A Udacity student’s online portfolio
Udacity is firmly committed to empowering students to advance their careers in tech by offering free, self-paced and project-based online computer science courses.
As an ed tech startup, we’re familiar with the challenges of educating and hiring savvy tech talent (we’re hiring!), and were inspired by the students and tech recruiters who attended our job-readiness-themed Global Meetup this year.
We heard solid advice from many tech recruiters for job seekers getting started with their careers in tech, and we want to share what we’ve learned from folks sitting on other side of the interview table.
Cat Hernandez, Head of Talent at real-time analytics startup Chartbeat, has four suggestions for online learners who may not have a formal technical background, and who want to get ahead in their careers.
1. Stay Curious
I think all great tech candidates share an unparalleled passion for technology and general curiosity. You have to be the type of person that is challenged by learning new things and applying that knowledge in creative ways.
2. Keep Learning
Whether you’re interested in design or development, the key to preparing for a career in tech is hands-on experience. A great starting point would be taking advantage of skill-specific online classes provided by organizations like Udacity. It’s also equally important to join relevant professional groups (i.e. meetups) to network and learn from people currently in the field.
3. Develop an Online Portfolio
Candidates need to be able to show actual work. If you’re passionate about design, you should have an online portfolio. If you’re a hungry coder and just starting out, make sure you have a place where your projects live. It’s hard to get a full sense of a candidate’s expertise without proof. Show us the proof.
4. Highlight Continued Learning in Resumes
Just as I mentioned in an earlier comment, it’s important to show employers your skill set in action. Online learning is not as looked down on as it used to be so don’t be afraid to highlight any and all of it on your resume. Continued learning, whatever the format, is highly encouraged in today’s tech community.
