Many people pay close attention to technology because we live in the era of tech innovations. Its new miraculous products can be seen almost every day. It offers a wide range of directions and professions. For example, many folks become coders. They intend to create something, test, improve, revolutionize, and so on.
Author: James Monahan
Some experts realize that the profession they once chose doesn’t suit their expectations or career goals. So, they want to switch. One of the common cases is when a software tester wishes to become a software developer. All in all, this is justified, since there is a myriad of job offers like: find junior software developer remote jobs on Jooble. As there are definite similar skills a tester is supposed to acquire, this transition appears to be elementary. Is it really so? What does it take to change the profession? This informative guide provides the necessary answers.
Master the Basic Programming Languages
The first step you need to undertake is surely to learn the basic coding languages. It’s always better to know several programs instead of knowing one because you will surely require most of them. Yet, you need to start with 4 basic languages to become a software developer. These are as follows:
- Python. This is one of the easiest to master, and it’s a standard recommendation for newbies.
- Java. This is a multipurpose coding language, which is applied to server applications. It can be used on different platforms and isn’t hard to understand.
- C/C++ is a famous language for program systems. C++, which is domiciled in C, is also a popular language among game developers.
- Scala is an advanced-level programming language that combines object-oriented and functional concepts. It was built to resolve some of the drawbacks of Java.
They are all commonly required when creating automation software of various types. So, be sure to learn them first. Mind that they aren’t that challenging to learn and are considered to be among the easiest. Besides, set objectives for mastering languages, and goals you want to achieve in this career. These can be goals for the annual income, advancement of skills, job promotion, and so on. When you have clear goals, you will know what must be done to achieve them.
Get a Software Developer Education
The third step is to get the required education of a software developer. The path is much the same as that of a tester. You need a bachelor’s degree. However, a higher degree improves your chance to get hired, as well as to enjoy career promotion much faster. You should master the required tech skills. This can be done via offline or online courses. If you attend college, you will have tips from your teachers instantly. Online learning is more aimed at self-education. Yet, it’s faster and more convenient. The duration takes from 6 months to 4 years.
Build a Strong Portfolio
Your face is your portfolio. This is the first thing an employer sees, and they may draw certain conclusions before you meet in person. So, make sure it’s clear and convincing. Here are the things you need to add to it:
- Contact information
- Relevant skills
- Your brief biography
- Any achievements
- Personal and professional projects
It’s better to check examples of portfolios in this profession on the Internet. Thus, you’ll avoid mistakes and will make it appealing to the eye. Create it on LinkedIn. This move will sufficiently boost the chance to be noticed by different companies and individuals.
Develop Your Technical Skills
It goes beyond all doubt that you must master technical skills. You should know how to write every code to make the software run, stop, evolve, and so on. The more skills you master, the better career prospects you will have. Be sure to practice them regularly in different environments. Devote 3–6 hours for this purpose every day.
Improve Your Non-Technical Skills
Not all people realize that non-technical skills are also important in the technology industry. For example, you need strong communication skills because you will inevitably interact with your boss, colleagues, partners, and others. If you don’t know how to come along with others, you are doomed. Here is the list of non-technical or soft skills you are supposed to master:
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Creative
- Analytical skills and others
These and some other skills will be 100% useful for you. Even writing skills are vital because you will be able to write correct messages to others, explaining what you need clearly.
Gain Experience and Certify Your Skills
No theory works without practice. Therefore, you need to try all your skills completing real tasks and creating software. Find special practical courses. You can also find a mentor to be sure you do everything accurately and effectively.
You also need to certify your skills. In case you don’t have a lot of work experience, this action will be crucial. You may find the required positions on the Internet. Define what is required for your position to make your skills certificated to impress your future employers.
About the Author
James Monahan is a well-known blog writer and researcher. He is the author of different articles, blogs, stories, surveys, and so on. He worked for different online journals and newspapers. The writer is experienced in various industries, such as writing, book reading, traveling, photography, arts, sports, as well as technology.
I’ve bookmarked this for future reference, such valuable insights!