By Juveri Mukherjee
Over the past decade, the Information Technology (IT) industry has been a powerhouse of innovation, driving digital transformation across all sectors. An emphasis on automation, accessibility and security has contributed to exciting technological advancement in number of areas, including platform engineering, cloud computing and AI.
Understandably, there has been considerable interest from youth who have grown up amidst this IT boom to explore opportunities in the space. Every year, thousands of students pursue IT education in colleges or through weekend classes or online courses. Moreover, given the rapid pace of innovation, there is a need for both existing and aspiring professionals to continuously reskill and upskill themselves.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the strategies that young IT professionals can adopt to develop skills that will enable them to capitalize on the vast opportunities offered by the industry.
Exploring learning platforms and on-the-job training
In the world of IT, there is no concept of being “too early” or “too late” to start. The value of a young professional’s work in the field is determined by the skills they demonstrate, and not arbitrary prerequisites or prior work experience.
To help hone these skill-sets, various learning platforms offer a wide range of courses, both free and paid, that cater to beginners as well as those seeking more advanced knowledge. Learners can choose from accredited courses or opt for project-based and interactive learning experiences.
On-the-job training, in the form of internships, are also immensely valuable – enabling young professionals to gain practical experience through exposure to real-world IT environments. Additionally, coding camps, hackathons and self-assigned projects are a great opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills.
Updating skills and troubleshooting errors
The dynamic nature of the IT space makes it crucial to be adaptable and continuously update one’s skills. It is essential for young professionals to embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Fortunately, there are many resources available to IT professionals to stay updated with emerging technologies and trends.
For instance, specialized courses can provide in-depth knowledge and build expertise related to emerging technologies. These courses not only provide passive inspiration but also equip learners with skills that have immediate practical application. Expanding one’s knowledge base also serves to foster greater creativity and innovation.
In the IT space, mistakes are opportunities for growth. It is important to recognize that even seasoned professionals make errors and encounter challenges. By seeking guidance from peers and experienced professionals, individuals can learn from others’ mistakes, gain valuable insights, and avoid common pitfalls. Engaging with the IT community through networking events, online forums, and professional groups provides opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and receive constructive feedback.
Building a strong network
Networking is a key aspect of the IT industry, just as it is in any other field. Surrounding oneself with professionals from diverse backgrounds can provide valuable insights and ideas. The IT community is generally supportive and receptive to beginners, where experienced individuals mentor newcomers in the space. Seeking feedback and engaging with experienced individuals through group collaborations facilitates knowledge sharing and fosters growth.
Online IT communities and forums provide a valuable platform for individuals to connect with fellow professionals across the globe. These platforms enable individuals to seek guidance, ask questions, and share their experiences. Participating in online discussions, attending webinars and conferences, and joining industry-specific groups can expand one’s network and open doors to fresh opportunities.
The way forward.
Youth today possess a natural aptitude for technology. This, coupled with the abundance of learning resources available online and offline, makes reskilling for a career in IT easier than ever before. However, success in the space requires both determination, right attitude and a ceaseless investment in learning.
Embracing a growth mindset, staying updated with emerging technologies, and seeking opportunities for continuous learning are crucial for success in the IT industry. Moreover, networking and engaging with the IT community can provide valuable support, mentorship, and avenues for collaboration and growth.
Leveraging these strategies will enable young professionals to transform from novices to prodigies and become valuable contributors to the growth and evolution of the IT industry.
(This article is written by Juveri Mukherjee, Global Head Human Resources, Aurionpro Solutions, and the views expressed in this article are her own)
