How to get your first job in IT

Breaking into the IT industry can feel both exciting and overwhelming, especially if you’re a newcomer or transitioning from a different field. The technology sector is dynamic, diverse, and full of opportunity, but the path to your first job often seems unclear. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone with a unique neurodivergent perspective, the journey to your first IT role is both deeply personal and universally challenging.

Understanding the IT Landscape

The term IT—Information Technology—encompasses a vast array of roles, from software development and cybersecurity to data analysis, network administration, and user experience design. The industry thrives on innovation, adaptability, and a willingness to solve complex problems. It’s important to realize that you don’t have to be a coding prodigy to find your place in tech. The sector values a blend of skills: technical, analytical, creative, and interpersonal.

“Technology is best when it brings people together.”

Before embarking on your job search, invest time in understanding the different roles that exist. Read job descriptions, follow tech blogs, join online communities, and attend webinars. This research will help you identify where your interests and strengths align with the needs of the industry.

Choosing Your Path

One of the most common misconceptions is that a successful IT career always starts with software engineering. In reality, the ecosystem is much broader:

• Software Development: Writing code, developing applications, automating processes.
• Quality Assurance: Testing products, ensuring reliability, and finding bugs.
• IT Support: Assisting users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
• Data Analysis: Interpreting data, building dashboards, and informing business decisions.
• Cybersecurity: Protecting systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding to threats.
• UI/UX Design: Creating user-friendly interfaces and optimizing user experience.

Each of these areas has unique entry points, and each values different combinations of skills. Reflect on your strengths—are you a logical thinker, a creative problem solver, or a people person? There’s a place in IT for every kind of mind.

Building a Foundation: Skills and Learning

Technical skills form the backbone of any IT role, but they’re only part of the equation. Today’s employers are equally interested in your adaptability, communication, and willingness to learn.

Learning the Basics

Start by identifying a core set of skills required for the roles you’re considering. For most entry-level IT positions, these might include:

• Basic computer literacy
• Understanding of operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
• Familiarity with networking concepts
• Introductory programming (often Python, JavaScript, or similar)
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Free and paid online resources abound. Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and freeCodeCamp offer comprehensive courses for beginners. Community colleges and bootcamps provide more structured paths, often with career support services.

Don’t underestimate the power of self-directed learning. Set aside regular time to study, practice coding, or build sample projects. If you’re neurodivergent, experiment with different learning strategies—visual aids, hands-on exercises, or collaborative study groups—to discover what works best for you. The IT world celebrates innovation, and your unique approach can be a strength, not a barrier.

Soft Skills Matter

While technical proficiency opens doors, soft skills help you walk through them. Communication, empathy, teamwork, and adaptability are prized in every IT department. The ability to translate technical jargon into plain language, collaborate with diverse colleagues, and remain calm in the face of challenges will set you apart.

“The best way to learn is to do; the worst way to teach is to talk.”

Practicing these skills can be as simple as participating in online forums, contributing to open-source projects, or helping friends and family troubleshoot their tech issues. Each interaction is a learning opportunity.

Crafting a Standout Resume and Online Presence

Your resume is often your first introduction to a potential employer. In IT, clarity and relevance matter more than fancy design or exhaustive detail. Focus on the skills and experiences that align with the job description.

What to Include

• Technical Skills: List programming languages, operating systems, tools, and platforms you know.
• Projects: Personal, academic, or volunteer projects demonstrate initiative and problem-solving.
• Education: Degrees, certifications, online courses, and workshops.
• Relevant Experience: Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer roles—especially those involving technology or teamwork.
• Soft Skills: Communication, leadership, adaptability, collaboration.

Tailor your resume for each application, using keywords from the job description. For those with non-traditional backgrounds or neurodivergent strengths, highlight your unique perspective: attention to detail, pattern recognition, creative problem-solving, or resilience.

Building an Online Portfolio

An online presence is increasingly important. A simple GitHub profile, a personal website, or a LinkedIn page can showcase your projects, learning journey, and professional interests. For creative roles, include examples of UI/UX designs or data visualizations. Document your process and growth—employers appreciate candidates who are transparent about their learning.

Gaining Real-World Experience

Many aspiring tech professionals worry about the classic chicken-and-egg problem: “How do I get experience if no one will hire me without experience?” The good news is that in IT, there are alternative routes to gain practical exposure.

Internships and Apprenticeships

Entry-level internships—both paid and unpaid—are valuable for learning on the job. Many companies run programs specifically for beginners, career changers, or underrepresented groups (including women and neurodivergent individuals). Apprenticeships offer structured, on-the-job training and often lead to full-time positions.

Contributing to Open Source

The open-source movement is a cornerstone of the tech community. Platforms like GitHub host thousands of projects—many actively welcome new contributors, regardless of experience level. Start by fixing bugs, improving documentation, or building simple features. The feedback and mentorship you gain are priceless, and every contribution is a portfolio piece.

Volunteering and Freelance Projects

Nonprofits, schools, and small businesses often need technical help but lack resources to hire full-time staff. Volunteering your skills or taking on freelance gigs can build your experience and expand your network. Each project is a learning opportunity and a testament to your initiative.

“Success in IT isn’t about where you start. It’s about your willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute.”

Navigating the Job Search

The job search process in IT is as much about persistence as it is about skill. Here’s how to approach it thoughtfully:

Networking

Networking isn’t just about attending industry events—it’s about building genuine connections. Join online groups, attend meetups (virtual or in-person), and engage with communities on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Discord. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, or seek advice. The tech world is surprisingly open to newcomers who show curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Applying Strategically

Don’t be discouraged by job postings that seem to require more experience than you have. Many employers list “ideal” qualifications, but are willing to consider candidates with strong foundational skills and a passion for learning. Apply to a range of positions—entry-level, internships, and even those slightly outside your comfort zone.

Customize your cover letter to highlight why you’re interested in the company and how your unique skills can add value. For women and neurodivergent candidates, research organizations with inclusive cultures and supportive mentorship programs. Many companies proudly share their diversity and inclusion initiatives—seek them out.

Interview Preparation

IT interviews often include technical assessments as well as behavioral questions. Prepare by practicing coding problems, reviewing fundamentals, and rehearsing how you describe your projects. Equally important is your ability to communicate clearly and collaborate during pair programming or problem-solving exercises.

If you have unique needs or require accommodations, don’t hesitate to ask for them. Many organizations are eager to support neurodivergent candidates, and transparency helps ensure a fair evaluation process.

Embracing Your Unique Perspective

The IT industry thrives on diversity of thought. Women, neurodivergent individuals, and those from non-traditional backgrounds bring vital new ideas and perspectives. Your journey into tech may be shaped by challenges, but these experiences can become your greatest strengths.

“Diversity drives innovation—when we embrace different perspectives, we create better solutions.”

Seek out mentors and allies. Many organizations, such as Women Who Code, Black Girls Code, Auticon, and Neurodiversity in Tech, offer resources, mentorship, and supportive communities. Participate in hackathons, workshops, and forums—these spaces can foster confidence and belonging.

Celebrate your progress, no matter how incremental. Each new skill learned, each project completed, is a step towards your goal. The path into IT is not always linear—there will be setbacks and unexpected turns—but your persistence and passion will carry you forward.

Continuous Learning and Growth

Technology evolves at a breathtaking pace. The most successful IT professionals are those who commit to lifelong learning. Stay curious: follow industry news, take advanced courses, experiment with new tools, and seek feedback from peers and mentors.

Remember, your first job in IT is just the beginning. The skills you develop, the networks you build, and the challenges you overcome will open doors to new opportunities. The journey is personal, rewarding, and—above all—possible for anyone willing to take the first step.

“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.”

With each question you ask, each line of code you write, and each connection you make, you’re shaping not just your own future, but the future of technology itself. Welcome to the world of IT—there’s a place here for you.