Information technology (IT) is one of the most coveted professions in today’s global landscape for its remarkable earning potential and steady market demand.
However, an IT career is not only about rewards and benefits. If you’re contemplating making a career switch to the IT industry, you must take a few more factors into consideration.
These factors include understanding the industry’s current state, assessing its benefits, and acquiring relevant skills. Continue reading to learn about the IT industry and how you can fit into it.
What You Should Know Before Making an IT Career Switch
The world of technology is dynamic, comprising several aspects that can dictate your IT career journey.
The Current State of IT Careers
While tech companies encountered a slump last year, experts predict that the industry will have a 5% growth in 2023. As such, many tech companies still need skilled professionals, which creates a favorable job market with ample opportunities. Forecasts indicate that this demand-supply gap will persist until at least 2026. Locally, the IT services market volume may grow by 9.2% between 2023 and 2027.
With this scenario, companies are launching more aggressive compensation plans to entice the industry to produce more talent. With increased remuneration, experts predict there will be 28.7 million software developers worldwide by 2024 amid the growing need for experts in software development.
3 Benefits of Pursuing an IT Career
Here are some main reasons why many are switching to the IT field.
1. High earning potential
With organizations relying heavily on technology, the IT sector provides lucrative opportunities for a successful and attractive career choice. In fact, IT careers offer high earning potential, with tech professionals earning up to 85% more than other industries. The demand for IT skills and expertise pushes companies to provide competitive compensation packages to attract top talent.
2. Hiring demand
In today’s tech-driven world, organizations require IT staff for product development, cybersecurity, and systems management. The high and growing demand for skilled tech talents means opportunities abound for people looking to grow in the IT field.
3. Suitability for remote work
Many roles in the IT sector are doable remotely, which is why numerous companies offer flexible and remote work arrangements to eliminate commutes and enable work-life balance.
Incidentally, 87% of people prefer flexible work options. Remote work in IT contributes to high-quality deliverables while enjoying the benefits of a flexible work arrangement. It also facilitates global collaborations and promotes productivity.
4 Challenges of Pursuing an IT Career
While pursuing a career in IT can be fulfilling, it comes with unique challenges, like the following.
1. Constant industry innovations
Advancements in technology drive rapid changes, creating a dynamic environment that requires IT professionals to adapt and update their skills continuously. Staying abreast of emerging technologies and embracing ongoing learning is essential to thrive in this ever-evolving field.
2. Irregular career advancements
Employees often experience a sense of uncertainty and lack of clarity about their career progression because of the rapid technological changes that require continuous learning and upskilling. Plus, the IT field’s reliance on merits and experience means the need to stand out is much more pronounced than in other industries.
3. High chance for burnout
Burnout happens when stress at work results in frustration and demotivation toward your goals. Consider using applicable abilities for alternate career opportunities if your displeasure with the industry has a deeper root. While many might say passion prevents burnout, a surprising 64% said they experience frequent stress despite being passionate about their work.
You can regain motivation and open the door to a more meaningful job path by aggressively addressing the fundamental causes of burnout.
4. High educational and skill requirements
The IT sector demands high educational qualifications and specialized skills. The rapidly evolving nature of technology also necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development to succeed in the IT field.
As such, obtaining relevant degrees or certifications and continuously upgrading technical expertise are crucial to meet the industry’s rigorous standards.
Skills and Certifications Needed for IT Jobs
To be effective employees in the IT sector, professionals should possess a combination of certifications and skills. Several companies and organizations like Amazon, CompTIA, Google, ISTQB, ITIL, and Microsoft put a premium on IT certifications.
These organizations offer certification in skills crucial in the IT industry, like programming, cloud computing, database management, cybersecurity, and software development.
While a few certifications can help start an IT career, ongoing accreditation is crucial for staying competitive. It’s beneficial to seek employers that invest in employees’ professional development by providing resources for continuous learning and offering opportunities to earn additional certifications.
10 Types of IT Roles
In the IT industry, diverse roles with unique skills and certifications exist. When switching careers, you must choose a specific path to pursue and determine the skills and credentials required to succeed in it.
Here are some roles you might encounter as you make the career switch to the IT sector.
- Software developer
- DevOps engineer
- Systems analyst
- UI/UX designer
- Desktop support
- IT technician
- Web developer
- QA tester
- Computer scientist
- IT security specialist
Why Great Employers are Essential in IT
When switching careers to the IT industry, expect opportunities and growth. Since the demand for IT professionals is high, prepare to acquire the necessary skills and certifications for your desired role, whether in software development, cybersecurity, or network administration.
Although challenges exist, success is attainable with Yondu’s firm commitment to employee development and a supportive work environment inspired by diversity. Yondu provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, a vibrant company culture, a comprehensive benefits package, and a work-life balance.
Take the next step in your IT career by exploring open positions and joining a team that values your growth and success. Visit our careers page today!
