The tech deck is a one-pager that markets you and your skills to prospective employers. This CV alternative should highlight your most impressive skills, experiences, and technical certifications. In the professional world of software developers and engineers, potential employees are judged based on their tech decks alone. The tiniest details such as font size, color coding, ordering of information, and even the visual design can make or break you during the job application process. And because a CV is no longer sufficient for applicants, we’ve prepared 5 ways to get a professional tech deck salary that reflects your true value as an employee.
Create a Competitive Resume
A good resume is the first step to getting a job. With many employers now accepting only a tech deck, this traditional CV has become less important. We’re seeing people switch from a CV to a tech deck at a rate of about 2 to 1. If you’re among the few still using a resume, here are 5 ways to create a competitive resume:
– Use a template – There are many samples of resumes available online. Use one as a template to help you get started.
– Use action verbs – Employers want to know what you’ve done, so use verbs that show what you’ve accomplished.
– Don’t pad your resume – Keep your resume to one page. If you’re applying for a management position, you might need to add a second page.
– Stay current – Update your resume each time you complete a new skill or certification. – Keep your resume to one page – If you need more space, create a supplemental document.
A Strong Portfolio
A portfolio is a collection of your best work. You can include your resume, letters of recommendation, and samples of projects you’ve worked on. There are many ways to build a portfolio, but you can’t just throw a few links and pieces of code on a website and call it a day. Employers want to see a curated collection of your best work. Here are 5 ways to build a strong portfolio:
– Create a focused portfolio – Don’t put everything into your portfolio. Choose a few pieces of work that best represent your skills.
– Choose your portfolio carefully – You might have created an amazing website in your free time. Unless it ties into your career goals, leave it out of your portfolio.
– Organize your portfolio – Your portfolio should be easy to navigate. Put your best work at the top and organize it according to the subject matter.
– Create a visual design – Employers are looking at your portfolio as much as your code. It should be visually appealing and easy to browse.
Networking and Job Fairs
Networking is the process of finding people in your industry or field that can help you advance your career. It’s not just for salespeople. You can network with anyone who can help you move forward. During job fairs, you can connect with hiring managers of companies you’re interested in working for. Here are 5 ways to network at a job fair:
– Do your homework – Come to the job fair prepared. Research the companies in attendance. Review their job descriptions. Find the name of the hiring manager for the positions you’re interested in.
– Practice your elevator pitch – You only have a few seconds to make an impression. Practice your elevator pitch so you can introduce yourself and your skills confidently.
– Maintain eye contact – It’s easy to lose your train of thought when talking to a new person. Keep your eyes on your conversation partner and maintain eye contact.
– Bring business cards – You can exchange contact information with the hiring manager.
– Follow up after the job fair – Send an email to the hiring manager a few days after the job fair. Make sure to reference their company and job title in the email.
Proctored Exams
There are a few ways to show your skills without taking the time to build a project or portfolio. One of the more popular options is to take a proctored exam that demonstrates your skills without requiring you to build a portfolio. These exams are offered by various testing providers. Here are 5 ways to prepare for and take a proctored exam:
– Research different exam providers – There are testing providers for most skill sets. Make sure the exam matches your skill set and is within your area of expertise.
– Choose an exam that matches your skill set – If you don’t have any skills to demonstrate, an exam won’t help you get a job. Make sure you take an exam that evaluates a skill that you have proficiency in.
– Prepare for the exam – Study for the exam as if it were an exam in a traditional classroom setting. Make sure you’re familiar with the skills being tested.
– Don’t take an exam until you’re ready – Make sure you’ve prepared for the exam, and then take it.
– Follow up with your proctor – Once you’ve taken the exam, follow up with your proctor to make sure it was received.
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to advance in your career, a tech deck is an important part of your job search. The 5 ways to get a professional tech deck salary can help you create an impressive tech deck that lands you the job you’re looking for.
