Career Change Statistics
After spending years studying and perfecting your skills and expertise as a programmer, all is not lost if you are considering a career change. In fact, career changes are no longer as taboo or frowned upon as before, as there are many motivations behind them. Statistics show that in the US, 70% of the employable population is actively looking for a job change, with 39% being motivated by the desire for a higher salary. Similarly, it is reported that 47% of UK workers are looking for a career change; it took the tumultuous conditions of 2020 for 22% of them to realize that their current jobs are no longer fulfilling, with 33% of the employed workforce admitting that their jobs are no longer enjoyable.
It is quite clear from the statistics above that career changes are becoming more common and one no longer has to spend years at a job they no longer enjoy. Fortunately, a lot of skills are transferable across careers and can be adapted to fit into a new line of work, as is the case with programming as well.
Skills Programmers Have to Offer
Generally speaking, programmers are problem solvers, mathematically and technologically inclined, analytical, inquisitive, effective communicators, and they pay attention to detail. Of course, there are many other skills that apply specifically to the role of a programmer, but the above-mentioned are just some of the fundamental ones that can make the transition into a new role or career that much easier and seamless. The most successful programmers are able to pair their technical knowledge and capabilities with the necessary soft skills to work well within a team and to understand and communicate processes.
Alternative Career Paths Worth Pursuing
Programmers considering a career change have an array of alternatives to consider, some of which have been noted below:
- Software Developer: It is easy to assume that this role does not differ from a programmer, however, that is not the case. While a programmer is primarily concerned with the coding aspect, this role is broader and requires involvement in the full scope of a project. This includes, but is not limited to, designing, building, installing, testing, and maintaining software. Given the current times and growing interest in investment opportunities, it is safe to assume that there is a demand for software and apps that help people understand and analyse Forex markets, which is something that this role may extend to, depending on the organization or client at hand.
- Solutions Architect: This role requires you to have a thorough understanding of the current computer systems of an organization and subsequently design and develop new ones. This is to address any technical difficulties that the organization may be experiencing and ensure seamless integration of the current and newly developed ones to achieve business objectives.
- Business Analyst: This is another solutions-based role whereby you work with organizations to improve on their current systems and processes, after conducting the necessary research. Additionally, assisting with the rollout of the suggested solutions to business problems may form part of this role.
- Technical Consultant: This role requires you to provide technical advice and support where necessary, therefore, having a broad knowledge and programming expertise and experience does come in handy.
- UX (User Experience) Designer: As the job title suggests, this role is primarily concerned with the user interface and experience. Programming knowledge and capabilities are useful in this role because you will be able to effectively communicate your ideas to developers, who will have to bring them to reality. Having an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of developers can help you present the most realistic plans and ideas.
