Mmm, that new forum smell. Let’s discuss things!
No degree and no professional experience to show? I think that can make it difficult to get your career started.
I’m one of those people who has treated programming as just a hobby – for a very long time. I’m not so much looking for advice myself because I seem to be having decent luck with my applications (had a couple of interviews for remote positions despite 100+ applicants), but perhaps there are a handful of people in similar situations that could use some tips?
I’ve only started career hunting since a couple of months ago, but here is what I’ve learned personally:
- Portfolios are important. I’m still in the process of putting something together myself to better showcase my previous projects.
- Networking – try and spread your reach in the industry by attending any events possible and connecting to people there.
- Know the basics. A lot of computer science fundamentals you won’t know without deliberate study or reading. I’ve gone many years without hearing about some fundamental concepts (which are ironically rarely used in completely normal code).
- Be personable and connect wherever possible. Remember that when you’re doing an interview with an engineer, they are a programmer just like you — get to know them!
- It’s probably a lot easier to land on-site positions than remote, but perhaps that might be changing.
Let me know if you disagree or have other advice!