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

The tech industry in Finland is absolutely booming! Finland's technology sector has seen remarkable growth in recent years. According to a study by Technology Finland, the tech industry is the most important export industry, contributing over 50% of all Finnish exports.

More than 335,000 Finns work in tech companies, and the sector is responsible for a staggering 65% of all private sector R&D investments in the country.

But why make the switch to a tech career in Finland? Here are a few solid reasons:

• Tech jobs in Finland offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits. The average annual salary for a software developer is around €52,000, according to PayScale.
• Finland's tech industry is highly innovative, with companies like Nokia, Supercell, and Rovio at the forefront of cutting-edge advancements in fields like 5G, AI, and gaming.
• The startup ecosystem in Finland is thriving, as the country ranks among the top 10 startup-friendly nations in Europe, according to the European Startup Monitor. Finnish startups have raised over €300 million in venture capital investments annually in recent years.

If you're considering a career transition to the tech field, Finland presents an incredible opportunity.

This guide will help you navigate the switch and land your dream tech job. The old Finnish saying goes, "Hyppää kyytiin tai jää kyydistä" - hop on or get left behind! And don't forget to check out Nucamp's list of the top coding bootcamps in Finland to kickstart your tech journey.

Switching from a non-tech background to a sweet tech gig in Finland might seem like a big deal, but with the right mindset, it's totally doable. The first step is to take a real hard look at the skills you already have and figure out what transferable skills you can bring to the table.

Many skills from other industries are super valued in tech, like:

• Problem-solving: Breaking down complex issues and coming up with fresh solutions is clutch for roles like software development and data analysis.
• Communication: Clearly getting your point across is key for collaborating with different teams and explaining technical stuff to all sorts of people.
• Project management: Planning, organizing, and executing projects is super important for roles like product management and software project management.

But to really slay in the tech world, you'll probably need to learn some new technical skills.

According to the experts, the top skills in demand for tech jobs in Finland include programming languages (Python, Java, C++), cloud computing, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

Identifying the gaps in these areas is crucial for tailoring your learning path.

Luckily, Finland has tons of resources to help you level up your skills and make the switch easier.

Popular options include:

1. Coding bootcamps like Academy BC and MOOC.fi, which offer intensive training in programming and other tech skills.
2. Online courses and certifications from platforms like Coursera and edX, providing flexible learning opportunities.
3. University programs like the University of Helsinki's Computer Science program, offering comprehensive tech education.

As someone who made the switch in Finland said,

"The tech industry values skills over traditional qualifications. By leveraging my transferable skills and dedicating time to upskilling, I was able to land a sweet tech role no problem." — David Martinez

The growing demand for coding skills in Finland is driving the popularity of coding bootcamps. These intensive programs are a sweet shortcut to landing a tech job.

According to the global edtech ranking by TIME magazine, four Finnish companies made the cut, including the gamified learning platform Claned and the virtual classroom creators 3DBear.

But if you're more of a traditionalist, universities like Aalto and LUT offer comprehensive tech degrees covering computer science, software engineering, and data analysis.

Or you could go the online route with platforms like Coursera and edX, offering courses from top universities worldwide. Whatever path you choose, Finland has plenty of options to help you level up your skills and score that dream tech job.

Crafting a knockout tech portfolio and resume is key if you're trying to switch from a non-tech background to score a sweet tech gig in Finland.

Your portfolio is like your superpower, giving employers a glimpse of your mad skills. According to the experts at Anywhere, it should showcase your coding prowess with samples from personal projects or challenges.

Don't forget to flaunt your technical writing chops and any designs or prototypes you've cooked up. Oh, and if you've contributed to open-source projects, that's a major flex!

Now, let's talk resumes.

The brilliant minds at Reaktor say Finnish tech recruiters dig resumes highlighting relevant skills over traditional work experience.

So, even if your background is in something totally different, highlight any transferable skills you've got - like problem-solving abilities that could translate to coding, project management experience useful for dev life cycles, or communication and collaboration skills crucial for agile teams.

A study by Duunitori found that a whopping 73% of Finnish tech employers value passion and a willingness to learn over extensive technical expertise.

So, why not include something like, "While my background is in [non-tech field], I've developed a deep fascination for technology and I'm pumped to keep leveling up in this ever-evolving field." Companies in Finland are all about ambitious, adaptable talent, and a statement like that shows you've got that fire!

Networking is key to landing that sweet tech gig in Finland, even if you're coming from a non-tech background. Helsinki's got some dope events like Slush where you can connect with startups and investors from all over.

And don't sleep on other gatherings like the National Entrepreneur Days in Seinäjoki or Celonis Day Helsinki to network and learn about the latest tech trends.

Online job portals make the hunt a breeze too.

Check out top job sites like Duunitori and Monster for tech listings.

And Linkedin's a solid way to connect with industry pros and find those hidden gem opportunities. But don't just scroll mindlessly – join local groups like React Finland or Python Finland to tap into the tech communities.

When it's interview time, you gotta bring your A-game.

According to Nucamp's article, highlight those transferable skills from your previous roles – problem-solving, adaptability, and a thirst for knowledge.

Practice coding challenges, study common questions, and show 'em why a career switcher like you is a valuable addition to their team.