"Don't think of IT as a train you have to jump on": experience of a Python developer

How quickly did you manage to find a job?

Within 3-4 weeks after graduation, I started actively sending my CVs to all possible sites, passed several screenings, and completed test cases. But I found a job on LinkedIn in a little less than a month. After several stages of interviews, I was hired as a junior Python engineer at Custom PC Software. This outsourcing company has been on the market for over 15 years and has regular customers mainly from the United States.

What advice would you give those currently looking for a job in a market with fewer vacancies than applicants?

I have registered on many job search sites, including international ones, and monitor them daily. And I recommend it to everyone. When you see a lot of vacancies, it's easy to find standard requirements and deepen your knowledge where there is a gap.

Don't lie in your CV. Even if you pass the initial screening, you will fail the following stages. You will leave a bad impression of yourself and waste both parties' time.

What should those who want to work in IT do and don't know where to start?

First, answer the question, "why?" Don't think of IT as a train you have to jump on. It seems easy, but mastering any new profession requires a lot of time, resources, and motivation. So first, you need to figure out the directions, ask people in the field about the undercurrents, or go to meetups to understand what exactly is yours. This is the hardest part. And when you choose a direction in IT, don't expect quick results. You won't be able to work for the rest of your life with the knowledge you've gained in 4 months.

Choosing a career in IT is similar to the experience with books: we first read the summary to see if we like the story. So try yourself in as many directions as possible to feel what you really like. Don't give up trying so you don't regret it later.

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