Getting a job in tech has been a new norm in recent years and it has been one that initially created a career path for people with coding skills but has also included people with no coding skills or background in Tech. Now, everyone wants a career in Tech, why? you may ask! 

The tech industry is a world of opportunities, offering roles for every skill set and personality type. But with so many options, it can feel overwhelming to decide where you fit. Whether you're transitioning into tech or just starting out, understanding the different paths available and aligning them with your interests and strengths is key. It is possible to discover the right fit for you in the “sea of careers in tech”. What you need is a guide that directs you on the right path. Here’s a guide to help you explore the right tech career path for you but before you use the guide, it is important for you to assess your interest and skills.

To assess your interest and skills, ask yourself the following questions:

• What excites me? Are you a creatives, problem solver or you help people
• What are my strengths? Do you excel in analytics, designs, knowledge of social platforms
• How do I prefer to work? Do you enjoy collaboration, independent projects, or a mix of both?

Having this right knowledge about yourself will help you make the decision about the right career fit for you.

Let’s explore the guide!

1. Design and Content focused Career (The Creatives)

Creativity in tech is highly valued, whether in design, storytelling, or content creation. You don’t have to be a designer before you are a creative person! Here are the key paths for the creatively inclined:

• UI/UX Designer: As a UI/UX designer, you collaborate with developers to create visually appealing and easy-to-use interfaces for apps and websites. You'll spend time understanding user behavior, creating wireframes, and testing designs to ensure they meet user needs. Tools like Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD are essential and this career path is best for people who have an eye for aesthetics and enjoy solving problems through design.
• Digital Marketing or content creator /strategist: You create engaging videos, blogs, and social media posts to promote tech brands. You'll also plan campaigns to grow audience engagement. This role combines creativity with strategy. You'll brainstorm content ideas, track performance metrics, and tweak strategies to align with audience preferences and it is best for storytellers who thrive in fast-paced environments and have a flair for digital trends.

2. Analytical and Technical Careers (The problem solver)

This is the most common career path in Tech. Problem-solving careers in tech offer opportunities to create, analyze, and innovate solutions to challenges. In some stages, they work hand in hand with creatives.

• Software Engineer: As a software designer, you write, debug, and maintain code to develop applications, websites, or software. Coding languages like Python, JavaScript, Java, C, C++ become your toolbox. You'll often collaborate with designers and product managers to bring concepts to life and these roles are best for logical thinkers who enjoy breaking down complex problems into manageable tasks.
• Data Analyst: This is one career path in tech that should be considered by people who do not have coding experience and it is currently a top choice for people with no background in Tech. Data Analyst, work with datasets to identify trends, solve business problems, and predict future outcomes. Skills needed include SQL, Excel, and visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI) are crucial. You’ll create dashboards and deliver insights that drive decisions. And this is best for those who enjoy uncovering stories hidden in numbers. Could you imagine storytellers with numbers?

3. Product and Project Managers (The organizer)

Organizers thrive in roles that require coordination, foresight, and attention to detail. It does not require coding experience.

• Product Managers: They oversee the lifecycle of a product, ensuring it meets user needs and business goals. They strive to align with the needs of customers and also with that of the business. You'll conduct market research, write product requirements, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to launch and improve products. Best for strategic thinkers who are passionate about solving customer pain points.
• Project Managers: Project managers, plan, execute, and close projects while managing teams, timelines, and budgets. Project management methodologies like Agile or Scrum are your foundation. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Jira help streamline workflows. Best for people who are skilled at multitasking and keeping teams motivated.

4. Client Focused Career (The Helpers) 

For people who love building relationships and solving people’s problems, helper roles are a perfect fit. They focus on solving customers' challenges.

• Customer Success Managers: Help clients make the most out of tech products and ensure their satisfaction. You’ll provide onboarding, training, and ongoing support, using customer feedback to suggest improvements. It is best for people who enjoy making meaningful connections.
• Technical Support Analyst: Assist users in troubleshooting software or hardware issues. Strong technical knowledge combined with patience is key. Tools like CRM systems and ticketing platforms ( Zendesk, Hubspot, Zoho) are essential. The right fit for problem solvers who find joy in resolving other’s tech challenges.

5. Business and Strategy Oriented Career (The strategist)

Strategists in tech focus on aligning solutions with business objectives in order to make them key to any organization’s success.

• Business strategist: As a business strategist, you identify business needs and propose tech solutions to meet them. You'll work with stakeholders, gather requirements, and create reports that bridge business objectives and tech capabilities. Best for analytical thinkers who can translate technical jargon into actionable insights.
• Tech Sales Representatives: They Sell software, hardware, or IT services to businesses. You identify client needs, demonstrate product value, and close deals. These are  the tech industry’s marketers. A good understanding of technology and excellent communication skills are essential and is best for people with outgoing personalities who excel at negotiation and persuasion.

P.S: These are not all the career paths available in the tech world, there are others you can explore. Technology is evolving every day, and so are the opportunities. The key is to stay curious, adaptable, and open to learning. Your ideal career path might not even exist yet but with the right skills and mindset, you’ll be ready when it does!