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As with landing any job, prior experience is, of course, a huge plus. For roles such as software engineering, data science, and product management, this means having sufficient understanding of software development to work on the company's software without much supervision.
Everyone can learn software engineering and become a software engineer. A degree in Computer Science is not necessary either. Gaining the expertise to build software products can be done through self-learning, joining a coding bootcamp, or enrolling in a post-graduate programme. Read more about how these methods compare to each other here.
Regardless of your method of choice, an important area to practise can be data structures and algorithms interview problems, such as ones on Leetcode or Hackerrank. These problems are commonly used, especially by larger tech companies, as a standard and efficient way to screen interview candidates.
Getting referrals through software engineers is useful for scoring interviews next. If you don't know any, try making connections on LinkedIn, at events and meetups, or even through a Telegram group for software engineers like DevSG. Apply to as many job openings as possible, and interview at companies you are less interested in first to get more interview experience. Most software engineering interviews are similar, and practice makes perfect!
A career in the tech industry is as rigorous as it is rewarding. It is important to remain open-minded and flexible in your work, especially since most tech companies have a culture of ‘do whatever it takes’, which requires employees to wear many hats. This happens because tech companies are often relatively new, considering the young age of the Internet. Work processes may not be as developed as those at traditional companies.
If you are an aspiring software engineer, Rocket Academy can be your launch pad. Our courses are aimed at equipping people, especially prospective career switchers, with the skills and resources to achieve a fulfilling career in software engineering.
Learn basic programming first by enrolling in our Coding Fundamentals course. Upon completion, you will be able to advance into Coding Bootcamp. This intensive online bootcamp is the only one in Singapore with career coaching by software engineers! Students will gain sought-after technical skills, build an impressive portfolio, and receive career support to help them clinch and ace interviews with our network of over 100 hiring partners.
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