Technology evolves.
Getting back on track after long years of taking a break can be a big hurdle to overcome. First, there are thousands of computer studies graduates each year and are looking for a job. Secondly, there are others who may be college dropouts but are highly passionate about coding and therefore are competitive in landing the best job in the best company. Lastly, the things you may have learned for the past 5 to 10 years may already be obsolete to most tech companies.
On the bright side, there is nothing to worry about if you believe that you are ready to get back to the game. Too much for sitting on the side bench, time to get coding.
Set a Timeline
Let’s say maybe 30 to 90 days. Use all these days to boost your knowledge through reading and hands-on skills. Challenge yourself not to check social media or any distractions while you’re in the preparation phase. These days should be purely dedicated to upgrading what you already know. While you’re at it, create a volunteer project or maybe a freelance project that could add to your new portfolio. If you don’t want to isolate yourself from the rest of the world, you may try reading, posting, or participating in forums on Reddit about programming. Put aside any extra curricular activities as of this moment and get serious about preparation.
Get Out There
Sometimes, the best way to learn is from failure. Not to imply that you’ll fail your first interviews, but you most likely will especially at a large firm. Try as much interviews as you can and gather information on what they are looking for in a modern programmer. Doing so also helps boost your confidence and lessens your fear of failing the next time you’re finally serious in applying. Who knows, while you’re practicing with interviewers, they might see your real potential and hire you?
Freelance First
If working back for a company scares you, try doing online freelance work instead. This will be a great opportunity for you to build your portfolio, enhance your skills, and set the waters before you start a full-time job. Another option would be to offer your services to close friends at an affordable price to maybe do a project for them.
Write on Github
Start small but make sure you follow through with it. There’s nothing to be ashamed about posting even just little pieces of code just as long as there’s progress. You may also get inspired by the work of others and maybe be scouted by a startup employer.
Opportunities may not always knock on your door which is why you have to find it. You want to code again? Get yourself back in the game and don’t wait for it to come to you because chances are, it won’t.
LegalMatch Philippines (LMPH) is always looking for bright, dedicated, and curious programmers to join our team. What we do is innovate software that would help bridge the gap between top US attorneys and their potential clients who are specifically looking for a legal representative in their area of practice.
Ready to code again? Join LegalMatch Philippines (LMPH) today!