What skills do you need to succeed in tech?

No matter where your journey begins in the tech industry, whether that's through an apprenticeship, University or if you decided to take a few online courses in your spare time, either way every tech guru out there is given the chance to build a foundation of knowledge via the route that suits them best.

The vast number of opportunities to choose from in the tech industry allows candidates to find the right environment for them by exposure to best practices, technologies and their individual enthusiasm about a specific interest.

Now you've got that foundation of experience and you know what you're interested in, are you remaining open to learning new things? As you know the tech world is forever evolving and separating yourself from the crowd is key to succeeding in a buoyant but competitive industry. Keeping yourself on your toes by learning new languages, attending new events and keeping an eye on the latest trends is vital in order to ensure you're keeping your competitive edge.

Key areas you might look to expand your skillset in:

Cybersecurity

As you’d expect, the growing cybersecurity industry is comprised of trusted professionals who know data encryption inside out, can install firewalls, implement software security and run successful threat analyses without a hitch. Malware Analysts, Security Architects and Cybersecurity Engineers should also have a strong understanding of certain industry regulations and standards, such as the UK Data Protection Act 2018 and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

But it’s not all about hard skills. In fact, employers in this field are increasingly keen to attract well-rounded candidates with who are active listeners, effective managers, strong communicators and logical thinkers.

Blockchain

If you’re a Blockchain Developer, Project Manager, or Solution Architect, you’ll be expected to have a solid understanding of data structure, smart contracts, cryptography, programming and blockchain architecture. However, if you’re truly set to succeed, you’ll need to be adaptable, curious and have sound business acumen.

Software Development

With companies having been forced to migrate to remote working and invest in digital transformation, mobile app developers, software programmers, engineers and developers are now expected to be comfortable working with coding languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, PHP, and C++. It’s essential you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills, excellent organisational and time management skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

Cloud Computing

With the steady increase in Cloud Computing jobs comes a raft of skills that employers expect to see on offer. These include expertise in working with cloud service platforms, fluency in programming languages, a strong understanding of cloud security, but also database and network management, as well as development and operations (DevOps). Due to the fast-paced nature of the sector, decision-making, leadership and adaptability skills are key.

AR & VR

The Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology market is expected to continue to grow at a rapid pace. Meta, formerly Facebook, even announced it would be investing $10 billion in AR and VR as part of its strategic business development plans.

Both developers and designers are expected to have demonstratable programming skills, experience with building solutions, as well as using three-dimensional modelling software. Other desired skills typically include practical experience with Unity, C# development experience, and being able to comfortably use animation and modelling tools such as MAYA, 3D MAX and Autodesk 3D.

UI & UX

Right now, the most in-demand skills required for jobs in User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) are prototyping and wireframing, and the ability to create slick user flows and mockups. It is also essential that UI/UX experts understand user research and usability testing, as well as have strong visual hierarchy, typography and colour theory skills. When it comes to soft skills, creativity, persuasion, collaboration and a willingness to learn will take you a long way.

We’re incredibly lucky to be located in the South West – an up-and-coming hub for innovation and technology – which covers so many of the different specialisms listed above. Not only is highly skilled Tech talent in demand, but employers are offering some fantastic packages for candidates who fit the bill.

If you’re looking for your next role in Technology, do browse some of our current vacancies. Or, if you’d prefer to chat to us face-to-face then please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01392413577.