The IT industry is a promising sector due to the significance of technology in today’s world. The industry’s sheer size makes it one of the most critical sectors in the global economy. Its rapid growth makes it a key participant in creating cultural implications because of the greater flexibility and better pay scale. However, when it comes to working in the IT industry, there are certain misconceptions and myths regarding the opportunities available and the work involved. In this post, we aim to debunk the most common myths associated with the tech industry. 

Context: Global and Local tech scene

The information technology (IT) industry comprises businesses that create hardware, software, and internet-related services. The global IT industry is one of the fastest-growing in the world since it offers several high-growth employment opportunities. Almost every company using a computer system relies on the services provided by the global IT sector. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in computer and information technology occupations will rise 11% between 2019 and 2029. The United States predicted that technology would account for 8.9 million jobs in 2022, as per a report by  CompTIA’s State of the Tech Workforce. This includes people who work directly in the tech sector and those who hold core tech jobs in other sectors of the economy. The Pakistani IT industry is rapidly expanding, and the country has recorded 70% growth in the IT industry over the years. Pakistan’s IT sector doubled in size to $3.5 billion in the last four years, and experts predict that it will increase by 100% during the next two to four years. The IT industry accounts for around 7% of Pakistan’s GDP and employs hundreds of thousands of people in various fields.  Due to the growth of the IT sector in recent years, professionals now have access to various opportunities and high-paying jobs.

Why you should consider a career in tech: Career opportunities

The advent of technology in our lives has given rise to several new professional opportunities that did not even exist a couple of decades ago. As stated by Glassdoor, 22 of the top 50 jobs this year are in the tech sector. Since the IT industry has multiple career opportunities, you can choose a career path that aligns with your expertise and interests. Consider working in the tech industry if you prefer a career that can offer you a lot of chances for progress and self-development. In addition to providing employees greater work flexibility and access to substantial benefits, IT industries often pay above-average wages. Not only this, the IT industry is recognized for its inclusiveness, constant innovation, and advancement. Hence, professionals in the IT sector have the exceptional opportunity to work in a range of environments with diverse people.

Debunking top myths of working in the tech industry

If you’re considering a career in technology, you may have thought about how realistic tech stereotypes really are. Is it difficult for women to enter into tech? Is the field dull? Or Do you have to be really good at math?

Media portrayals and stereotypically based public discourse have fostered negative misconceptions regarding technology. These myths create a barrier between technology and the people who could become a part of it. Below are some common myths about working in the tech industry that may prevent you from pursuing a career in this field.

You need to code to work in tech

Let’s start with this, if you think tech companies only have coders in them, that’s not true. There are plenty of amazing tech careers available that don’t require any coding. Product and project managers are highly paid for their skillset but mostly don’t write any code. Technical writers and graphic designers are also in high demand for their creative abilities. For marketing-savvy professionals seeking employment in the tech sector, jobs like digital media strategist or digital public relations for tech organizations are the ideal career path.

You need a computer science degree to work in tech

Another myth that has nothing to do with reality is that a computer science degree is a must-have. All major tech companies have stated that skills are more important than degrees. These days, organizations are particularly looking out for people with various skills and personality traits. Multiple companies, including EY, Google, and IBM, have switched their primary focus from degrees to skill-based to create a larger workforce that represents diversity and reduces employment gaps. You can enter and grow in the tech industry if you have the abilities and required skill set.  Not all programmers hold college degrees or have completed computer science courses. Of course, well-chosen education can provide you with the necessary knowledge and prepare you for career advancement. Almost 70% of Computer Systems Managers do not possess a Master’s degree, and 25% of them don’t even hold a bachelor’s Degree.

Women don’t work in tech

The lack of women in technology is a topic that is widely debated in the news. Although this is true in many industries and businesses, not all technology fields are male-dominated. When it comes to truly inclusive companies, we find improved gender equity. There are lots of organizations and communities like WomenInTech networks, LeanIn, and Black Girls In Tech that support and encourage women to step into the IT sector and find promising careers. WomenInTechPK and CodeGirls (A project by ConsulNet Corporation) are local organizations in Pakistan that constantly work on empowering women through fully funded boot camps. Global companies such as Groupon, eBay, Pinterest, and LinkedIn have at least 40%, female employees. Depending on where you look, statistics can differ. However, there are women in technology; don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

You need to be very proficient in math

If you wish to work as a developer, math skills might be quite helpful. However, not every developer is a math expert. Yes, strong mathematical knowledge can be helpful if you want to work as a data analyst, but you don’t need to be an expert. Furthermore, math skills are less crucial in design, frontend developers, product management and tech writers, etc., where analytical and communication skills would be more valuable. Learn more about what it takes to work in the tech field.

A job in tech is boring

Depending on the job description and company culture, an information technology specialist may be assigned varied tasks that keep them learning and growing. In tech companies, employees sometimes switch teams or even roles to challenge themselves and also pick up new skills. Tech is vast and constantly changes, and it keeps techies always learning and on their toes.

Narrow career path

Since technology is interconnected with almost every other sector of the global economy, changing positions and responsibilities is possible. This is due to the diversity of information technology employment roles and responsibilities across various industries and companies.

You can even switch industries without changing careers and add to your industry-specific knowledge.

You find yourself working alone all of the time.

The truth is the tech field is quite social. To make a project successful, it takes coordination of ideas across individuals. Tech teams are very close-knitted, even when working remotely, because tech teams consist of people having different roles like Devs, QA, PMs, etc. They hold brainstorming and retrospective sessions. The tech teams are often very well coordinated, and you will find close friendships and buddy networks within the organizations. The tech industry offers flexibility, so you can choose how much or how little you want to interact with others.

Wrapping up

Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of what working in technology entails. Working in technology could be an exciting experience because it brings together different types of people to solve problems and innovate. Take part in the industry you want to break into. Educate yourself, explore courses offered online and onsite, sign up for the available webinars, attend career fairs, and speak with professionals in the business. At ConsultNet, we offer a wide range of courses, from basic IT to the latest technology tools and frameworks. Our goal is to better equip youth with the skills they need to prosper in the current tech-driven world. We offer assistance at all levels to encourage more youth to enter the tech sector. Contact us for further details; we will happily answer your queries.