Getting your technology career started

There are few job markets that have experienced the explosive growth that technology has.

Once a niche area, demand for talented technologists has continued to grow, spurred on by the increasingly important role technology and the Internet plays in society.

Now that the digital world has become a core component in all our lives, demand has skyrocketed.

This is good news for graduates for two reasons. One, there’s lots of opportunity and two, it’s a good bet they’ll be roles that suit your interests and career aspirations.

With so much opportunity, your focus should be on finding the right company and role for you.

Research

Today, there are a multitude of different channels for engaging with potential employers. Your University employment portal is a good place to start.

As demand increases, businesses are building close partnerships with Universities and your portal will have good information on these companies and opportunities on offer.

Dedicated graduate sites like this one will give you a much broader view of what the job market has on offer as well as providing advice and insight from graduates who have gone before you.

I’d recommend researching companies you’re interested in and contacting them directly. Even if they don’t advertise. Identify their internal recruitment team and send a speculative application.

Employers rate people who take the initiative. It’s an excellent indicator of drive and enthusiasm. While we can develop your skills, you can’t teach passion.

Approach

When approaching a potential employer, a CV and covering letter aren’t essential but they tick some useful boxes.

Employers typically have a clear idea of the people they want to attract and a strong CV and covering letter can help us to assess upfront whether we have the right position for you and whether you have the qualities we are looking for.

I’d recommend including your academic record (GSCE/A-Level results, etc) this will give us an indication of your aptitude both in terms of your skill level and ability to learn.

However, while aptitude is important, perhaps more so is the kind of work that interests you. A good employer is not only looking for someone that fits their business need but also to ensure that you get the most out of your career.

It’s what ensures a long and fruitful partnership.

Include information about projects you’ve worked on both at University and your spare time. Tell us about the societies you’ve belonged to and your involvement in them. The more you tell us, the better we can identify whether we have the right position in the right team.

It would also be useful to include any work experience. Not because it’s a prerequisite of getting a job but because it tells us that you’ve had a taste of the world of work.

If you’re not considering a work placement during your degree, I’d encourage you to think again. Transitioning from the academic environment to gainful employment can be tough. Internships are a great way of setting yourself up for an easier transition.

In the covering letter show you’ve spent time looking into our company and explain why you think we’d be a good fit. We’re looking for passionate people who want to make a meaningful contribution and a good covering letter will go a long way in demonstrating your intent.

Interview

The first part in our recruitment process is a phone call. It’s typically an informal chat, where we begin to get a feel for who you are, what you want and whether we can work together.

We understand they’ll be nerves. For many it’s their first formal interview with an employer, so being anxious is natural. My advice. Be yourself. Let your passion come across. Be authentic. No matter how nervous you are, you will sound sincere.

Don’t be afraid to let the employer know what work you’d like to do and what your career goals are. There’s a huge amount of opportunity out there and if one company can’t support your aspirations, they will be one that can.

At bet365, we are very honest as to whether we feel a person is the right fit. It’s in the best interest of both parties. It ensures we don’t take on people we can’t support, mentor and develop and you don’t get involved with a company that isn’t going to satisfy your ambition.

by Dan Myatt, Recruitment Manager, bet365.