Top 10 Tips to Find Your Dream Tech Job in Manchester

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: June 5th 2024

Map of Manchester highlighting tech companies and job event locations

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Discover Manchester's top tech tips for landing your dream job. With 10,000+ tech businesses, key players like Google and Microsoft, and a focus on cybersecurity, eCommerce, and AI, Manchester's tech sector offers immense growth potential projected to outpace the UK's average. Engage with the tech community, leverage LinkedIn, network effectively, connect with local tech recruiters, explore job boards, attend tech fairs, engage online, consider internships, stay informed on tech trends, and follow up persistently for success in Manchester's tech job market.

Have you heard about Manchester's tech scene? It's absolutely insane! This city outside of London is like the UK's digital tech capital, with a massive £5 billion ecosystem that's just thriving.

You've got tech giants like Google and Microsoft, as well as homegrown stars like The Hut Group and Boohoo, all making waves in the city.

But here's the real kicker - Manchester is all about sustainability and future-focused tech.

They're really pushing for planet-friendly web solutions and cutting-edge AI and machine learning innovations. It's like they're looking ahead and trying to create a greener, smarter future, which is pretty dope if you ask me.

The city's tech sector is projected to grow faster than the national economy.

We're talking a predicted 2.2% yearly growth in Manchester's Gross Value Added from 2024 to 2027. That's insane! It's not just about creating high-paying jobs and attracting global investment, though.

Manchester is also all about nurturing local talent and cementing its status as a digital leader.

Cybersecurity, eCommerce, and gaming are some of the emerging sectors that are really taking off in Manchester's tech scene.

It's like a melting pot of innovation, ya know? Here's a quick rundown:

  • Key Players: Google, Microsoft, The Hut Group, Boohoo.
  • Emerging Sectors: Cybersecurity, eCommerce, AI and Machine Learning.
  • Economic Prowess: Projected to surpass UK's average economic growth.

If you're looking to kickstart your career in tech, Manchester is definitely the place to be.

The opportunities are endless, and the city's got a real buzz about it. Check out Nucamp's article for some solid tips on landing your dream tech job in this thriving city.

Table of Contents

  • Networking Events and Meetups
  • Utilize LinkedIn Effectively
  • Connect with Local Tech Recruiters
  • Explore Local Job Boards and Websites
  • Attend Tech Fairs and Job Expos
  • Engage with Manchester's Tech Community Online
  • Consider Internships and Volunteer Work
  • Stay Informed About the Latest Tech Trends
  • Follow Up and Persistence
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Networking Events and Meetups

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Networking in the tech world is a total gamechanger, especially in a hub like Manchester. LinkedIn found that 8 out of 10 pros think it's crucial for career success, and Manchester's tech scene is thriving because of how much it values community and collaboration.

This city hosts some major events like Manchester Tech Festival, Digital Futures, and the Trailblazing Tech Conference, which are absolute goldmines for connecting with people, sparking innovation, and landing sick job opportunities in the local tech scene.

In 2024, Manchester Digital is dropping over 30 events, including their flagship Digital Skills Festival, which had a whopping 4,000 attendees last year.

Tech Manchester's calendar is also stacked with meetups, from casual networking seshes to panels and workshops to level up your skills. These events are prime real estate for rubbing shoulders with industry big shots, staying in the loop on the latest trends, and most importantly, finding your next gig in Manchester's competitive job market.

Oh, and let's not forget the Women in Business & Tech Expo 2024 - Manchester is all about diversity and empowerment in tech.

To truly boss these events, here are some networking pro tips:

  • Craft an elevator pitch: Clearly explain who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for in 30 seconds. This is how you make lasting impressions.
  • Set networking goals: Whether it's meeting a potential mentor or finding job leads, having clear objectives can guide your interactions.
  • Follow up: After the event, hit up those you connected with on LinkedIn or via email, mentioning something from your convo to reinforce the connection.

As Michele Jennae said, "Networking is not about just connecting people.

It's about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities." This rings so true in Manchester's tech ecosystem, where your next big break or career move could be a conversation away.

Manchester Digital's Digital Skills Festival, for instance, is known for its 'Talent Day,' which is basically the largest digital career fair in the North, directly hooking up job seekers with hiring companies.

Last year's attendance numbers prove how crucial it is for the local economy, with over 60 tech companies and hundreds of job vacancies on display.

Getting involved in Manchester's buzzing tech community through these events and meetups is a total power move.

Not only does it show how important personal connections are for success in the tech industry, but it also arms you with the knowledge, relationships, and opportunities needed to thrive in Manchester's booming digital landscape.

With the annual Manchester Tech Festival and events like Digital Futures and the Trailblazing Tech Conference, you've got solid platforms to level up your career while contributing to the region's cutting-edge tech progress.

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Utilize LinkedIn Effectively

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If you're a 20-something trying to make moves in the tech scene here in Manc, having a killer LinkedIn profile is an absolute must. First things first, you gotta have a dope headline that shows off your tech skills and career goals.

The peeps at EPAM Anywhere say that having a fully loaded profile is the way to go if you want to catch some serious opportunities. Load that bad boy up with keywords like "software development," "data analysis," and "cybersecurity" to make sure you're popping up on the radar of hiring managers in our thriving tech landscape.

But it's not just about having a slick profile.

You gotta be active in the Manchester-specific tech groups on LinkedIn too. Join squads like "Manchester Digital" and "Tech Manchester" to connect with other tech geeks in the area.

Get involved in the convos, share your insights, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, job openings, and events happening in the city. Show the world that you're a real player in the Manchester tech ecosystem.

Now, when it comes to networking with the local tech crew, here are some pro tips:

  • Personalize those connection requests: Mention something you both have in common, like an event you both attended, and you'll definitely stand out from the crowd.
  • Get involved by commenting on and sharing articles or posts related to Manchester's tech scene. It'll boost your visibility and show off your passion for the industry.
  • Reach out for informational interviews: Hit up your connections who work in companies or roles you're interested in. A quick chat can give you valuable insights and help you build stronger professional bonds.

Remember, in the tech world, your network is your net worth.

LinkedIn data shows that most professionals believe networking is key to career growth, and a lot of hires happen through existing company connections.

In short, a well-crafted, keyword-optimized LinkedIn profile, combined with an active presence in Manchester's tech circles and some strategic networking moves, can seriously increase your chances of landing your dream job in the city's tech arena.

In this digital age, your online presence is just as important as your physical one, and LinkedIn is a crucial tool in your job-seeking arsenal, as backed by expert advice from EPAM Anywhere and guides on making your tech profile stand out.

Connect with Local Tech Recruiters

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If you're a twenty-something tech geek trying to make it big in Manchester, you have to know about these tech recruiters. They're not just some middlemen; they're like your companions, hooking you up with your dream gigs at startups or big tech companies.

The tech scene in Manchester is thriving right now.

We're talking about a 40% surge in tech job openings just this past year! Fields like software dev, cybersecurity, and data analysis are where it's at. Companies like Venditio, Langley James IT Recruitment, and Hays Technology are excelling, making Manchester a prime spot for tech talent from coding to data analytics.

To navigate this hot tech job market, you have to connect with the right recruiters.

LinkedIn is your friend. Use those advanced search filters to find Manchester-based tech recruiters and make sure your profile is impressive. But don't overlook tech meetups and events either.

Places like Manchester Digital and Tech Manchester are where the recruiters scope out fresh talent.

Working with a tech recruiter is a total game-changer.

They know the industry inside and out, from the latest trends to what companies are really looking for. They'll hook you up with personalized advice to improve your job game, from polishing your resume to prepping you for interviews.

Over 60% of tech pros in Manchester found their current gigs through a recruiter! These professionals are connected to jobs you won't even find advertised, giving you a serious edge.

In the end, having a tech recruiter in your corner is like having a secret weapon.

As one tech professional put it, "Working with a recruiter was a game-changer for my career. It's not just about finding a job; it's about finding the right job where I can thrive." These recruiters aren't just job hunters; they're your career gurus, your advocates, and the key to unlocking opportunities that fit you perfectly.

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Explore Local Job Boards and Websites

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If you're a 20-something trying to score a dope tech job in the 'chester, you gotta check out these local job boards. They're like the holy grail for anyone trying to break into the city's booming tech scene.

First up, you got Manchester Digital and Technojobs UK leading the pack.

Manchester Digital is like a one-stop shop for all things tech jobs, from coding to digital marketing and everything in between. They've got over 300 tech gigs listed, so you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy.

Technojobs UK, on the other hand, is more than just a job board.

It's like a tech community where you can network with industry pros and startups. This way, you're not only scoring job opportunities but also making connections that could lead to mentorship or collabs down the line.

To really make the most of these platforms, here's the game plan:

  • Customize your job alerts: Both sites let you tailor the job updates you receive based on your skills and interests, so you're always in the loop about the hottest openings.
  • Get nosy about the companies: Deep dive into the companies behind the job listings. Get a feel for their vibe and make sure you're a good fit before applying.
  • Tap into the community: Join the discussions and forums to gauge what's trending in the tech world and pick up tips from the locals.

As one tech recruiter put it, "These job boards aren't just about finding jobs; they're gateways to the tech community." They often have exclusive listings you won't find elsewhere, so they're a must-have in your job search arsenal.

Beyond just jobs, these sites give you a glimpse into the 'chester's tech scene, so you know what skills are in demand and where the market's headed.

And don't forget about CW Jobs, another solid option for tech roles in Manchester.

If you're trying to launch or level up your tech career in Manchester, sites like Manchester Digital, Technojobs UK, and CW Jobs are essential.

Use them right – customized alerts, company research, and community engagement – and you'll be well on your way to snagging your dream tech gig in the city.

Attend Tech Fairs and Job Expos

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If you're a tech geek looking to score a dope job or just wanna get in the loop with the latest trends, Manchester's tech scene has got your back. Tech fairs and job expos are where it's at, bro! These gigs let you rub shoulders with the big guns in the industry and get a solid idea of what's poppin'.

Manchester's really stepping up its game as a tech hub, so you can expect some major events like the Digital Skills Festival 2024: Talent Day and the Manchester Jobs Fair coming up next year.

These shindigs are gonna be packed with all sorts of tech companies, from fresh startups to industry giants, giving you a front-row seat to the city's buzzing tech scene.

But you gotta prep hard to make the most of these expos:

  1. Do Your Homework on the Companies: Check out the list of participants and zero in on the ones that fit your vibe. This year, you could be rubbing shoulders with heavy hitters like Auto Trader, the main sponsor of the Digital Skills Festival, known for their crazy tech solutions.
  2. Get Your Pitch Tight: Work on a killer intro that tells 'em who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you're looking for.
  3. Pimp Your Resume and LinkedIn: Make sure your resume is on point and your LinkedIn profile is looking fresh, so you catch the eye of the right people.

Once you're at the expo, have a game plan, bro.

Scope out the layout, plan your route, and hit up those crucial seminars or workshops. And don't forget, soft skills like communication and networking are mad important in the tech game.

A tech recruiter in Manchester says, "Tech fairs and job expos here are the real deal for fast-tracking your career in tech." It's not just about landing a job, though.

These events are a goldmine for expanding your network, keeping up with the latest innovations, and getting the inside scoop straight from the big players. With Manchester becoming a tech powerhouse, these expos are a must-hit for anyone trying to make it big in the game.

Just remember, preparation and strategy are key to making the most of these opportunities.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

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Engage with Manchester's Tech Community Online

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Check this out - Manchester's tech scene is straight fire, and the online communities are where it's at. You got GitHub packed with sick projects from local devs, plus Slack groups and subreddits buzzing with real ones sharing knowledge and opportunities.

GitHub is like a goldmine for all the dope tech stuff happening in Manchester.

You can peep local events and Slack communities, showcasing the city's innovative vibes.

There are so many projects, meetups, and repos where devs are collaborating and contributing to open-source. It's a testament to Manchester's tech game and how willing folks are to share their skills.

On Reddit, the r/Manchester subreddit is the place to be for tech talk.

You'll see people discussing the hottest startups, sharing career advice, and announcing meetups. It's like a digital hangout spot for tech enthusiasts to connect and stay in the loop.

Stack Overflow is another hub where the Manchester tech community thrives.

Devs can ask questions, find solutions, and get the inside scoop on the best tech companies to work for. It's a lifeline for overcoming coding hurdles and exploring job opportunities.

The mcrtech Slack community is where the real action happens.

It's like a direct line to the heart of Manchester's tech scene, with a code of conduct that keeps things professional and respectful.

  • Knowledge Sharing: These online communities are treasure troves of collective wisdom. You can level up your skills and stay ahead of the game by learning from the experiences and insights shared by other members.
  • Networking Opportunities: Virtual platforms are the ultimate way to connect with like-minded tech heads, opening doors to mentorship, collabs, and job opportunities.
  • Visibility: Being an active participant in these communities will put you on the radar, helping you build your personal brand and potentially catch the eye of potential employers.

Don't just take my word for it – Charles Gonzalez said, "Participating in these online communities has not only broadened my technical skills but also landed me job interviews and valuable contacts." It's the real deal.

Immersing yourself in Manchester's digital tech sphere isn't just about learning and growing; it's about finding your tribe and getting the support you need to navigate the tech world.

If you're trying to break into or level up in Manchester's tech scene, tapping into these online communities is a no-brainer.

Consider Internships and Volunteer Work

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If you're a 20-something gunning for that sweet tech gig in Manchester, Internships and volunteering are the way to go. These hands-on experiences will level up your skills and make your resume pop like nobody's business.

Just take a peek at all the dope tech internships in Manchester – from coding at Roku to engineering at P&G, you'll get a taste of the city's diverse tech scene.

And let's not forget the CodeYourFuture volunteer gig, where you can mentor aspiring devs while sharpening your own skills.

It's a win-win! Here's the real deal: - Skill Development: Forget textbooks, internships and volunteering let you get your hands dirty with real-world projects, helping you master coding, teamwork, and problem-solving like a boss.

Companies like Barclays and Roku will put your tech skills to the test. - Networking on Fleek: Rubbing shoulders with industry pros opens doors to job leads and insider intel on Manchester's tech scene.

Platforms like Bright Network will hook you up with a solid network of tech peeps.

- Job Prospects: Did you know interns are 60% more likely to score a full-time job offer after their stint? Companies love to hire interns, so these gigs are like a golden ticket to employment.

Finding these opportunities is a breeze: 1. Local Job Boards: Peep sites like Indeed for the latest tech internship openings in Manchester, from engineering to data analysis.

The demand for fresh talent is real. 2. University Connections: Your university's career services can hook you up with top companies offering internships.

It's all about those connections! 3. Tech Meetups: Attend tech events and meetups to rub elbows with companies looking for interns and volunteers. Communities like CodeYourFuture are prime networking spots.

Bottom line, internships and volunteering will give you the edge you need to land your dream tech job in Manchester. It's not just about bulking up your resume – these experiences will help you grow professionally and personally, putting you on the fast track to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start leveling up!

Stay Informed About the Latest Tech Trends

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The tech world is lit AF right now, and if you wanna stay on fleek, you gotta keep up with the latest trends. 2024 is gonna be wild, with AI apps taking over, 5G networks getting faster, quantum computing leveling up, and generative AI becoming the new wave.

Peep sites like TechCrunch and Deloitte Insights to stay in the loop.

TechCrunch is the plug for all the latest tech news, startups, gadgets, and Silicon Valley's freshest innovations. Deloitte Insights keeps you up on the six hottest tech trends that'll help businesses slay, like generative AI and the industrial metaverse.

Manchester is poppin' for tech heads like us.

Check out the Manchester Tech Symposium to hear industry bosses talk AI and machine learning. The Quantum Computing Workshop is a must for anyone tryna wrap their head around quantum tech.

These events are dope for networking too, so you can link up with OGs and potential mentors.

But it's not just about the tech – sustainability and ethical AI are major keys.

Staying green and responsible is a whole vibe.

Here's how to level up:

  • Subscribe to TechCrunch and Deloitte Insights' newsletters to get the freshest tech trends straight to your inbox.
  • Hit up those Manchester tech workshops and seminars to get hands-on experience, network with the locals, and learn about sustainability and ethics in tech.
  • Use online courses and library resources to go deep on hot topics like generative AI and the digital-physical convergence.

Tech vets always preach about being curious and never stopping learning.

As one of Manchester's tech bosses said, "In tech, yesterday's innovations are today's history. Continuous learning isn't just a bonus; it's a must." Stay on top of your game with TechCrunch, Deloitte Insights, and local tech events, and you'll be unstoppable in the Manchester tech scene.

Follow Up and Persistence

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If you're on the hunt for a sick tech job in Manchester's booming scene, you gotta stay persistent and follow up like a boss. A survey found that nearly half of job seekers never follow up after applying, which is a huge missed opportunity.

A well-timed follow-up email can seriously boost your chances of getting noticed among all the other candidates.

Here's the lowdown on how to follow up without coming across as annoying or desperate:

  • 1 Week After Interview: Shoot them a thank-you email to show your appreciation and remind them how stoked you are about the role.
  • 2 Weeks After Interview, If No Response: Politely check in on the hiring timeline and highlight why you're the perfect fit for the job.
  • 3+ Weeks or Post Hiring Timeline: Send one final check-in email, but if you still don't hear back, it might be time to move on to other opportunities.

But nailing the tech job hunt is about more than just following up.

You gotta stay on top of your game by continuously learning new skills and expanding your network. A report from LinkedIn showed that candidates who actively engage in their professional community are 15% more likely to land their dream job.

So, get out there and attend tech events, meetups, and online discussions. Not only will it boost your visibility, but you'll also stay up-to-date with the latest tech trends, making you an even more attractive candidate.

The tech industry, especially in a buzzing city like Manchester, values tenacity.

Successful tech pros often talk about how the job they landed wasn't the first, second, or even third one they applied for, but their persistence paid off in the end.

It's all about staying resilient and not giving up. While the job market can be crazy competitive, combining strategic follow-up with continuous self-improvement and active involvement in the tech community is a solid game plan for scoring your dream tech gig in Manchester.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the key players in Manchester's tech industry?

Key players in Manchester's tech industry include Google, Microsoft, The Hut Group, and Boohoo.

What emerging sectors are noteworthy in Manchester's tech landscape?

Emerging sectors in Manchester's tech landscape include cybersecurity, eCommerce, AI, and machine learning.

How is Manchester's tech sector projected to grow economically?

Manchester's Gross Value Added is projected to grow by 2.2% yearly between 2024 and 2027, surpassing the UK's average economic growth.

Why is networking important in Manchester's tech industry?

Networking is crucial in Manchester's tech industry as it helps professionals connect with industry leaders, stay updated on trends, and find job opportunities in the competitive market.

How can LinkedIn be effectively utilized for job searching in Manchester?

LinkedIn can be leveraged by creating a keyword-optimized profile, engaging in Manchester-specific tech groups, and personalizing connection requests to network effectively within Manchester's tech scene.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible