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Hey tech lady
In an effort to help ease the transition from philanthropy and education to technology, I’m reaching out to ask for some advice on how to make the jump. Any best practices, things to watch or avoid? Ideas on where to find mentors (I made some blind connections on LinkedIn, partially fruitful). I’m starting to apply for opportunities, and I’m looking for internships and internships, but I find first-hand advice really helpful.
– Gabriel Hodgson, creative director, email submission.
W
When I look back on my career path, it was not a straight and easy path. I tried many tasks on my way in the secret lab to find my true calling in code. There were tons of disappointing failures, but a few were key steps that led me to the technical roles I love and, ultimately, to where I am today as a VP at Forbes. I tried my hand as a server, bartender, house cleaner, administrative assistant, video store clerk, graphic designer, lifeguard, and master instructor before landing the technical roles I grew up in. Surfing isn’t perfect and you should expect to make a few mistakes along the way.
At first glance, this seems like a complex and very specific question, but it can be simplified to something we can all relate to: How can I get what I want to be? There are obvious answers, such as gaining knowledge through training and certifications, but for me, networking has proven to be the most valuable, although the approach may vary depending on where you are in your career.
Previous career
If you’re just starting out as a professional or working toward a career change but haven’t gotten your foot in the door yet, look for social media connections like LinkedIn and Twitter. It’s a good idea to connect with individuals, but connect with organizations and companies that you consider industry leaders. Look for unicorns that celebrate the combination of both your field and what makes you unique. Women in Tech (WIT) Someone who identifies as a woman in tech is an example to me. Just look around and you’ll find your place. If you get stuck, you can always write your favorite tech lady.
Find any internship or internship opportunities you can apply for. Do your homework and find out who the hiring manager or recruiter is and if possible write directly to express interest. It works, and to prove it, I showed you the names of several Jr. Engineer candidates who contacted me on LinkedIn in recent weeks and are now set up for interviews. Hiring managers won’t curse you for talking to them, and if you do, you won’t want to work for them anyway. So don’t be shy.
Another benefit you can take advantage of is structured mentoring programs. Just last week, I applied to be a mentor after being mentioned on Twitter by the Girls in Technology (GIT) mentoring protégé program. Check out relevant organizations that offer professional support and apply to become an assistant for personal help.
Intermediate level
If you’re already in the game, I can’t stress enough how important it is to continually build your network. Schedule one-on-ones with peers and leaders just to introduce yourself and check in regularly. In individual and group sessions, don’t miss the opportunity to ask questions or provide input. I often notice radio silence when a call for questions comes up, and it’s definitely outdated if we don’t use it to introduce everyone. you. Those opportunities don’t come your way often, so use them to set yourself apart when they arise.
Set yourself up as a problem solver by working improvement ideas into your check-in conversations. Not only will you build strong professional relationships by actively investing your time with the people you work with, but if you come up with ways to grow operations as part of those conversations, positive buzz will spread and you’ll become an unstoppable force.
Experienced
If you’ve been in the game long enough to be considered experienced, your networking strategy should develop to the point where you establish yourself as an expert. Look for panel and moderator opportunities at conferences and training events and volunteer. The more public speaking and group interaction, the more you will establish your brand. Just last month, I had the opportunity to lead a Women in Tech panel at the 2022 Jamf Nation User Conference (JNUC). I connected with amazing peers and colleagues that I wouldn’t have met without participating. You need a break anyway.
As a seasoned professional, the most important thing for you is to set an example for those younger than you. Take as many secrets as you can. Participate in structured mentoring programs such as the Girls in Technology (GIT) Mentor-Protégé Program mentioned earlier. Share your knowledge willingly and voluntarily.
It is our responsibility to train the next generation to take the lead. If we don’t… who will?
Have a question or job challenge you’d like answered for a future article? Email me TechLady@forbes.com. And you can read the previous column Girl in the workplace on girl crime.
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