7 Things to Consider When Pivoting Into Tech
For many early- to mid-career professionals, the tech industry offers an exciting blend of competitive salaries, flexibility, and the opportunity to make an impact on the future of work. But contemplating a pivot—no matter your background—can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re coming from education, healthcare, nonprofit, or another field entirely, your path into tech will require both self-awareness and a thoughtful strategy.
Here are 7 key considerations as you chart your course:
1. Clarify Your “Why”
Before jumping into applications or skill-building, ask yourself: Why do I want to move into tech?
Is it for better pay, remote flexibility, new challenges, or a deeper passion for digital solutions? Having a clear motivation will keep you focused and persistent, especially when the transition becomes tough.
2. Recognize Your Transferable Skills
You bring more to the table than you think. Skills like project management, communication, problem-solving, data analysis, collaboration, and adaptability are highly valued in tech. Map your strongest attributes to tech roles—such as product manager, UX researcher, data analyst, or customer success manager—where your background gives you a unique edge.
3. Explore the Breadth of Tech
Tech isn’t just about coding!
The industry is powered by a range of roles like sales, marketing, design, operations, support, strategy, and more. Spend time reading job descriptions and talking to people in the field to understand where your unique skills and interests might shine. Don’t lock yourself into the notion that you must become a software engineer to break in.
4. Commit to Ongoing Learning
The only real constant in tech is change. Show your commitment by engaging with online courses, joining workshops, or earning certifications. Take advantage of affordable or free resources like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning to start. Demonstrating a growth mindset is often as valuable as formal experience.
5. Build and Activate Your Tech Network
Networking is about building genuine relationships and expanding the circle of people who know what you’re capable of. Attend meetups, join online tech communities, connect with alumni, and engage on LinkedIn. Ask questions, offer value, and share your journey. These connections often lead to job leads and critical, real-world advice.
6. Stay Flexible With Your Entry Point
Your first tech job may not be your dream role, and that’s okay. Sometimes it means taking a lateral move or starting at a different level to gain relevant experience and visibility. Be ready to embrace these entry points as investments in your long-term growth, not setbacks.
7. Embrace the Pivot Mindset
The pivot itself is a skill. Expect moments of uncertainty or setbacks, and know that each one builds your resilience. View the process as a power move: an opportunity to reinvent yourself, apply your existing skills in new ways, and contribute to an innovative field that’s hungry for fresh perspectives.
A pivot into tech isn’t just about landing a new job—
it’s about aligning your strengths, values, and aspirations with an industry shaping tomorrow. With intention, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, you can turn this transition into the launchpad for a thriving career.
What’s the biggest question on your mind about making the leap into tech? Ask AdaMarie.
