cyber security – iMeta Training

Mental Health Awareness Week: How Can Movement Improve Your Mental Health?

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:32:10 +0000

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week across the UK, and it’s time to talk about something super important movement

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week across the UK, and it’s time to talk about something super important: movement and mental health. Getting our bodies moving isn’t just good for our physical health; it’s like a secret superpower for our minds too. So many of us spend our working days sitting at our desks before sitting on our sofas, and adding a little more movement into our lives can do wonders for our well-being.

First things first, did you know that regular physical activity can actually lower our risk of depression by up to 30%? Movement is a natural mood booster that’s just waiting for us to lace up our trainers and hit the pavement. Even something as simple as taking a brisk walk for just one hour, five days a week, can slash the chances of major depression by a whopping 26%. How amazing is that?

However, don’t assume that the more intense your movement, the better it is for you. It isn’t just about hitting the gym or sweating it out in a hardcore workout class. It’s all about finding what works for our bodies and brings us happiness. Whether it’s busting a move on the dance floor, digging in the garden, or going for a leisurely bike ride, or stretching it out with a yoga routine, there’s something out there for everyone.

Now, let’s talk science. Studies have shown time and time again that exercise directly impacts our mental health. One review of 30 studies found that exercise can significantly reduce depressive symptoms. Aerobic exercise, like jogging, cycling, or swimming, can be just as effective as popping a pill or chatting with a therapist for folks dealing with mild to moderate depression. While formal mental health treatment can be expensive and hard to access, don’t discount how movement can help you short-term.

But it’s not just our minds that benefit from getting our bodies moving; it’s our whole selves! When we engage in physical activity, we’re not just working up a sweat; we’re also connecting with our bodies on a deeper level. It’s like we’re saying, “Hey, body, I see you, and I’m taking care of you.” That mind-body connection is key for building resilience and handling whatever life throws our way.

And guess what? Movement doesn’t have to be a solo gig. Exercise is a brilliant way to build connections and foster a sense of community. Whether it’s joining a local sports team, signing up for a group fitness class, or going for a hike with friends, moving together is not only fun but also seriously good for our mental health. Studies have even shown that being active outdoors can boost our mood and banish those pesky negative feelings.

If you’re not already convinced, there is growing evidence that exercise is effective in keeping our brains sharp as a tack. Did you know that regular physical activity can lower our risk of cognitive decline and dementia by up to 30%? It’s like giving our brains a little workout along with our bodies. Just 10 minutes of moderate exercise can help improve your concentration, leaving you more alert and energised. So, the next time you’re feeling a bit foggy, make sure your try getting up and get moving.

Movement isn’t just about staying fit; it’s about taking care of our minds, bodies, and souls. Every little bit of movement counts. So, let’s grab our water bottles, and get ready to feel the mental magic of movement! You’ve got this!

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Celebrating Women in Tech Week: Honouring Ada Lovelace and Beyond

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:29:05 +0000

On Ada Lovelace Day, we celebrate not just one of the greatest pioneers in technology, but also the vast potential

On Ada Lovelace Day, we celebrate not just one of the greatest pioneers in technology, but also the vast potential of women working in the tech industry.

Born in 1815 to the renowned poet Lord Byron, Ada Lovelace was always destined to be more than just a daughter of a visionary, but a visionary of her own. She was a gifted mathematician and writer, widely known for her work on Charles Babbage’s early general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine.

What set Ada apart was her recognition of the machine’s potential to go beyond just number crunching. She envisioned a world where computers could manipulate symbols and create music and art, laying the groundwork for modern computer science as we know it today.

The Current Landscape of Women in Tech

Despite the progress since Ada’s time, women remain underrepresented in IT and digital sectors. In the UK, women constitute only about 17% of the tech workforce, and 14% of tech leaders. As of last year, more than one in three women were planning to leave their tech-related job for another industry. These statistic is a stark reminder of the gender disparity that still persists. Whilst the number of women pursuing degrees within tech-related fields has increased slightly, the industry still sees high attrition rates among women due to factors like gender bias, lack of mentorship, and a dearth of female role models.

Why Women’s Achievements in Tech Matter

Recognising the achievements of women in this sector isn’t just about fairness. It’s essential for the future of innovation to have diverse teams in tech. Diversity drives creativity, brings different perspectives, and creates more inclusive products and services. There are many great initiatives that recognise the power of diversity in tech, such as Code First Girls, who have gotten over 200k women and non-binary individuals into tech-based work.

This week is the first-ever Women in Tech Week. We celebrate this week to highlight the contributions of trailblazers like Ada Lovelace, as well as the hidden female figures in tech history. This week aims to inspire current and future generations of women to pursue careers in technology by showing them it is possible.

Bridging the Gender Gap

The journey to gender parity in tech is ongoing, and forms a big part of the iMeta mission – to make the tech sector as equitable as possible. We always encourage women to take control of their narrative, and make the first steps to a tech career in cybersecurity, data analytics, or digital leadership.

Events like Women in Tech Week shine a light on the crucial work being done and the progress being made. By continuing to support, mentor, and champion women to achieve their goals, we honour Ada Lovelace’s legacy and build a more inclusive, innovative future.

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Celebrating the 10 Most Famous Women in Tech

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:17:57 +0000

Numerous women across history have made ground-breaking contributions to the field of technology.

Numerous women across history have made ground-breaking contributions to the field of technology. Unfortunately, their legacies do not match the impact that their achievements have had throughout the ages, many of which are still influential on today’s digitally native society. Their pioneering work has paved the way for future generations in tech, and it is important we never let them be forgotten. To honour the first-ever Women In Tech Week, we honour the achievements of ten of the most inspiring women in tech.

Ada Lovelace: The First Computer Programmer

Ada Lovelace, often considered the world’s first computer programmer, worked on Charles Babbage’s early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. Her notes on the engine include what is recognized as the first algorithm intended to be processed by a machine, making her a true pioneer in the field of computing.

Marie Curie: Pioneering Physicist and Chemist

Marie Curie, though primarily known for her Nobel Prize-winning work in physics and chemistry, made significant contributions to technology through her research on radioactivity, including the discoveries of radium and polonium. Her discoveries laid the groundwork for the development of X-ray machines, which have become indispensable in medical technology.

Hedy Lamarr: Inventor of Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum

Hedy Lamarr brought glamour to the world of tech, as a Hollywood actress with a knack for invention. During World War II, she co-invented a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology, which was initially intended to prevent torpedo jamming. However, her incredible efforts were used outside of patent during wartime, and she was never fairly credited for her work. This technology later became the foundation for modern wireless communication, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Mary Jackson: NASA’s First Black Female Engineer

Hollywood was not only home to women in tech like Hedy Lamarr, but also made stories about them. Mary Jackson was one of the three women whose careers were honoured in the Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures. She broke barriers as NASA’s first black female engineer. Her work in aerodynamics and her advocacy for women and minorities in engineering have left a lasting impact on the field. Jackson’s contributions were crucial to the success of numerous NASA missions.

Katherine Johnson: Mathematical Genius Behind NASA’s Success

Alongside Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson’s extraordinary mathematical skills were also covered in Hidden Figures, and her talents were instrumental to the success of the United States’ space missions. Her calculations of orbital mechanics were critical to the success of the first and subsequent U.S. manned spaceflights, including the Apollo missions.

Dorothy Vaughan: Trailblazing Mathematician and Computer Programmer

The final member of the Hidden Figures trio, Dorothy Vaughan was a trailblazing mathematician and one of the first African-American women to work as a supervisor at NASA. She was an expert in FORTRAN programming and played a key role in the development of computer programs that were essential to NASA’s operations.

Annie Easley: Computer Scientist and Rocket Scientist

Annie Easley was a computer scientist, mathematician, and rocket scientist who worked at NASA and its predecessor, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). Her work on the Centaur rocket project and her contributions to software development have been vital to space exploration.

Margaret Hamilton: Software Engineer Who Took Us to the Moon

Margaret Hamilton led the team that developed the onboard flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions. Her pioneering work in software engineering – a term she is credited with coining – and her development of concepts such as asynchronous software and priority scheduling were crucial to the success of the moon landings.

Rosalind Franklin: The Unsung Hero of DNA Research

Rosalind Franklin’s work in X-ray crystallography was critical to the discovery of the DNA double helix structure, but famously underrepresented compared to the work of her colleagues Crick and Watson. Her photographs and data provided the foundation for understanding the molecular structures of DNA, RNA, viruses, coal, and graphite, significantly advancing the field of molecular biology.

Grace Hopper: The Queen of Code

Grace Hopper, known as the “Queen of Code,” was a computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral. She developed the first compiler for a computer programming language and was instrumental in the creation of COBOL, one of the earliest high-level programming languages. Her work has had a lasting impact on computer science and programming.

These famous women in tech have not only made significant contributions to their respective fields but have also paved the way for future generations of women in technology. Their legacies continue to inspire and remind us of the importance of diversity and inclusion in tech.

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Women in Digital Leadership: A Call to Action

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:15:33 +0000

IT and technology is the industry that reigns supreme, and placing women in digital leadership roles is becoming

IT and technology is the industry that reigns supreme, and placing women in digital leadership roles is becoming a growing concern.

We don’t need to tell you that we’re living through an era of rapid technological evolution. Everyday, we are getting more and more used to announcements of yet another new AI tool better than the last, another app for your smartphone you didn’t know you needed, and another VR gadget that blurs the worlds of online and offline more than you thought possible.

To manage this innovation, we need leaders who can ethically and efficiently roll out new technologies to the public, and ensure the developers and engineers of these fantastic new technologies consider the needs of all. Diversity and equity in digital leadership is crucial, however a significant gender gap persists in digital leadership, particularly in the UK.

At iMeta Training, we believe in empowering all individuals to reach their full potential, and addressing this disparity is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and innovative industry.

The Current Landscape of Women in Digital Leadership

Despite progress in various sectors, women remain underrepresented in digital leadership roles. According to recent statistics, women hold only 17% of tech leadership positions in the UK. This gap is even more pronounced when considering intersecting demographics such as race, age, and socioeconomic background.

Women in Tech: Intersectional Insights

Race: Women of colour face additional barriers in the tech industry. For instance, Black women represent just 3% of the tech workforce and are significantly underrepresented in leadership roles.
Age: Younger women are entering the tech field in greater numbers, but retention and advancement remain challenges. Women over 45 are less likely to be in leadership positions compared to their younger counterparts.
Socioeconomic Background: Women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often lack access to the same educational and networking opportunities as their peers, further hindering their progression into leadership roles.

The Importance of Diversity in Leadership

Diverse leadership teams bring a wealth of perspectives and ideas, driving innovation and better decision-making. Companies with higher gender diversity in leadership are 21% more likely to outperform their competitors. Moreover, inclusive workplaces are more attractive to top talent, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.

Steps Towards Change in Digital Leadership

Mentorship and Sponsorship: Establishing mentorship programs can provide women with the guidance and support needed to navigate their careers. Sponsorship, where senior leaders advocate for high-potential women, is also crucial.
Inclusive Hiring Practices: Companies should implement unbiased recruitment processes to ensure a diverse pool of candidates. This includes using gender-neutral job descriptions and diverse hiring panels.
Flexible Work Policies: Offering flexible working arrangements can help retain women in the workforce, particularly those balancing family responsibilities.
Training and Development: Continuous learning opportunities, such as those provided by iMeta Training, can equip women with the skills needed to advance in their careers.

Closing the gender gap in digital leadership is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a strategic imperative for the tech industry. By fostering an inclusive environment where women from all backgrounds can thrive, we can drive innovation and ensure a brighter future for all.

At iMeta Training, we are committed to supporting women in their journey to leadership. If you want to join us in making a difference and empowering the next generation of digital leaders, sign up for our Digital Leadership and Management programme today.

: Source: Tech Nation Report 2023 : Source: Diversity in Tech 2023 : Source: Women in Tech Survey 2023 : Source: Social Mobility Commission Report 2023 : Source: McKinsey & Company Report 2023

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What’s on at Birmingham Tech Week? 5 Events You Must Attend If You Want a Tech Career

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:12:14 +0000

As Birmingham Tech Week approaches, our beloved second city is set to become a vibrant hub of innovation and inspiration

As Birmingham Tech Week approaches, our beloved second city is set to become a vibrant hub of innovation and inspiration at some of our biggest and best venues. Tech Week presents an unmissable opportunity for iMeta learners of past and present to immerse themselves in the latest technological advancements on their doorstep and build valuable connections.

In a recent report from CompTIA, Birmingham is a top-3 metropolitan area for tech employment in the UK, filling over 45000 job positions since last year. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or simply broaden your horizons beyond what you’re learning in your course, these events are designed to empower and motivate you.

Why Attend Birmingham Tech Events?

Networking is a cornerstone of professional growth. In a surveys conducted across LinkedIn and Hubspot, they found that a staggering 85% of open job positions in the UK are filled through networking. You want to get a six-figure salary tech job as fast as possible? This is how you do it. The saying “It’s not what you know, but who you know” holds true, especially in the tech industry.

Integrating with a community of like-minded individuals to trade insights, collaborate on projects or simply make friends will significantly enhance your career prospects and blow the possibilities of where you could work wide open. You might discover a potential job role that you didn’t even know existed, let alone that you were qualified for!

Plus, many of these events offer free entry and refreshments… and who’s gonna turn that down?

Must-Attend Events at Birmingham Tech Week

AI/VR in Transport Innovation

When? – 21^st October, 1pm – 4pm

Where? – WSP, Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RQ

Book here at Eventbrite

We all love to moan about the morning commute and never-ending city traffic – so what is the future of life on the road, and how is tech changing it? Connect with industry leaders and innovators who will be showcasing pioneering advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) for transport, set to revolutionise urban mobility as we know it. Witness live demonstrations, engage with experts, and discover how these technologies can reduce accidents and enhance driver awareness… and maybe do something about those rising car insurance premiums.

Immersive Arts Showcase

When? – 23^rd October, 4pm – 7pm

Where? – Birmingham Open Media (BOM), 12 Dudley Street, Birmingham, B5 4EA

Book here at Eventbrite

If you’re big into gaming, head to Birmingham Open Media (BOM) and view this showcase of the achievements of learners on BOM’s 12-week Immersive Arts Bootcamp. Explore the learners’ unique creative projects and discover what can be done with Unreal Engine 5, the most advanced creation tool for 3D visual arts and media. This event is a unique blend of art and technology, offering inspiration and the chance to connect with Birmingham’s vibrant gaming community. The gaming industry is one of the fast growing in tech, with a high cybersecurity demand and large presence in the West Midlands – could your next job be here?

BOM’s 10th Birthday Party

When? – 23rd October, 7pm – 11:30pm

Where? – Birmingham Open Media (BOM), 12 Dudley Street, Birmingham, B5 4EA

Book here at Eventbrite

Networking isn’t always fun and games – but sometimes it is! Following their Immersive Arts Showcase, you can join the celebration of Birmingham Open Media’s 10th anniversary during Birmingham Tech Week. Enjoy an evening of excellent Brum grub, booze, and beats curated in collaboration with the city’s very own Antonio Roberts. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate a decade of creativity, innovation, and community.

UoB Elevate Accelerator ‘Not all Tech’ Event

When? – 24th October, 5pm – 8pm

Where? – 3 Centenary Square, Birmingham, B1 2DR

Book here at Eventbrite

The University of Birmingham’s Elevate program is a business growth initiative for former students at the university, looking to start their own tech venture post-graduation. Throughout the year, they are supported by assigned experts and investors, and this event features presentations and networking opportunities with the participating alumni. It is an excellent chance to connect with Elevate members, meet entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and potential investors, and learn more about local business needs for tech.

Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup

When? – 24^th October, 6pm – late

Where? – The Good Intent, 32-33 Great Western Arcade, Birmingham, B2 5HU

Book here at Eventbrite

Employers value candidates with diverse experiences, and volunteering in your community can provide that edge. This meetup is a great way to learn about local sustainability initiatives and how you can get involved. It’s a welcoming space for sharing ideas and learning about sustainability. Plus, the first 33 attendees receive a free drink, courtesy of the event sponsor, Krystal.

Birmingham Tech Week is about more than just innovation, it’s about community and personal growth. By participating in these Birmingham tech events, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge but also build a network that can support your career and personal development. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be inspired and make meaningful connections.

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New Year’s Revolutions: How to Network Smarter

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:37 +0000

Job hunting is challenging enough. In today’s job market, standing out takes more than just sending out your CVs.

Job hunting is challenging enough. In today’s job market, standing out takes more than just sending out your CVs. It’s an old recruitment ‘truism’ that a large number of job roles aren’t advertised, and that it’s actually the human connection that can clinch a deal. How many of you reading this feel like you can cliche a deal when you’re face-to-face and in the room?

Connecting and networking with recruiters and professionals is a key way to find opportunities, but there are a few essentials that you should know, to approach networking in the right way.

Be Brave!

Head up, back straight, be confident!

Networking can feel daunting, but bravery and confidence are your greatest assets. Remember, the people you’re reaching out to were once in your position, too—they understand the challenges of building connections.

Approach conversations with a mindset of mutual respect and curiosity. Confidence doesn’t mean knowing all the answers; it’s about being open, prepared, and willing to learn.

Be brave enough to introduce yourself, ask thoughtful questions, and share your goals—you never know where one conversation might lead.

Spring clean your LinkedIn profile

Make sure your LinkedIn’s looking good!
An up-to-date LinkedIn profile is the modern key to successful networking. In the absence of a personal website or portfolio page, it’s often the first impression people will have of you, so make it count.

Simple steps include ensuring your photo is of decent quality, your headline reflects your current goals, and your experience and skills are clearly outlined.

Adding a short, engaging summary about what you bring to the table can make all the difference. A polished profile not only boosts your confidence when connecting with others but also shows potential contacts that you’re serious, prepared, and ready to take on new opportunities.

Understand your audience: Recruiters

Know who you’re talking to!

Recruiters are busy people. Their main job is to fill specific roles for their employer, which means they focus on particular teams or areas of expertise. On top of that, they often receive countless messages from job seekers every day—many of which are vague or irrelevant to the roles they’re recruiting for.

The sad truth is, recruiters aren’t personal career coaches. They don’t have visibility into every role within their company, and their priority is always the jobs they’ve been assigned to fill. If you want a recruiter to help you, it’s crucial to be clear, professional, and respectful of their time. Here are some practical tips:

Do Your Research
Before reaching out, look at the recruiter’s LinkedIn profile or any information they’ve shared online. This will give you an idea of the types of roles they recruit for. For example, if they specialise in IT roles but you’re looking for a marketing position, they’re probably not the right person to contact.

A better message: “I noticed you’ve worked on IT roles in the past. Do you know if someone in your company is recruiting for a marketing position?”

Be Specific
If you’ve already applied for a role, provide the job title or a link to the posting. This gives the recruiter context and makes it easier for them to help.

Example: “I’ve applied for the Data Analyst position at [Company]. Would you mind reviewing my application to see if it’s a good match?”

Ask for Introductions
If you’re looking to connect with someone specific in a company, ask politely for a referral. Include enough information to make it easy for the recruiter to respond.

Fill your calendar with events

Recruiters are often on the road, at various events around the country. Check dedicated job portals and websites for careers events listings – there’s tonnes of them! Websites like Indeed, Totaljobs, Reed, and Eventbrite often feature job fairs and career events in your area, and many of them let you set up alerts or notifications for anything upcoming.

Visit the websites of local councils in your area, like Birmingham City Council, Coventry City Council, Wolverhampton City Council, etc. They often host or promote job fairs and employment events happening in the region.

Universities and colleges in the West Midlands often organise career fairs and networking events. Check the websites of institutions like the University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, Coventry University, etc., for event listings. Even if you are not a student, these events are often open to the public.

Be Consistent but Respectful

Everyone’s time is money – respect both!

Relationships take time to cultivate – and you need to stay in contact with your new network. Keep posting, and keep writing on your professional social media networks. But find your balance, and don’t be a spammer!

Recruiters are often juggling multiple roles and candidates, so it’s important to respect their time. Don’t ask for long conversations or vague advice, look for resources they’ve already shared. Many recruiters publish tips, write blog posts, or participate in online forums to support job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Getting out of your comfort zone, and in front of people, face-to-face is key to getting the opportunities you want, and access to the career you’re dreaming of. It takes a little courage, and a splash of organisation – but once you get started and find your momentum, you’ll wonder how you ever did a job search without networking.

Networking is about building connections, not making demands. Thoughtfulness, professionalism and creativity will massively improve your chances of success.

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New Year’s Revolutions: Job Searching

admin — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 07:52:10 +0000

We’re fast approaching 2025 (if you can believe it!) and it’s the perfect time to reflect on your career goals and make plans

You’re searching for jobs wrong: Our expert guide to getting a tech job in 2025

We’re fast approaching 2025 (if you can believe it!) and it’s the perfect time to reflect on your career goals and make plans for what you want to achieve in the coming year.

At iMeta, we specialise in facilitating complete career changes to tech, helping people get the right qualifications and make top-tier job applications that recruiters just can’t ignore.

Since launching last year, we have helped hundreds of people in the West Midlands make that change… but be warned. Simply completing your training for a new career then applying for as many jobs as possible until you strike it lucky is not going to get you to where you want to be.

Mastering the art of the job search is key to finding that breakthrough opportunity as quickly as possible, and there’s a lot more to it than you think!

The tech sector in the UK is full of exciting opportunities in cyber security, data analysis, and IT project management, and has become a target for people seeking rewarding, future-proof careers. In the past 10 years alone, applications for tech jobs in the UK have increased by 57%, with 19% more over-35s applying for tech jobs since the pandemic. It’s becoming increasingly competitive, which means you need to level up your CVs and know how to find the best opportunities available before they’re snapped up.

Whether you’re switching careers, returning to work, or starting fresh, my guide will equip you with actionable advice to get the most out of your job search and land your dream role in tech.

Navigation – Tap To Jump to Section

Identify your target role and work backwards
Upskill with specific courses and qualifications
Be specific with your CV and Cover Letter
Build your network and search smarter, not harder
Use the interview

Why Are More People in the UK Applying for Tech Jobs?

The tech industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK, offering stability, competitive salaries, and opportunities for progression. The biggest shift towards tech happened in 2020, which saw the necessary implementation of expanded networking and cloud capabilities for thousands of businesses, so we could all work from home and stay connected. The increased supply created an increased demand for professionals who could manage and build these systems.

According to recent job market reports, roles in cyber security and data analysis are boasting salaries starting at £30,000 and reaching £80,000 or more with experience. IT project management is also a thriving area, with professionals earning upwards of £45,000 after 2-3 years of experience. It’s no wonder so many people want in on the action.

If you’re ready to make the leap, here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Identify your target role, then work backwards

Before diving into job applications, you need to spend time researching the roles you’re interested in and learn as much as you can about what professional requirements you need to meet to be considered. From there, you can reverse-engineer a sensible roadmap to become the person that recruiters are looking for. Key questions to ask yourself include:

What skills and qualifications are required?

For example, cyber security professionals often need certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Pentest+. Data analysts benefit from proficiency Python, SQL, and Power BI, while IT project managers should consider PRINCE2 or Agile qualifications.

Consider the length of time and cost required to acquire these qualifications. (Hint: we offer a few of these for free…).

What does the day-to-day work involve?

Use job descriptions on sites like LinkedIn or Indeed to get a sense of typical responsibilities and required experience across different companies. Are there any transferrable skills in there that you can already offer? Maybe you’re already a whiz on Microsoft Excel or have experience managing a team. Just because it’s not experience gained in a tech job doesn’t mean it’s not valuable!

Glassdoor is a company review site, built on the input of employees past and present. It can give you first-hand accounts of the culture and experience of working in the role.

Are there any terms or keywords that you see crop up across different job descriptions and company reviews? Search up the ones you don’t understand on the internet and learn what they refer to. All of this is helpful for your application, as it demonstrates genuine interest in the industry.

What is the salary and career progression like?

Many job descriptions will post salary brackets for the role and can be filtered through based on experience level. However, recruiters aren’t always the best at volunteering this information upfront (anyone else fed up with reading ‘competitive salary’?). Try online forums dedicated to your target role to get a realistic picture of what you can expect – I find Reddit to be a great resource for this.

Mapping out these details will help you set realistic goals over the next year and beyond and focus your job search on roles that align with your aspirations and current attainment level.

Step 2: Upskill with Specific Courses and Qualifications

These days, you don’t necessarily require a degree to excel in a specific field. The industry is seeing a rise in the uptake of ‘micro-credentials’ – short courses designed to teach specific skills that can fast-track learners getting into particular roles. There are many different online platforms and bootcamps that offer courses for tech. Even universities are starting to offer degree modules as individual short courses!

For those who find course costs to be too big a barrier, Government-funded adult learning providers like us offer many of these short-term courses for free, designed specifically for people seeking employment in target sectors. These courses are ideal for gaining industry-recognised qualifications like:

CompTIA Pentest+ and Network+ will fast-track for cyber security roles.
CompTIA Data+ or Microsoft Power BI certifications for data analysis.
PRINCE2 Foundation for IT project management.

These programmes are tailored for individuals with diverse backgrounds, making them a great starting point if you don’t have prior tech experience. Plus, they often include job interview preparation and employment support. Make sure you are pursuing the right qualifications for your target job and include their titles in your job search. Employers will often ask for them in the job descriptions.

Step 3: Be Specific with Your CV and Cover Letter

Recruiters in the tech industry receive hundreds of applications for each role, so your CV and cover letter must stand out. Here’s three of the most common mistakes I notice when reviewing our learners’ CVs:

Not highlighting transferable skills: As mentioned in Step 1 of this guide, many skills from non-tech roles are highly valued in tech. Good level of mathematical ability, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and managerial experience are excellent skills to highlight when trying to get a tech job – if you’ve got it, put it in the CV.
Putting too much of your past experience on the CV: I work regularly with people who have been in the working world for 20+ years. In these cases, it’s best to focus on the past 5 years of your career, as these jobs will demonstrate your skills at their most updated.
Not using the personal statement and cover letter enough: Customising your personal statement and cover letter for each application goes a long way with getting noticed. The first thing they’ll see is your personal statement, so you need to sell yourself as the person they want. Use keywords from the job description to show that you’ve carefully read the role’s requirements.

Tip: If you’re unsure about CV formatting, keep it simple, structured and easy to read! Don’t be tempted to use flowery templates, as beautiful as they are.

Badly formatted CVs that don’t mention the right key terms or relevant skills are often bypassed when uploaded to jobs boards. This could mean you get recommended jobs that you’re not interested in or don’t match your expectations. Make sure you get it right, and get personal.

Step 4: Build Your Network and Search Smarter, Not Harder

Networking is an invaluable tool for landing a role in tech, even if you’re brand new to the industry. It’s often not about what you know; it’s who you know, and there are many ideal roles for you that you won’t find on jobs boards because they’re not advertised. Here’s how to start building your network:

LinkedIn: This is the place to connect with professionals in your desired field. Join tech-related groups, participate in discussions, and follow companies you’re interested in. The more you participate, the more you’ll be recommended.
Job boards: While general sites like Indeed and Glassdoor are helpful, also explore tech-specific platforms like CWJobs and Technojobs.
Attend tech meetups and virtual events: These provide opportunities to meet potential employers, learn about job openings, and learn more about the industry to develop your know-how. Research local meet-ups and seminars, and participate in tech-specific events like hackathons.
Apprenticeship and training schemes: Many employers collaborate with training providers to offer roles to people completing tech qualifications. We have many partnerships with local employers for this reason. If there’s a local business you’d like to talk to, there’s a high chance we can help.

Step 5: Use the Interview

If you follow the first four steps, you should be in a position to get at least one interview. The interview process is also an important step to improving your job search abilities as your progress.

In the tech industry, interviews often include both technical assessments and interviews. To prepare:

Study common questions: For example, data analyst candidates might be asked to explain SQL queries, while cyber security roles may involve scenario-based questions about mitigating threats.
Showcase your problem-solving abilities: Even if you’re not asked technical questions, employers want to see how you approach challenges.
Prepare examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and demonstrate relevant experience.

Tip: I have helped many learners practise for interviews, but I also recommend asking friends to roleplay or using resources like InterviewBit to build confidence.

If you have an unsuccessful interview, use the experience to improve your job search. It gives you an opportunity to ask experts what they’re looking for so you can further optimise your CV, as well as potentially lead you to another opportunity if you make a good impression.

What would I say to professionals who already have a mid-level position in another industry that want to work in tech?

You likely have several years of professional experience, which is a huge asset. Focus on demonstrating how your existing skills transfer to tech roles. For example, if you’ve worked in finance, your data analysis experience could transition seamlessly into a data analyst role.

What would I say to a parent or carer returning to the working world after a long time away who wants to work in tech?

Re-entering the workforce can be daunting, but tech offers flexible and remote working options that cater to work-life balance. Highlight soft skills like organisation and multitasking, which I’m sure you’ve sharpened due to your parenting or caring responsibilities.

What would I say to people who struggle with unemployment that want to work in tech?

Tech provides very clear pathways for upskilling and entering stable, well-paid careers. We offer our courses for free for a reason – to give you the option to gain valuable skills and knowledge if you need it. Our courses can even be done alongside part time or temporary work due to our schedules. There are a lot of excellent free resources you can access to build your foundational knowledge, even on popular sites like YouTube.

What would I say to a young adult with little to no work experience who wants to work in tech?

If you’ve decided formal further education isn’t for you, you’re not alone, and tech is an industry that embraces alternative routes. Apprenticeships and Government-funded courses allow you to earn qualifications without incurring student debt, setting you up for success in a rapidly evolving industry.

Final Thoughts

Switching to a tech career is an achievable goal for anyone willing to learn and adapt. By upskilling through targeted courses, tailoring your applications, and leveraging networking opportunities, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for roles in cyber security, data analysis, or IT project management. Take advantage of the new year’s momentum to kickstart your journey—your dream job in tech could be closer than you think!

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