Careers in the Technology Sector

It is a multi-million pound industry that affects so many aspects of our daily lives that without it, many of us feel lost. Fancy a job within this industry? Then keep on reading.

1

What is the Technology sector?

The Technology sector is mammoth. It is global, constantly evolving and one of the most lucrative industries to join. It incorporates everything from research and development, to the manufacturing and distribution of technological goods. Businesses involved in the creation of software, computers, products, services and everything to do with IT all fall under the technology umbrella. It is also the industry making science fiction come true, with concepts such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) all slowly moving forward into daily reality.

Businesses involved in the creation of software, computers, products, services and everything to do with IT all fall under the technology umbrella.

With such a broad remit, it’s no wonder the Technology sector is such a popular industry to join – and one where an unprecedented number of jobs are being created in never-before existing fields. It’s a sector constantly appearing in the news as investment in the industry continues to grow and flourish, despite what may be happening in the wider economy.

2

Job roles in the Technology sector

So exactly what jobs are available in the Technology sector? Most people may automatically think of scores of people sitting in a row typing away at computers. Of course, using computers is kind of a key part to most roles – it is technology, after all – but there is so much more than meets the eye…

    • This role falls into the creative side of the Technology sector. Software Developers help invent the technology we use every day; social media, portable connected devices – you name it, they had something to do with it. The best Software Developers possess an equal mix of creativity and technological know-how to make our wildest futuristic imaginings a reality.

    • These boffins help design and programme system software – they build and create the ideas usually created by Software Developers. To succeed in such a role you need to understand software and hardware functions, but also an ability to adapt as software ‘language’ constantly changes.

    • This role is for the world’s problem solvers. Usually working closely with Software Developers and Engineers, Software Testers help check for bugs and problems with new technology. They help at multiple stages of projects to test, fix and analyse new systems, software and physical devices to ensure they are ready for use by the wider community.

    • Let’s not lie, we’ve all needed a little tech support at some point in our lives. Whether this role is internal to a company or externally facing (helping customers, for example), individuals in this role need to know the tech they are dealing with inside-out and have strong people skills. It allows for individuals to work with numerous types of products or services, and work with people at the same time.

    • Again this role involves strong knowledge of the technology in question, plus an ability to work well with people. A Technical Consultant role involves providing insight and advice at various stages of a project, but also potentially working to help secure a new contract or teaching others about certain features or industry updates.

    • If you have a love of technology and have the gift of the gab, Technical Sales might be for you. The difference between a Technical Sales role and general sales is the insider knowledge of the product in question. Technical Sales individuals know the product or service up for grabs inside-out and are able to communicate coherently with potential and existing clients. Plus, they can work in a number of different tech sub-groups.

    • Tech Project Managers will head up the planning, development and installation of new systems or products within a company or the wider marketplace. It’s an incredibly diverse role and requires an very well organised person. Within the technology sector, being a Project Manager is very fast-paced due to the constantly evolving environment.

    • Heading up an IT team is no mean feat. This role involves working with internal managers from other departments and helping to plan, deliver and evaluate certain projects, as well as managing a team to help deliver said project. This involves being aware of the constantly evolving nature of IT and the tech sector, plus an ability to coordinate new updates or releases with other business managers, with the occasional need to get stuck in with the technical side as well.

    • Ah the internet – ever wondered who builds all the internet holes we so often find ourselves stuck in? Well it’s Web Developers. They help build the infrastructure behind websites and are employed in every industry sector, but have a strong tech background and an ability to code and programme.

3

Qualifications for a job in Technology

As detailed above, there are so many different roles available within the Technology sector, and some may not require a straight degree or qualification in technology. Many employers will consider people with a degree in a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics), as well as IT and business.

4

Skills you need for a job in Technology

The main focus isn’t necessarily what qualifications you have, but rather the skills you can demonstrate. Here are some of the most desired tech skills:

    • Standing for Structured Query Language, this is a programming language used to manage databases and is used almost everywhere.

    • Webpages use HTML to define the content displayed on a page. This is arguably the foundation needed to create web pages and web applications – key for businesses looking to make an impact in the 21st Century.

    • The core programming language used for data science and web application development. Although created in 1991, it is still used today.

    • Software-as-a-Service and cloud are relatively new ways of accessing software and services, and are at the forefront of development. Getting clued-up on this subsection of the industry will pay dividends.

    • Users want quick, easy-to-use and intelligent technology. User interface and user experience knowledge is very desirable as it puts the customer first, which is important in such a saturated market.

    • Along with UI/UX knowledge is an understanding of quality assurance. Having experience of this is highly sought after as, again, it will help with customer acquisition.

    • Another buzzword in the Technology sector, everyone uses big data nowadays but not everyone knows how to best use it. Understanding all the data now available is paramount to a company’s success.

    • The Technology industry is one of the most lucrative industries, and as a result the market can be ruthless. People with tech knowledge, but also an ability to grow and develop a business and its contacts, are very valuable.

    • This skill is especially needed in the Technology sector as being able to understand different processes and consider the outcomes, along with an in depth technological understanding, is key.

    • Being an organised, capable person who can envision and manage a project from start to finish, with technical insight as well, is a true gamechanger for businesses.

5

Work experience in the Technology sector

There are many types of work experience that can be undertaken within the Technology sector. Most companies will offer either work shadowing, internships or placements. Depending on what skills you are looking to develop, it is best to research companies specialising in certain areas such as those listed above, and trying to gather some experience across them all.

On top of this, it is important to develop experience and skills by yourself – take part in hackathons, build your own website and experiment with different programmes and codes. Practice really does make perfect, and the more you expose yourself to such things, the better you’ll get.

6

Pros and Cons of the Technology sector

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So there you have it – our in depth breakdown of the Technology sector. You’re welcome.

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