a computer, enhancing your home network, or working on an open-source project, for example.
Don’t neglect the value that these projects can bring to your experience. Keep your descriptions short but highlight the use of skills related to the position you want.
Side Hustle Gigs
Working on paid or pro bono side projects can help you acquire much-needed work experience, especially if you are just starting out in the field. Consider taking out a business license, as a registered company name will elevate your experience from the level of hobby to actual work experience.
Ask for Additional Training
Many companies are happy to provide eager workers with additional training via mentorships, on-the-job training, online courses, training workshops, industry conferences, or seminars, even covering the cost on your behalf. You can ask your team lead or human resources department about what opportunities may be available to you.
Establish Yourself as an Expert
Publishing informative or educational material is a sure-fire method for establishing yourself as an expert in your field. Today’s technology makes doing so easier than ever. Consider doing one or more of the following:
- Start your own tech blog or podcast
- Write a guest post for a tech blog or website
- Create educational videos for Instagram or YouTube
- Write a how-to guide and publish it on Amazon
- Teach classes locally or online
Don’t forget to link to your publications on your LinkedIn profile and include them on your resume.
Related: Best Free AI Resume Builders
Key Takeaways
If you have a passion for technology, it will show; it will show in your quest for continuing education and in the projects you take on in your spare time. It will show in your accomplishments at your current job. These accomplishments will make your resume shine, giving you a leg up against the competition when applying for a new job or a promotion.
