Last Updated: 30 September 2023
Breaking into your dream job without any experience can feel like a daunting task. I’ve been there myself, and I’ve got to tell you, that first resume was a real struggle. But don’t worry, I’m here to share some tips on what I did to finally get that first programming job and how you can handle some common challenges too.
Focusing on Relevant Skills
So, my first few resume drafts were pretty terrible. I was so fixated on coding skills that I completely overlooked other important skills. Eventually, I learned to focus on highlighting any experience that was even remotely relevant to software development or the tech industry.
Examples of Highlighting Relevant Skills to Become a Programmer
- Underwater construction job: Rather than emphasizing the diving aspect, I showcased my problem-solving and leadership skills, which are valuable in the tech world too.
- Online boat parts company: Instead of highlighting sales experience, I emphasized content management and team leadership. I even mentioned that I had used HTML for formatting product descriptions - it’s a small detail, but it’s tech-related!
- Prelaw peer advisor: I focused on content creation and management, as well as organizing lectures. I figured employers might be looking for programmers to support content management systems, so this experience could be relevant.
- Digital preservation job: Although it didn’t involve coding, I emphasized my ability to learn new technologies and train others on using specialized equipment. These are skills that good programmers need too.
The key here is to sell your potential. Show employers that you have the aptitude and mindset to succeed, even if you don’t have direct programming experience.
Structuring Your Resume
But what if your resume still feels sparse? It’s easy to get intimidated, but remember: you don’t have to follow the traditional resume structure. If you’ve only had unrelated jobs, like working at a fast-food joint or as a cashier, try focusing on your portfolio projects instead.
Relevant Experience Section
Place a Relevant Experience section at the top of your resume, and list your projects with details about the problems they solved, the technologies involved, and any user statistics. This will show employers what you’re capable of, rather than just listing unrelated work experience.
Job History Section
You can include a brief Job History section at the bottom of your resume, but keep it short and sweet. Your main goal is to showcase your potential to technical employers who understand why you’ve structured your resume this way.
Final Tips
Remember, many companies use software to scan resumes for keyword matches, so focusing on what you can do is crucial. And don’t forget to include a clear link to your portfolio site on your resume!