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The Easiest Way to Transition into a Tech Role

Picture of Chidiogo Akaelu
Transition into a Tech Role

 

Let’s be real, tech is everywhere these days. People are transitioning into tech roles, getting remote jobs, working from home, earning in dollars, and living soft. You’ve probably heard things like “Tech is the new oil,” or “Tech dey pay.” And now, you’re thinking of how to transition into a tech role, but you don’t know where to start. Relax. You’re not alone.

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Whether you studied accounting, education, or even theatre arts, you can still transition into a tech role. It’s not magic. You just need the right mindset, simple tools, and a small plan. This article will break everything down.

  1. Understand What Tech Really Means

When people say “tech,” they don’t always mean coding. Tech has many parts. You don’t need to become a software developer if that’s not your thing.

Here are some tech roles you can explore:

  • Product Designer (UI/UX)
  • Data Analyst
  • Digital Marketer
  • Product Manager
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Software Developer
  • IT Support
  • Cloud Engineer
  • Technical Writer

All these are under tech. The first step to transition into a tech role is to know your options and choose what fits you.

  1. Look at Your Strengths and Interests

  • Are you good at writing? You can be a technical writer.
  • Are you creative? Try UI/UX design.
  • Do you enjoy numbers? Look into data analysis.
  • Do you love organising things? Product management may be for you.

Don’t follow the crowd. Choose something you’re naturally curious about. That way, learning becomes easier.

Ask yourself:

  • What do I enjoy doing?
  • What skills do I already have?
  • Which tech role matches that?

This is a smart way to start your transition.

  1. Find Free or Cheap Learning Platforms

You don’t need to pay millions to start. There are many free and affordable learning platforms online:

  • YouTube – Just search: “How to become a UI/UX designer.”
  • Coursera & edX – Offer free beginner courses.
  • LinkedIn Learning – Free for the first month.
  • AltSchool, Tech4Dev, Ingressive for Good (I4G) – Free tech training programs for Africans.
  • Google Digital Skills Africa – Free courses in digital marketing and more.

Set a small goal: Learn for 1 hour a day. That’s how you start.

  1. Practice As You Learn

Don’t just watch videos — try things out. If you’re learning design, create a sample app. If it’s data analysis, analyse your own spending. If you’re learning to code, build a small calculator. Practice makes progress.

Share your work online too. X, LinkedIn, and even WhatsApp are good platforms to post your journey. People will start to notice. Some will even help or mentor you.

  1. Join a Tech Community

Tech can feel lonely if you’re learning alone. But there are tech communities where you’ll meet people like you, beginners, learners, and professionals who are ready to help.

Some Nigerian tech communities you can join:

  • TechHerNG
  • ForLoop Africa
  • Ingressive for Good (I4G)
  • She Code Africa (for women)

These groups will keep you motivated, help you with resources, and even alert you when there are job or internship openings.

  1. Start With Internships or Freelance Gigs

Once you know the basics of your chosen tech path, look for internship roles or small freelance jobs.

You can check platforms like:

  • LinkedIn
  • Fiverr
  • Upwork
  • Indeed

Don’t wait till you’re perfect. Apply even while learning. Some companies love to work with fresh minds who are hungry to grow.

  1. Fix Your CV and Online Presence

If you want to transition into a tech role, your CV should show it. Don’t just list your school or old jobs. Add the courses you’ve taken, the projects you’ve done, and the tools you know how to use.

Also, update your LinkedIn profile. Post about your learning journey. Share your thoughts. Connect with other tech professionals.

You don’t need years of experience. Just show your passion, growth, and willingness to learn.

  1. Be Patient and Keep Going

Tech is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time to grow. You’ll get stuck sometimes. You might feel confused. That’s okay. Everyone starts from zero.

Don’t compare yourself with others. Focus on your journey. Even one hour of learning a day will add up in 3 months, 6 months, or a year.

And remember, there are many Nigerians like you who made the switch successfully — some with no tech background, just hunger and consistency.

Final Thoughts

To transition into a tech role, you don’t need to be rich or a genius. You just need to be ready to learn, practice, and connect with others.

Start small. Choose your path. Learn with free tools. Join a community. Show your work. And keep moving. The tech world is big, and there’s space for you, too. So, are you ready to take the first step today?

Got something you want to read about on our platform? Contact us: [email protected]

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