From Beginner to Employed: A Fast Track Guide to Landing Your First Coding Job

The journey from learning to code to landing your first job can be daunting, especially without a formal computer science background or bootcamp experience. The speaker in this video shares their experience and provides a streamlined approach to learning to code and securing employment quickly, avoiding common pitfalls that can slow progress.

Step 1: Choose Your Language Wisely

Before diving too deep, **select a versatile language and stick with it.** The speaker recommends starting with JavaScript or Python due to their wide range of applications.

• JavaScript and Python: These languages are suitable for web development, software development, machine learning, data science, and backend development.
• Flexibility: JavaScript can also be used in platforms like ServiceNow and Salesforce, providing alternative career paths beyond traditional web development.
• Free Resources: Platforms like FreeCodeCamp offer free lessons to get a taste of both languages and determine your preference.

Avoid jumping between languages and frameworks as this can hinder your progress and prevent you from mastering any one skill. Focus on becoming proficient in a single language.

Step 2: Efficient Learning Through HandsOn Coding

Resist the temptation to solely rely on lengthy YouTube tutorials. While they might seem comprehensive, passively watching others code isn't as effective as actively coding yourself.

• The Importance of Coding: The only way to truly learn is by doing.
• Recommended Resources: FreeCodeCamp and The Odin Project are excellent resources for handson learning, where concepts build upon each other progressively.
• Take Your Time: Coding isn't a race. Understanding fundamental concepts is crucial for future success. Rushing through material will create gaps in your knowledge that will eventually become problematic.

Step 3: ProjectBased Learning and Portfolio Building

Transition from exercises to building projects to apply learned concepts in a dynamic environment. Start with guided projects to gain a foundational understanding of project development.

• Vanilla JavaScript or Python: Begin projects using these languages without frameworks or libraries to solidify your understanding of the underlying concepts.
• Frameworks Later: Frameworks can speed up development, but learning the core concepts first is essential. Otherwise, you might not understand *why* things work.
• FreeCodeCamp Projects: Utilize the vanilla JavaScript and Python project tutorials available on the FreeCodeCamp YouTube channel.

Once you've completed guided projects, create your own projects and enhance existing ones to showcase your skills and add value to your portfolio. Contributing enhancements to existing projects is similar to tasks you'll encounter in realworld development.

• GitHub: Upload all of your projects to your GitHub account.
• Personal Website: Consider building a personal website with a portfolio section to showcase your projects. This can be very impressive to potential employers.

Step 4: Job Applications and Soft Skills

Target jobs that require zero to two years of experience to avoid frustration and maximize your chances of success.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume is ATSfriendly (Applicant Tracking System).
• ATS Compatibility: Simplify your resume's formatting, focusing on content rather than visual appeal. Avoid excessive designs, grids, and tables that can confuse the ATS.
• Apply Directly: Instead of using the "easy apply" options on LinkedIn or other job boards, apply directly on the company's website.

Once you start receiving phone calls, prioritize your soft skills. While technical knowledge is crucial, demonstrating personality, drive, and a positive attitude can set you apart.

• Soft Skills: Focus on building rapport with the interviewer and showing enthusiasm for the role.

Dealing with Rejection and Continuous Improvement

Rejection is a normal part of the job search process. View each failed interview as a learning opportunity.

• Learn from Mistakes: Take note of any questions or concepts you struggled with and research them after the interview.
• Focus on Control: Concentrate on improving your knowledge and skills rather than dwelling on factors beyond your control.

By following these steps and remaining persistent, you'll increase your chances of landing your first coding job. Don't give up too soon!