How to Switch from a Non-Tech Background to a Tech Job in Cyprus

The tech scene in Cyprus is hotter than ever, and it's the perfect time to make a career switch! In 2023, the tech industry contributed a massive €4 billion to the island's economy, with over 17,000 people employed in the sector.

Major companies like Payabl are thriving here, and the opportunities just keep growing.

Here are three solid reasons to join the tech revolution:

1. Fat paychecks: The average tech salary in Cyprus is around €142,000 per employee, way above the national average (Source: KPMG). High salaries in the tech industry provide a more lucrative career path.
2. Future-proof jobs: With the government investing heavily in tech and digital transformation, tech roles are in high demand across industries like fintech, AI, and cybersecurity. The government's investment ensures the growth and sustainability of these roles.
3. Level-up skills: Cyprus offers training programs and bootcamps to help you upskill and land your dream tech job. Training programs enable you to upskill for tech roles.

As a 20-something, you've got the perfect chance to get in on the action and secure a lucrative career path.

Like Bill Gates said,

"The computer was born to solve problems that didn't exist before."

Why not be part of creating solutions for a better tomorrow in the booming Cypriot tech ecosystem?

Let's dive into the latest scoop on landing a killer tech job in Cyprus – this tiny island is totally blowing up! According to the hot data from Advance Career, the top gigs in 2024 will be software development, IT systems admin, digital marketing, accounting, and auditing.

Talk about a diverse lineup, right? Companies are desperate for coding ninjas with Java, Python, and .NET skills to build rad apps and systems. But that's not all – cybersecurity is a massive deal, so ethical hackers who can sniff out risks and secure networks are in crazy demand.

And let's not forget data scientists! Companies need serious talent to analyze all that data using SQL, Tableau, and machine learning algorithms. The best part? These tech roles in Cyprus are raking in some serious cash.

We're talking an average of €35,000 per year, with specialized positions hitting €60,000+! Imagine the lifestyle you could live on that kind of dough in this stunning Mediterranean paradise. From major players like Wargaming and Elizabeth Taylor to innovative startups, everyone's scrambling to hire tech wizards.

So if you've got the skills (or are willing to grind and learn), Cyprus could be your ticket to an awesome career and a life of sun, sea, and success.

Switching to a tech job in Cyprus might seem daunting, but with the right mindset and resources, it's totally doable.

Sure, a degree in computer science or a related field is great, but don't sweat it if you don't have one. These days, coding bootcamps like Nucamp are legit options to get you skilled up and job-ready in no time.

But here's the real tea: employers in Cyprus aren't just looking for techies who can code like pros.

They want well-rounded individuals with solid problem-solving skills, communication game on point, and the ability to adapt to new challenges.

It's a package deal.

As for the hard skills that'll make you stand out, get familiar with programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript. Database management, SQL, cloud computing, DevOps, and cybersecurity principles are also hot commodities in the Cypriot tech scene.

And don't sleep on platforms like Coursera and Udemy – they're clutch for leveling up your knowledge whenever, wherever.

Building a sick tech portfolio is a must for switching to a tech job in Cyprus.

Start by figuring out the role you want, like web dev, and fill your portfolio with projects that show off those skills. If it's web dev, build a personal site or some responsive apps using the latest frameworks.

Go to local hackathons and coding challenges to gain real experience and beef up your portfolio.

Internships are clutch for getting hands-on experience and connecting with people in Cyprus' booming tech scene.

Major companies like Wargaming, Viber, and eBay have a big presence on the island. According to TechIsland, over 60% of Cypriot tech firms struggle to find skilled workers, so internships can lead to full-time gigs.

Here's what your tech portfolio should have:

• Well-documented projects with clear descriptions and code snippets
• Personal website or online portfolio showcasing your work
• Active GitHub profile contributing to open-source projects
• Certifications or online courses related to your desired tech role
• Getting certified with local tech training programs

When presenting your portfolio to potential employers, tailor it to the job requirements.

Highlight projects using their tech stack and meeting their business needs. According to Mobilunity, the most in-demand skills in Cyprus are Java, .NET, Python, and JavaScript.

Showcase your skills in those areas through your projects. Consider creating a video walkthrough or live demo to show off your problem-solving abilities and communication skills.

When it comes to networking and meeting up with fellow techies in Cyprus, you've got a ton of cool events to choose from.

Whether you're into coding, web design, AI, or just want to connect with like-minded people, there's something for everyone. Check out groups like PanisMeetups or GDG Cyprus - they host regular meetups, workshops, and networking sessions where you can expand your circle and learn some new skills.

As for landing that dream tech job, don't sleep on online job boards and portals.

Sites like CyprusJobs.com, Kariera.com.cy, and JobsInCyprus.gov.cy are where it's at for finding the latest openings.

You can search by location, role, and even filter by things like salary range and company perks. Pro tip: polish up your LinkedIn profile and set those job alerts - you'll be the first to know when new roles pop up.

But landing the job is just half the battle.

You've got to slay the interview too. Here's how you do it:

1. Show off your projects: Employers want to see what you've built, so have a portfolio ready to showcase your coding skills, web apps, or involvement in open-source projects.
2. Flex your problem-solving muscles: Tech interviews often involve coding challenges or case studies. Break it down step-by-step and explain your thought process - that's what they're looking for.
3. Do your research: Get to know the company inside and out - their tech stack, products, culture, everything. This shows you're genuinely interested and not just applying for anything.
4. Ask questions (the good ones): Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role, team dynamics, and growth opportunities. It shows you're eager to learn and grow with the company.

With the right networking, job search strategies, and interview prep, landing your first (or next) tech job in Cyprus will be a piece of cake.

Switching careers ain't easy, but Cyprus has your back if you wanna jump into tech! The island's government knows how important it is to have a solid tech workforce, so they've got programs like the "Digital Cyprus" strategy hooking you up with funding and training in areas like coding, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

Plus, groups like the Cyprus Computer Society and Cyprus Software Business Association offer mentorship programs to connect you with experienced pros who'll show you the ropes.

Big tech companies aren't slacking either.

Wargaming, VIRACOR Eurofins, and Amdocs have in-house training and partnerships with schools to help you level up your skills. And coding bootcamps like Le Wagon and Edumend are popular picks for intense, hands-on training in web dev, data science, and other in-demand tech skills.

They'll even hook you up with career services and mentors to boost your job-hunting game.

Linda Thomas used to be in marketing but crushed a full-stack web dev bootcamp and landed a sweet software engineer gig at a fintech startup.

She says the mentorship she got was clutch for her transition. Then there's David Martin who went from sales to data analyst after an online course and mentorship program from the Cyprus Information Technology Society.

He's now killing it at a consulting firm. These success stories prove that with the right resources and a supportive network, making the switch to a tech career in Cyprus is totally doable if you put in the work!